A Richland County jury found Earl Graham guilty of filing two false police reports; one to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and one to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

Sheriff Lott stated that Graham knowingly filed two false reports accusing a deputy of adultery; between the officer and Graham’s wife. On February 7, 2011 and March 25, 2011 Graham filed reports accusing Fifth Judicial Circuit Solicitor Dan Johnson (who at the time of the accusation was the Chief Deputy of the Richland County Sheriff’s Department). At the time of the allegations, a thorough investigation was conducted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and proven to be totally false -- today a Richland County Jury upheld that investigation and convicted Graham.

Sheriff Lott stated that it is important for citizens to report any and all concerns they may have about police actions. The Sheriff added that all reports will be taken seriously and investigated vigorously. However, if someone knowingly makes a false accusation then it must be dealt with swiftly and without prejudice. When someone makes a false report it takes police officers time and resources away from legitimate police work and wastes the taxpayers’ money.