The Charleston County School District has released the following statement regarding Trustee Kevin Hollinshead (pictured) facing federal bribery and COVID-19-related fraud charges:
"The Charleston County School District (CCSD) is aware of the recently filed federal indictment involving Trustee Kevin Hollinshead and has subsequently received his resignation from office. These allegations are serious and deeply concerning, and the District fully recognizes the gravity of the matter.
"While the legal process must now take its course, CCSD remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. The District also affirms that its procurement processes are governed by strict statutory requirements, established policies, and professional administrative oversight.
"CCSD utilizes formal procurement procedures, including review panels and compliance requirements, to ensure fairness and adherence to State law and the model procurement code. These processes are designed specifically to safeguard the integrity of public funds and prevent undue influence.
"Importantly, this matter reflects that the District’s processes function as intended. The established procurement framework ensured that decisions remained grounded in compliance, documentation, and objective evaluation. CCSD staff are not influenced by outside pressures and remain committed to upholding the integrity of every procurement action."
Board Chair Pam McKinney's statement:
“The Board of Trustees serves a governance function, which includes setting policy, providing oversight, and representing the community. Individual trustees do not direct procurement decisions. Those matters are handled through established administrative processes governed by law. Maintaining that separation is essential to protecting public trust. Additionally, any suggestion that confidential information may have been shared outside of executive session, as referenced in the indictment, raises serious concerns and stands in direct conflict with the legal and ethical obligations of Board members.”
Superintendent Anita Huggins stated:
“We take these allegations very seriously. At the same time, it is important for our community to understand that the District’s procurement decisions are driven by established law, policy, and professional staff processes. Our systems ensure decisions remain fair, transparent, and free from outside influence."
Chief Financial Officer Daniel Prentice's statement:
“CCSD’s procurement framework includes multiple layers of review, compliance checks, and documented procedures. These safeguards ensure that all decisions are made in accordance with state procurement code and we will not tolerate improper influences or external pressures. Our staff are trained and expected to remain independent, and this matter underscores that commitment.”
CCSD added:
"CCSD staff are currently reviewing all relevant contractual relationships associated with this matter and will determine the appropriate course of action regarding the contractor in accordance with applicable law, policy, and contractual obligations.
"CCSD will continue to cooperate fully with any appropriate authorities as needed. The District remains focused on its core mission: serving students, supporting schools, and maintaining the highest standards of integrity in all operations."