Does the state have a sentencing commission? Yes. The South Carolina Sentencing Reform Commission was created by the state's legislature in 2008. It is a 10-member body tasked with writing a report that would (1) recommend changes to current sentences, (2) discuss whether to keep or abolish parole, and (3) provide guidance for future legislation for offenders for whom traditional imprisonment would not be appropriate.
Does the state have sentencing guidelines? No.
If yes, are the sentencing guidelines voluntary/advisory or mandatory? N/A
Does the state have drug courts? Yes.
Reports
South Carolina's Public Safety Reform: Legislation Enacts Research-based Strategies to Cut Prison Growth and Costs (2010, The Pew Center on the States)
Helpful links
Governor Nikki Haley
South Carolina Department of Corrections
South Carolina Board of Paroles & Pardons
South Carolina Executive Clemency (pardons and commutations)
South Carolina General Assembly (state legislature)
South Carolina Court System
South Carolina Drug Courts: No website available.
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Sentencing/Criminal Justice Reform Groups in the State
ACLU of South Carolina
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