Election Showdown in Ridgeland: The Jasper County Sheriff’s Race Heats Up
RIDGELAND — As the November 5th election approaches, the Jasper County sheriff’s race is catching everyone’s attention. The contest pairs current Democratic incumbent Donald Hipp against Republican challenger Christopher Malphrus, who previously held the sheriff’s office from 2017 to 2021. What’s notable is that this is the third consecutive election cycle where these two candidates are facing off!
Political Landscape Shifts in Jasper County
Jasper County is now the fastest-growing county in South Carolina, with exciting population growth in Ridgeland and Hardeeville. In recent years, political tides have turned, making GOP candidates victorious in every contest during the 2022 elections, from the governor’s race to local treasurer battles!
Malphrus switched his party affiliation back to Republican for this election after running as a Democrat in previous cycles. When asked about this change, Malphrus expressed confidence that locals understand the political landscape and the necessity behind his previous decisions.
A Closer Look at the Candidates
Both Hipp and Malphrus are seasoned law enforcement professionals with over two decades of experience. Each of them began working in detention centers before moving into policing roles in Jasper County.
Hipp’s inspiration to join law enforcement came from his uncle, who had served in both the Ridgeland Police Department and Jasper County Sheriff’s Office. His journey included securing a job on Hilton Head Island in security, then transitioning to the county jail before being recruited by the sheriff’s office in 1991.
On the flip side, Malphrus was driven by a personal story; he lost his mother to drug addiction when he was just 16. This experience motivated him to join the police force in 1999 and take on the drug trade aggressively.
Challenges Ahead for Both Candidates
However, both candidates come with their share of controversy. Malphrus must tackle enduring questions about his previous methods in search-and-seizure as well as legal issues, including lawsuits for improper policing during his time in office. Meanwhile, Hipp must address rising crime rates under his leadership.
Hipp’s ambitious goals involve strengthening community relationships, enhancing accountability, and implementing improved technologies within the department. Meanwhile, Malphrus is determined to amplify drug enforcement while reducing violent crime.
Unpacking the Past
During his tenure, Malphrus faced scrutiny over financial practices and alleged mismanagement. He contends that claims of overspending stemmed from political motives aimed at undermining him. Some of these concerns led to SLED investigations, although they concluded without charges.
On Hipp’s side of things, he’s been forced to navigate the fallout from previous actions as well, including the firing of a deputy for dishonesty that affected multiple drug-related cases. Despite that, no lawsuits have surfaced directly relating to Hipp’s administration.
Rising Crime Rates Stirs Controversy
Candidates are also challenged by crime statistics—Hipp’s office has seen a dramatic rise in violent crimes, with reports escalating from 41 incidents in 2020 to a staggering 560 the following year. Malphrus, on the other hand, touts lower crime numbers from his leadership, pointing fingers at Hipp for what he describes as alarmingly high rates.
This election season promises an exhilarating showdown as both candidates offer starkly different visions for law enforcement in Jasper County. It’s a contest that mixes personal histories, professional ethics, and a passionate community that demands action and accountability.
As residents gear up to hit the polls, conversations will undoubtedly continue to buzz around this high-stakes race. Who will ultimately lead the charge in safeguarding Jasper County? Only time, and the votes, will tell!
