News Summary
Residents of Rock Hill are anxiously awaiting the court’s decision regarding Jimar Neely, who was acquitted of two murders by reason of insanity. Neely’s past highlights significant concerns about mental health, public safety, and the potential risks of his release after three years of treatment. Prosecutors warn against his possible reintegration, while victims’ families fear the implications of his potential return to the community. Judge Keith Kelly’s decision could reshape the future of Rock Hill as it grapples with the balance between mental health treatment and public safety.
Rock Hill Stands on Edge as Judge Weighs Future of Man Who Killed Two
In the quiet community of Rock Hill, residents are holding their breath as the future of Jimar Neely hangs in the balance. The man accused of taking two lives in an alarming and tragic incident back in 2019 is now at the center of a legal decision that could profoundly impact the safety and peace of this neighborhood.
A Tragic Turn of Events
The dark tale began on June 7, 2019, when brothers-in-law Tim Barber and Robbin Thompson found themselves in a tragic situation while picking up cabinets near Rock Hill. What was supposed to be an ordinary day quickly turned into a nightmare that would shatter families and reverberate throughout the community. Neely’s attack was described by relatives as completely random; the victims were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The Aftermath and Charges
In the wake of the attack, Neely was apprehended the next day following a dramatic shootout with law enforcement officers. Thankfully, no deputies were injured during this dangerous confrontation. However, the community was left shaken, grappling with the horror of the events as they unfolded.
The Verdict of Insanity
Fast forward to 2022, when the court reached a significant verdict: Neely was found not guilty on all charges—specifically by reason of insanity. This ruling revealed that Neely had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and that he was not adhering to his court-ordered medication regimen at the time of the tragic killings. This revelation left many in the community pondering the implications for mental health and public safety.
The Path to Potential Release
Now, after three years of treatment at a state mental hospital, Neely’s legal team argues that he has the right to be released. The case is currently under the watchful eye of Judge Keith Kelly, who will soon make a decision regarding Neely’s future. The discussions in the courtroom are not just a reflection of one man’s fate but encapsulate broader concerns about safety, mental health treatment, and justice.
Arguments from Both Sides
York County’s top prosecutor, Kevin Brackett, is vehemently opposing Neely’s potential release, emphasizing the serious risks that Neely might pose to the public. Prosecutor Brackett argues that Neely’s refusal to stick to his medication plan ultimately led to the tragic loss of life, raising alarms about the possibility of similar incidents occurring in the future.
Concerns in Court
The atmosphere in the courtroom has been heavy with emotion. Family members of the victims have expressed their heart-wrenching feelings about the loss of their loved ones and the anxiety of knowing that the man responsible for their deaths could soon roam free. They are rightfully concerned about the implications of Neely’s release and the potential for re-offense.
Future Plans for Neely
If Neely is granted release, plans are already in place for him to be transferred to a community care facility, where his movements would be limited and monitored. This raises further questions about how effectively he can reintegrate into society and whether the treatment he has received is sufficient to ensure the safety of the Rock Hill community.
A Balancing Act
As the community waits with bated breath, it all comes down to one crucial factor: the court’s balancing act between mental health treatment and public safety. Neely’s future now lies in the hands of Judge Kelly, who is expected to announce his decision soon. Will Rock Hill find peace, or will the scars of 2019 reopen? Only time will tell.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rock Hill Judge to Decide on Mental Health Case
Rock Hill Community Awaits Judge’s Verdict on Jimar Neely
Additional Resources
- WSOC TV: Rock Hill Man Could Be Released
- Herald Online: Man Found Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity
- WBTV: Double Homicide Case in Rock Hill
- Google Search: Jimar Neely Double Homicide
- Herald Online: Concerns About Public Safety
- Wikipedia: Mental Health Law
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
