When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
(843) 577-7046Criminal Defense Lawyer in Cottageville, SC
If you have been accused of a crime, the only thing standing between your continued freedom and harsh legal penalties is a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Cottageville, SC. That may seem harsh, but in this time of turmoil and uncertainty, having a skilled and dedicated criminal defense lawyer on your side is key. Because the truth is that dealing with legal charges in Cottageville can be a highly distressing ordeal, with even minor violations causing a considerable impact on an individual's personal and work life. The repercussions of having a criminal record can be severe, leading to loss of employment, severed relationships, and even alienation from loved ones.
At Theos Law Firm, we offer trustworthy legal representation to those who need it most. Our criminal defense team has years of experience and is committed to ensuring our clients maintain their freedom and can move forward with their lives. From handling drug-related charges to more nuanced federal cases and sexual misconduct offenses, we take a personalized approach to every case. By utilizing cutting-edge legal strategies and decades of combined experience, we have a much better opportunity to achieve the best possible client outcomes.
Service Areas
We help clients overcome criminal charges in a wide range of cases, including the following:
- Homicides
- Drug Crimes
- Juvenile Crimes
- Sex Crimes
- Theft Crimes
- Theft Crimes
- Violent Crimes
- Misdemeanor Offenses
- Federal Offenses
- More
If you are facing one or more of the charges above, it's imperative that you establish contact with a legal advocate ASAP. At Theos Law, you can rest easy knowing our phone line is always open. When your future is up for grabs, let our team of criminal defense lawyers fight for your rights. It all starts with a free consultation at our law firm in Cottageville, where we'll educate you on the particulars of the charges you're facing and explain the next steps ahead.
At this point, you probably have many questions in mind. Keep reading for more information on criminal law in South Carolina and some of our criminal defense specialties at Theos Law.
Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina
In South Carolina, criminal cases are classified into different categories based on the severity of the crime. Generally speaking, offenses that carry a maximum sentence of three years or less are categorized as misdemeanors. On the other hand, crimes that carry a punishment of more than three years in prison are generally classified as felonies.
State and Federal Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina
Crimes in The Palmetto State are usually split into two categories: state crimes and federal crimes. Classifications are based on whether a crime violates state laws or federal laws. Ultimately, it's up to the prosecutor to decide which category to pursue charges under. State crimes generally include assault, robbery, domestic violence, theft, and rape. Federal crimes, on the other hand, may be more complex and can include computer crime, major drug trafficking, hate crimes, and money laundering. These types of crimes are often investigated by agencies like the FBI or IRS.
The Difference Between Misdemeanors and Felonies in South Carolina
Understanding the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony crime can be challenging for someone facing their first charge. Misdemeanors are generally considered minor offenses, resulting in fines or a short stay in a local county jail. Trials and plea deals for these cases move quickly due to their nature.
Conversely, felonies are more severe crimes classified by degrees, with first-degree being the most severe and sixth-degree being the least. Those charged with a felony may face significant fines and a prison sentence of over a year in a federal or state institution. Convicted felons may face difficulties after their release, making it crucial to have a reliable criminal defense attorney in Cottageville, SC.
Plea Deals in South Carolina
It is not uncommon for legal cases to be resolved outside of court through a plea deal. This allows the defendant to acknowledge their guilt on one or more charges without the need for a trial. Both your criminal defense lawyer and the prosecutor collaborate to come up with a mutually beneficial arrangement, which helps avoid the uncertainties and dangers of a trial. By accepting a plea deal, you may receive a lighter sentence and avoid the anxiety that comes with a lengthy legal battle.
When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Cottageville, SC?
At Theos Law Firm, we often receive questions from potential clients about when they should hire a criminal defense attorney for the charges that they're facing. Although each situation and client are unique, there are some common criminal situations to keep in mind. In general, it's always best to reach out to an experienced attorney as soon as you're charged or have been arrested.
Below are some guidelines to help you decide when it's necessary to retain a criminal defense attorney for your case in South Carolina.
When You've Been Accused or Charged
Thinking about hiring a criminal defense lawyer when you're charged with a crime is a no-brainer for most, and for good reason. A defense lawyer can offer assistance with various offenses, ranging from minor crimes like retail theft and cyberstalking to more serious ones such as sexual assault and manslaughter. Regardless of the charges, navigating the legal system can be complex, and without the guidance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer, the situation can escalate rapidly.
When Investigators or Police Question You
As you may have observed in movies or television shows, the police might request you to provide a statement, giving the impression that you are not under arrest. If they suspect you of committing a crime but lack sufficient evidence to detain you, they may aim to put you at ease and elicit information that can be used against you. Remember, it is within your rights to have a criminal defense attorney in Cottageville, SC, present during questioning, and you should absolutely use that to your advantage.
When Authorities Search Your Residence
In the event that law enforcement officers arrive at your residence with a warrant, it indicates that a judge has determined there is reasonable suspicion that evidence related to a criminal offense is present in your home. Regardless of whether they discover and confiscate anything, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a seasoned defense attorney to discuss the situation and receive assistance in determining any potential charges or locations they may investigate in the future.
When You Are Wrongly Accused of Committing a Crime
Could you imagine being accused of something you didn't do? When law enforcement, a judge, or a prosecutor accuses you of committing a crime that you didn't do, it can be an arduous task to prove your innocence, especially if you have a prior record. It can also feel hopeless and like it's impossible for you to get someone to listen to your side. The truth is that your past mistakes should not be used against you. To increase your chances of being cleared of charges, it's advisable to have a defense lawyer who can support your innocence and fight for your rights. Criminal defense attorneys at Theos Law don't just listen - we act swiftly and always with your best interests at heart.
When Your Child Is Involved
The legal system for juveniles in South Carolina is different than it is for adults. It comes with its own complications and hurdles to overcome. If you think or know that your child has been accused of a crime, it's imperative to get legal counsel swiftly. Failure to do so could ruin their life or result in a longer-than-needed jail sentence.
Keep reading to learn more about just a few of the most common criminal defense cases we accept at Theos Law Firm.
Criminal Defense for DUIs in South Carolina
In terms of common criminal offenses in South Carolina, DUIs top the list, especially regarding mindful drivers with clean driving records and no criminal history. Unfortunately for these drivers, a DUI conviction in South Carolina stays on your record and cannot be expunged. Even first-time offenses with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent can be costly. Your insurance premiums go up for years, you may end up paying almost $1,000 in fines and fees, and there's a good chance you'll have to perform community service or serve jail time.
If your breathalyzer test result is more than .15%, you refuse the breathalyzer, or it is recorded as a refusal, your license will be automatically suspended, which complicates matters further. Throw in the possibility of interlock device rental, and your life may never be the same. For those reasons alone, it is crucial to approach such charges with the help of a DUI defense lawyer. At Theos Law Firm, our attorneys have years of experience in successfully fighting these types of charges.
Fortunately, if you or a loved one has been charged with DUI, there is hope. That's especially true if the accused has undergone a breath or blood test for DUI. In fact, cases that involve such tests are successfully beaten every day. At Theos Law Firm, we will thoroughly investigate your DUI case in Cottageville and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.
To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Cottageville, SC, may seek answers to many questions, including:
- Was your DUI stop legal? If not, your case could be thrown out.
- Is there enough probable cause or evidence for an arrest? If there is not, it's possible to file a pre-trial motion for your case to be dismissed.
- Did officers explain implied consent rights? One of the most common errors police make is failing to take this step.
- Did the police maintain your BAC and breathalyzer results? Breath testing often comes with inherent weaknesses. This can create doubt in a juror's mind.
Criminal Defense for Drug Cases in South Carolina
If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Cottageville or another city in South Carolina, it is crucial for you to understand the potential penalties involved. Possession of a controlled substance may fall under the category of a misdemeanor, but many drug offenses are considered felonies. Even a minor drug offense conviction can result in long-lasting negative consequences. As such, it's always advisable to explore your options and seek the assistance of a Cottageville drug crime attorney. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help safeguard your rights and may help achieve a favorable outcome.
One of the most frequent questions we hear at Theos Law is, "What does possession mean?â€
Drug charges based on possession in South Carolina are divided into three categories:
- Simple Possession
- Possession with Intent to Distribute
- Drug Trafficking
However, the state also has other drug charges that are not based on the weight of the drugs. These include:
- Drug Distribution
- Manufacturing
- Distribution Near Schools, Parks, or Playgrounds
Possession-based drug charges in South Carolina are deemed "graduated offenses" with penalties that grow more severe based on the weight of the drugs. It's important to note that the charges can be based on either actual or constructive possession. Contact a criminal defense lawyer in Cottageville, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Cottageville and other cities in South Carolina.
Some of the most common drug charges we see at Theos Law include the following:
- Marijuana
- Heroin
- Ecstasy
- LSD and Hallucinogens
- Cocaine
- Meth
- Prescription Pain Killers
- Fentanyl
Can I be Arrested for Drug Paraphernalia in South Carolina?
The simple answer to this question is a resounding "Yes.†Drug paraphernalia can refer to various items such as pipes, bongs, syringes, scales, grinders, and rolling papers which are linked to drug usage, preparation, storage, or hiding. Even though some of these items may have legitimate uses, like tobacco pipes or medical syringes, they can still be scrutinized by law enforcement if there is proof of illegal drug use or intent.
Criminal Defense for Assault and Battery Cases in South Carolina
If you are facing assault and battery charges, it is possible that you haven't actually physically harmed someone. Many people associate assault and battery with brutal beatings, but that is just one example. There are other situations that are less severe than what people typically imagine.
It's a common misunderstanding that physical injury is required for assault and battery charges. The fines, penalties, and jail time you may face depend on the severity of your charges and the number of offenses. Regardless of the degree of your charges, Assault and Battery is a serious offense that should not be taken lightly. The consequences of a conviction can be life-changing, and as such, your criminal defense lawyer in Cottageville, SC, should work relentlessly to fight the charges being levied against you.
Though this list isn't comprehensive, here are some of the biggest factors that dictate the severity of your assault and battery charges:
- Age of Victim
- Severity of Injuries Sustained
- Size and Weight of Accused vs. Size and Weight of Victim
- Whether or Not the Victim Presses Charges
- Whether or Not Weapons Were Involved
- Whether or Not the Victim's Privates Were Touched
Understanding the Degrees of Assault and Battery in South Carolina
Third Degree
Causing harm to someone or threatening to do so with the ability to carry out the threat can result in a charge of third-degree assault and battery. This misdemeanor offense is typically heard in municipal or magistrate courts and may carry a maximum sentence of 30 days in jail.
Second Degree
Causing harm or making threats to harm someone that results in moderate bodily injury can lead to charges of second-degree assault and battery. Additionally, touching someone's private parts without their consent can also result in charges of assault and battery in the second degree. This misdemeanor offense is heard in General Session court and can carry a maximum sentence of three years in prison.
First Degree
Assault and Battery in the first degree can involve a number of actions such as inflicting an unlawful injury when kidnapping, touching a person's privates "with lewd and lascivious intent,†and much more. Contact Theos Law Firm for more info on the degrees of Assault and Battery in South Carolina.
Everyone Deserves a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney in Cottageville, SC
At Theos Law firm, we work tirelessly to ensure that our client's rights are not overlooked. Because unfortunately, the rights of everyday citizens are often trampled by law enforcement oversights and legal system failures.
That's why every criminal defense lawyer at our firm works hard to provide guidance and support throughout the legal process by keeping you informed of updates and as comfortable as possible during this trying time. Benefits of hiring Theos Law Firm include:
- Thorough Knowledge of South Carolina Criminal Law & Procedures
- Seasoned Legal Representation in the Courtroom
- Years of Experience Structuring Plea bargains
- Ability to Identify Due Process Violations
- Fierce Dedication to Clients & Vigorous Representation
- Skilled Negotiation Tactics Involved with Bail, Sentencing, Appeals, and More
- Familiarity with Local Prosecutors
Unlike some criminal defense law firms in South Carolina, our team believes that everyone deserves a great lawyer when their freedoms are on the line. If you or a loved one has been accused of a crime in South Carolina, trust Theos Law to have your back without judgment.
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Latest News in Cottageville, SC
Septic tank drama may shutter Cottageville restaurant
Raymond Owenshttps://www.counton2.com/news/local-news/colleton-county-news/septic-tank-drama-may-shutter-cottageville-restaurant/
COTTAGEVILLE, S.C. (WCBD) – A problem with a septic tank may force a small business in Colleton County to close its doors for good.David Stanfield and his wife opened Red Brick Pizza in Cottageville a few years ago. But they may have to close their business after South Carolina’s lead health agency, the Department of Health and Environmental Control, said their septic system is not fit for the job.“Almost two years ago we started, and almost immediately DHEC jumped on my back,” said Stanfield. “In ...
COTTAGEVILLE, S.C. (WCBD) – A problem with a septic tank may force a small business in Colleton County to close its doors for good.
David Stanfield and his wife opened Red Brick Pizza in Cottageville a few years ago. But they may have to close their business after South Carolina’s lead health agency, the Department of Health and Environmental Control, said their septic system is not fit for the job.
“Almost two years ago we started, and almost immediately DHEC jumped on my back,” said Stanfield. “In March of last year, we started takeout only, but in March I contacted them about opening a 12-person dining room. They said yes, you can open it.”
A month later, Stanfield said he was told that could not have a dining room.
“I asked them about the tables out front – I had four picnic tables out front – they said you can have all the picnic tables you want, so we built a patio which has a bunch of outside tables. And then five months later, during another inspection, and we’ve gone through eight in one year, during another inspection they said you can’t have these outside tables. I said, well, you told us we could.”
DHEC told Stanfield that his septic tank was too small, and he was given a ‘shut door’ order.
“Two months ago, I went before the council- I begged them, I said my septic system has never overflowed, it’s never had a problem, and they said you have 60 days to put this monstrosity in back here.”
His customers were outside protesting on Tuesday while raising money to help keep them in business.
Stanfield began installing the large septic system. He says he has now spent $51,000 on the project. But his business only makes about $800-$1,000 on a good week. So, he believes he will now have to just shut down.
Stanfield eventually put a water meter on his property after a suggestion from a neighbor to see how much water was being used each day.
“Our water meter shows that we use 350 gallons per night, my existing system will do 450 gallons and they’ve got me putting in the system it will do 1,500 gallons per night which is just crazy. They’ve bankrupted me. They’ve taken every dime that we have, and we don’t even have money to open for food this week.”
DHEC sent News 2 a statement saying Stanfield was not in compliance with his DHEC permit when he moved from take-out only to restaurant seating.
“Mr. Stanfield did not dispute the grounds for suspension but requested the suspension be rescinded because he was diligently working on gaining compliance with DHEC regulations,” the statement said. “Failure to install the upgraded system would not lead to closure of the facility but would result in the return to the original food service operation as approved and permitted by DHEC.”
“I don’t understand this because, you know, America is known for if you put everything into – whatever your dream is – you can get it accomplished and they are burying us alive,” said Heike Stanfield, Co-Owner, Red Brick Pizza.
Stanfield said they were last open on Saturday. But unless a miracle happens, he believes they may not be able to re-open again.
The matter was discussed during a DHEC board meeting on May 5, 2022 with the restaurant’s owner in attendance – a motion was made about two hours and thirty-three minutes into the meeting, following an executive session. You can watch that hearing by clicking here.
Greater Cottageville Chamber of Commerce ready to thrive
VICKI BROWNhttps://walterborolive.com/stories/greater-cottageville-chamber-of-commerce-ready-to-thrive,38365
Cottageville residents have seen change in their community in the last few years, and now the Greater Cottageville Chamber of Commerce is ready to encourage more improvements.Frank Santorella, a resident of Cottageville, said he is proud of the small town and wants to showcase its beauty, friendly people, and excellent location.“We want to create a chamber of commerce here. We already have a 501-3C non-profit status, Maryann Blake is serving as our attorney, and we are ready to roll,” said Santorella. “We have...
Cottageville residents have seen change in their community in the last few years, and now the Greater Cottageville Chamber of Commerce is ready to encourage more improvements.
Frank Santorella, a resident of Cottageville, said he is proud of the small town and wants to showcase its beauty, friendly people, and excellent location.
“We want to create a chamber of commerce here. We already have a 501-3C non-profit status, Maryann Blake is serving as our attorney, and we are ready to roll,” said Santorella. “We have ‘Friends of the Park’ which is comprised of people who helped develop the park into what it is now.” He says there are also plans at the park to install a memorial with engraved bricks to honor veterans. This will be accomplished by applying for grants and accepting donations.
Santorella, who plans to initiate the chamber, will serve as a temporary director. He says he already has seven merchants who are interested in joining.
“We want to make Cottageville a destination. Red Brick Pizza and Beer Garden is the anchor store for starting the chamber,” said Santorella. “It’s a one-of-a-kind business in the entire region. Once the chamber officially opens, we want to pick a member of the chamber and promote that business each week, and once a month promote everyone. There will be a rotation, and this will be good for everybody.”
He went on to say that the brick-and-mortar stores are the life of Cottageville, not the transient businesses. He feels that transient businesses will not want to invest their funds in the chamber, but the stationary businesses are here to stay.
“I think the people of Cottageville will be positively affected by the chamber and will accept it with open arms. Hopefully, this will bring even more businesses our way. Our only option now is to travel to Summerville or Walterboro to purchase some items. That’s between 15 to 20 miles away. Cottageville has a lot of people in the rural areas, and though our local gas stations try hard to serve the needs of the community, it would be nice to have boutique shops here. We already have a new vape store that has a coffee bar. So we are starting off well,” said Santorella.
He is hoping to have the new chamber up and running by the end of the first quarter of 2022.
“There will be a fee for stores to become part of the chamber,” said Santorella, who gathered ideas and patterned the Cottageville chamber after the City of Walteboro’s. “I received ideas on how to structure the fees. They won’t be impressive because social media provides a lot of free advertising. We will have a website and newsletter for the community. We will be out there,” he added.
Anyone interested in joining the new chamber can write to: Greater Cottageville Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 464, Cottageville, SC, 29435. Businesses can also contact Santorella on Facebook at Friends of the Park or call The Vape Stop at 843-701-4262.
Deputies make arrests after body found in Cottageville woods
https://www.live5news.comhttps://www.live5news.com/story/32850772/two-charged-after-body-found-in-cottageville-woods/
Deputies make arrests after body found in Cottageville woods where hunter went missingCOLLETON COUNTY, SC (WCSC) - Investigators have made a number of arrests after a body was found in the woods in Cottageville in the same area where a hunter went missing.The Colleton County Sheriff’s Office says 25-year-old Schuyler Rene Andrulat of Cottageville and 33-year-old Nathan Baughman of Summerville have been charged with obstruction of justice. According to court records, the charges against Andrulat were dismissed and expunged...
Deputies make arrests after body found in Cottageville woods where hunter went missing
COLLETON COUNTY, SC (WCSC) - Investigators have made a number of arrests after a body was found in the woods in Cottageville in the same area where a hunter went missing.
The Colleton County Sheriff’s Office says 25-year-old Schuyler Rene Andrulat of Cottageville and 33-year-old Nathan Baughman of Summerville have been charged with obstruction of justice. According to court records, the charges against Andrulat were dismissed and expunged.
A third man, Brad Skipper, has also been charged with an outstanding warrant from Colleton County.
The body was found around 8 p.m. on Thursday in a wooded area off Red Oak Road, the same area where a hunter went missing last Friday
The sheriff's office says the missing hunter was staying with friends who waited until Sunday to report him missing.
The coroner is doing an autopsy to determine the cause of death and identify the body.
The arrests stems from an incident that began on Aug. 21 when a Colleton County deputy responded to a home on Peirce Road in reference to a missing person.
The deputy spoke to Andrulat who said a friend of hers, Orin Patrick, had come to her home to go hunting Friday evening.
According to a report, Andrulat said she dropped Patrick off along the woodline on Peirce Road with a shotgun.
"Andrulat stated that several hours later, she received a call from Patrick stating that he was lost in the woods and he wanted her to drive along the road and beep the horn so that he could find his way back to the road again," the report states.
Andrulat told investigators that she did this around 9 p.m. on Friday but could not find him.
According to authorities, Andrulat said she received another call from Patrick that only last a few seconds and had since been unable to reach him through his phone again. Andrulat told deputies that she did not know any more information about Patrick.
In the incident report, the responding deputy reported that when he first met with Andrulat, she was unable to give any information about Patrick. The deputy then told Andrulat to get in contact with some of Patrick's friends or family so that he could get enough information to do a report.
Authorities also spoke with Patrick's friend, Baughman, who told investigators over the phone that he and Patrick had been staying at a home on Lakeview Drive in Summerville.
Baughman said the last time he saw Patrick was on Aug. 19, but was unsure of the time "because they had both been drinking so he did not remember much about that day."
The incident report states Baughman told investigators that this was not the first time Patrick had just "gone away, but it has never been for this long and never without making contact with him."
Detectives reported that they had Patrick's cell phone pinged to find the last location for it which was in Summerville.
Copyright 2016 WCSC. All rights reserved.
Cowboy Church sings praise in Cottageville
Post and Courierhttps://www.postandcourier.com/multimedia/cowboy-church-sings-praise-in-cottageville/collection_f589f440-4ac7-11e7-91c6-27e7b8720fc9.html
A few years ago David Stanfield, with the help of many other people, converted his old horse barn into a church. “I love people,” said Stanfield, “Now I finally have something that draws people.” Stanfield holds the service every Sunday at 6pm at Horseshoe lake in Cottageville.Buy NowFrankalina Marie signs the hymns during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. "When the group is singing they are singing wi...
A few years ago David Stanfield, with the help of many other people, converted his old horse barn into a church. “I love people,” said Stanfield, “Now I finally have something that draws people.” Stanfield holds the service every Sunday at 6pm at Horseshoe lake in Cottageville.
Frankalina Marie signs the hymns during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. "When the group is singing they are singing with all their heart,” said Marie. “Its real stuff, there's no pretend, there's no show, we're so glad that everybody is here." Michael Pronzato/Staff
Members of the Cowboy Church play during their Sunday service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. David Stanfield, center, with the help of many other people, converted the old barn into a church. "God gave me cheap lumber," said Stanfield. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Sofi Moore, 6, with her mom Kristina Harris during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Mama Sue sings during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. "This is like my second family, said Mama Sue, "It is my home away from home." Michael Pronzato/Staff
Brenda Smith sings the hymns during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Members of the Cowboy Church play during their Sunday service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. David Stanfield, center, with the help of many other people, converted the old barn into a church. "God gave me cheap lumber," said Stanfield. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Lyla Youmans, 4, sits with her mom Chelsea Mixson during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Rose Marie Fender sings the songs that are played during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Lyla Youmans, 4, sits with her mom Chelsea Mixson during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Hymnals are placed in the hand made pews during the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Michael Pronzato/Staff
David Stanfield laughs with James Poole and Joan Newberger after Poole questioned him for not liking greens before the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. "You live in the south and you don't like greens?" said Poole. Michael Pronzato/Staff
John France, left, plays pool with a friend outside the church before the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Kristina Harris digs in to the large spread of food prepared by Derrick Edwards after the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. "Were all family here," said Chef Edwards. Michael Pronzato/Staff
Sofi Moore, 6, dances after eating dinner at the Cowboy Church service in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Behind the church is a lake and a small beach that the attendees can fish from or take a boat out on the lake. Michael Pronzato/Staff
David Stanfield runs the Cowboy Church service and other amenities around the property in Cottageville on Sunday, June 4, 2017. "I love people," said Stanfield, "Now I finally have something that draws people." Stanfield takes pride in his way of having church. Michael Pronzato/Staff
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Former Colleton County Councilman, Reverend Evon Robinson, Sr., to Serve as MLK Parade Marshal
Walterboro Livehttps://walterborolive.com/stories/former-colleton-county-councilman-reverend-evon-robinson-sr-to-serve-as-mlk-parade-marshal,54977
Written by: Anna S. BrightSubmitted by: Herman G. Bright, Parade ChairmanPhoto: SubmittedFor 35 years, the Walterboro Shrine Club of Arabian Temple #139 has sponsored the town’s parade, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As a nation, we honor this slain civil rights leader whose mission was to advocate for all people who had been oppressed by unjust laws and immoral abuses. King vowed, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Serving this year as parade marshal is...
Written by: Anna S. Bright
Submitted by: Herman G. Bright, Parade Chairman
Photo: Submitted
For 35 years, the Walterboro Shrine Club of Arabian Temple #139 has sponsored the town’s parade, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As a nation, we honor this slain civil rights leader whose mission was to advocate for all people who had been oppressed by unjust laws and immoral abuses. King vowed, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Serving this year as parade marshal is a former Colleton County Councilman and retired pastor, Rev. Evon Arrington Robinson, Sr. When given the invitation to serve as this year’s marshal, Rev. Robinson expressed many words of gratitude and was most elated to accept this honor. Due to COVID restrictions, the parade was not held in 2021, and it was not held in 2022 because of inclement weather.
Rev. Robinson, a retired pastor of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, is a native of Cottageville, South Carolina. He is the son of the late Mr. Easley Robinson, Sr., and Mrs. Bula Mae Haynes Robinson. After graduating from Colleton Training School, he attended SC Trade School and later completed a tour of duty in the United States Army. In 1970 he received the call to ministry. He attended South Carolina State University, subsequently attending the Nichols Theological Seminary Extension in Charleston, South Carolina for religious training.
Having served in the pastoral ministry of Jesus Christ for 47 years, all of which were in the South Carolina Annual Conference, among his assignments were the Fairfax, St. Paul, Holly Hill, St. Matthew, and St. Stephens Circuits. Rev. Robinson led the Greater St. Paul and Greater Target congregations in the construction of brand-new edifices. In addition, he led the congregations at St. Peters, New Hope, St. Matthew, and St. Stephens in total renovation projects.
Rev. Robinson served the SC Conference in the following capacities: the Board of Examiners, the Ministerial Efficiency Committee, Presiding Elders’ Salary Committee, the Conference Finance Committee, Chairman of the Finance Committee for the Beaufort District, Station and Circuit Committee, Deeds and Abstracts Committee, and Abandoned Property Committee. Further, he was one of the initial organizers of the Sons of Allen Ministry and served on this committee for many years.
His ministry outside the walls of the church includes being elected to the Colleton County Board of Education. During Rev. Robinson’s tenure while serving as the board chairman, he led the historic event of hiring the first African American superintendent in the county. He was later elected and served on the Colleton County Council for 16 years, three of which he was a chairman. He served for 15 years on the Board of Directors of the Lowcountry Regional Council of Government, and he also served as treasurer for the South Carolina Coalition of Black County Officials. In addition, he served on the Lowcountry Community Action Agency Community Action Agency Board of Directors for several years, four of which he was chairman.
Previously, he was chairman of the Equal Opportunity Committee for the Department of the United States Navy, Naval Weapons Station, Charleston for 12 years, and as the president of the American Federation of Government Employees Union-Local 2298, for two years. Lastly, he is a member of the Colleton Branch of the NAACP and the Hiram Mann Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., of which four years he was the president.
For 57 years Rev. Robinson and his wife, Gloria Smalls Robinson, have been united as one. They are the proud parents of four children: Evon, Jr., Ronald, Rhonda Lynn, and Keon. They have been blessed with nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. After 28 years of service, Rev. Robinson retired from the Naval Weapons Station in Charleston in 1995. In addition, he owned and operated Robinson’s Barbershop in Walterboro for many years.
After having served more than four decades as a pastor in the A.M.E. Church, in November 2018, Rev. Robinson retired from active ministry, a calling of which he loved so dearly. He plans to travel extensively throughout the nation to share his experiences as a servant of God in the wider ecumenical circles, as well as his beloved A.M.E. Church.
The Walterboro Shrine Club’s Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade will take place on Sunday, January 15, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. on Jefferies Boulevard. At 1:30 p.m., the lineup will begin in front of Live Oak Cemetery. The public is cordially invited and encouraged to attend.
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