Full Breakdown
South Carolina Judge Denies Self-Defense Immunity in Scott Spivey Shooting Case
2/24/2026, 1:45:08 AM
Court Ruling on Self-Defense Claim
A South Carolina judge has ruled that Charles Weldon Boyd cannot invoke self-defense under the state's "Stand Your Ground" law in the shooting death of Scott Spivey on September 9, 2023. Circuit Court Judge Eugene Griffith determined that Boyd's secretly recorded conversations with a police official indicated he was attempting to evade responsibility for the incident. Judge Griffith expressed skepticism regarding Boyd's credibility, stating, "I really question the credibility of Weldon Boyd. I find his testimony lacking credibility in many places." This ruling allows Spivey’s family to proceed with a wrongful death lawsuit against Boyd.
Incident Overview
The confrontation that led to Spivey's death began on Highway 9 in Horry County and escalated onto Camp Swamp Road. Spivey, a 33-year-old insurance adjuster from North Carolina, was shot during this altercation. Boyd and his co-defendant, Kenneth "Bradley" Williams, have claimed they acted in self-defense, asserting that Spivey drove erratically and posed a threat. Under South Carolina law, individuals may use deadly force if they reasonably believe they are in imminent danger. However, local prosecutors initially declined to file criminal charges, citing the shooting as falling within the self-defense parameters.
Evidence and Testimonies
During a four-day hearing, evidence including witness testimonies and 911 recordings was presented to assess whether Boyd and Williams qualified for legal immunity. Judge Griffith concluded that Boyd's account was inconsistent with physical evidence and other testimonies, leading to the denial of his immunity claim. A separate decision regarding Williams' immunity is still pending.
Criticism of Initial Investigation
Following the ruling, Mark Tinsley, the attorney representing Spivey’s family, criticized the handling of the initial investigation by authorities. He emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "It's said with great power comes great responsibility... This is not 'stand your ground.' This a travesty that we are here right now." Tinsley had previously subpoenaed the Attorney General's Office for evidence, revealing that the materials he received were only a fraction of what the office possessed.
What's Next
With the denial of Boyd's immunity claim, the wrongful death lawsuit against him will proceed in court. The outcome of Kenneth "Bradley" Williams' immunity claim remains to be determined, which could further influence the legal proceedings surrounding this case.
