South Carolina Judge Denies Self-Defense Claim in Shooting Case
A South Carolina judge has determined that Charles Weldon Boyd cannot invoke self-defense under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law in the fatal shooting of Scott Spivey, which occurred in 2023.
Following a four-day hearing, Circuit Court Judge Eugene Griffith stated that concealed recordings of Boyd’s conversations with Horry County police revealed he was actively seeking help from law enforcement, rather than taking responsibility for the incident.
Griffith noted the importance of reliability in this case, expressing skepticism about Boyd’s credibility and suggesting that his testimony was questionable at several points.
As a result of this ruling, Boyd will be allowed to continue his family’s wrongful death lawsuit against him in court.
The case revolves around the incident on September 9, 2023, when a 33-year-old insurance adjuster was shot in a road rage altercation in Horry County. Reports indicate that the confrontation began on Highway 9 before escalating to Camp Swamp Road, where Spivey was killed.
Boyd and another individual, Kenneth “Bradley” Williams, claimed they acted in self-defense, arguing that Spivey’s driving was erratic and posed a serious threat to their safety.
Under South Carolina’s “Stand Your Ground” law, individuals can use lethal force if they reasonably perceive immediate danger to their life or serious injury. This law also permits defendants to seek immunity from criminal charges and civil lawsuits.
Local prosecutors had earlier determined that the shooting was in line with self-defense laws and had chosen not to file criminal charges.
In reaction, Spivey’s family filed a wrongful death suit, contending that Boyd and Williams aggravated the situation, thus voiding their claim for immunity.
At a recent hearing on February 20, evidence including witness testimonies and 911 calls were presented as the judge assessed the men’s legal protections.
Griffith ultimately rejected Boyd’s immunity plea, citing discrepancies between Boyd’s narrative and the physical evidence and testimonies collected.
Although Boyd can now face the civil suit from Spivey’s family, the decision regarding Williams’ immunity is still pending.
Outside the Horry County courthouse, an attorney representing Spivey’s family criticized the initial investigation’s management. He expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of diligence and accountability.
Mark Tinsley, the attorney, emphasized that the responsibility that comes with power should prompt thorough investigations rather than neglect borne of pride or political motives. He noted that the evidence presented in court was only a fraction of what should have been scrutinized, further complicating the narrative around self-defense claims in this case.
