S.C. Code § 24-5-12
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 24-5-10 or any other provision of law, the sheriff of any county may, upon approval of the governing body of the county, devolve all of his powers and duties relating to the custody of the county jail and the appointment of a facility manager on the governing body of the county; provided, a sheriff who has been defeated in a primary or general election may not devolve said duties on the governing body of the county. Once a sheriff has devolved these powers and duties to the governing body, custody of the jail shall remain with the governing body unless, by mutual agreement and approval of the sheriff, the governing body devolves its powers and duties relating to the custody of the county jail to the sheriff.
S.C. Code § 24-5-12