Winnsboro police chief suspended after arrest in Columbia prostitution sting

Winnsboro Police Chief Freddy Lorick Sr. is suspended after being among 10 men arrested in an undercover prostitution sting Friday in Columbia.

“Chief Lorick is on administrative leave pending investigation,” Winnsboro town manager Don Wood told The State newspaper Monday. “Maj. John Seibels is in charge of Winnsboro Public Safety until further notice.”

Lorick was arrested after offering an undercover officer $80 in exchange for a sexual favor, according to the Columbia Police Department incident report. During the arrest, Lorick told officers he needed medical treatment and he was taken to a local hospital.

Wood said the chief was still in the hospital Monday.

“With regard to pay, he is covered under paid sick leave,” Wood said.

Officials will discuss the chief’s arrest at Tuesday’s council meeting, town attorney Creighton Coleman said.

Winnsboro is about 35 miles north of Columbia.

This story was originally published October 3, 2016 at 9:42 AM with the headline "Winnsboro police chief suspended after arrest in Columbia prostitution sting."