High-ranking Columbia police officer arrested after refusing to take breathalyzer
A high-ranking member of the Columbia Police Department was recently arrested on multiple charges following a traffic stop in another part of South Carolina, officials said.
Maj. George Drafts was arrested last Thursday night by the North Myrtle Beach Police Department, Columbia Police Deputy Chief Melron Kelly told The State Monday.
Horry County court records show that Drafts refused to take a breathalyzer test and was charged with DUI and transporting alcohol in motor vehicle with the seal broken.
The 57-year-old Lexington resident posted $1,249.50 bond on the combined charges, and was released early Friday morning, records show.
“We were alerted by authorities in North Myrtle Beach that one of our officers was under arrest,” Kelly said. “He’s been relieved of all police duties.”
Drafts was suspended without pay pending a Columbia police investigation, which could take anywhere from days to weeks before Chief of Police Skip Holbrook makes a decision about Drafts’ future with the department, according to Kelly.
“We’re held to a higher standard,” Kelly said.
Drafts’ criminal case will be conducted in Horry County. He’s scheduled to appear in court again March 26, and a jury trial is slated to begin July 14, judicial records show.
Drafts is a 36-year police veteran, according to The State’s archives. In his time with Columbia police, Drafts has visited the White House regarding police data initiatives, and has been involved in making police information available to the public, The State previously reported.
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This story was originally published March 3, 2025 at 1:21 PM with the headline "High-ranking Columbia police officer arrested after refusing to take breathalyzer."
