COLUMBIA, SC – A Former City of Columbia Code Enforcement employee was arrested on August 19, 2026, by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department following an altercation involving a family member at the employee’s residence.
Former employee Molly Washington, 45, was arrested in connection with an incident involving an alleged assault and the pointing and presenting of a firearm. The incident occurred at a residence in the 1100 block of Landon Place Drive.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department responded to the residence and conducted an investigation. The matter remains under the jurisdiction of the Sheriff’s Department and will proceed through the appropriate judicial process. Following notification of the arrest, the City of Columbia immediately terminated Washington’s employment.
Because this is an active criminal matter, the City will not comment further on the specific circumstances of the incident. Questions regarding the criminal investigation should be directed to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
The City of Columbia remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and public trust among its employees.