COLUMBIA, S.C. — Governor Henry McMaster announced that Michael Leach, the director of the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS), has decided to step down from his position effective January 2, 2025.
“We’ve tried everything, and of course, this situation at DSS has been growing and growing. It’s clear it’s come to a breaking point,” McMaster said, reflecting on the challenges Leach has faced during his five-and-a-half years in the role.
Shortly after the announcement, McMaster pointed to inadequate facility space as a significant issue affecting both DSS and the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). He stated that this lack of proper space hinders employees’ ability to perform their jobs effectively.
“They are overrun,” McMaster said. “We don’t have unlimited facilities, and, of course, a lot of the counties are closing down their detention centers for youth. That means they have to go somewhere when they are arrested or taken. Doesn’t matter if it’s midnight or 4 in the morning; they must go somewhere. So, they end up in the only place that is available, and that’s the offices of DSS.”
The announcement comes after a News19 report highlighted a recent incident where two juveniles vandalized several offices within the DSS building, prompting employees to demand improvements to their working conditions.
“We’ve gotten to the point that we are going to have to expand our assets. That likely means some housing at some point, some people, some money. But it’s clear that it’s important that we do it,” McMaster insisted.
While McMaster acknowledged that both DSS and DJJ are managing well with their current resources, he emphasized the need for reforms to address existing deficiencies. He noted that the next director of DSS will face a significant challenge, but before they do, he will face the challenge of finding someone better equipped and with more experience than Leach.
“The person that wants to take on this role has to appreciate and be willing to take on a great challenge. This job must be their passion. It can’t just be another person,” McMaster affirmed.