Racial Intimidation in South Carolina: A Couple’s Ordeal with a Burning Cross

In a disturbing incident in South Carolina, Shawn and Monica Williams, a Black couple, experienced a traumatic form of racial intimidation when they found a burning cross on their property. This heinous act, a notorious symbol of hate associated with the Ku Klux Klan, represents a stark reminder of ongoing racial tensions and harassment in the United States.

Incident Overview

The couple, who had retired to the Grand Strand area in Conway, South Carolina, discovered the burning cross near their fence over the Thanksgiving weekend. The symbol, placed about eight feet from their fence, left them speechless and fearful for their safety. This incident was the culmination of a prolonged period of harassment they endured from their neighbors, 27-year-old Alexis Hartnett and 28-year-old Worden Butler.

Escalation of Harassment

The Williamses reported that their troubles began two years ago when they moved into their new home. They have since been subjected to repeated racist slurs and threats. Monica Williams recounted the use of racial epithets and expressions of intimidation, indicating a severe and ongoing harassment issue. Shawn Williams expressed concerns about their safety and security being compromised due to these acts of intimidation.

Legal Response

Following the cross burning, the couple called the Horry County police, leading to the arrest of Hartnett and Butler. They were charged with second-degree harassment. Hartnett also faces charges of third-degree assault and battery. Despite these arrests, the couple felt that more stringent laws and accountability were necessary to adequately address such hate crimes. The report noted that Butler had a history of at least five arrests for assault and disorderly conduct【89†source】.

State Legislation on Hate Crimes

This incident highlights the lack of a hate crime law in South Carolina, one of only two states in the U.S. without such legislation. While some cities in the state have passed hate crime ordinances or resolutions, Conway is not among them. The city’s mayor, Barbara Blaine Bellamy, emphasized that addressing this issue rests with the state legislature【89†source】.

Community Impact

The incident involving the Williamses is a stark reminder of the enduring racial challenges in the United States. It underscores the need for more robust legal frameworks to address hate crimes and the importance of community support in combating racial harassment and intimidation.

The trauma inflicted on the Williamses by this act of racial hatred is a somber indication of the work still required to eradicate racial prejudice and to ensure safety and equality for all, regardless of race or background.