SLED alleges ex-city employee used payroll system to approve unauthorized pay increases
LORIS, SC — A former City of Loris clerk of court and ex-Horry County police officer has been charged after state investigators say he improperly increased his own pay while working for the city.
Todd Keith Massey, 40, was arrested on charges of grand larceny and violation of ethics laws following a South Carolina Law Enforcement Division investigation. SLED alleges Massey altered his hourly pay rate over 44 consecutive pay periods between June 2021 and January 2023, resulting in more than $55,000 in unauthorized compensation.
According to arrest warrants, Massey’s approved hourly rate increased from $16.35 to $16.98 through a city-authorized cost-of-living adjustment. Investigators say he later raised his pay to rates ranging from $22.82 to $46.26 per hour without approval from city officials. The alleged increases generated an additional $55,183.02 in salary payments.
Authorities contend the pay changes were neither approved nor known by the Loris City Council or mayor. SLED further alleges Massey used his position to modify payroll records for personal financial gain.
The charges stem from a SLED investigation requested by the City of Loris. Massey was booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center, and the case will be prosecuted by the 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
The arrest marks the latest legal trouble for Massey, who previously pleaded guilty in a case involving funds missing from the Loris nonprofit Giving Hope Gardens.
All individuals named in this report are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Charges and case statuses may change as investigations and court proceedings continue.
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