Richland County Sheriff’s investigator Richard Carter said sexual assault and child abuse victims deserve the care one would show “a family member.”

And it’s an approach he embraces when investigating criminal sexual conduct and child abuse cases.

Carter has been named the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. He was officially recognized last week at the association’s annual meeting.

Carter, a member of the sheriff’s department’s Special Victims Unit, was nominated by Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands. He is noted for his dedication and professionalism on the job.

“I know the work I do directly affects someone,” Carter said. “My approach is simple. If the victim was a family member of mine, how would I want them to be treated and how would I want their case to be handled? So, I treat the victim and handle their case the same way I would if this was my own family member.”

Sheriff Leon Lott credited Carter for his “tireless work in bringing closure to survivors of sexual assault,” adding the investigator has shown victims respect, dignity and compassion.

“(The association) recognized Richard because he is dedicated to improving the lives of our citizens,” Lott said.

Zoe McDowell, sexual assault services coordinator for Sexual Trama Services, presented Carter the award.

Carter joined the sheriff’s department in 2003 and worked in the uniform patrol division and the burglary unit before joining the Special Victims Unit.

It’s cookie time

Girl power kicked off in full force across the Midlands and around the state last week as the Girl Scouts launched their annual storefront cookie sales.

Those who missed last month’s door-to-door sales can pick up a box (or two) of cookies on weekends through March 18 at participating retailers including Bi-Lo, Kmart, Sam’s Club and Wal-Mart.

The cookies cost $3.50 per box.

Proceeds from sales support activities and expenses, programming, camperships, member assistance, program development, training opportunities and property improvements for Girl Scouts throughout the Mountains-Midlands council region.

So what’s your favorite Girl Scout cookie? Tell me why and share your favorite Girl Scout cookie sales story at brantin@thestate.com or on Twitter @bertramrantin. The most compelling story will earn someone three boxes of their favorite cookie — on me.