South Carolina has specific policies and regulations in place regarding the management and disclosure of criminal history records. These policies ensure the accurate and responsible handling of such records for various purposes, including employment screenings, background checks, and law enforcement activities. The primary governing body overseeing the South Carolina Criminal History Record Policy is the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). SLED maintains a centralized repository of criminal history records, known as the South Carolina Law Enforcement Criminal Records Department (SCRAP). SCRAP houses comprehensive information on individuals' criminal histories within the state, ensuring data accuracy and uniformity. One essential aspect of the South Carolina Criminal History Record Policy is the process for obtaining and disseminating criminal records. Access to these records is controlled to safeguard individuals' privacy rights and maintain the integrity of the information. Under the policy, authorized entities such as employers, law enforcement agencies, and certain organizations can request criminal history record checks through SLED. To obtain a comprehensive criminal history record, requesters must adhere to specific guidelines outlined in the policy. The South Carolina Criminal History Record Policy requires requesters to submit proper identification and a signed release form from the subject of the record search. SLED charges a nominal fee for this service, and requesters can generally receive results within a specified timeframe. The South Carolina Criminal History Record Policy also includes provisions for record expungement. Expungement allows eligible individuals to have certain criminal records erased or sealed from public view. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of offense, the time passed since the conviction, and the individual's criminal history after the conviction. Expungement provides individuals with the opportunity for a fresh start by removing barriers that could hinder future employment, housing, or educational opportunities. Additionally, there are different types of South Carolina Criminal History Record Policies that cater to specific purposes and organizations. For example, one policy might address the requirements for employers conducting background checks on potential employees. In contrast, another policy might outline the guidelines for law enforcement agencies accessing criminal records for investigative purposes. In summary, the South Carolina Criminal History Record Policy ensures the responsible handling and disclosure of criminal history records. SLED plays a vital role in maintaining a centralized repository of criminal records, providing controlled access to authorized entities. The policy also includes provisions for record expungement, allowing eligible individuals to clear their records. Different types of policies cater to various purposes, such as employment screenings and law enforcement activities.