A man with a long criminal history was arrested on Wednesday evening after allegedly threatening to stab another individual at Campus Walk Apartments in Florence, South Carolina. According to the Florence Police Department, the suspect has 23 prior convictions, raising serious concerns about repeat offenders and public safety in the area.
The incident unfolded on May 29, 2025, around 7:00 PM, when officers were called to the Campus Walk Apartments on South Cashua Drive in response to a report of a disturbance involving a weapon. A man had reportedly made threats to stab another person during an argument that escalated quickly. Witnesses on the scene described a heated exchange before the suspect allegedly pulled out a sharp object and issued verbal threats.
When police arrived, they identified the suspect as a 54-year-old Florence man whose record includes multiple felony convictions. Officers were able to take him into custody without further incident. He now faces new charges, including assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, as well as possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
This arrest is one of several recent incidents involving the suspect, whose criminal record spans decades. Court documents show a range of past offenses, from drug-related crimes to assault and weapons charges. While the Florence Police Department has not publicly released the full list of his past convictions, officials confirmed that he is considered a habitual offender.
Authorities also noted that the victim in this case did not suffer physical injuries, but the situation could have easily turned deadly. “This was a serious threat involving a deadly weapon,” said a spokesperson for the Florence Police Department. “We’re grateful that our officers responded quickly and were able to de-escalate the situation before anyone was hurt.”
Residents of Campus Walk Apartments expressed concern following the incident. Several tenants reported hearing shouting and seeing flashing lights as police surrounded the building. “It’s scary to think someone with such a long criminal record is walking around here,” said one resident. “You try to feel safe in your own home, but when things like this happen, it really shakes you.”
Others called for stronger measures to keep repeat offenders off the streets. “There needs to be accountability,” said another resident. “If someone has been convicted 23 times, why is he out here threatening people with knives?”
This case is now being handled by the Florence County Judicial System. The suspect is being held at the Florence County Detention Center, and bond has not yet been set. Depending on the outcome of this case, he may face enhanced penalties due to his criminal history.
Local law enforcement has acknowledged the growing frustration in the community about recurring crime involving known offenders. Officials say they are working with prosecutors to ensure such individuals face appropriate consequences under South Carolina law.
Legal experts point out that in South Carolina, courts have the discretion to impose stricter sentencing on individuals classified as habitual offenders, especially when violent crimes are involved. Assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature is considered a felony offense and can carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime is also a serious offense, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years if convicted. These charges are being evaluated by the 12th Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office, which will determine whether to seek habitual offender enhancements during prosecution.
Meanwhile, the Florence Police Department is encouraging residents to report suspicious behavior and to remain vigilant. They’re also continuing their community policing efforts to improve safety in apartment complexes and residential neighborhoods across the city.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges, depending on the findings. Police say they are reviewing security footage from the apartment complex and interviewing more witnesses to piece together the full sequence of events.
For updates and more information on public safety and ongoing investigations in Florence, you can visit the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division or check updates via the City of Florence Government Site.
This arrest has once again sparked conversation around the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in dealing with repeat offenders. As the community looks for answers, many hope this case leads to tougher enforcement and better protection for residents going forward.
