A Shot in the Dark: South Carolina's Hate Crime Debate
Recent Arrest Highlights Need for Statewide Legislation
On July 17, a man named Jonathan Felkel allegedly shot at a Black neighbor in the Spring Valley neighborhood of Richland County. Felkel was arrested under a new local hate intimidation ordinance, which classifies hate intimidation as a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine or jail time. He is currently in jail with a high bond.
Statewide Law Still Pending
This arrest has brought attention to the lack of a statewide hate crimes law in South Carolina. Representative Seth Rose, who has previously co-sponsored hate crime legislation, expressed disappointment that a state law has not been passed yet. He suggested that negotiations might be needed to enhance the bill and get it through the Senate, where it has stalled in the past.
South Carolina Among Only Two States Without a Hate Crimes Law
South Carolina is one of only two states without a hate crimes law. While federal laws can be used to prosecute hate crimes, advocates argue that a state law is necessary to send a clear message about addressing hate-motivated violence.
- In the past year, there have been two federally prosecuted hate crime cases in South Carolina.
- The FBI reported 115 hate crimes in the state in 2023.
Advocates Push for Change
JT McLawhorn, president of the Columbia Urban League, has been advocating for a state hate crimes law for about a decade. He believes the recent arrest highlights the ongoing need for such legislation. McLawhorn emphasized that the lack of a state hate crimes law sends the wrong message about the state's priorities and can negatively impact residents' well-being.
Opposition and Future Plans
Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey, a Republican, has opposed a state hate crimes law, arguing that the law should treat everyone equally. Despite this opposition, Representative Rose plans to co-sponsor a new hate crime bill in the next legislative session, showing that the fight for such legislation is far from over.