Insider knows that we all operate in a regulated environment at the federal, state and local levels.  We also have recognized and appreciate those in the industry who have included elected or appointed political office as a part of their community service.

Politics does have a potential down side and we wanted to share what we have learned about John Hardee and his issues in South Carolina.

John has been very involved in the state scene in South Carolina.

• Two terms, from 1998 to 2007 and from 2014 to 2018, on the governing commission of the S.C. Department of Transportation
• During his tenure he served as a commission vice-chairman
• Active in the Outdoor Advertising Association of South Carolina, spending some of his time selling public service campaigns for the Association
• Hardee is also the son-in-law of Hugh Leatherman, R-Florence, who has served as Senate President Pro Tempore in SC

In January 2019, John Hardee, of Columbia S.C., was charged by the government with attempting to destroy evidence in an official government proceeding. At that time, few details of what led to the charges were made public. John, who at that time was working for Lamar Advertising, was placed on leave by the Company.

In news reports earlier this month, federal prosecutors filed what is called a government “sentencing memorandum,” in which prosecutors offered their reasons for recommending an appropriate sentence for the defendant. The FBI had been working to prove that Hardee took multiple bribes while on the transportation commission. Their agents never succeeded in getting conclusive proof, according to a public filing. What the FBI did prove is that Hardee lied and told an informant to destroy evidence in the case, the filing said.

Insider learned a few things, on several background discussions. Hardee, most likely, will be pleading guilty to a cover up to destroy evidence at a hearing scheduled for August 7th. Apparently, Hardee was approached by an individual wearing a recording device, and a discussion ensued which included the possibility of a bribe to Hardee.  Hardee indicated he did not take the bribe, but in his conversation said enough to create his problems with the FBI.

We will update the story after the next scheduled hearing.

While Insider does not want to discourage anyone from getting involved in the political arena, we all need to be careful about implicit and explicit conflicts of interest.  Todays’ reality in our world of social media is to stay alert about appearances and always be careful what you say. 

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