Columbia, SC – Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott joined U.S. Attorney Bryan Sterling and other state and federal officials Thursday to announce hate crime charges against a South Carolina man accused of targeting a neighbor.
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Jonathan Andrew Felkel was indicted for allegedly violating the housing rights of a neighbor and using a firearm during the commission of a violent crime. Officials say the case marks a significant enforcement step under federal hate crime statutes.
During the press conference, Sheriff Lott emphasized the importance of protecting community safety and ensuring that hate-driven violence is prosecuted. “We’re here today to make it clear that this type of behavior will not be tolerated in South Carolina,” Lott said.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, in coordination with the FBI and local law enforcement, continues to investigate the incident. Specific details about the alleged attack and court proceedings have not yet been released.
Authorities say the indictment underscores ongoing efforts by both federal and local agencies to address hate crimes across South Carolina.
This is a developing story and will be updated as additional information becomes available.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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