Former deputy and Gamecock player avoids prison sentence and receives probation in sexual assault case

RICHLAND COUNTY, SC (WACH) – — A former Richland County sheriff's deputy appeared in court again Tuesday to learn his fate after being accused of sexually assaulting a student while working as a school security guard.

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Jamel Bradley pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a 16- to 17-year-old student and first-degree assault.

He was sentenced to five years in prison with three years' probation and must register as a sex offender.

At the time of the attack in 2018, the student was a 17-year-old girl at Spring Valley High School.

Sheriff Leon Lott issued a statement after the verdict was announced:

“Bradley's conduct does not reflect the honor and professionalism with which RCSD officers perform their duties every day. His actions betrayed my trust and the trust of the entire Richland County community. I would have liked to see him in jail, but I understand the victims agreed to the offer, Sheriff Lott said, and no amount of prison time can make up for what Bradley destroyed. I am grateful that he has finally taken responsibility for his abhorrent actions. I apologize to the victims, their families, and our community, and will do everything in my power to ensure this never happens again.”