South Carolina Needs a Hate Crime Law: Standing with Jarvis McKenzie
At Bailey Law Firm, we believe the law should protect every member of our community equally. But a recent case we are handling shows that South Carolina still falls short when it comes to addressing crimes motivated by hate.
The Attack on Jarvis McKenzie
On July 17, 2024, our client, Jarvis McKenzie, was waiting to go to work in Richland County when he became the target of a terrifying, racially motivated attack. A man drove up, shouted a racial slur, and fired a rifle in his direction.
Jarvis was forced to flee for his life, narrowly escaping harm. The shooter, later identified as Jonathan Felkel, was arrested and charged not only with serious assault-related crimes, but also under Richland County’s hate crime ordinance. He is the first person to be charged under this local law.
At a recent press conference, we stood alongside Jarvis as he shared his story and called on South Carolina lawmakers to finally pass a statewide hate crime law. His courage in speaking out reflects the truth that this fight is about more than one person is about ensuring safety, dignity, and justice for entire communities.
Why Local Ordinances Aren’t Enough
While Richland County’s hate crime ordinance provided an avenue for accountability, its penalties are limited to misdemeanor-level consequences, with a maximum of just 30 days in jail. That is far from adequate for an act of violence fueled by racial hatred.
This is why South Carolina desperately needs a statewide hate crime law. Right now, South Carolina and Wyoming are the only two states in the nation without one. Despite the state House of Representatives passing a bill in 2021, it continues to stall in the Senate.
Without stronger laws, victims like Jarvis and the communities they represent are left without the full protection they deserve.
Hate Crimes Hurt Everyone
Hate crimes are not just attacks on individuals. They are attacks on entire groups of people, spreading fear, division, and trauma far beyond the immediate victim. The law must reflect the seriousness of these crimes by ensuring harsher penalties, meaningful accountability, and stronger protections for victims.
Our Commitment at Bailey Law Firm
Attorney Tyler Bailey and our team at Bailey Law Firm are proud to stand with Jarvis McKenzie and others who have been targeted because of who they are. We are committed to fighting for justice in the courtroom and advocating for change in our state’s laws.
Every person deserves to feel safe in their own community. South Carolina must act now to pass a comprehensive hate crime law that protects everyone equally.
Disclaimer – This blog is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. Workers’ compensation laws can vary based on your specific situation. For legal help, contact a licensed attorney in South Carolina.
