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Four days after resigning, former Abbeville County Sheriff Charles Goodwin pleaded guilty to misconduct in office on Friday.
Goodwin was formally indicted by a state grand jury Tuesday.
In court, Goodwin admitted to receiving cash kickbacks from county funds paid between January 1998 and November 2011. The funds were paid to a local auto body repair shop during that timeframe, according to the indictment.
Goodwin also admitted he used an inmate from the South Carolina Department of Corrections to perform work on his personal vehicles and his family's property.
The judge sentenced Goodwin 10 years suspended to five years probation and 100 hours community service. He must also pay restitution of $4,445.
Goodwin appeared in court with his wife and three children.
Following his resignation, Abbeville County Coroner Ronnie Ashley assumed the duties of the sheriff. A spokesperson for the governor said she will appoint an interim sheriff until a special election can be held. Until the appointment is made, Ashley is required by law to serve as interim sheriff.
Goodwin, a Democrat, was re-elected as sheriff in November.