Some may feel that violent crime is on the rise in South Carolina. This increase seems to have police on high alert and has the local federal task force on the lookout for suspected violent criminals. Recently, a couple was arrested, one for involvement in a series of crimes and the other for obstructing justice. Both have the right to a criminal defense for their individual cases.
A 31-year-old male with a previous criminal record was taken into custody after a shootout that resulted in injuries to both himself and a local police officer. Officers had been looking for the man since last month for his alleged connection in an armed robbery. When local authorities located him at his girlfriend’s home, they succeeded in making an arrest after some difficulty. His girlfriend, home at the time of the arrest, was also taken into custody.
The male is currently being held at the local county jail without bond and is facing federal charges. The charges against him include attempted murder and weapons charges. His 21-year-old girlfriend is being held at a local detention center and is facing a charge of obstructing justice. Her bond has been set at $100,000. Currently, no court dates have been released for either case.
South Carolina residents accused of a crime may face harsh penalties under state and/or federal laws. Those accused have the right to a criminal defense, which could help mitigate the consequences they may face if convicted. Regardless of past criminal history, the presumption of innocence is guaranteed throughout the criminal proceedings. It is up to the prosecution to provide a high degree of proof in every element of the crimes they are accused of. If they fail in doing so, the charges against those accused would likely be dismissed.
Source: heraldonline.com, Officer shot Tuesday in Fort Mill released from hospital, Andrew Dys, Jan. 13, 2014