York County, South Carolina, October 10, 2025
News Summary
In York County, South Carolina, families of murder victims held a press conference advocating for judicial and mental health reform. Families impacted by violent crimes called for changes to how offenders are managed within the legal system, highlighting cases of systemic failures in handling individuals with violent tendencies. Prosecutors joined their plea, criticizing the current judicial selection process and urging the public to demand reform from legislators as the General Assembly approaches.
York County, South Carolina – Families of murder victims are pushing for significant judicial and mental health reform following their tragic experiences with the legal system. A press conference was held at the Moss Justice Center where three families and two prosecutors gathered to advocate for changes in how violent offenders are handled in the judicial system.
The families represented included Stephen Federico, Lori Williams, and Renea Barber. Federico’s 18-year-old daughter, Logan, was murdered in May 2025 by Alexander Dickey, who had a long history of violent crimes. Federico termed Dickey as a “career felon” and criticized the judicial system for releasing him without complete information on his criminal history. Following the death of his daughter, Federico gained national attention after providing emotional testimony before a congressional committee concerning public safety issues.
Prosecutors Kevin Brackett from the 16th Circuit and David Pascoe from the First Circuit supported the families’ pleas for reform, particularly emphasizing the need for mental health reforms. Brackett referred to significant failures in managing individuals with violent tendencies, drawing on instances involving Barber’s family members who were killed by Jimar Neely. Neely had been ordered to take medication by the court but was not adhering to the requirements at the time of the killings and has since been found not guilty by reason of insanity and is currently housed in a state hospital.
Brackett also highlighted the case of Karson Whitesell, who was shot dead by Christopher Mendez, a man who sought help before committing the violent act. This indicates a critical gap in providing preventive mental health support to individuals who exhibit violent behaviors.
Pascoe and Brackett criticized the current judicial selection process in South Carolina, where lawyer/legislators select judges, creating what they see as an inherent conflict of interest that undermines public confidence in the judiciary. They have called for reform to remove lawmakers from the Judicial Merit Selection Committee in order to establish a more independent judiciary, noting that South Carolina and Virginia are the only states where legislators choose judges. This system has led to a preference for lawyer/legislators in judicial positions, which they argue is detrimental to fair judicial practices.
The press conference concluded with a strong call for families and the general public to demand change from state legislators ahead of the General Assembly meeting in January. Federico indicated his commitment to advocating for judicial reform, stating to legislators to “Buckle up, you’re about to get Federico’d.”
The push for reform underscores a growing frustration among families impacted by violence and a desire for accountability and improvements within the judicial system. Brackett expressed concerns about the judicial system’s failure to provide appropriate mental health support for individuals with a history of violence. The families and prosecutors united in their call for immediate legislative action to address these systemic issues and enhance public safety measures.
FAQ
What was the purpose of the press conference held in York County, South Carolina?
Who were the main speakers and families represented at the press conference?
What tragic event was cited to highlight the need for mental health reforms?
What criticism did the prosecutors express regarding the judicial selection process?
What did the families urge the public to do following the press conference?
Summary Chart of Event
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Moss Justice Center, York County, South Carolina |
| Families Involved | Stephen Federico, Lori Williams, Renea Barber |
| Prosecutors Involved | Kevin Brackett (16th Circuit), David Pascoe (First Circuit) |
| Key Issues Raised | Judicial reform, mental health support for violent offenders |
| Notable Cases Mentioned | Logan Federico (murdered by Alexander Dickey), family members of Renea Barber (killed by Jimar Neely) |
| Calls to Action | Public urged to demand changes from state legislators |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Nancy Mace Hosts Town Hall to Discuss Gubernatorial Candidacy
Nancy Mace Launches Gubernatorial Campaign in Rock Hill
State Senator Wes Climer Launches Campaign for Congress
Additional Resources
- WCNC: South Carolina Justice Reform and Mental Health
- WACH: Call for Judicial Reform in South Carolina
- Count on 2: Father Advocating for Judicial Reform
- WBTV: Families Demand Judicial and Mental Health Reform
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
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.
