Man in Richland County Escapes Murder Conviction; Declared Guilty for Manslaughter Over Friend’s Death

COLUMBIA, S.C. – In what turned out to be unexpected case progression, Telvin Jackson, a man from Richland County, has avoided a murder conviction. Jackson was accused of killing his 24-year-old friend, Khamori Scoitt. The incident, which took place in 2020, led to lightning speed legal proceedings and caught the attention of the local community and state officials.

Escaping the Murder Conviction

Jackson’s trial consumed three full days, with intense and grave discussions swaying the room. Both the defense and prosecution made solid points, but it was Jackson’s claim of self-defense that tilted the favor in his direction. His attorney, Tivis Sutherland, argued that his client was protecting his life and home when the victim, Scoitt, threatened him with a deadly firearm.

While the state suggested the incident was a planned murder, the jurors reached the conclusion that Jackson’s actions were impulsive, born in the “heat of passion.” Therefore, they convicted him of voluntary manslaughter, a charge notably lesser than murder. Following this judgment, Judge Daniel Coble enforced a 20-year prison sentence on Jackson. Notably, under South Carolina law, the maximum sentence for voluntary manslaughter is 30 years.

Returns to His Home and Fires Shots

Prosecutors report that the fatal event was the result of a series of events involving a money disagreement. Jackson was at his driveway when Scoitt supposedly aimed a gun at his head, demanding money. After paying Scoitt, Jackson left to get a loaded gun from his father’s house. According to messages exchanged between Scoitt and his girlfriend, she was informed about Scoitt receiving money from Jackson, after which the two apparently reconciled.

Jackson then made the fatal decision to return to his residence, phone 911, and inform the operator of his intentions to shoot Scoitt for robbery. This call was presented as a significant piece of evidence. Arriving home, Jackson walked towards Scoitt with his gun pointed, causing the victim to reach for his weapon. The lethal shots were then fired by Jackson.

Differing Accounts of the Incident

Based on Jackson’s discussion with law enforcement officials, the defense established the narrative of self-defense. Notably, Jackson’s varying accounts of the incident were highlighted in court, further fueling the jurors’ doubts regarding his absolute guilt. Jackson also had a chance to address the court, where, with a heavy heart, he apologized to the victim’s family.

While Deputy Solicitor April Sampson expressed satisfaction with the verdict, defense attorney Sutherland hinted at the possibility of an appeal. He also proposed that certain evidence, currently deemed inadmissible, could have altered the court’s stance on Jackson’s actions.

Looking Forward

Despite the court’s verdict, the loss of a life continues to weigh heavy on all those involved. Now, the local community and legal authorities alike hope for closure, healing, and a recurrence prevention in the future.