Howard Knapp, South Carolina’s former elections director, was arrested Friday and charged with embezzlement, misconduct in office, and using his position for personal gain. Authorities allege Knapp used a state credit card to purchase over $5,400 in fuel for personal use while driving his state car.
Knapp, 40, was fired last month and faces eight counts of using his office for personal gain. He was also charged as an accessory after his former deputy director allegedly placed a recording device in a boardroom where the State Election Commission was discussing his employment in a closed-door meeting.
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The former deputy director, Paige Salonich, 41, was also arrested Friday for the attempted interception of confidential communications without consent related to the recording device. Salonich had been fired previously after a profane outburst following news of Knapp’s termination.
Knapp’s lawyer, Joe McCullough, vehemently denied the charges, suggesting they were politically motivated. “This is all about politics. We look forward to a very public trial. See you there,” McCullough told reporters after Knapp was released on a promise to appear for future court hearings.
The State Election Commission released a statement assuring the public that none of the charges relate to the integrity of elections. The commission is, however, reviewing a $32 million purchase of ballot scanners recommended by Knapp in 2024. State agents confirmed their investigation into Knapp is ongoing.
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