Common Types of Violent Crime Cases in South Carolina (2025)

Violent crime offenses are some of the most serious charges you can face in South Carolina. These crimes often include acts that cause physical harm or offer threats of physical harm to other individuals. In almost every case of a violent crime, these charges are treated as felonies and come with steep consequences. During these difficult times, it can be wise to understand the common types of violent crime cases in South Carolina and your legal options when arrested.

For nearly three decades, the team at the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III has been helping individuals facing a wide range of criminal charges fight for their rights and freedom. We understand how frightening these charges can be and how confusing it can feel to face them on your own. That is why we are here to protect you and aggressively advocate for you. Allow us to make you aware of all your legal options and how to correctly go about your defense.

Defining Violent Crimes in South Carolina

Violent crimes, or crimes against persons in the state of South Carolina, were up 1.16% in 2023 compared to 2022. The state saw over 101,001 of these crimes committed. Violent offenses occur when there is a use or threat of force against an individual, society, or a piece of property. There are several examples of violent crimes in South Carolina, the most common of which include the following:

• First-degree murder. This charge can arise when an individual has allegedly killed another person with malice aforethought and premeditation. This means that the individual who allegedly committed the crime did so by planning out the crime ahead of committing it and then acting upon that plan. The minimum penalty for this crime in South Carolina is 30 years in prison, while the maximum is life imprisonment or death.
• Second-degree murder. This violent crime charge can occur when an individual allegedly kills another with the intention but without malice aforethought or premeditation. This is considered to be a felony charge and can be punished by up to 30 years in prison. The main difference between this charge and first-degree murder is that second-degree murder requires no malice or premeditation but an act of indifference toward human life.
• Homicide or attempted homicide. In South Carolina, these crimes are both considered to be violent. Homicide occurs when an individual allegedly kills another with intent and without legal justification or reasoning. Attempted homicide occurs when the killing of another individual is attempted but not successful. Murder is a form of homicide charge.
• Aggravated assault and battery. In South Carolina, aggravated battery and assault are two different crimes that are taken extremely seriously by state prosecution. Battery is defined as the knowing intent of causing serious bodily harm to another individual while using a deadly weapon. This crime is usually charged as a felony, and the prison sentence can range anywhere from five to 20 years, depending on the severity of the crime itself.
• Sexual assault. Crimes of a sexual nature are not taken lightly by the prosecution of South Carolina. Under the law, sexual assault is defined as any kind of physical, non-consensual sexual contact, whether that contact is done through force, intimidation, threat, or coercion. These crimes can include rape, attempted rape, forcible sodomy, and sexual misconduct.
• Domestic violence crimes. Crimes related to domestic violence are taken with extreme gravitas in South Carolina. In 2023 alone, there were a total of 30 people murdered by a member of their family or household. Domestic violence can include assault and battery, criminal domestic violence, and other similar offenses. These crimes must include some element of physical harm between family members or members of the same household.
• Kidnapping. This violent crime can occur when an individual is abducted or confined against their will or without their consent. Kidnapping is punishable with up to 30 years in prison. Similar to kidnapping, unlawful restraint can occur when an individual is unlawfully restrained by another against their will and is punishable with up to 10 years in prison.

FAQs

What Are Some Defenses for Violent Crimes?

There are several defenses that can be used against violent crime charges in South Carolina, depending on the nature and circumstances of the alleged crime itself. These defenses can include having an alibi, an insanity plea, acting under duress or coercion, acting in self-defense, the defense of others, or the defense of property, and a lack of evidence to support the prosecution’s case.

What Is Felony Murder in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, felony murder is a charge that can be brought against an individual if they have allegedly killed another person while committing another kind of felony. For example, if an individual has allegedly robbed a bank and a teller was unintentionally killed while the robbery was taking place, the individual could still be charged with murder.

What Are Some Examples of Kidnapping?

In South Carolina, kidnapping is considered a violent crime. This crime can occur when an individual locks someone in their closet or bedroom against their will or without their consent, when someone takes another individual from their home to another by the use of force, forcing an individual to stay seated or to stay in one spot during an argument, and detaining an individual who you know is having an affair with your spouse or partner.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me?

When you are accused of a violent crime in South Carolina, having an attorney on your side is essential. They can review your case, uncover evidence that can support your defense, enter into negotiations with the prosecution in order to seek a plea deal or a reduction in sentencing, and ultimately fight for you in court if the need arises.

Facing Violent Crime Charges? We Can Help!

If you or someone you love is facing violent crime charges in South Carolina, there is no time to lose in securing legal counsel and representation. Since 1996, the team at the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III has been fighting for the rights of those accused of criminal acts. Allow us to come alongside you today and fight for your rights and freedoms. Contact us today to get started on your case and schedule your initial consultation with our team.