Metts’ name coming off boat landing

The name of former Lexington County Sheriff James Metts is set to disappear shortly from a boat landing on the lower Saluda River near his home.

The push for removal follows County Council’s decision last week to take Metts’ name off the county law enforcement complex.

Metts’ name is being erased from public facilities after he pleaded guilty Dec. 30 to a federal charge stemming from his interference in identification of two illegal immigrants at the jail he once oversaw.

“It’s the right thing to do,” said State Sen. Nikki Setzler, a West Columbia Democrat.

The measure removing Metts’ name from the landing awaits House acceptance after receiving Senate approval. A similar proposal is pending in the House.

It’s a step favored by all 14 county lawmakers after reviewing the situation. said State Rep. Kenny Bingham, a Cayce Republican.

Lawmakers so far are ignoring requests to rechristen the landing after someone else. They have decided instead to return to the former name of Hope Ferry Landing.

This story was originally published January 20, 2015 at 4:35 PM with the headline "Metts’ name coming off boat landing."