Solicitor Scandal Widens

By hammerheadSC on May 22nd, 2009 at 9:13 am

I have a feeling this is going to get even larger. Might need the Cliff notes version soon to keep up.

So if the Attorney General and Sled chief for go investigating and two elected officials pressure to keep an investigation from happening, what happens to them? shouldn’t they all be investigated for possible aiding and abetting?

Kinda be funny if McMaster was served, that be three court dates in one month….gotta be some sort of record

By Dumber on May 22nd, 2009 at 11:58 am

If’n this don’t make us like a bunch of unedukated, backwoods redneks I don’t know what wood.

I guess you better call the FBI if you want justice in South Carolina.

In McMaster’s de fence, chasing whores is probably much more fun.

By Earl Capps on May 22nd, 2009 at 2:39 pm

Dumber, you’re probably right, but when you catch them, it’s like an episode of the Itchy and Scratchy Show, unless you stick it in a pot of boling water.

By FITSNews Must be Dizzy on May 22nd, 2009 at 5:35 pm

Might want to reconsider those travel plans through the PeeDee buddy… http://www.cheraw.com/dizzy_gillespie_cheraw.html

By t. johnson on May 23rd, 2009 at 8:28 am

what a shame that the leaders of this community use their position to take advantage of hard working people. drug court is a joke, that is true. i wonder when the so called investigation is going to disclose all the people who have benefitted from this. the people of this town are going to be surprised if that does indeed happen.

By Kathy Harpe on May 23rd, 2009 at 12:21 pm

This is an answer to prayers…. I have known of the dealings of the democrat party for over 4 years now. Jay Hodge and his people and we all know who they are, have hurt my family more than you will ever know. Jay Hodge was suppose to be representing my son in court, and instead he represented the one responsible for taking my son’s life. I tried with all my might to get him for that, but I just could not. Everyone I contacted concerning Ben’s case, like the Attorney General and several other gov. agencies, said they could not help me. I know why now. God got them in his timing, and everyone had always told me that would happen.
He cannot hurt another family, and I thank God for that.

By Citizen of Cheraw on May 23rd, 2009 at 2:42 pm

If Fits wants a real story they need to look into Our Ex-Mayors dealings while in office. When he built a new office on hwy #9 he was bothered by the old house on the property next door so he convientely had the town buy the property with tax payer dollars and remove the house,giving it away I might add. He also gave away about $40,000.00 worth of dirt from the Cheraw airport. How do you give away $40,000.00 that belongs to the tax payers.

By Big Bubba on May 23rd, 2009 at 3:57 pm

Citizen of Cheraw

Now you are getting down to the brass tacks. I was wondering when someone would open this “worm can”. This is another case of the “owners” of this area doing what they want when they want without any credibility to anyone. This is their birthrite. The law is made to govern us not them.

By Just asking questions on May 23rd, 2009 at 4:44 pm

Wonder what’s going on with this… Pre-trial Intervention officer Bill Overcash has been residing in ex-solicitor Hodges personal residence for the past seven years. I also understand that participants in the PTI program are often over at Hodges residence or at his office performing tasks that count as their community service time. I’m sure ex-solicitor Hodge has plenty of explanations regarding this, he’s had eleven years of practice lying to us and pushing blame to others. Now that Hodge has lost all power, I wonder how long it’ll take before the other rats start jumping off the ship.

By Ha Ha Ha on May 23rd, 2009 at 4:59 pm

I am so gonna laugh at these ole fools getting their arses handed to them on a silver platter. Now we need some good people in office in this town.

By Coot on May 23rd, 2009 at 9:47 pm

No offense, but shouldn’t we wait for the facts to come out fully before going on the witch hunt?

By figureitout on May 24th, 2009 at 12:01 am

Jrn…nice to know you think you’ve got it all figured out. If you knew so much about what was going on…why didn’t you come forward and get the investigation started…Once again proving my point, you are trying to get involved but you forgot the first step…get educated you dumb ass…you must be one of the people that couldn’t follow the rules that her service organization required and now you have a personal vendetta against her. Shame on you. the support system is there to help people who truly need it… not let them abuse it. grow up!!!

By Toby Boy on May 24th, 2009 at 7:41 am

Well now.

Let us not start stoning each other. As far as a “witch hunt” goes, I think that it has been common knowledge for way toooooo long that all of this, being discussed, and other thngs illegal or perverted have been going on here. On any given time when neighbots get together and start “chewing the fat” the same names pop up, and not just the ones that are being discussed on this blog. I have asked questions about why certain people “got away” with certain things. I was told “Well do you know who that is?” There is an actual fear of retaliation if certain names are reported to law enforcement official, but then if the law if involved you have just “spit in the wind”. I see nice big homes that the owners have no visible means of owning in their job position. What is Cheraw’s slogan? “The prettiest town in Dixie”. This may should read for right now. “The crookedest town in Dixie”. I am sure that this is not new and has been brewing for generations. I can only hope that this investigation goes as deep as needed. If not, it will start the cycle all over when the dust settles. My toupee is off to the federal investigators.

By rlyow on May 24th, 2009 at 3:24 pm

Thanks to the FBI. If u look at the finicial rwecords of all named above. Trhen look at their cars, trips taken,number of homes,and even the $20,000 bathrooms, number of animals killed while on hunts across the world. You will see that the whole group in the.democratic circle have something they are not reporting. Either crooked deals under table deals parties in columbia. All kind of stuff the entire group needs to come forth,speak the truth,and for the sake of all of Chesterfield couty resign from office and save what little face we have left in the state. To think that our REP. And SEN. Went to the attorny general and asked him not to look any further into this. That is so sad. We need to put people in office who does not have a silverspoon lifestyle. Or at least aren’t going to cover up, cheat and all the stuff named above to get that lifestyle.

By Antonio Smalls on May 24th, 2009 at 7:42 pm

Maybe the “Federalies” need to stay in town a few more days and get some answers on the Mayors contractor license fiasco. When word of him being non-licensed hit the fan, it was big news, then it got quite. Word is, the former Solicitor, Rep Vick and a few other of the good ole boys got it swept under the rug. What a way to start a career in politics. My hats off to you and your home boys.

By wannajar on May 24th, 2009 at 10:00 pm

i just wonder how many mayors, senators, lawyers and rep. are connected in this investigation. maybe some from a small town in marlboro county. when information is turned over to sled time after time and you are told that it has been taken care of and you know it has not, you feel like they are laughting at you. are their judges in this to, we all know they make deals behind closed doors, but at what cost.

By Chesterfield Co Democrat on May 25th, 2009 at 7:52 am

A couple of thoughts:
1. I’m not saying that there are not guilty individuals in this matter but everyone needs to remember the “source” of the information on this site – when one is working for a candidate for governor I imagine they have an interest in attempting to bring down other candidates (McMaster and Sheheen) by trying to connect them to any scandal they can.
2. Just like when members of Congress get caught up in scandals, for example, it doesn’t mean all Republicans or all Democrats are involved. In this case, anyone who knows anything about Chesterfield County politics knows there are distinct factions within the local Democratic Party – those who never joined the group and, in fact, worked and voted for other candidates should not be grouped with this bunch.

By Big Bubba on May 25th, 2009 at 8:30 pm

Well now, I do think that it is getting close to a time when ol’ Big Bubba may have to pack his dog and glad rags in the pickup and head outta here until the smoke clear. I do believe that it is going to get smokier before it starts to clear up. We have ourselves a full fledged finger pointing going on and also, some of the “good ole’ boys” are attempting to help cover some tracks. I do appreciate our “Federal” people coming in a checking up on things. Justice alway prevails in the long haul. Go get ‘em, big guys. I bet that there are some rear ends so tight that you could not pull a dime out of those “pinched up” cheeks. This is Big Bubba checking for now. I am monitoring channels 9 and 11 on the CB ifen anyone want to “fess up” to Big Bubba. 10-8/10-10 clear.

By Shannon on May 26th, 2009 at 11:12 am

This is all very interesting, and I think it’s about time that an investigation is taking place. I have a feeling that once some digging is done, and names are named, that none of the residents in Chesterfield County will be very surprised. As Toby Boy stated, people talk around here, and we’ve all heard the stories.
Witch Hunt? Stone Throwing? It’s going to get really dirty. What will be most interesting is to see who (if anyone) comes out of this unscathed. Barbara Bullard, I hope you come out of this okay. I have a friend whose life you saved, and changed for the better. I don’t know what your level of involvement is, but I do know that you truely care about the people that you have helped. God Bless you!

By Dont Think It Will on May 26th, 2009 at 12:09 pm

Lots of talk going on, but not seeing anything in the newspapers or tv news, so I’m thinking that either this is not large scale or nothing at all. If it was truly newsworthy we would see and hear more.

By Here's a clue on May 26th, 2009 at 1:44 pm

To “Don’t Think It Will”,

The reason you aren’t seeing any interest in the local newspapers is the people who run them are just more “good buddies” of the Hodge, Vick, and Sheheen posse.

Maybe CBS should send some 60 Minutes guys down here….. where’s Mike Wallace when you need him?

By Doesn'tSurpriseMe on May 26th, 2009 at 4:05 pm

Seems to me that we have a bunch of dime store politicians trying to run a 2 bit town. The sort of thing going on around here reminds me of the comical corruption depicted on the Dukes of Hazzard tv show. We have our very own versions of Boss Hogg and Roscoe P Coltraine. It’s amazing how life imitates art. Wondering which Cheraw natives will be playing Bo and Luke Duke??

By shocked on May 26th, 2009 at 4:58 pm

who is the other person that resigned?

By Carry The Torch on May 26th, 2009 at 5:29 pm

Dear Shocked, Heard this morning that former Solicitor Hodge and Mrs. Finch resigned from Prosecutors office last week. Haven’t heard of any others.

By Carry The Torch on May 26th, 2009 at 6:48 pm

Well here’s some more. I read of Rep Vick’s involvement in a house purchase in relation to the Hodge controlled Mercy Ministries. So I asked a contact at the County Courthouse to search tax records for Mercy Ministries and found that the property in question was purchased by MTV Properties, LLC so I had another contact do a search and guess what? MTV Properties, LLC is owned by none other than Rep Vick. In March 2007, his LLC bought the property and then sold it to Mercy Ministries for $12,500. thus netting Rep Vick’s company a modest profit. One can only wonder what else hangs out there.

By FaroniaSnitch on May 26th, 2009 at 7:18 pm

I hope they all get what they deserve. Barbara Bullard is the only honest one out of the bunch. She is a good person. Drug Court is the biggest joke. I hope this starts at lot of other people talking, because they are some stories to be told.

By justice on May 26th, 2009 at 7:59 pm

Hey, Carry the torch…check the other postings regarding this same case…might find some good information on Mr. Overcash(more on him later)…As far as the real estate deal, I’ll have hard copies of the transactions from the courthouse tommorrow…Preliminary info was the house purchased(MTV) for $7500 then sold to Mercy Ministries (Hodge) two months later for $12,500…Matt Rivers closed the deal and I can only wonder what his handling fee was…I’m going make sure that copies of this transaction get to the hands of Mercy Ministries illustrious Board of Directors(hand picked by Hodge) and then maybe, if they have the internal fortitude, they will actually ask the great philanthropist ( what a joke ) Jay Hodge to explain how this transaction and his involvement was in the best interest of the Ministy

By Laura Campbell on May 26th, 2009 at 11:47 pm

None of this comes as a surprise to me. I have seen so many injustices in this town politically. I have contacted SLED in the past as well as the FBI concerning issues about law enforcement’s behavior at my home and otherwise. My daughter and I were told by Cheraw Police Department officers to leave our home (which was in my name) and stay in shelters, which we did, on two occasions. I have a friend who is now in prison thanks to Cheraw Police Department officers who were more than willing to indulge her drug abuse habit for “favors”. Yes, she is partly to blame, but one officer started supplying her when she was 14 years old, when she needed help for drug abuse and other problems. While trying to get help for my ex-husband, who is a Desert Storm veteran, officers would do little more than put him in jail for a day and sometimes would not do that. I wonder if Officer McCormick and others would like to talk openly in a courtroom about what happened at Dr. Shaw Newsom’s five years ago when my ex-husband went there asking for help? Perhaps others would like to explain their actions at my home concerning this issue ?

What is truly tragic here is that these officials and police officers do not fully appreciate the fact that when they allow themselves to be guided by greed and corruption, so many people suffer. My daughter has missed a lot of days with her father when he could have been in a hospital and gotten treatment instead of jail or alone for weeks at a time drinking himself to death. She still remembers those months in women’s shelters and how stressful they were.

I do believe that Barbara Bullard and Mary Anderson are good people and that their hearts are in the right place. If guilty of anything, it is of getting behind the wrong people. Then again, even I did not recognize some of the sheep in wolf’s clothing. My perception of things changed when J.A. Graves went into office as judge while Hodge was still solicitor.

Whatever is happening, I hope those innocent will not be adversely affected.

However, I do have to wonder why Barbara Bullard resigned and where she will go from here.

Either way, I pray for her and Mary Anderson, as I am thankful to them for the help and support they have given to me and my daughter.

By Barbara J. Bullard on May 27th, 2009 at 8:52 am

Dear Laura Campbell…I resigned because I got sick of being abused by my boss (JAY HODGE). When I would stand up to him in majority board meetings, the board would sit there and let him verbally abuse me. One can only do so much without help from others.

He is now doing his best to ruin my life.
You can not imagine the LIES he has told, from The President of Mercy Ministries Inc.,Desk Chair!

Just hold on….the truth is coming and you will see… your faith in me is warranted!

By Cheraw Resident on May 27th, 2009 at 10:21 am

Ms Bullard I really hope things work out for you. I know the abuse that Jay Hodge and Kenny Michael can put someone through. I really hope that they get what they deserve. I think most of everyone here in Cheraw and Chesterfield know the wrong doings that the two men have been doing for years. Everyone knows that Mr. Michael is Jays right hand man and that he is as deep into this mess as Jay. I hope that the good ole boys let what needs to happen happen and not just make this go away. Because it IS time for some good ole Justice.

By Barbara J. Bullard on May 27th, 2009 at 10:42 am

Thank you John Wilson. You just made me stronger.
I am bleeding and battered but I think I can take another kidney punch now…Bring it an Mr. Hodge

All it takes for Evil to prevail is for a few good men to do nothing!

By Miss Kitty on May 27th, 2009 at 12:17 pm

I hope everyone will tell everything they know on here so the FBI can investigate each and every crook and all their dirty deeds. I just hope they can’t buy them off and that justice will finally prevail for the big crooks and they little crooks.

By Miss Kitty on May 27th, 2009 at 1:24 pm

A lot of people know Mr.Michaels and know he was just as big of a crook as Mr. Hodge or any of the others. Why do you think he is singing so much now. A lot of these folks are going to sing to try to save their own butts,but I hope they all go down. Including the crooks who turned them in. If they replace this bunch, it will just start all over again.

By shocked on May 27th, 2009 at 2:32 pm

is the information about safrona finch and the bank embezzlement common knowledge?

By truthisnotyouropinion on May 27th, 2009 at 3:05 pm

Rowell did not live with Hodge. He rented an apartment from him. Before you make public comments about someone, you should really make sure you know what you’re talking about to begin with.

By CherawBrave on May 27th, 2009 at 3:36 pm

OK, Mr. Rowell lived in a building owned by Jay Hodge, my apologies

By Big Bubba on May 27th, 2009 at 4:28 pm

Well now, Big Bubba sees more and more names coming to light on this here blog site. As stated, “There may be more truth than slander here.” These are the same names that are discussed in our local pubs, “honky tonks” and back yard “pig pickins” on any given day. We all feel better getting this stuff off of our chest. DON”T WE? This is what justice is all about, getting it known, getting it tried (in court) and then the “BIG HOUSE”. I do feel sorry for family members and children that ARE innocent and may have to change lifestyles. But NO SYMPATHY for the quilty. Well, gotta go feed the dog!!!Until later!!
The BIG “B”

By John Wilson on May 27th, 2009 at 5:00 pm

Cheraw resident, If your “proof” has “been brushed under the rug for no one to see” then how is it you have it? Sounds like you may be an insider searching for information yourself. Nice ploy.

By michael campbell on May 27th, 2009 at 5:38 pm

Seems like to me that the only thing that Chesterfield County has going for them is football.

By truthisnotyouropinion on May 27th, 2009 at 6:44 pm

darlingtonvoter: I’d like to know just how exactly you know Overcash and Hodge are, as you say, dating. Have you ever seen them out on dates together, or seen them together in anything other than a professional environment? Also, saying Hodge rents out basement apartments implies that you must enter them through the main house, which again is not true. The apartments have their own private entrance from the outside. Just because you think something, doesn’t make it the truth and again, when making public statements you should really have facts to substantiate your claims.

By Franklin Hensley on May 27th, 2009 at 7:10 pm

As I sit and ready these posts, they almost draw me in. Then I have to remind myself that if there were an ounce of truth to any of this, the news stations and print media would be all over it. Think about it, Senator Sheheen is running for Governor and his opponents would have jumped at this like a lion on meat, Representative Vick is in office and don’t you know that the Republican party wouldn’t let this pass them by. All of Former Solicitor Hodge’s enemies would telephone The Link, Cheraw Chronicle, the State, Florence Morning News and others to get this information out there. Mayor Hunter’s rivals certainly wouldn’t let this die quietly. So where is the truth and where are the trumpet blowers? There is none. You know who is making comments on this website? Those who have been named, their cohorts and the small group of people who have nothing better to do than to follow this website. The posters are but a small portion of the population who are fighting among themselves, because if these multiple comments had any validity to them at all, you couldn’t find a parking space at the Senator’s, Rep Vick’s, former Solicitor Hodge’s, and Mayor Hunter’s home. So those of you with any intelligence at all, don’t fall into this “trailer park” mentality and catch yourself posting retaliation based comments. You are only feeding those power hungry wannabees who are roaming in this web jungle.

By village voice on May 27th, 2009 at 8:39 pm

people please, unless you have been hiding under a rock the past 30 years, surely you have heard the rumors of jay hodge & his boy toys, give me break

By John Mimms on May 27th, 2009 at 10:26 pm

Franklin Hensley…not sure if this is Franklin Hendley the CPA in town or not…it’s called an investigation…the FBI are asking the people who have the information not to share it until they say okay…this is the proper way to investigate, not like the investigation/audit that Jay Hodge has asked Mr. Hendley the CPA to perform on Ministry documents…I can only imagine how impartial that audit will be…I spent some time at the courthouse in Chesterfield today and picked up some documents that are public record…these documents substantiate some of the accusations read on this blog…I have a meeting schedule with a writer from the Link in the morning…it will be up to them to provide this info to the public…I am also providing a copy for the board members of Mercy Ministries that shows the scam that Hodge and Vick pulled with Matt Rivers closing the deal on the house/ property at the old nursing home…what they chose to allow their president to do as board members will speak volumes for where they stand…they know who they are and they need to know and understand their liability in allowing his actions to continue…Barbara and I stand behind our conviction and vow that we will do everything within the law to “uncover the coverups” that have been going on for years…until FBI indictments are handed out, everyone involved with providing information has to remain silent…I will tell you the number of people helping with investigation is really going to surprise the bad guys…Patience, this is not a sprint, the Feds are long distance runners…

By James on May 27th, 2009 at 11:36 pm

I am not jumping on the band wagon but I have had a case that was found to be a true bill that for years has not found its way to court as of yet. After making many phone calls to the solisitor office,where I was told I would be contacted (which never happen). I happen upon kenny Michaels and I questioned him on when I could expect my case to go to court. Well, guess what!! It has still not found it way, I guess it got lost!!!!!!!!!! I wonder just how many people have had to same experience? Now can someone tell me just what Kenny’s job was, I was lead to believe that this office was who would handle the issue but I guess my problem was not important enough to take up the courts time.

By Scott Grunter on May 28th, 2009 at 12:51 pm

In all this, I want to commend current Solicitor Will Rogers for taking the high road and guiding his organization in the right direction. Unless one is blind, you have to see that he was aware of what was taking place and in due time, he made the necessary and bold move to act. While we have read in print that certain persons resigned from their positions, that usually means they were given the option of resigning or being fired. Solicitor Rogers, you are a fine gentleman with the best interest of your organization at heart. Thank you for your leadership.

By ConcernedVoter on May 28th, 2009 at 1:16 pm

ANYBODY and EVERYBODY that has ever associated with Barbara Bullard knows how convincing her lies are. She tells the biggest “fish” stories known to mankind. You can tell her all about your adventures in Vietnam or believable trials and tribulations in life, yet her “unheard of” stories of surviving the Bubonic Plaugue, conquering Ischaemic heart disease on three occasions, Malaria, witnessing the Waco Texas Massacre from a local helicopter, participating in the USA beauty pageant and being the runner up, being held hostage and having to watch her husband kill himself, (which is probably the most rational of the “fish” stories considering her ability to convince one to shoot themselves), is entirely too much to endure. That is why I personally believe everything that comes out of her vent is a baldface lie. I must say however, she does do a spectacular job of using other aliases, to try to convince herself and others on these boards that her absurd train of thought is plausible. Maybe that is why even her best friend has nothing to do with her any longer. Don’t be surprised if she happens to disappear, only to justify her sudden absence by telling the “FBI” that she had to abruptly dock with the international space station for the greater good.

By Ray Hodge on May 28th, 2009 at 2:04 pm

I am very disappointed in the comment by “Concerned Voter” regarding Mrs. Bullard and by the way, I know who you are. First of all you would be so lucky to have the life experience that Mrs. Bullard holds. The good she has done for others far outweighs the “screw” that you’ve put to others. For you to hide behind your cohorts and have them post comments on this website just goes to show what kind of person or animal that YOU are and how you let others fight your fight, because you lack the “nads” to do it yourself. You exposure is soon coming and it will be Mrs. Bullard who will rise to the top, you spineless coward.

By Convinced As Well.. on May 28th, 2009 at 3:12 pm

ConcernedVoter, you have me lmao only because what you said could not be more sincere. I have known Mrs. Bullard my entire life, and you managed to take the words right out of my mouth. Thank you for saving me the time.

By ear2ground on May 28th, 2009 at 3:21 pm

Hey, hey, hey…”wasawillsupporter” for you to name names like that and to make the comments you have, you are an insider and your sins will find you out. And you are right, it won’t take a brain surgeon to figure it out…if you are an insider, the demographics will make it easy. You keep those comments up you might lose your job there too.

By John Wilson on May 28th, 2009 at 4:02 pm

Just a reminder to all those commenting. Keep in mind those who have resigned from office. Consider that when reading these posts, which probably over three fourths of them are authored by those “resignees”, notice how the comments tend to take any light off of them and place it on the likes of JR Joyner, Eric Rowell, Kenny Michael, and others. Whats the one thing we do when we get in trouble? We put the blame on someone else…just like these posters are doing now.

By Cheraw Resident on May 28th, 2009 at 4:54 pm

Please Mr. Wilson you know as well as everyone else that there are more at fault here and the names that have been brought up are names of people that are just as guilty. That’s why they are being said. You are probably the only one to believe that they aren’t.

By Lifetime Cheravian on May 28th, 2009 at 6:50 pm

Just heard this on the streets so take it as you will! Word is Safrona Finch is now a resident of Bull Street in Columbia. Anybody else hear about this? Looks like the stress is taking effect! It is good being one of the little people!

By forgotmyname on May 28th, 2009 at 10:18 pm

all of this is good and needs to be done. but lets hope that other agencies are investigated also. someone needs to look into the matters of all the law breaking i mean law enforcement agencies in this county. people would be amazed.

By interesting on May 29th, 2009 at 10:49 am

Wow, this sure has been a fun read! There are lots of things to take issue with here, but I couldn’t help but laugh at “convinced” for taking a shot at a kid who just lost his job, with outlandish law school debts, for moving home to his parents (which is not true by the way). There’s some Cheraw class for ya!

By James C Leviner Sr on May 29th, 2009 at 2:50 pm

My Dear Ms. Jacobs,

For your information, not all Leviners are criminals. About 200 years ago four Leviner brothers came to the Pee Dee Area of NC/SC. All Leviners in this area are descended from them, therefore we are all kin to some degree.

In the Cheraw area there are three Leviner family groups. All three groups descend from the same man, Thomas Leviner. This makes the three groups not closer that 3rd cousins to each other. Only some members of one family group have been involved with car and motorcycle theft. Some Leviners do have speeding and/or parking tickets. By the way, there are four Ronnie Leviners, three live in SC, one in NC. One Ronnie Leviner has been accused of theft. One I know for a fact has never committed a crime, and the other two I know only by name and cannot comment on them.

Lady, your comment that all Leviners are crooks is slanderous and offensive to those of us who are not involved in criminal activity. We have already suffered insult and sneers enough from igonrant people like you. I do not know you nor where you are, and apparently you do not know my family.

As for the rest of what you said I agree wholeheartly.

James C (Jim) Leviner, Sr.

By Grateful One on May 29th, 2009 at 5:58 pm

I personally want to thank Rep Vick, former Solicitor Hodge, Mayor Hunter, Mayor ProTem Myrteen Lee, former Solicitor Administrator Mrs. Finch, and other esteemed leaders of our community for the wonderful comments you make and continue to make and for the providing the suddenly discovered documents to your media sources, and for the small fractures in your group that you so dearly trust that allows information to seep away, it is because of these efforts that I am able to remain jubilant in such a sad era for our community. I commend you and encourage you to keep up the fight so that the refining process can run its course and the bad element will rise to the top where it can be skimmed from the surface. I applaud you for your cooperation and assistance in this great effort.

By Laura Campbell on May 30th, 2009 at 1:44 am

While the FBI is in town, I would like to see some forgotten headlines and issues investigated that are close to my heart.

1. Exactly what was the cause of death in the case of the 17-year-old boy who died in the local jail? A suicide? Does law enforcement not take belts, shoelaces, jewelry, etc. when one is detained? Surely they would watch him knowing that the young man had a mental illness? Once again, another issue that tapered off and died.

2. Has our local animal shelter improved beyond a small office trailer? Is there a full-time person during the week for adoptions? Why will no one, not even the primary volunteer animal group in the area, address the issue of dog fighting? Are there security cameras installed there now so no one can come in again with cameras or to investigate conditions? Once again, major headlines in our town thrown to the curb.

3. Is there indeed a very active KKK group in our town and does it involve prominent business people?

4. What happened to the lady from Switzerland who disappeared here in the 1970’s? Were people in office now involved with her disappearance?

5. What happened to Cheraw’s recycling program and wellness center?

6. Why did Ryan Schallenberger not receive proper care from Tri-County Mental Health?

7. Why are the issues of child abuse, drug abuse, and domestic violence not taken more seriously? Does it suit those in charge here to lock people up instead of getting them help?

Finally, will the people of Chesterfield County, both black and white, rich and poor, etc. EVER be able to put petty differences aside and care enough to come together to put a stop to these corrupt and often dangerous people who run the government in this area, get it straightened out, and care enough not to allow it to happen again?

I simply hope that I receive no more phone calls or any other forms of harassment until I can leave this area. I know all too well that at the end of the day when you try to stand up for what’s right and acknowledge yourself what you’ve done wrong, there is no forgiveness, no justice for those at the top, and you stand basically alone. It’s ok with me though, to a degree. I do sleep well at night.

By Proud Citizen on May 30th, 2009 at 1:26 pm

To Ronnie Leviner, you are to be commended and I humbly admire your bravery. I have the utmost respect for you having made this stand. Thank you for your valor.

By rep on May 31st, 2009 at 10:07 pm

Folks are correct and should be worried in our fair town when they go against the democratic circle of chersterfield county. These folks are in positions to have all kind things hurts. Buts that’s fine to me you got to stand for something or you will fall for anything. – I will stand up I hope each and every one of ytou will not stop. Here are some numbers you can call and they will take your information. The office you need is the FBI office in RockHill I do not have that one but you can call either one and they will get the info. Florence Agency
John L. McMillan Federal Building
401 W. Evans Street, Room 206
Florence, SC 29501
Telephone: (843) 662-9363

FBI Columbia
151 Westpark Blvd
Columbia, South Carolina 29210-3857
columbia.fbi.gov
(803) 551-4200
Keep it up

By Call It Like I See It on June 1st, 2009 at 4:25 pm

what about the mysterious landing of a B-52 bomber near the refuge years ago. And it secret takeoff while being guarded around the clock. If anyone has ever seen the movie “Blow” about smuggler “Boston” George Jueng what I’m talking about is eerily similar. Any one remember this?

By Laura Campbell on June 1st, 2009 at 8:22 pm

To Outsider:

Without going into too much detail, I had someone warn me years ago about researching info. I was told about. As I stated, some people have a lot to be afraid of.

This person was involved directly with a local group of folks back in the ’70s. There was a lady from Switzerland (pretty sure, anyway she was European) and pretty sure I am correct. I have not delved into these stories since about 8 years ago. I cannot afford, for my sake or my child’s, to be sitting in the position I was then. Yes, I did wrong myself 8 years ago, but I ended up in quite the scary position and know much more than I ever cared to know.

Anyway, and forgive me if I am wrong, but look into Cheraw Chronicle stories from 2001 or 2002, give or take a year, and there was an article about remains found in a drainage ditch. The lady mentioned who disappeared ran an herbal or health food store downtown in the 70’s. Some believed these remains may have been her. There are ties to Wadesboro and Jordan brothers concerning this. So many things exist of this nature. Circa 1977 a man was caught trafficking cocaine, other drugs in Patrick. They got little more than a slap on the wrist. What’s so disturbing about one of these men is that he is a pedophile who was investigated concerning 2 girls, now women, he abused when they were 6-8 years old. Needless to say, he never received any time for these crimes. When systems fail…so many suffer.

Good luck finding any info. on internet about all of this. I tried last year and the articles once there that I read could not be found.

It was rumored also that these people in that circle were involved in cults similar to those of Charles Manson at the time. Some may laugh but be careful what you laugh at. I laughed too when I heard these stories. I’m not laughing anymore. I stopped laughing 8 years ago.

There are so many layers to this fair town and area. Indeed, many big names haven’t been mentioned. Concerning media not reporting on this, I’m waiting to see what will happen. I imagine a lot of documentation and witnesses are simply not there. I’m praying very hard for those who have stepped foward, as well as those who have erred. However, justice is justice and a lot of people have been hurt, both past and present, by how our local government has operated without answering for anything.

By Old Fart on June 1st, 2009 at 9:13 pm

To “Call It Like I See It”

Dude, it was a B25, not a B52. And the rumour at the time was that it brought in a load of first-class weed. I remember riding down #1 to take a look at it. It was a pretty cool happening in this boring little county.

As to the rest of this stuff, I hope the FBI rounds up the lot of them and sends them to jail. I hope Jay Hodge can appreciate the irony of going to prison and having a reunion with all those folks he personally sent there.

By Laura Campbell on June 2nd, 2009 at 5:07 pm

So who gave the radio interview? My statement still stands, that if anyone stated anything about the FBI monitoring websites, then GREAT!

Does anyone have comments about The Link article today? Lots of finger-pointing going on.

It seems like from D.C. to locally, it’s business as usual. As I stated on similar blog, why would Vick get a consulting fee for drug court? Hodge is, and was, a lawyer. Then again, and I am also guilty, U.S. citizens aren’t going to buck a system until it adversely affects them. I was never involved in questioning the local system until there was so much backlash on me and my family and, as an adult, the questions I asked about how things worked out in my childhood led to local politics. It wasn’t unti I volunteered at the local animal shelter that I found out how terrible it was, that record numbers of animals were and are being gassed, along with other rumors of disposal, that I really stood up and attempted to address the issue.

Once again, while politicians play games, society suffers. Very little, in my opinion, will come of this investigation and anything that happened in the past because witnesses have been silenced and documentation destroyed. Maybe a few plea deals will be taken. People will talk only to cover their rear ends or if it serves in the downfall of someone they are at odds with.

By atticus on June 3rd, 2009 at 7:16 am

Thank you obamayall! I have been reading this blog site and it is obvious that the majority of these posts are being written by only a few people who are using different aliases. It seems as though this blog site has been used to create a dialogue of hate and accusations that stem from one, or maybe two sources. I know that all the parties involved have done things to help people at some point in their careers. I would not doubt they have also done things they would not want the public to know. As a government employee in another county, I am never surprised to hear what people do in the name of “public service.” I know that from my first hand and personal knowledge, Ms. Bullard has done a great deal to help some people in need. I also know that she has caused hardship. These hardships were not always the result of non-compliance issues. I cannot distinguish the difference from the accusations she makes toward others, and her own behavior. This personal vendetta has created a stir of disent in this beautiful town, and to no avail. I for one would like to see Ms. Bullard utilize her talents and education in an area in which she feels validated. I hope she is receiving treatment for her alcoholism and I wish the people in her life, who say they truly love her, would be honest with her. Playing along with her “vendetta games” and the unparalled web of lies that is growing out of control, will only hurt her in the end. And I expect Ms. Bullard to fire away at this post, and that is fine. I forgave her for using her position to conduct an affair with my husband and nearly destroying my family. I forgave her for all the pain she caused an entire family. I hope she can find some happiness, without causing everyone around her so much pain. Barbara, I hope you can stop the lies . It is time to let this go, you have done all the damage you can do. Work toward having peace in your life, not creating so much hate for others.

By Cheravian on June 3rd, 2009 at 6:45 pm

Ms Bullard is a con-artist and a thief and if you don’t belive it just ask the ladies at the First Methodist Church in Cheraw that contributed money to Ms Bullard for the non-exsistant after school center that she was suppposedly starting. When the ladies who made the contributions sent some children to the location of this scam center it was locked. When the ladies asked to visit the center Ms Bullard said she would send them a brochure that they never received and they never heard from her again and she never returned their money.

By Laura Campbell on June 4th, 2009 at 1:32 am

I have a question that would clear up a lot of things. Is Mercy Ministries, Inc. affiliated with Mercy Ministries Worldwide?

If this is true about the above ladies at the First Methodist Church, then it will put a spin on my perception of things, as my experiences with people from this church has been very positive and their reputations precede them.

In two of the responses on this site, Mrs. Bullard states she never worked for Jay Hodge. Then she states resigning from her position with Mercy Ministries because of problems with her boss (Hodge).

The fact that Pee Dee Coalition is well-known and anyone can find information on them, but there is hardly any on Mercy Ministries raises questions.

I am finding it difficult to tell the good from the bad from the ugly on this issue. The others issues I have commented on (Some CPD officers, the local animal shelter, one cold case, and the general gyst of politics here) I stand by.

By John Mimms on June 4th, 2009 at 12:15 pm

Laura, Barbara never said she didn’t work for Jay Hodge. She said she never worked for the solicitor’s office. Mercy Ministries is not affiliated with any worldwide org. It was founded from the wealth and goodness of a local family. Its operation is funded by this same families trust as well as local donations and grants, if awarded. After Mr. Vernon died, his wife gave Jay Hodge total control of the Ministry as well as fiduciary responsibility of the trust fund. I think there were some old family ties. As president of the board of directors, this meant Jay was Barbara’s primary boss.
Pee Dee Coalition provides similar services but not the longer-term provision that the Ministry does. The two organizations have the ability to support one another and often do. Until the recent addition of one support person, Barbara has been the only staff that MM had.
The comment regarding the after school site must have been a misunderstanding. Barbara’s background is in counseling victims of domestic violence, not operating activity centers. One of her ideas was to have a location where families of domestic violence could drop off/ pickup children involved in these situations to protect them during parent’s visitation exchanges. The $50.00 per year donation from the Malloy Bible study group was always acknowledged with a thank you card and receipt. The only other benefit they have provided was due to the hard work of Sara Sanderson. She organized a benefit luncheon and worked very hard in doing so. The donations from this event went to the special needs of a shelter victim whose husband had cancelled her vehicle insurance. Without this insurance, she was unable to drive to work or attend to the needs of her children that were with her.
If Cheravian would give their real name, maybe I could give some credibility to this statement. Until then, I’ll have to file it along with all the other ridiculous and slanderous comments on these blogs

By Maggie on June 4th, 2009 at 1:15 pm

I would say “fish Stories” run in the Bullard family.

By Laura Campbell on June 4th, 2009 at 2:46 pm

Thank You, Mr. Mimms, for your response. I can only hope that this is true.

What I hope will come of this investigation is that ANYONE guilty of severe corruption will be prosecuted. I would very much like to know, if possible, what happened to the lady from Switzerland. ANY law enforcement engaged in drug activity, driving drunk, trading drugs for sexual favors, beating people they’ve apprehended when they (cops) have a gun, billy club, taser, cuffs, etc., I hope to see convicted and lose their jobs.

Also, there is a great need for activities for kids in this area outside of the community center (they’re great, but not everyone can afford the fees) and churches can only afford and do so much. Thank goodness that our local schools offer so much on their part and we have wonderful PTOs who go the extra mile.

Furthermore, people are being locked up in record numbers, locally and nationwide, for just about anything and everything. People of means can drive drunk, do shady business dealings, etc. but someone who calls for an ambulance gets a house search and a $750 fine for a marijuana cigarette? We need to get our local mental health facilities working properly and provide more hospitalization and rehabilitation as opposed to incarceration. Then again, health care costs money while there is a fortune to be made in arrests, bond fees, even drug court.

It is understood that politics is a dirty business. It’s like saying you’re not going to get dirtied in the business the same as someone working in a horse stable would say I’m not going to get dirty. As for law enforcement, it’s the same, and a great deal is overlooked, but there is no need for excessive violence and brutality. And for goodness sake, and I hope law enforcement is never at my house again for anything, and I will do my best to ensure this, I hope that wherever they go, they don’t stand around and laugh during what is a stressful and heartbreaking incident. Some on our local department are very professional, but others simply should not be there at all.

Finally,considering there are earmarked funds available for kids and programs and animal shelters, someone in our local government apply for them and lets get some improvement around here.

I don’t believe it is important if someone is gay or what small errors are made. Everyone errs at some point. However, if someone is abusing underage kids, that is another matter altogether. If funds are being misappropriated, make the ones misappropriating pay them back and strip them of their job. Stop playing games and looking for juicy gossip, investigate and get things cleaned up around here for the sake of everyone. What has happened here locally for decades is unacceptable. Here is everyone going after people over money while so much worse than that has occurred.

By atticus on June 5th, 2009 at 4:53 pm

In response to student at NETC: I made no mistake at all in what I stated. I am not familiar with any other person at Mercy Ministries, and by the way, that is not the position to which I was referring. It is obvious you are using my comments in an attempt to vent your own personal issues with someone else. It is presumptious of you to assume that I would not know the person with whom my husband had an affair. I know when it happened, where, and many other details that I will not post, and I absolutely know with whom. I know for a fact that my husband is not the only one, so I feel completely and inarguably positive about what I stated. This post actually reads a great deal like many of the others that have been written by the same person-many aliases and if that is the case I expected something of this ilk. I have no knowledge of the other person you mention. It seems that you are the one who is incorrect. I hope this clears everything up for you.

By OBAMAYALL on June 6th, 2009 at 2:23 am

To Ralph Fenwick,
Im not ashamed of my name and whatever I say I can say it to your face or your ear. My name is Georgia Bridges feel free to call.I know Ms Bull and she is a rude lady who looks down own blacks by the color of there skin and whomever you are I only talk from experience and who doesnt know the good that those men have done for our community. Ms Bull is a nobody imporant maybe now because of missed placed funds so again if you have any questions or concerns feel free call

By jello on June 8th, 2009 at 7:13 am

OBAMAYALL The reason people are posting their stuff about Bullard is because she is doing a lot of talk about justice and truth…but a bunch of us know the truth aint in her. So its hard to take her serious and some us that know her from one way or another already know how she stab peopoe in the back even her friends. She can get on here and pretend and say stuff about other people private lives but she cant stand it her self. She brag to people that dont have nothing about how much money she and that man have cause she want to be just like the big boys but she aint. I dont care what come out of her mouth I dont believe it so that is why I aint making no serious mind about what she is saying about everybody else. Bunch of pretendin and playing games and laugh about all the trouble she makes. Talking about people being black and stupid and fat and how they dress and everything else. She might act like she cares to some people but most people know how she really is. You cant be one thing to some people and another thing to some others, you either are what you are, or you are nothing. Shes nothing. And that atuicus lady didnt make no drama on her she said she would be could at doing something to help. I read that myself. I know she does like that with the men cause she just wants all attenton and that is what this show is about. All a game to her and I wish she would just take her husband ,if anybody is puppet is that poor man. And go somewhere and start herself a new game before she deals with the truth she talk about all the time. not her truth tho, she dont count I dont think.

By jello on June 9th, 2009 at 2:22 pm

you dont seem to like it much when somebody says something about somebody else besides that hodge. thats ok trying to keep people from telling all the truths that can be told. People are saying these things why does this so called justice apply to hodge and others but not that Bullard? I guess Iknow why you say that. I didnt know you was in charge of this thing but I aint going to say nothing else, but if you think youre so called “justice” is going to come from a liar like Bullerd then you are fooling you buddy not the people who live here and know whats up. that pig story is real dum, its not cute. And you are awful bossy too. Most people just want to say there peace but there is no rules posted about who they can say it about.

By jello on June 10th, 2009 at 6:12 am

WHich one of you is this? John or Barbara? Ya’ll must be writing 20 diffrent names on posts . I guess that’s what you do when you dont have a job.

By Interested Person in Cheraw on June 11th, 2009 at 1:32 am

Big Bubba, I have to agree with you on your last posting. I personally know the names and addresses of a number of people from drug court, and PTI that have performed work at Ex-solicitor Hodges properties, and recieved compensation in the form of “double community service” but no monetary compensation. I haven’t weighed in on this matter yet, as I am waiting to see if and when these matters come to fruition, as in an indictment of Mr Hodge, or actual charges. At that time I will make myself, and this list of names available to the FBI.
I am in no way affiliated with the solicitors office, simply someone who performed work for Mr. Hodge, and had these people supplied to me as labor. Perhaps I am guilty in that I didn’t contact the FBI myself. But I knew that going to SLED would have gotten me nowhere.
I would like to address a number of things though.
Firstly, Mrs atticus seems to have a personal vendetta, whether she is right or wrong, I could care less. This is simply not the venue for that sort of allegation, take it up with her husband if she feels that she vindication, or simply validation.
Secondly, Obamayall, seems to be angry that she did not recieve monies from Mercy Ministries. Last I heard a grant comes with restrictions, conditions, and criteria to be met. If you do not meet the criteria, you do not get the monies. If you do meet the criteria for monies, you are limited to how many times you may drink at the well. If you drink long and deeply enough, the well dries up. Just because a grant may be for $100,000, It doesn’t mean that is to all to be given to one individual. Also, if the anger stems from living in the shelter, and being asked to leave, that privelege also comes with conditions, such as staying drug free, not having your abuser, or any man for that matter, come visit as it may endanger the other residents. If these are part of your anger, then please take it up with the board of directors of Mercy ministries.
Thirdly, If Jay Hodge is such a good man, why didn’t Obamayall go to him for the money? after all, He was chairman of the board! He had control of the money didn’t he?
Enough said for now. I hope this does come to trial, because in my view, usjing basically “enslaved” labor for personal gain, is equal to misappriation of funds. After all, these people were given a choice of fines, or community service, then their labor was put Mr Hodge’s personal gain. It may not be direct theft, but I think it is close enough for “Government work”!

By Big Bubba on June 11th, 2009 at 10:55 am

Interested Person. Big Bubba’s toupee off to you. We need more of this kind of blogging. This is related to the “real” issue at hand. We need all people that know something to post. This includes any Boy Scout that may have performed and not got a “MERIT BADGE”. The dark secrets need to have light shed upon them. This investigation, if real, does need to bring forth indictments and not hand spankings. OOPS, I got to go run down an escaped hog. Talk with ya’ll later. “THINK PIG PICKIN”

Big Bubba

By Interested Person in Cheraw on June 11th, 2009 at 2:55 pm

Thank you Big Bubba for helping bring us all back to center on this matter. One last thing to say for tonight, I have to get some “honey do” items taken care of.
I know that there are dozens of other citizens out there with information about this matter, and I implore you to come forward. Despite our Mayor’s claim that your ISP can be traced, that statement is only partially truthful. Your ISP can be traced ONLY if you make a threat against any of the parties involved.
I hope that some of the good citizens of this county will come forward, and base their postings on actual fact about this particular issue. Stop complaining, and get involved.
Well, gotta’ run, the wife has a rolled up chronicle in her right hand as inducement to begin her projects. She lerned years ago that it works not only with puppies, but husbands also!

By Interested Person in Cheraw on June 12th, 2009 at 1:31 am

Well, just woke up and thought I’d check this site, as I had assumed that at least one other citizen in this county would have posted something of use to this case.
I must say that I am sadly disappointed.
It appears to me that the postings smearing Ms. Bullard were posted by Ex-solicitor Hodge and his cronies, as there has been no response to my posting. I am actually amused that there has not been a personal attack on me from these folks. I’m sure that by now they have a pretty good idea who I am.
I invite others to post on behalf of our citizens. Remember, the Big Bad Hodge can no longer blow your house down, let’s make him accountable.
I applaud you Mr. Mimms, for staying the course, and continuing to bring evidence to light. I could only wish others were as strong in this county, and Big Bubba, I want to be invited to the Pig Pickin’

By anthrcitizen on June 13th, 2009 at 10:08 am

Good advice. If you have some concrete evidence give it up to the feds. I have a question: How many NEEDY PEOPLE did Mercy Ministries actually help???

By Interested Person in Cheraw on June 16th, 2009 at 12:22 am

I’m afraid that I am not exactly sure how to contact the Feds. any advice?

By hardyboys on June 18th, 2009 at 12:14 pm

Cheraw (Chesterfield) and Bennettsville (Marlboro) are both corrupt to the core. Why would new solicitor appoint Morris Harrington as drug court judge when he knew about his past? How soon we forget! Harrington was over rehab center in Bennettsville and when money disappeared and investigation was taking place, all records from office “mysteriously’ disappeared. No records, no charges!

By Alvin Didright on June 18th, 2009 at 5:56 pm

FYI to Hardyboys, my sources tell me that is was Mrs. Finch, former Administrator that pushed to get Mr. Harrington into his position. Of course, you may already know that since you are an “insider” anyway.

By john on June 27th, 2009 at 1:57 pm

post on every article hope to get some answers

People need to get their stories straight before they tell them.
First, Safrona Finch is not nor has she been in any treatment. I just spoke with her in person in Cheraw and she is fine. I did not right out ask but it appears she is still working but maybe on leave.
Second,this Barbara Bullard person is she one and the same that has had problems at several non-rpofits around the area?