Columbia Businessman to Run for Mayor

A businessman and former FBI analyst is the third person to enter the race for mayor of Columbia. 

Larry Sypolt officially announced his candidacy Tuesday afternoon in front of the Five Points fountain.

He is the second challenger to current Mayor Steve Benjamin. Columbia City Councilman Moe Baddourah announced his candidacy last month. 

Sypolt, who has 15 years of law enforcement and business experience, worked under Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott patrolling the streets of Columbia. He has witnessed local crime and gang violence first-hand, according to a release from his campaign, and is ready to address the issues. 

Sypolt owns two businesses, one of which is LASCO Shield, an investigative agency. 

His platform includes plans for restructuring the police department in order to more effectively utilize budgets and manpower, implementation of mentoring programs for youth and young adults who have entered the judicial system, business development for areas like Five Points and neighborhood preservation and beautification projects.

Visit www.larrysypolt.com for more information. 

The election for mayor — as well as three city council seats — will be held Nov. 5.