Dead-beats Offered Last Chance Before Arrest

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department and the Lexington County Clerk of Court’s Office are offering people wanted on family court bench warrants the opportunity to catch up on unpaid child support.

“Dead-beat parents will not be tolerated in Lexington County, and we will use every legal means available to provide children and parents who have custody of children with the financial support that they deserve and need,” said Lexington County Clerk of Court Beth Carrigg.

About 300 people were mailed letters in an effort to resolve the warrants as part of Operation Last Chance, Lexington County Sheriff James Metts said.

Family court judges will be available between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Monday, April 30 at the Marc H. Westbrook Lexington County Judicial Center, 205 East Main Street, Lexington, to expedite resolving bench warrants and establishing payment plans.

A government-issued photo ID, proof of employment or proof that you’re disabled and unable to work, as well as proof of your current address is needed when attending court. 

In 2011, 127 habitual offenders who owed a combined total of more than $1.9 million in court-ordered child support were arrested in Lexington County, according to the sheriff’s department.