When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Holly Hill, SC

cd-head-bottom

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 Holly Hill, 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 Holly Hill 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 Holly Hill, 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.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Holly Hill, SC

Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina

cd-head-bottom

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.

 Attorney At Law Holly Hill, SC
 Car Accident Attorney Holly Hill, SC

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 Holly Hill, 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.

 Car Accident Lawyer Holly Hill, SC

When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Holly Hill, SC?

cd-head-bottom

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.

 Family Law Holly Hill, SC

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.


 Family Law Attorney Holly Hill, SC

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 Holly Hill, SC, present during questioning, and you should absolutely use that to your advantage.


 Family Lawyer Holly Hill, SC

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.


 Personal Injury Lawyer Holly Hill, SC

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.


 Truck Accident Attorney Holly Hill, SC

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

cd-head-bottom

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 Holly Hill and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.

To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Holly Hill, 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.
 Truck Accident Lawyer Holly Hill, SC

Criminal Defense for Drug Cases in South Carolina

cd-head-bottom

If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Holly Hill 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 Holly Hill 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?”

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
Criminal Defense Lawyer Holly Hill, SC

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 Holly Hill, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Holly Hill 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
 Attorney At Law Holly Hill, SC

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

cd-head-bottom

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.

 Car Accident Attorney Holly Hill, SC

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 Holly Hill, 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 Holly Hill, SC

cd-head-bottom

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.

Make an Apportment

Latest News in Holly Hill, SC

'It's a game changer,' Holly Hill enters partnership with Eutawville to share costs

The town of Eutawville currently does not have its own sewage and uses a septic tank system.ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — The town of Holly Hill is entering into a shared agreement with the town of Eutawville to share sewage costs.The plan would allow Holly Hill to run sewage pipes from Eutawville along Eutaw Road into the town of Holly Hill and treat its sewer system.“It’s a game changer for eastern Orangeburg County," said Holly ...

The town of Eutawville currently does not have its own sewage and uses a septic tank system.

ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — The town of Holly Hill is entering into a shared agreement with the town of Eutawville to share sewage costs.

The plan would allow Holly Hill to run sewage pipes from Eutawville along Eutaw Road into the town of Holly Hill and treat its sewer system.

“It’s a game changer for eastern Orangeburg County," said Holly Hill Mayor Billy Chavis.

Chavis says this partnership will help prepare both towns for growth coming to Eastern Orangeburg County, by increasing its sewage capacity.

RELATED: New annexation in Holly Hill to bring 74 homes to town limits

“It made sense for us to at least reach out and get down to the bare bones of this agreement see if its once again financially feasible for us to give sewer to them so that Eutawville can express the same growth that Holly Hill’s gonna have," said Chavis.

The town of Eutawville currently does not have its own sewage and uses a septic tank system. Eutawville resident Melissa Garing says she would prefer to keep things how they are.

“I’m against it simply because we live in a small town. I like the small town feel, I like my well water. Septic tank is kind of a pain when you have to pump it out but it’s a small price to pay for not having so much growth and so much city life around us," said Garing.

It will be equally funded by both towns' general funds. Currently, the town of Holly Hill is under a one-year short term utility agreement with Envirolink. By the first quarter of next year, Mayor Chavis is hoping the town will receive South Carolina Infrastructure Improvement Funding to decide their next steps.

RELATED: SC town looks to make agreement with NC based utility company

Eutawville resident Jerry Robertson says he moved from Charleston seven years ago to escape urban development.

“The cost of a sewer plant is gonna take our valuable farmland which is currently growing food, textiles, lumber, soy products, it’s gonna take that farmland and it’s gonna turn it into subdivisions, it’s gonna get paved over, and built over," said Robertson.

American Engineering Consultants, LLC will conduct a feasibility study by the end of the month. This will determine how both towns will proceed with this partnership.

'We're trying to give Holly Hill a seat at the table' Town to get new sewer system

The Mayor says he's confident the company will help guide the town in the right direction as it takes steps to improve its infrastructure.ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — The town of Holly Hill has signed a partnership with American Engineering Consultants, LLC.This Columbia-based group will be designing the town's sewer system.Earlier this year, the town entered into an agreement with North Carolina-based utility company ...

The Mayor says he's confident the company will help guide the town in the right direction as it takes steps to improve its infrastructure.

ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — The town of Holly Hill has signed a partnership with American Engineering Consultants, LLC.

This Columbia-based group will be designing the town's sewer system.

Earlier this year, the town entered into an agreement with North Carolina-based utility company Envirolink to start treating its water and sewage systems.

“With us bringing another professional to the table, they will help guide Holly Hill, and I can only speak for Holly Hill and make sure that we know the best route with Envirolink to take us to the future," said Mayor Billy Chavis.

Mayor Chavis says this is a part of the town's plans to push for receiving more federal COVID recovery funds for rural infrastructure projects.

RELATED: Free food boxes for individuals and families coming to Santee in August

“We’re trying to be on the cutting edge so that we put ourselves on the front of that list so when the state of South Carolina hands down money we’ll be one of the first ones in line to get it," said Chavis.

RELATED: New annexation in Holly Hill to bring 74 homes to town limits

He says he is confident the company will help guide the town of Holly Hill in the right direction as it takes the necessary steps to improve its infrastructure.

"We're putting the best people at the table who can direct us on what's our best next move. Everything we're doing right now is about the next move to go get this ARPA money," he said, “Help us build our foundation on solid rock instead of sand so that this time around Holly Hill will endure for many many years and be a viable option for industries and developments in the future," said Chavis.

Proposed plan would put 475 new homes, townhomes and apartments in Rock Hill

A new plan that would reshape much of the Mt. Holly and Albright roads corridor with new homes, apartments and business is on its way to Rock Hill City Council.The city planning commission recommend...

A new plan that would reshape much of the Mt. Holly and Albright roads corridor with new homes, apartments and business is on its way to Rock Hill City Council.

The city planning commission recommended a sweeping zoning change on Tuesday night. The decision now goes to council on Sept. 25.

York Capital and Albright Corners applied to rezone 127 acres at Mt. Holly and Albright roads, just south of Saluda Street. Two separate areas are located on either side of the Southland Park neighborhood off Pearson Drive. The properties are a little east of Rock Hill Country Club.

The zoning change would allow a mixed-use property combining residential and commercial. A submitted proposal shows 475 new homes, townhomes or apartments. The project is broken into two pieces, Albright Commons East and Albright Commons West.

Albright Commons East is the larger piece. At about 71 acres, it’s east of Mt. Holly Road and south of Albright Road. The southern portion would have 174 townhomes and 150 apartments. A portion along Albright would have about 150,000 square feet of office, retail or commercial space.

Albright Commons West would be about 50 acres on the west side of Mt. Holly Road. It would add 250 apartments, 40 townhomes and 35 homes. Immediately north of the apartment area is commercial property owned by Walmart.

City planner Dennis Fields said there at one point was movement there to locate a new Walmart.

New public streets and private alleys would be built, with on-street parking and sidewalks. The proposal would limit commercial buildings to 50,000 square feet.

The intent is to attract businesses that serve nearby neighborhoods, rather than creating larger regional draws or companies that would detract from existing or coming homes.

Two separate apartment areas would each have their own amenity areas, per the plan. Townhomes could be up to three stories, with four to six units per building. The 35 homes would be adjacent to the Country Club Estates subdivision on lots comparable in size to the Holly Hills and Taylor Oaks subdivisions.

Albright Commons West would include a clubhouse with a pool in the apartment area and at least two more amenities in common open space for the new home area. Albright Commons West would have a recreation or gathering room, resource center, fitness and laundry facilities in the apartment area and at least four more amenities in common open space areas.

It hasn’t been determined, according to the zoning application, which areas or property uses would be developed first.

The plan shows three new entrance or exit points each off Mt. Holly and Albright roads. There are two more connection points to the existing Southland neighborhood.

There are portions of Albright Commons East that are within the property up for rezoning, but aren’t included.

“There is a bakery,” Fields said. “There is a self-storage facility and then there is another parcel that is in the middle.”

City staff have referred to the area up for development as a food desert because of the scarcity of grocery stores. There have been studies and past community efforts aimed at bringing new investment and development to the area. The properties are now zoned for commercial use, but adding residential is a step the city and developers see as crucial to attracting commercial development.

“This area...is definitely a bit of a food desert, a bit of an opportunity area for some homes, population growth, retail growth, commercial growth,” said Taylor Seeloff with The Nichols Company, representing York Capital on Tuesday night.

“We tried to lay out this plan to best meet those needs.”

Fields said the zoning change isn’t the typical sort, where a property zoning changes to allow a set list of land uses. Because the zoning is to a master plan, it would lock in approved development conditions with the change that are specific just to that site.

“This one does have a plan that is approved along with it,” Fields said.

The developer asked for a host of tweaks to what city zoning typically would allow. They relate to buffer distances, driveway dimensions and other features. The city still will see and ultimately have to approve project details when it returns for major site plan or preliminary plat review.

Fields said any deviations from city code due to soil conditions or other factors at the property wouldn’t open the city up to changes for other zoning districts or projects.

“Master plans lock it into only this development,” Fields said.

This story was originally published September 6, 2023, 12:35 PM.

Congregation gathers less than a week after strong winds topple tree in front of church

A tree stump still sits in front of a church in Holly Hill, the scene of a huge downed tree during storm winds. On Sunday church members gather to give thanks.HOLLY HILL, S.C. — When a large tree fell in front of the Holly Hill Methodist Church during strong winds, the Rev...

A tree stump still sits in front of a church in Holly Hill, the scene of a huge downed tree during storm winds. On Sunday church members gather to give thanks.

HOLLY HILL, S.C. — When a large tree fell in front of the Holly Hill Methodist Church during strong winds, the Rev. John Elmore wasn't sure if Sunday's church service would go on; however, with the community's help, the church is fully functional and giving back to others.

A song of praise and thanksgiving was sung inside Holly Hill United Methodist Church on Sunday. The view is a stark difference from the one on Thursday after Tropical Storm Idalia ripped through the area. Elmore said he was cleaning up some flooding inside the church when his week changed instantly.

"My wife actually heard something. She said, 'What was that?' I said, 'I don't know, come on, let's move some chairs.' When we walked outside, the mayor and city workers were here and the tree was laying across the street," Elmore said. "We got it to where they could use a tractor, and of course, they pushed it and blocked about two-thirds of the front of the church."

A News19 crew was in Holly Hill Thursday to see the tree completely turned over in the street, with church members using chainsaws to break it down.

On Sunday, no tree remained in front of the church, and the road was open to normal traffic. The Rev. Elmore said the trials of the storm were a key part of the message of his sermon.

"Some of the illustrations that we used in the sermon were tied to the tree and tied to the storm because we all had lived it," he said. "And so, we can speak into that reality of the scriptures and how they relate to us."

A small crowd gathered inside for the church on Sunday. According to Elmore, many helped get the church operating that day. He said that, in the coming week, his church will have the opportunity to help others in worse situations through the Methodist church's emergency response team.

"We have 10 to 12 trailers that are fully stocked to do tarping, muck-outs from flooding homes, [and] tree removal equipment," he said. "We've received an invitation to go to Ray City, Georgia."

Elmore said he's seen God work through people locally and nationally during the storm, giving more opportunities to spread the gospel.

"It's always people trying to help us in the time of storms, and we should always be willing to be that," he said. "Because when we do, people get to see our love for other people, and I think the scripture is always about loving other people."

Some in Orangeburg County still struggling with Idalia damage

Shop manager on Old State Road in Holly Hill says he and others are still seeing flooding, mold and financial loss.ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — Hurricane Idalia may seem like old news by now, but some Orangeburg County residents are still struggling with the damage it left behind.Shawn Olsen is the manager of the Majestic Pineapple, a shop on Old State Road in Holly Hill. He says they’re still recovering from the physical and f...

Shop manager on Old State Road in Holly Hill says he and others are still seeing flooding, mold and financial loss.

ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — Hurricane Idalia may seem like old news by now, but some Orangeburg County residents are still struggling with the damage it left behind.

Shawn Olsen is the manager of the Majestic Pineapple, a shop on Old State Road in Holly Hill. He says they’re still recovering from the physical and financial effects of Hurricane Idalia.

“When the storm was over, lo and behold, I came and I had a mini flood that then damaged a lot of property,” Olsen said.

He says they lost between $3,000 and $4,000 in inventory. Now, the shop is having issues with flooding and mold that they didn’t have before.

“It just comes in now,” Olsen said. “Now it- it comes in through the walls.”

Olsen says other businesses in Holly Hill are in similar situations.

For other Holly Hill residents, evidence of Hurricane Idalia is just about gone.

“In general in town, we are pretty much back to normal,” said John Elmore. “A little bit of debris here.”

Reverand John Elmore is the pastor at a church where a large tree fell during the storm. He says the clean-up and repairs throughout the town were ‘seamless’.

“Even in the midst of the storm, when the tree fell here at the church, our city workers and the mayor responded great and I ended up being out there with them,” Elmore said.

The director of Orangeburg County’s Office of Emergency Services, Billy Staley, says they encourage residents to report damage.

“The county is still doing damage assessment as we get damage reported,” Staley said. “After the storm the county went and combed the areas looking for damage from the storm and our flood prone areas. We had several homes that had low levels of water in them but that were impacted.”

He says the damage is not severe enough to access FEMA resources.

“We don't meet those thresholds,” Staley said. “But we are trying to connect with our partners, our volunteer organizations to help those families who may need help, who had damage to their structures.”

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.