YORK COUNTY, SC – On February 6, 2019 former York County Sheriff’s Office Detention Officer Patricia Elizabeth Brookhart, 67, turned herself in at the Moss Justice Center on one count of Abuse of a Vulnerable of Adult.
On October 3, 2018 York County Sheriff’s Detectives investigated allegations of abuse of Brookhart’s brother by the Department of Social Services. Accusations reported by DSS were after a request for a well-being check on Brookhart’s brother. DSS reported the brother said he was hit with a belt and the home he was living in was filled with clutter. Patricia Brookhart is the primary caregiver of her brother.
Immediately, Patricia Brookhart was placed on suspension after being interviewed by York County Sheriff’s Office Detectives. Due to her employment at the time with the York County Sheriff’s Office, the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) was notified the same day to take charge of the investigation.
"These allegations are disheartening and disturbing and certainly do not reflect the character and integrity required of and displayed by the many faithful employees of the York County Sheriff's Office," said Sheriff Kevin Tolson.
Brookhart resigned from the York County Sheriff’s Office on October 8, 2018. After further investigation by SLED, warrants were obtained on February 6, 2019.
The case is still under investigation by the State Law Enforcement Division.