S.C. sheriff gave inmates iPads, alcohol, women and more, indictment says

(CBS/AP) COLUMBIA, S.C. - Authorities say Chesterfield County Sheriff Sam Parker allowed hand-picked inmates to live in a dorm, have televisions and an iPad, go on trips to the lake and spend holidays with his family.

An indictment details special treatment Parker allegedly gave two inmates. One was serving seven years for drug trafficking, the other was sentenced to 15 years for arson.

Investigators say Parker let the inmates drive sheriff's office vehicles, have unsupervised visits with women and drink alcohol. In exchange, the men did work on Parker's home and helped decorate for parties.

Authorities also say Parker gave weapons to friends with no law enforcement training.

He faces four counts of misconduct in office and two counts of furnishing contraband to inmates. Each charge is a misdemeanor, carrying a possible sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

Parker has been suspended from office by Gov. Nikki Haley.

Defense lawyer Johnny Gasser says Parker got tripped up with confusing regulations and did not intend to break any laws. He says Parker will fight the charges.