On April 8, 2026, the Williamston Police Department became aware of social media posts expressing concern about a member of the Mobile Outreach Ministry, a religious group that regularly gathers at Mineral Springs Park on Friday evenings for music and worship.
Several posts alleged that this individual was a registered sex offender and called for his removal from the park or arrest.
However, many of the statements circulating online were based on misunderstandings of both South Carolina law and the authority of our police officers to physically remove people from public spaces.
Some posts referenced elements of South Carolina Code §23-3-535, which establishes residency restrictions for certain sex offenders. Under subsection (B), individuals convicted of specific offenses may not reside within 1,000 feet of schools, daycare centers, parks, or playgrounds.
These offenses include: Criminal sexual conduct with a minor (1st and 2nd degree), Assault with intent to commit CSC with a minor, Kidnapping of a person under 18 or Trafficking in persons under 18 (unless a court finds no sexual component).
The individual referenced in the posts was convicted of solicitation of a minor, which is not one of the offenses listed in the statute. Additionally the offender was merely present and not residing at the park. Therefore, the residency restriction does not apply.
Throughout Thursday April 9, 2026, social media activity escalated. Comments became increasingly hostile and some posts encouraged individuals to confront the worship group or “take matters into their own hands.”
Others organized protests directed at the ministry.
The Williamston Police Department also consulted with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, which maintains the sex offender registry requirements locally.
They confirmed that the individual is fully compliant with registration requirements and that no court-ordered restrictions prohibit his presence in public places, including parks.
Based on this information, he has a legal right to be present and is not violating any law. Throughout the day Mayor Burgess released social media messages explaining the statute and legal authority of the Town’s elected officials and police officers.
Out of an abundance of caution, the Chief of Police contacted the ministry to determine their plans for Friday evening. Although they considered canceling, they ultimately chose to proceed due to the difficulty of notifying all attendees, including those without access to social media.
Additionally the ministry advised that individuals were making threats additionally against the person’s private business.
Given the rising tensions and the credible risk of confrontation, the Chief of Police met with Mayor Burgess at approximately 9:30 PM on April 9.
After careful consideration, the Town made the decision to close Mineral Spring Park to all patrons at 5 PM on April 10.
The park will reopen at 7:00 AM the following morning.
“This decision was not made lightly. It was taken to protect the safety of the general public, children, and members of the worship group, and to prevent a situation where innocent individuals could be placed in harm’s way.”
The Williamston Police Department and the elected leaders of the Town of Williamston understand that concerns involving children and public spaces can naturally evoke strong emotions. Town officials share these concerns and work tirelessly each day to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. However, we cannot allow individuals or their personal beliefs to be used as justification for violence, threats, or actions that endanger others or disrupt public safety.
Moving forward, Town leadership and the Williamston Police Department will continue evaluating park operations and will coordinate with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which oversees the state’s sex offender registry. It is believed in some cases the registry has been weaponized against an offender in violation of SLED’s use policies.
The South Carolina Sex Offender Registry exists to promote public safety and awareness. It is not intended to facilitate harassment, intimidation, or threats.
The Williamston Police Department urges all members of the Williamston community to act responsibly, rely on verified information, and avoid spreading unfounded claims. If our community observes behavior that is believed to violate the law, we ask that it is reported to law enforcement so it can be properly investigated.
Kevin Marsee
Chief of Police
