Acomplishments
Since 2023, the Coroner’s Office has made significant strides in modernization, community engagement, and operational excellence. A new website was launched to improve accessibility and transparency. Efforts are underway to achieve national accreditation for the office through the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners. The Coroner’s Office is undergoing an expansion to enhance our ability to serve the citizens of our rapidly growing county. This project reflects the ongoing population growth and the need to ensure that our services remain effective and responsive to the community’s needs.
Acomplishments
The office has been proactive in applying and securing state and federal grants, reflecting a commitment to fiscal responsibility, and maintaining a balanced budget. New positions have been established, including a community outreach coordinator, an evidence custodian, and an additional deputy coroner.
Technological advancements include the acquisition of a Randox Evidence MultiSTAT
toxicology machine that is capable of detecting drugs in decedents within an hour and multiple mobile, electronic fingerprint readers for faster identification of decedents.
To address the opioid crisis and community health, the office developed and implemented the Opioid Fatality Review Board, which has since been recognized as a model and adopted by other agencies. The office also became Narcan distributors and has two certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians available to perform car seat installation services to the community.
Darnell launched the C.O.P.E. (Community Outreach Prevention Education) program to promote awareness, provide resources, and public education and prevention strategies to reduce risk within the community.
Additionally, his involvement with the Ernest E. Kennedy Center and Wakeup Carolina
illustrates his commitment to addressing substance abuse and mental health challenges in the community.
Annual initiatives include hosting a national, multidisciplinary team, child death training and the “Berkeley Remembers” service to honor lives lost in the county from violence. A county mass fatality trailer with necessary equipment was implemented to ensure preparedness for large scale emergencies within Berkeley County. Darnell is also the leader and responsible for the storage, upkeep, and deployment of the South Carolina Coroner’s Association (MAST) fatality trailer for the Lowcountry region.
Over 6,000 calls for service have been handled since the current administration began. Annual reports for the Coroner’s Office have been created and issued to maintain transparency. These achievements reflect strong collaboration with county leaders, law enforcement, EMS, fire departments, prevention partners, and the solicitor’s office and demonstrate a comprehensive and compassionate approach to public service.
Darnell is an active member of several respected organizations that reflect his dedication to public service, professional excellence, and community well-being. He is a member of the Moncks Corner Rotary, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 19, and several prevention committees demonstrating his commitment to civic engagement and law enforcement partnerships.
Professionally, Darnell is involved with the South Carolina Coroner’s Association and the International Association of Coroners & Medical Examiners, staying at the forefront of best practices in death investigation. He also serves as Coroner’s Representative for the South Carolina DHEC Lowcountry Health Care Coalition and contributes to the Veterans Affairs Suicide Prevention Initiative, highlighting his dedication to both public health and veteran support.