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 St. Matthews, 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 St. Matthews 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.
We help clients overcome criminal charges in a wide range of cases, including the following:
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 St. Matthews, 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.
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.
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.
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 St. Matthews, SC.
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.
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.
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.
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 St. Matthews, SC, present during questioning, and you should absolutely use that to your advantage.
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.
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.
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.
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 St. Matthews and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.
To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in St. Matthews, SC, may seek answers to many questions, including:
If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in St. Matthews 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 St. Matthews 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:
However, the state also has other drug charges that are not based on the weight of the drugs. These include:
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 St. Matthews, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in St. Matthews and other cities in South Carolina.
Some of the most common drug charges we see at Theos Law include the following:
The simple answer to this question is a resounding "Yes.â 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.
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 St. Matthews, 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:
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.
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.
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,â and much more. Contact Theos Law Firm for more info on the degrees of Assault and Battery in South Carolina.
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:
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.
The United States has a 250th birthday coming up, and South Carolina is positioning itself to play a vital role in the celebration.On July 4, 2026, the U.S. will celebrate 250 years of independence from Great Britain.Bill Davies, who’s part of the S.C. Revolutionary War Sestercentennial Commission, spoke to a small group of Calhoun County residents on Monday night about how each county can help spark interest in residents and tourists alike.“Honest to goodness, what we’re trying to do is hook every one ...
The United States has a 250th birthday coming up, and South Carolina is positioning itself to play a vital role in the celebration.
On July 4, 2026, the U.S. will celebrate 250 years of independence from Great Britain.
Bill Davies, who’s part of the S.C. Revolutionary War Sestercentennial Commission, spoke to a small group of Calhoun County residents on Monday night about how each county can help spark interest in residents and tourists alike.
“Honest to goodness, what we’re trying to do is hook every one of you to being part of this because we think it’s really important,” Davies said.
The S.C. American Revolutionary War Sestercentennial Commission – or SC250 for short – along with the Liberty Trail are working to promote two goals ahead of the nation’s upcoming milestone.
“The first goal is education. Education should always be first,” Davies said.
“The education we need to focus on is winning back the heritage that South Carolina had before 1860 for having a pivotal role in winning independence from Great Britain,” he added.
“If you read all the books before 1860, it’s recognized that the South is where the war was won. After that, the South got written out of the war. This is something we need to educate people on and reeducate us – all of us, not just some – school children and everybody about our role in that war,” Davies said.
“We also need to educate the visitors because the visitors are coming,” he said.
The second goal “is technically called cultural heritage tourism. What that really means is local economic development. We want to get literally hundreds of thousands of people who are going up and down our interstates, who tour our state every day. We want to get them off the highway – somewhere other than Myrtle Beach and Charleston – we want to get them to rural South Carolina. And when we get them off the highway, we want them to stop and buy gas. We want them to buy T-shirts, belts, hats and maybe a pocketknife or something. And we want them to eat lunch in our restaurants and we want them to spend the night here,” Davies said.
At least 400 Revolutionary War incidents took place in South Carolina, Davies said.
He noted there were two battles each in Charleston and Camden, “and everything else was out in the country.”
“When people go to Revolutionary War sites, they will be in rural South Carolina,” he said.
Davies said tourists and residents are heading to rural areas to visit Revolutionary War sites.
In 2020, Star Fort, a national park in the Ninety-Six district of South Carolina, saw 95,107 visitors. Davies said the visitors invested an estimated $5.7 million in the state.
Cowpens National Battlefield, just outside of Chesnee, saw 227,000 visitors during 2020, bringing an estimated $14.9 million in revenue to the state.
As the state gets ready for the nation’s 225th birthday, each county needs to form a committee to tell of its Revolutionary War sites, contributions and other significant impacts, he said.
“Once your county council recognizes you as the official Calhoun County committee, we have a $3,000 grant that’s not competitive or anything else,” Davies said. “We’ve got grants that will help you locate sites in your county. Grants that will help research history and find the place and provide the archaeology, that will help you set up the pull-offs and will help you with signage.”
Davies said the SC250 Commission is focused on telling factual stories of the Revolutionary War to not only focus not only on the people who fought in battles, but capture the diversity of people who contributed to the efforts.
St. Matthews Mayor Helen Carson noted, “I’m happy to see this. It would be a wonderful thing for our children and grandchildren to know South Carolina played such a vital role.”
“We’ve got to bring others to the table, to the drawing board, because that’s what’s going to make the horse run down the road,” she said.
To learn more about South Carolina’s efforts to celebrate the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday, visit: www.southcarolina250.com
The Liberty Trail is a free, interactive phone application that allows users to plan tours of Revolutionary War sites across South Carolina.
A St. Matthews woman pleaded guilty to identity fraud to obtain employment or avoid detection by law enforcement.Amanda Fogle Johnson, 48, of 213 Carlisle Avenue, entered her plea before Circuit Judge Maite Murphy during a recent term of court held at the Orangeburg County Courthouse.Murphy sentenced her to five years in prison, suspended to two years of probation.In other recent guilty pleas:• Terrence Maurice Felder, 49, of 1072 Sulton Court, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to second-offense driving under the in...
A St. Matthews woman pleaded guilty to identity fraud to obtain employment or avoid detection by law enforcement.
Amanda Fogle Johnson, 48, of 213 Carlisle Avenue, entered her plea before Circuit Judge Maite Murphy during a recent term of court held at the Orangeburg County Courthouse.
Murphy sentenced her to five years in prison, suspended to two years of probation.
In other recent guilty pleas:
• Terrence Maurice Felder, 49, of 1072 Sulton Court, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to second-offense driving under the influence less than .10.
Murphy sentenced him to pay a $100 fine within six months or report to jail for 30 days.
• Jamichael Dashawn Franklin, 24, of 624 Bleakley Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to first-offense driving under suspension license not suspended for DUI and first-offense failure to stop for blue lights.
Murphy sentenced him under the Youthful Offender Act not to exceed three years, suspended to one year of probation.
She also ordered him to undergo random drug/alcohol testing.
Prosecutors dismissed Franklin’s charge of first-offense uninsured motor vehicle fee violation.
• Dycippa Lamart Garner, 42, of 741 Old Elloree Road, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to second-degree domestic violence.
Murphy sentenced him to prison for three years, suspended to two years of probation after he served two days in jail.
She gave Garner credit for having already served the two days in jail.
She also ordered him to undergo random drug/alcohol testing.
• Charles Antrell Demaine Govan, 23, of 960 Rivers Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to public disorderly conduct.
Murphy sentenced him to one day in jail and gave him credit for time served.
Prosecutors dismissed his charge of resisting arrest.
• Taveon Jerell Haywood, 24, of 158 Petunia Street, Cordova, pleaded guilty to second-degree assault and battery.
Murphy sentenced him under the Youthful Offender Act not to exceed three years, suspended to 18 months of probation.
She also ordered Haywood to complete anger management.
• Shannon Ray Heath, 46, of 2385 Camp Rawls Road, Wagener, pleaded guilty to second-degree non-violent burglary.
Murphy sentenced him to five years in prison, suspended to two years of probation once he served 290 days in jail.
She gave him credit for having served 290 days in jail.
She also ordered Heath to pay restitution and undergo random drug/alcohol testing.
• Manaysia Hoheb, 22, of 751 Bonner Avenue, Santee, pleaded guilty to breach of trust with fraudulent intent valued more than $2,000 but less than $10,000.
Murphy sentenced her under the Youthful Offender Act not to exceed three years, suspended to one year of probation.
She also ordered Hoheb to pay restitution, enroll with the S.C. Vocational Rehabilitation Department or Job Corps and undergo random drug/alcohol testing.
• Eitan Ben Israel, 70, of 126 Mack Hill Street, St. Matthews, pleaded guilty to pointing and presenting a firearm at a person.
Murphy sentenced him to prison for one year, suspended to probation for nine months.
An additional charge of pointing and presenting a firearm was dismissed.
Murphy also ordered Johnson to complete substance abuse counseling and undergo random drug/alcohol testing.
• Cleveland Jermaine Johnson, 27, of 77 Timber Lane, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree domestic violence.
Murphy sentenced him to three years in prison, suspended to 18 months of probation.
She ordered Johnson to obtain his GED. She gave him credit having already served 329 days in jail.
Prosecutors dismissed the following charges: two counts of third-degree domestic violence and one count each of resisting arrest and malicious injury to real property valued at $2,000 or less.
• Marvin Johnson, 47, of 124 Omega Court, Santee, pleaded guilty to first-offense DUI and second-offense DUI less than .10.
Murphy sentenced him to pay a $150 fine within six months or report to jail for 30 days.
Prosecutors dismissed two counts of threatening the life of a public official and one count of having an open container of alcohol.
• Malik Kentrell Harrison, 25, of 299 Tyler Road, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to third-degree domestic violence.
Circuit Judge Heath P. Taylor sentenced him to 70 days in jail and gave him credit for time served.
St. Matthew Baptist Church, 749 Longtown Road in Lugoff, recently celebrated its 150th anniversary. Established in 1873 by former salves, members at that time gathered under a brush arbor for worship. Later that same year, Gordon and Grady Bell of Lugoff granted the members 2 acres of land for a church to be built.Services were held each Sunday with additional prayer services held during the week. The building was later destroyed by fire, and in March 1939, services continued in the Parker School building.On May 21, 1956, membe...
St. Matthew Baptist Church, 749 Longtown Road in Lugoff, recently celebrated its 150th anniversary. Established in 1873 by former salves, members at that time gathered under a brush arbor for worship. Later that same year, Gordon and Grady Bell of Lugoff granted the members 2 acres of land for a church to be built.
Services were held each Sunday with additional prayer services held during the week. The building was later destroyed by fire, and in March 1939, services continued in the Parker School building.
On May 21, 1956, members purchased land on S.C. 5 (Longtown Road) to build a new church. In 1958, the members moved into the new sanctuary. Old time hymns, accompanied by the clapping of hands and stomping of feet, along with shouts of praise echoed throughout each service.
Baptisms were held outdoors before an indoor baptismal pool was built. Members would fellowship with each other after services knowing that it would be a week or more before they could see or talk to each other again.
Electronic communication was not available. This building now serves as the church’s family life center.
Throughout its 150-year history, St Matthew has been under the leadership of several pastors, each providing spiritual guidance to the congregation, leadership and improvements to the physical structure of the church. Each pastor worked hard to achieve the goals established during his tenure. In the fall of 2006, construction began on the current sanctuary. It was dedicated in April 2007 during a morning service.
The congregation’s goals for the future of St. Matthew are to continue to provide services through the offering of programs of benefit to the members as well as the surrounding community.
These include educational programs and workshops that focus on health awareness, tutorial services, and parenting classes.
Providing recreational activities for senior citizens and youth, the development of an outreach ministry, seeing an increase in membership, offering a scholarship program for students to continue their education beyond high school, continuing its monthly foot giveaway, and increasing the involvement of youth in the functions of the church all remain a priority at St. Matthew.
The sesquicentennial culminated with a banquet held at the Bethlehem Family Life Center in Lugoff. Michael Cummings, Eugene Walker, and Russell Perkins provided music. State Sen. Penry Gustafson, along with former Kershaw County Council member Bobby Gary, presented the church with proclamations recognizing St. Matthew for its long history and contributions to the community. That Sunday’s church service concluded with dinner in the fellowship hall.
St. Matthew Baptist Church was built on God’s guidance, faith, the hard work of the congregation’s forefathers, and its dedicated church members. Its mission is to save souls by glorifying God, spreading His Holy Word, supporting fellow believers, and to be a guiding lot for the community.
“As we enter a new era in the history of St. Matthew, we trust that God will enable us to live out the true meaning of our mission statement,” congregants said.
“Thanks be to God! He has heard your prayers! He has answered your prayers!” With these words, the Rev. Janet Echols, Rector of St. Matthew’s, Fort Motte, announced on October 31, 2022, that her congregation will be allowed to buy back their church property. In April, the SC Supreme Court ruled that St. Matthew’s along with seven other parishes no longer belonged to the local congregations and that their deeds were to be handed over to the Episcopal Church.On October 29, Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley and the Epi...
“Thanks be to God! He has heard your prayers! He has answered your prayers!” With these words, the Rev. Janet Echols, Rector of St. Matthew’s, Fort Motte, announced on October 31, 2022, that her congregation will be allowed to buy back their church property. In April, the SC Supreme Court ruled that St. Matthew’s along with seven other parishes no longer belonged to the local congregations and that their deeds were to be handed over to the Episcopal Church.
On October 29, Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley and the Episcopal Standing committee of the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina, to sell the church property back to the Anglican congregation.
Echols called the opportunity miraculous. “I say miraculously because it really was an act of God that turned the tide for us. There were forces at work against us. Your prayers were effective! No other church in our Diocese has been given this opportunity to ‘redeem’ their property. Thanks be to God for answered prayers!”
In addition to thanking her congregation for praying the effort through, Echols thanked attorney Francis Mack, “who persevered through this 10-year journey and did an amazing job as our legal counsel,” as well as Mary Taber and Steve Pittman, (Senior and Junior Wardens, respectively) and their vestry “who have shown great leadership in this season.”
Echols also publicly thanked Bishop Woodliff-Stanley, Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina for “her courage, wisdom and grace,” and, in response to requests from her parishioners, provided them with the Episcopal Bishop’s address so they may write notes of appreciation. “In spite of letters and calls from people encouraging her not to sell to us, she made the call,” said Echols.
Bishop Chip Edgar, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of South Carolina called it a “eucatastrophe.” “This was a classic Tolkienesque ‘eucatastrophe,’” he said, “where six months ago we thought all was lost when the properties had been lost, but St. Matthew’s has had the opportunity to purchase back their building at a price they can achieve. It also opens the door for them to fundraise both for this as well as other needs of their church and mission opportunities going forward. It’s my hope and prayer and even expectation that this starts yet another new day for St. Matthew’s as they look to a future where they can really live into the ministry to which God has called them.”
The church has 90 days to raise the agreed upon price for the property. In her message to the congregation Echols said, “The first thing we need to do is PRAY. Just as I asked you to pray for the meeting – three times a day for five minutes. I am going to ask you that at every meal when you thank God for your “daily bread,” His provision, you also pray for provision for our church. Thank Him for what He has already done, for what He is doing, and for what He will do to provide for us. People around the Anglican Diocese of SC and the world are joining us in prayer.”
The Jerusalem Fund sent an “encouragement gift” of $10,000 to St Matthew’s Parish this week. As a Diocese, we continue to stand together as we labor to build up the Body of Christ in this place.
To donate to the effort, give to the Jerusalem Fund, noting that your gift is for St. Matthew’s, Fort Motte.
The playground will be located at the corner of Butler Street and Richland Avenue. The land was formerly used for tennis courts that became dilapidated.ST MATTHEWS, S.C. — Construction of a new playground is underway in the Town of St. Matthews. The project is being spearheaded by the Calhoun County Parks and Recreation Department.“I think it’s ...
The playground will be located at the corner of Butler Street and Richland Avenue. The land was formerly used for tennis courts that became dilapidated.
ST MATTHEWS, S.C. — Construction of a new playground is underway in the Town of St. Matthews. The project is being spearheaded by the Calhoun County Parks and Recreation Department.
“I think it’s gonna be a great addition for us," said local parent Joseph Fairey.
There will be slides, monkey bars, and swing sets for children to enjoy, and picnic tables for families. According to the Calhoun County Department of Parks and Recreation, this project has been a few years in the making.
The playground will be located at the corner of Butler Street and Richland Avenue. The land was formerly used for tennis courts that became dilapidated over the years.
“You have a lot of people in this area, in St. Matthews that are looking for things to do with their kids. On a nice day like this, this would be a perfect day to bring your kids out, use the playground, get rid of all of that energy that these kids have after a long day of school," said parks and recreation director Zachary Tarrant.
Joseph Fairey is a local parent in St. Matthews. His daughters are active in Calhoun County sports programs.
"I remember growing up this was a tennis court and I had a lot of good memories out there," he said, "Over the years it had just kind of become not used and not functional for the community.”
He moved back to St. Matthews last year after living in Columbia for a while.
“This is a great family, friendly community but not having a playground is obviously something we needed. Just excited for my kids. I’ve got a one, a four, and a seven year old so obviously we’ll be using it a lot and lots of families that are out here will take advantage of it and it’ll bring the community together," said Fairey.
The park is being funded by a grant from the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, in addition to money from the Calhoun County penny sales tax. It's expected to open at the end of May.