Pee Dee Scandal: The Plot Thickens
A still-unfolding Palmetto State soap opera took another strange twist today when law enforcement sources confirmed details of an alleged homosexual solicitation bust that took place at a South Carolina public rest stop over two years ago.
Like a bad scene out of the movie “There’s Something About Mary,” the alleged bust occurred in November 2006 at a rest station just inside the border of Florence County, and was reportedly a collaborative effort of state and local law enforcement officers.
No one’s commenting for the record yet, but our sources say that the bust netted not one, but two prominent South Carolina politicos – including former Fourth Circuit Solicitor Jay Hodge.
No arrest record was made, however, and Hodge was not detained for an extended period of time, sources say.
Hodge and two other employees of the Fourth Circuit Solicitor’s Office have been forced to resign in the wake of an unrelated federal investigation into the alleged misappropriation of public funds.
The former solicitor has been accused of using public money for enhancements to his personal and rental properties, as well as college tuition and travel expenses for his alleged homosexual partner, who was also forced to resign his position with the Solicitor’s Office.
Hodge claims that the former executive director of his non-profit, Mercy Ministries, is to blame for the scandal.
Various state officials and elected Representatives have been accused of backing off of investigations prior to the feds issuing their subpoenas early last month.
Stay tuned … every time we think this scandal has died down something new breaks.
Pic: Google Maps
Comments
By Liberty for me on June 9th, 2009 at 4:06 pm
Please tell me Lindsey Graham is involved in this somehow…..
By shaggy on June 9th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
my bet is that it was that troll leatherman.
By Just Thinking About it on June 9th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
It will have to come out sooner or later about Sen. Graham. Though he may have no involvement in this particular incident.
Currently residing inside the district as I do, you hear it all about congressmen and senators within the South Carolina delegation. From reception to reception, from bar to bar, insiders are talking.
I am well aware of racial discrimination against whites from the outsiders as well as past and present interns/staffers in congressman Clyburn’s office. If only people knew.
Secrets last only a short period of time inside the beltway, and I have heard it all…………
By Sammy on June 9th, 2009 at 5:45 pm
ewwww…he is too old for sex, either straight or gay.
opps, I forgot ablut Viagra.
By Mike on June 9th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
I wonder who among our MSM “investigative journalist” friends is going to contact Hodge (and the good ol’ boys at SLED, for that matter) to ask the obvious question? Give them all a chance to lie about it and see if this thing can get any more interesting…
By Big Bubba on June 9th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
Uh-oh. Now we are getting into the “meat” of the investigation. And this ain’t hog meat. Pig pickin’ is a comin’. As Son says “Fresh hot boys.”
By Big Bubba on June 9th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
Was not Sen. Larry Craig arrested for something similiar to this. I do believe that we have ourselves a double standard. Let’s everyone git krazee. Does anarchy rule or JUSTICE? I say set off the fireworks for the 4th of July and git down to the brass tacks. IT IS INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!!!!!!JUSTICE PREVAILS. PIG PICKIN’ is acomin’ ya’lll. BRING ON THE BLOGS ABOUT THIS!!!!! DO NOT LET THIS SLIP THROUGH OUR FINGERS LIKE SAND!!!!!
THE BIG BUBBA FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!
By Ed on June 9th, 2009 at 9:33 pm
Someone should do a few FOIA’s to the appropriate law enforcement agencies and see if they deny releasing the info on the record.
Then you got yourself a cover-up.
Oops I forgot – elected officials are above the law
By Tough Girl on June 9th, 2009 at 9:40 pm
You haven’t even scratched the surface….
By BIN News Editorial Staff on June 9th, 2009 at 10:47 pm
Is it possible sic(k) willie will ever bring a story with facts and sources that he can quote? No. He’s just into rumors. You know?
Like his claim that a Midlands’ elected offical has a Strom problem. Like his attempt to dig gold over the grave of a “poor little black girl.”
If there is something to this latest willie scam, perhaps he will post copies of police reports and quote sources on the record. No.
He can’t. What a pimp!
By Calhoun Fawls on June 10th, 2009 at 4:13 am
Will, you got a duty to produce some backup on this. If you got it, let it out, so people will know who is tapping their way through rest stops.
That said, what is it with gay men and bathrooms? Geez, guys, you are supposedly the wealthiest amongst us, get a freakin’ room.
By John Wilson on June 10th, 2009 at 8:44 am
This is probably one of those times that this guys political allies may want to separate themselves from him. Week after week, something new is coming to the table and you can only spin away so much. One thing is for sure, whom ever he has pissed off ain’t giving up. He throws a punch and two more come back, my small little brain tells me that the best recourse he could have would be to shut up. Stay away from the newspaper interviews and as far away from the media as you can. As for the allies does the word distance mean anything to you? Re-election time approaches soon for some and you don’t want this cloud hanging over you, true or not. Anyway, that’s my two cents worth.
By damn the torpedoes on June 10th, 2009 at 9:19 am
I wonder who would win in a hotdog eating contest…the BIN news editorial staff or Solicitor Hodge?
By Not Sayin', Just Sayin' on June 10th, 2009 at 9:52 am
Doesn’t Hodge have some fudge-packer living in his basement? I mean, is his homoness really a surprise?
By Darth on June 10th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
Maybe after the judiciary has did its whitewashing, a FOIA, well redacted to hide supreme court justices, clerks of court, and any other members of the judicial side of the triumvirate, adequately protecting the guilty that we shan’t drop the soap in the shower near, shall comeforth to placate the MSM’s mocking “we really is uranlists” claims.
Maybe we have some transient out of state politicoes in this net…
By DireWolf on June 10th, 2009 at 12:22 pm
This is a great opportunity for the new Solicitor to be first in the nation to offer Sodomy Court,Sodomy Therapy and sodomy testing. The Sherrif’s Department could team with other agencies to feed this new cash cow and create even more new jobs for frinds and relatives.Or,keep it in the county; just build a rest stop in that big empty Industrial Park.
Meanwhile,since Jay-Jay has time on his hands, why could’nt he take two groups of Scouts to England this summer?
By GEM DAWG on June 10th, 2009 at 1:17 pm
The Cheraw Chronicle was a lot more informative when each issue contained pictures of the latest rattlesnake killed and Miller Ingram.
By ts on June 10th, 2009 at 1:32 pm
“fudge-packers” & “Sodomy Court” — Oh my!
I’m always a bit more enlightened after my morning Fits.
By Anthony Farris on June 10th, 2009 at 2:24 pm
I’m in agreement with John Wilson, the elected officials that find their names associated with this ongoing fiasco, should distance themselves well away from the fray. Of course, if they’ve made the “Michael” machine angry, its probably too late to recover politically. Word at Bojangles this morning is that the tightly knit circle of comrades who have benefited all these years from the network set up by the prior Solicitor’s administration are already seeing a fracture in their income stream and “inner circle”. Guess the defense attorneys, treatment centers and others will have to do some cutbacks of their own to make up for the loss in revenue, not sure what they can do about the “cold shoulder” they’re getting.
By Old Timer on June 10th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
to Gem Dawg:
I remember the good ol’ days of The Chronicle back in the 70’s. There was always a “snake kill” or a “big fish” photo with some snaggletoothed kid grinning ear-to-ear while struggling to hold up his prize. When I went off to college my mom bought me a subscription. All the guys on my hall laughed at my “hick hometown” paper, but I loved it then and I miss it now.
Seems like there’s more snakes now, but they’re a lot harder to kill….
By none surprised on June 10th, 2009 at 11:54 pm
I FULLY AGREE with Calhoun Fawls, there does need to be reports, names, etc. Otherwise, this sounds like a lot of gossip, even though I am very thankful that this site will at least post the information.
Now my big question is WHY were Joyner and other asst. solicitor let go? Apparently, Hodge needed a job and Adam Foard would have known very little, if anything, of the can of worms he was diving into? Don’t know. Furthermore, how can someone with a DUI charge and CDV charge work for drug court? Dear God.
Put the facts out there with documentation so the people can get behind this and push for some positive change and don’t wind up with these people’s minions in blue suits and badges breathing down their necks for saying something. If all of this is true and was swept under the rug by higher ups, make it known and get them out of office. Perhaps they may get some time themselves.
By none surprised on June 11th, 2009 at 1:36 am
By the way, what is with taking boy scouts to Europe? Why? Read on other site a guy left his troop when young, something fishy? Speak up, people, if you know. Stop these guys! I’m just hearing to much for everyone to be wrong.
By Council member Doore on June 11th, 2009 at 8:53 am
Ok… Lets not only investigate the 4th circuit. Lets investigate the police department and the town of cheraw. A certain police captain knocks up one of his drug dealers on ACL Ave. then continues to sell and distribute, but its ok he is the brother in law of the town mayor. Geezeee.
By ts on June 11th, 2009 at 9:51 am
A rout of SC’s 11th Circuit is long overdue.
###
none suprised –
Death of the ‘playahs’ may be the only thing to stop corruption that is this entrenched for this long.
By none surprised on June 11th, 2009 at 11:39 am
none surprised:
Council Member Doore:
I agree. This captain appearingly has a thing for women in the mix of drug-dealing, prostitution, etc. He was supposedly in trouble before, now he’s at every drug bust and any other call made to CPD. These guys are like Al Capone, or maybe more like Elliot Ness, seemingly untouchable. Seems town of Cheraw has an on-going farce in play.
Furthermore, if it takes more than 2 or 3 cops to handle small situations, then they shouldn’t be cops, not with tasers, guns, clubs, cuffs, you name it. They act as if the are going to war if they are called for anything. The military and fire department are where the real danger is, just read the statistics. Their behavior is sickening. How wonderful it would be to see the whole mess cleaned up, top to bottom. Oust the new solicitor, if need be. I can’t believe he fired 2 asst. solicitors to give Hodge a position.
I WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THESE CHARGES ABOUT HODGE AND YOUNG BOYS. I WILL SOLICIT NONSTOP TO SEE JUSTICE FOR THAT, IF IT IS TRUE.
By Council member Doore on June 11th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
First of all Solicitor Rogers fired the other two assistant Solicitors because they were lazy. They were caught at Hodges mothers in there pool swimming on the clock. One did less than 10 cases in the time he was employeed. What is so interesting is how Jay Hodge can get away with anything. The man is sick beyond all means, and the three young individuals that he ? should come forward. It is now time that justice can prevail, so I hope they will come forward. How about the cheraw mayor going to a strip joint in Myrtle Beach. Well whatever…. This stuff is credientals for a blockbuster film.
By in the know on June 11th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
None surprised, Hodge got caught with another politico (Marlboro Cty) in a prostitution sting on I-95 rest stop. Obviously, it was in the male restroom. It got covered up thanks to the chief of SLED being from Cheraw. I think this should answer the question of why Hodge didn’t seek re-election, he was told not to run. He just got to stay on as asst. to pad his years to get to retirement. Only problem was he still thought he was the “boss”. The damage really came about when rumor of the FBI investigation leaked. He and his main cohort Finch were able to remain in the office and attempt to cover up their wrong doings as best they could. Not to worry, to much to do with so little time. They even attempted to influence people in the solicitor programs by coaching them on what to say to FBI agents regarding their involvement. Oh yeah, they’re going to be in trouble as well. All they had to do was tell the truth but they fell into the “Godfather’s” web. News flash, he don’t control the FBI just the local swinging dick’s. I just wonder, when all this hits the fan, what happens to the supporters and business associates of Hodge. Hunter, Vick, Lee, etc… Are they just hoping not to get caught up in the flow when Hodge gets flushed?
By Sasha M. on June 11th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
none surprised,
From what I am hearing around the community, the reasoning why both were fired was because the assistant solicitors both created problems, and couldn’t get their work done. Word around Wesley United Methodist Church is that Mr. Joyner was upset that he didn’t get chosen to run for Solicitor, and as a result, he and Mr. Rowell plotted againist Mr. Rogers, and created problems for the staff. That would explain their controversial picture in the paper. Maybe that is why they immediately got fired the day Mr. Rogers took control, and maybe that is why they are both still supporting unsubstantiated garbage with no sources to this day. Of course that is just my opinion. You know how they old saying goes, “If you follow a fool, you are a fool yourself.” It will be interesting to see how this impacts Joyner in Cheraw.
By Susan on June 11th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
I hope that the FBI will investigate all of our LOCAL POLITICIANS !!! ALL of the people in the “click” and that means most of our good old democrats in this county and some of the surrounding counties. It seems as if they have a SECRET CLUB and they only help the ones that FILL THERE POCKETS with MONEY or FAVORS!!!!!!!!! The sad thing is that ALL of the PEOPLE ELECTED THEM and PAY THEM WITH OUR TAX DOLLARS and all they do is PAD THERE OWN NEST EGG and the heck with the rest of us WHO ELECTED them in the first place in hopes that they would WORK FOR ALL OF US. When we the people ELECT THEM BACK INTO OFFICE this only allows them to continue WITH HELPING THEIR OWN AND THIS ALLOWS FOR CORRUPTION and this will happen OVER and OVER again and they will get BOLDER, EVEN MORE CROCKED AND OUT RIGHT SELFISH!!!!!!!!!!!! OVER TIME they have gained so MUCH POWER that the FBI or the MEDIA ARE THE ONLY ONES TO STOP THEM. Let ALL of us remember this at election time and CLEAN HOUSE and start over with some FRESH BLOOD in office. We should start with the COURTHOUSE elected officials( PROBATE JUDGE—-who by the way holds THE DRUG COURT——— (there will be some UNHAPPY ATTORNEYS from OUR COUNTY) SHERIFF, CLERK OF COURT,and anyone ELSE THAT has been close with Jay Hodge and all of the CONTROLLED dealings with his office. WE SHOULD REMEMBER TED VICK, VINCENT SHEHEEN and any other ELECTED official that has HELPED TO COVER UP ANY WRONG DOINGS because they are NOT FOR THE AVERAGE JOE BLOW ON THE STREET they are only for there OWN POLICICAL GAIN and that is to feed there own pockets or give them POWER to control our lives and that will effect us today and in the days ahead! So lets get the word out that WE THE PEOPLE OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY want a new BEGINNING and seek out NEW PEOPLE FOR OFFICE and lets ALL work to have a new BEGINNING for this GREAT COUNTY IN THE PEE-DEE!!!!!! I believe that this county can GO FORWARD FOR ALL OF THE PEOPLE and we will all gain from a new beginning when we ELECT the people that will HELP our county and ALL OF THE PEOPLE!!!!! Think about it, has CHESTERFIELD COUNTY had ANYONE to bring in new industry or any new jobs except the ones CREATED by HODGE and his followers that only help there selected group to make money. I HAVE HEARD THAT SOME OF OUR LOCAL POLITICIANS think that we are NOT VERY INTELLIGENT PEOPLE AND THEREFORE THEY CAN DO AS THEY PLEASE AND WE WILL SIT BY QUIETLY AND THEY CAN BECOME MORE POWERFUL(above the law) and RICHER by the day while the rest of us suffer. I HOPE AND PRAY THAT ALL OF THE CROCKS WILL BE CONVICTED AND BROUGHT DOWN TO EARTH WITH THE REST OF US! Lets not FORGET and let this scandel be OLD NEWS that will go away with time because if we do they will come out on top and that will make them alot SMARTER than the rest of us .just like THEY BELIEVE!!!!!
By none surprised on June 11th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
By none surprised:
It is going to take a lot to get these people brought to justice. If they can let a 17-year-old die questionably in jail, with very few questions asked and very little done, I believe this demonstrates their ability to get out of things unscathed. I was told our town lawyer got everyone at CPD out of trouble with that. Thank You, town lawyer, for getting the people involved in this out of trouble. I don’t see how you can sleep well at night.
About the higher-ups, if they covered up this stuff, then answer for it too, especially Stewart, because I know I called SLED and nothing happened as far as I could see. Then again, if these higher-ups did anything, I’m sure they would have kept it close to the vest out of necessity. I am sure they get threatened just as much, if not more, than someone such as myself. Investigations of this sort, for some reason, take so long. And still no charges for the really sick stuff, just financial aspects. But thank goodness, it is somewhere to start.
I also believe that a lot of people did not know about this stuff. I have lived here 14 years and this is the first I heard about Hodge.
Letters to our local papers would be a good start for letting them know how fed up and seriously people take this. Just be prepared for backlash. I’ve dealt with these people concerning issues of my own.
By Barry Anderson on June 12th, 2009 at 8:21 am
I find this to be very interesting, in a heated discussion last evening with a female who is familiar with the former Solicitor’s administration, she stated that one of the people named within had worked for the former and current Solicitor in a leadership capacity, that he had a record in Davie County, North Carolina and the former Solicitor was well aware of it. If there is any truth to it, just goes to show you that the former Solicitor gave more credit to friendships rather than a persons integrity.
By Listening and still concerned on June 12th, 2009 at 9:30 am
I asked Joyner who to vote for and he said to watch for the sign in his yard. He campaigned for the current solicitor. So when he lost his job I wanted to know why. The words from Mr Hodge were… I did him a favor. He’s better than this small town and he needed to be forced out of the nest so that He could go farther. of course this is paraphrased but the conversation did happen. Those guys lost their jobs so that Hodge could have one… and I just wonder if the current solicitor had a deal with Hodge to get elected. It sounds like current solicitor is in Hodges pocket also.
By Eric on June 12th, 2009 at 11:44 am
Speaking of integrity, many people are aware that Kenny Micheal donated questionable funds to a certain individual that recently ran for coronor that has a record of his own in Florida. What has really created a stir is the age and the timeframe the charges occured. That goes to show you how misleading some people and their supporters truly can be when trying to get someone elected. One can only ponder whether the questionable funds had any relation with Mercy Ministries. Let’s hope not!
By Catina A. on June 12th, 2009 at 12:45 pm
Council member Doore,
I believe many people are starting to agree with your assessment of the two assistant solicitor’s that got fired, and their motive behind doing so. I was unaware that one had did less than 10 cases throughout the time he was employed. Do you have any knowledge on how the other performed? My sister and I answered the door one morning when they were apparently campaigning, and were told it was in our best interest to vote for Ervin. Someone told my cousin Shante that one was planning on running for solicitor in the future, and that the other assistant solicitor was going to come back to help him do it. It appears as if one has left the other out to dry, by leaving town.
By Arthur Pender on June 12th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
The circle of people who are involved in this multi-faceted ring spreads wide. Taking into consideration just what the eye can see, it reaches from some of the highest offices in the state down to the local businessman, or woman. A day of following some of the locals involved, will easily give you the impression of “something is not right”. These people are constantly in contact with each other and it is a closed circle who do business with each other, and I am talking about elected officials and their buddies. I have heard the explanations of real estate deals…where did the money come from Mr. Mayor? And just how many houses have you bought and re-sold…as you stated? Is it coincidental that the same inner circle of people show up on the deed of that transaction? And Mr. Representative, was it ok to profit from the non-profit? Do you feel it okay to receive payments from the Solicitor’s office for consulting? According to their website, the camp has been canceled this year…can we expect you to return your consulting fee and telephone? And board members of Mercy Ministries, you still allow the accused to sit on the board? Doesn’t it make sense to ask them to step aside until you can confirm the allegations or not? Look at the harm you are allowing to your non-profit. Isn’t it odd that these same people are involved in huge “to do” in Marlboro county and stand to profit thousands? And what about the cover up that has been mentioned in the article, the proposed involvement of Attorney General, SLED Chief, Senator, Representative..the whole thing makes sense now that the pieces are starting to come together. The inter workings of the past Solicitor administration and his cronies, now that they are out of office, the misuse of funds, the abuse of the very people who need help the most, the drug clients and the intimidation mentioned that goes on as we speak. …it all make sense now. It amazes me that these people are so careless but given the fact that they have been getting away with it for so long, it is understandable. And lets not forget the rumors of the policy departments misgivings. While little has been mentioned, much has been said about stealing, cover ups, threats and more. I call on the Mayor of your city to do an investigation and house cleaning, no matter if your relative works there or not. These people are scrambling around trying to put out the little fires that keep popping up and to no avail. The stress of the cover up will eventually wear them down and it will show. Your reasoning and lame explanations and fronts that you are putting up will not last, we the people can hear, we can see, and we know better. Your explanations of how you happened upon good deals, your explanations of how you have been misunderstood, how your dealings with one another are above board and candid, how you are innocent, the list goes on and while it may quieten down, a day of reckoning approaches. It may be election time or some other but the public will demand the truth. While I’m not a resident of Cheraw, I have ties there. It is a beautiful town, but this scandal has tarnished its image. Citizens, you deserve leadership from your Council, your Mayor, your Solicitor, your Representative, your Senator, and others. As was asked on another website, why are you silent? Leaders, don’t your body of people deserve to hear from you? Not only do they not hear from you, but now they miss your presence. Why? Could it be that you are pre-occupied with how your need to respond to the accusations? Could it be that you have to spend your days back tracking, meeting, and making sure that things appear different from what they actually are? My grandfather use to tell me that an innocent man is at peace, but a guilty one is restless. Something that I can say for sure, in my one day visit to Cheraw recently, it was easy to tell the peaceful from the restless.
By Heath Thomas on June 12th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
To Eric. Your mention of Mr. Michael and his support of a certain candidate is a dead giveaway of who you are. As far as being misleading, how would you describe yourself? The candidate that you mention was an employee of Chesterfield County Sheriff Department for several years before making his bid for Coroner. Are you saying that the Sheriff’s office was covering this up also? Did they have knowledge of the persons record that you mention? Seems that you will be answering some questions of your own in the near future. As for the questionable donations, why don’t you go ask this candidate yourself? He is very honest and approachable, I’m sure he’ll not mind giving you a list of who donated to his campaign. And your attempt to tarnish Mr. Michael’s reputation is so childish, so do your profession a favor and stop. Its not becoming of an officer. Mr. Michael and his family have volunteered their time to many candidates because of their love of this community. I would love to hear what you’ve done. Call me and let me know…you have my number.
By Eric Baylor on June 15th, 2009 at 8:57 am
I think what we are about to witness here is much like a tsunami. There was the earthquake that came with the breaking news of this multi-tiered scandal. Along the way, the comments and morsels of information provided the momentum to keep the tsunami alive. And now, we await the strike, the full impact of the tsunami. That is when all will come to the surface, from the lowest on the pole to the very top. This thing will reach into our leadership and community like an octopus, and it will be a sad day for South Carolina politics, but can also be a bright day… new beginnings can come from this ever developing scandal. There is hope for we the citizens. Hope for Fresh, honest leaders that deal openly and honestly.. not behind closed doors and within their circle of friends. Those who have dreamed of a career in politics, the timing couldn’t be better. From council seats, mayor, representatives and up… opportunity is presenting itself. Cease the moment.
By Teal on June 15th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
None of this should be a surprise to any of us. For years we’ve heard that our ex police chief/current town judge was dealing. The sheriff’s office is overflowing with corruption from the top down. I would not take much digging around for a windfall of info to come to the surface. Didn’t the elder Michaels used to be in business with Mr. Hill? Any oldtimers remember that. Please, keep digging. We deserve the truth.
By Myrteen Flea on June 15th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Re: Teal
What the crap does the elder Michael have to do with the police department. Of course the citizens of Cheraw deserve the truth, but how the citizens of Cheraw can help is to shut up; and to only discuss facts and truth. False alligations & personal slander does nothing but slow the legal process down. So if you want the truth shut up & only speak facts.
Here is the truth!
The Former solicitor is a crook, represetative ? is a crook, Senator ? is a crook, and the police Department is a complete joke. Their intimidation tactics are hilarious.
By Wake UP on June 15th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
As much as it would be a wonderful taxpayer windfall for all the corrupt elected officials to face legal ramifications for their mis deeds, the FBI is only going to go so far with their investigation of an area so entangled with corruption. They deal with Federal statutes and significant (in their eyes) law enforcement problems. Otherwise, they have to be asked to intervene by the local law enforcement folks. As far as electing new, honest folks to positions that are now corrupt… the margin of victory for the chosen folks is always at least 63% because of vote buying, dead voter turnout and voting machine software control. They can’t be voted out without incredible public outcry and proof from those who were paid to vote. Don’t put so much hope on limitless arrests by the FBI! Try calling the DEA or some other federal agencies with the drug dealing info by judges and law men. Shutting up is the last thing the residents need to do. Speak louder and point fingers with facts out in public where the guilty can be shamed amongst their supporters. Flood the press, regardless of who they support, with letters to the editor with factual accounts. The communities have found their spine and I am so glad to see them standing up. ROCK ON people! I hope to make it to the pig pick’n real soon!!!
By Big Bubba on June 15th, 2009 at 4:36 pm
Hey Wake UP!!!! ROCK ON my fellow great citizen of Chesterfield County. No one needs to be told to shut up. We have ourselves a public outcry for justice. If there are corrupt people from the earlier generations of the county. THEN, for the sake of my hogs, shout it out loud. Turn over every moss covered rock until rats run scared. You perception about the FBI is very true. However, this can not just go away. The 1st Annual Pig Pickin’ is in site. Let’s have T-shirts printed. FITS NEWS—give us more meat and I ain’t talkin’ hog meat. KEEP IT COMING PEOPLE!!!!!!!
BIG BUBBA
By Myrteen Flea on June 15th, 2009 at 4:56 pm
SHUT UP was referring to the slander of names that were not related to the investigation. I do encourage others to communicate about the problems our county faces. Though with the investigation being underway, it isn’t smart to slander other people and make false alligations towards them when they are not affilated with the investigations. If you were in the law profession you would understand what I am speaking of.
example…
Andy Griffeth – is non essential.
Jay Hodge – is a relevant topic.
By Oops on June 15th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
“Though with the investigation being underway, it isn’t smart to slander other people and make false alligations towards them when they are not affilated with the investigations.”
Why? This is the unfair and imbalanced website, remember? Honestly, it isn’t smart to make alligations PERIOD unless you have the facts to make such claims. I can’t wait to see where FITS got their credible sources pertaining all the information they have put out there. Just wait.
By none surprised on June 15th, 2009 at 9:18 pm
There is a big pile of swept-up mess under the proverbial rug from DECADES ago. How long has a certain municipal judge been running things here? What has he gotten away with? Do we have a local mafia? We have no idea how many people know things and have been affected by these people’s actions. The SLED gentleman everyone is referring to, if he’s been covering things up, then for how long? IF a person is 100 years old and is involved in this or other cover-ups or crimes, then bring them forward. I know for a fact that more agencies than the FBI have been called in the past and present. There is at least one cold case related to the above mentioned people. She was from Switzerland, disappeared and no one knows what ever happened to her. WHOEVER may be involved, let justice take its course. I believe at this point that the FBI should be aware that there is much more to this story than just money matters. I hope they investigate it all. There are many who hope that by turning up evidence or telling on the big cheese, that they will get out of any trouble they could face. Strange things happening in at least one church and one other place related to this. People are running scared all over the place. Jay Hodge is not the only one, by far, who is involved in this ugly mess. FBI, please investigate all allegations and everyone involved, no matter how far back it goes.
By John Wilson on June 16th, 2009 at 9:02 am
History shows that a guilty party always tries to distract the attention away from themselves. In this case, the former Solicitor and his associates. They will use the media, propaganda, and any other means available to do so. They will grant interviews and spout all about, knowing that the parties that are assisting the authorities are limited in what they can say, and so they have free reign in the press. They will generally start at the top of their hit list and work themselves down, all along, drawing attention away. They plant seeds of doubt, slander, and destroy. They do this, thinking that the public is naive, uneducated and unable to see through their cheap and elementary tatics. On the contrary, our public is an intelligent one, because history has given us a map into a guilty persons mindset and their calculated, but predictible movements. The weak associates will crawl into their hole and wait this storm out, but the bold will stop at nothing to realize their goal… distract and destroy anyone in their path, a sign of their self indulgence and selfishness. Had the weaks ones known that their own would one day turn on them, they would have fled this enterprise long ago. We have seen the local newspaper grant interviews to the accused, to no fault of their own. We have seen the accused try to discredit a woman (Bullard) who has given her life to assist others and with great success. We have seen the accused try to paint an ugly and untrue picture of a man (Michael), who has also given much time and resources to an enterprise that helps wayward people, at a sacrifice to himself and his family. Who’s next on the list, I ask? You will notice that the finger pointing will go on and on, with no finger ever pointing back to himself. Everyone else is the cause of this, everyone else is guilty…I’ve done no wrong. Soon, the accused will begin to turn on each other and then the implosion. In the coming weeks, you will continue to see this ploy played out, just as it has so many times before. Mercy Ministries, whomever you are, bear a responsibility to your organization to take control within. Who is at the helm? As for the current Solicitor’s organization, it appears that he is at the very least, showing some leadership in the matter. While not a local to the area, I have a sincere interest and trust that truth and honor will be the victor. To Mrs. Bullard, Mr. Michael, board members and others, fight the fight of truth, you will encounter mountains but strength will be granted.
By john on June 16th, 2009 at 9:05 am
question for none surprised
What church? This is a mess isn’t it?
By none surprised on June 16th, 2009 at 10:06 am
I have just set here watching the comments and idiotic slander that has been made for weeks. This investigations is taking place becuase Hodge was the President of Mercy Ministries and Solicitor for the 4th circuit. Hodge is playing the game of “its not me” and blaming the crap on others. Look at Hodge, He makes me internally sick. He is blaming the money stuff on Bullard for Mercy Ministries investigation, when He was the president and should have been overseeing every procedure in there. Hodge who do you blame for the money stuff in your 4th circuit office. Yea can’t blame anyone for that becuase it was your sorry, saggy butt. Safrona Finch was the one stroking the checks to you and your fruity cohorts. Grow freaking up… We are not stupid. Your a crook, fruitcake, and a stinking sham.
By Al Jackson on June 16th, 2009 at 11:30 am
Jay is taking the scouts to the beach this weekend, that’s the word on the street.
By Arthur Pender on June 16th, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Well, seems it finally made it into the mainstream media. The Charlotte Observer is reporting in its local news section of the former Solicitor and Mercy Ministries saga. This article seems to break the ice and lend credibility to the hear say that’s been going on the last few weeks. Whats next? http://www.charlotteobserver.com/local/story/782315.html
By Beach Bum on June 16th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
Same story was picked up at Myrtle Beach
http://www.thesunnews.com/news/local/story/939997.html
By john on June 16th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
none surprised
Please answer the early question!!!
What church?
By Big Bubba on June 16th, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Now this is what we been talkin’ ’bout. Let’s get the story out of the county and into the hands of the mainstream news media. FITS bring it on. Listen ya’ll, we are going to have a party in Cheraw for the July 4th selerbration. We are going to call it the 1st annual Big Bubba Freedom party. I want everyone that wants this here county to be free of corruption to be there. We will have live music, a Chesterfield Idol contest and fireworks. Big Bubba may just git up there and sing for all ya’ll. I will have Big Buck with me. But not to worry, I will have a leash and collar on him. If you want to go out an eat at one of those nice eatin’ places. Tell them that “Big Bubba sent you” and you may git a discount. Until justice prevail—I is Big Bubba.
By Jesse Crackson on June 16th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
Re: None Suprised.
What chick from Switzerland give names specifics. And what in the world you talking about a church – explain.
Jay is a fudgepacker
By none surprised on June 16th, 2009 at 3:13 pm
TO NONE SURPRISED #2:
Were you trying to respond to a comment I made? I was just wondering, because I did not post anything at 10:06 a.m., today. I would prefer to use my real name, and did, but someone in my family got severly reprimanded for it, so it’s no longer an option.
By none surprised on June 16th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
I forgot, to John:
I cannot say which church, but a certain family left there after being part of the congregation for years and Vick was there campaining years ago. Affiliation with Drug Court as well. I don’t understand all that’s going on there but it’s really a shame. Yes this is a big mess, affecting so many people.
By Eric on June 16th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
What will happen to Vick.
By drug court person on June 16th, 2009 at 8:25 pm
Why doesn’t someone look into all the work that was done in Mr. Hodge’s downtown office on the tax payers dime just before he stepped down as solicitor? I’m sure the feds would be interested in where the money, supplies and workers came from. I know two of the guys that where in drug court with me because they talked about it openly.
By John Mimms on June 16th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
Eric, I guess Vick has been told by Hodge to keep quite. Why else would he not come out and make a statement other than the bs line he shot us regarding the “house deal” he pulled off with Hodge. With all this public outcry, why would he not stick his nose right in unless he had something to hide? Accusations made in these postings alone should warrant an investigation, at the very least, a comment. What have we heard? A bs excuse for a deal he was involved in. If you really think about your question above, the answer is very clear. He’s got some splanin’ to do. I guess he’s just waiting until he gets behind closed doors with the suits.
By john on June 16th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
none surprised
That is the problem, people seem to forget the main facts to their stories. No offense but we need to know all the points to the stories. This is a shame for all of us.
By drug court person on June 16th, 2009 at 9:51 pm
why doesn’t somebody look into the remodeling work done in Hodge’s personal office before he stepped down as solicitor. I know two of the guys from drug court because they talked about it openly. I think most of the work was done by PTI and Drug court people, cheap labor at the tax payers expense. I guess its okay since he WAS on the inside, now he’s just scared like the people he used to take advantage of. He’s a user of people and a control freak. I can’t believe he said in the paper he didn’t know anything about what was going on with Mercy Ministries. I guess its true what I always heard him say about the people in this county not being smart enough to figure things out. He used to say all people wanted to do was read
By Dennis on June 16th, 2009 at 10:41 pm
OOOOOh Mr. Wilson,
You must not know Mr. Kenny Michael well at all and Im sure you think you do but you dont. I dont know Ms. Bullard so I cant go there but I can tell you about Kenny and you are just so off the mark. Please if ya’ll would please tell Mr Wilson how off he is. Im not trying to start a big uproar but Mr Wilson Everyone knows that Kenny only acts or talks to help himself. If he gets out of this mess I will be surprised. He does only for others when there is something in return or if there is something he can gain, maybe not at the time but down the road he always gets something from whom he helps. Mr Wilson he is not a nice person and he is only acting nice when theres something to gain and if not then he isnt going to look twice at you. All i ask is that you just ask around, look around, and you will see.I dont know if anything will really come of all of this but if it does the truth will come out and there will be people asking themselves “How did I not see this and How did I not know he was this kind of person?” and I hope that you dont have to be one of those people.Im not saying he is the main bad guy cause he isnt but he is not being used to get trouble off of them and on to him but because he is as guilty as they are. So Mr Wilson please dont go crazy when you see this, just think about it and ask others about it. People dont be afraid to talk I know most dont want to put their names out there because of these people, so dont but Im sure there are lots of people reading and not talking but its time to talk and tell so our beautiful little town can be clean again. We need to stand together and let them know we are not afraid of them anymore and that they cant hurts us or our families anymore. Stand together, Stand as one.
By Small Town on June 17th, 2009 at 2:10 am
To: Jesse Crackson
Regarding the lady from Switzerland. I believe her name is Lisa. She disappeared in 1981.
By Stanley Yelnats on June 17th, 2009 at 6:30 am
OOOOOOOO Dennis. Thank you for the timely comments. I can see that you are a crusader. You,too, must know Kenny. Every word, that you typed, is true. I was waiting to see who else would respond and you lead the way. Mr. Wilson or whomever, YOU ARE SO FAR OFF of the mark or either kin. Stand together, Stand as one.
By John Wilson on June 17th, 2009 at 9:32 am
To Stanley Yelnats, Dennis:
Regarding Mr. Michael, as a matter of fact I do know Mr. Michael and am very comfortable in what I have stated, and no, there is no kinship. What I also know is YOU. You hind behind your “screen name”, casting your slanderous comments about like there’s no tomorrow… just a sign of your weakness I presume. Mr. Michael and others in the community have taken a stand to do what people like yourself only dream of and for that, your words show where you stand. Wonder what skeletons you’re hiding? Anyway, Mr. Michael you have my utmost respect, don’t be discouraged by “Stanley & Dennis” and others like them.
By Get a stinking life on June 17th, 2009 at 10:13 am
In response to Stanley NONUTTS(Yelnats) and Dennis Dum?
Get a grip on life. Your character is as nobles as Jay Hodges’. Mr. Michael wasn’t served a supenoa, Jay was. Put your name behind your worthless comments and grow some balls. You must be a saggy butt fudgepacker like Jay. I encourage you to take a poll on this matter. Just ask this question, one simple question.
Do you trust Jay Hodge?
I can almost assure you. Your response will be opposite of what you believe if him. Bullard was the one that contacted the FBI about Hodge, according to the Charlotte news paper. So duh? If Bullard was the one screwing with the finances, why would should have them investigate herself. Jay is playing the blame game, notice the feds are investigating the 4th circuit as well. Who has he blamed for that? See it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure this stuff out. Look at the local papers. Jay is shifting the blame on Michael & Bullard. Jay is the only slandering others, and Jay is the only one saying negative & derogatory comments about them. They have do nothing wrong, not have they made any comments about Jay – that the publis doesn’t know. So you know what, seems like the guilty is playing innocent. Grow balls and come from behind your screen name. Show some sticking backbone and real Character.
My name is Willie Rooker and I approve this message.
By Dennis on June 17th, 2009 at 3:14 pm
I knew this would happen people. I said that he was not the main quilty one. About having balls, well it takes balls for someone to put a comment on here. This is why people wont comment and speak up because of people jumping on them. I never took Jays side I took no ones side I think all all of the people that is in this mess should stand up and tell the truth and take the judgement.I only speak of people I truly know. And well I know a few of these people and I think alot of what has been said on here is true but I saw and have seen untruth and wanted to comment here in the comments, just like you. I think I spoke well and didnt step on anyones toes. I tried to put it as nicely as I could. But its ok that ya’ll feel that way about me because you dont know me and the things Ive been through or the things I have seen. So I put the truth here and the truth is what we should all speak. Im sure you see him your way and I see my way and not one of us is wrong because everyone is good and bad, just some choose to be worse than others. Stantley thanks for making your comment and I hope others continue and others will begin. Its important that we make a stand no matter how u feel about these people that has chose to do wrong. If you like them good tell the good about them and if they have done you wrong tell it. This way maybe we will learn more about them and we can maybe have a different opinion about them or understand maybe why they did this. .(Thank you again Stantley). These people are why our town ,our county is in trouble, so let your voice be heard. Stand together, Stand as one.
By Stanley Yelnats on June 17th, 2009 at 3:43 pm
Dennis, your comments were on time and very well stated. I do believe that people read what they want to in anything that is said. GOOD or BAD. I am not taking side either. Only time will tell for sure about the guilty and I am sure that some will eat their words. I, too, have seen the behaviour of the people that are in discussion. Stand together, Stand as one.
By Get a stinking life (W ROOKER) on June 17th, 2009 at 4:07 pm
First of all. Again you need to grow some balls and state your real name, just as I did. Second of all I don’t see my way. I KNOW each of these people that are involved with the scandal. Michael & Bullard are only in this, because Jay saggy butt Hodge put them there. Again if Bullard was the one stealing funds; why would she contact the FBI. This source comes from the Charlotte Observer. You have no source or backing to your comments. Your not even man enough to put your last name; therefore how are We going to stand together, how are our voices going to be heard, how are the divided going to stand as one. I express the facts and the truth… I don’t bash a person becuase they did wrong to me. Be a mature adult and grow some balls. So do not tell me to speak the truth, when you can’t. Whatever the Bullard/Michael party has done to you. It Is completely irrelevant to the FBI investigation. One the contrary look at the facts and the media. They are telling the truth…. Hodge is the one being manipulative and deceitful. This isn’t about stepping on someone’s toes. It is about being a true, honest and noble person of character. I suggest until you one: Give your real name, rather than a false screen name; two give specific facts; and three just grow up. None of the truth will prevail – all your and people like you are trying to do is stur more problems and more confusion with the public about this. The basic facts are that:
Three employees of the fourth circuit resigned. All three used state, tax payers money for personal use. How does this relate to Bullard? Mercy Ministries is under investigation due to Hodge presiding over the 501c3 organization as there President. Without furthure detail Hodge used Mercy Ministries funds for personal use as well. So Dennis I ask you to relay & comment on these FACTS.
By John Wilson on June 17th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
When will everybody get it through their idiotic, thick skull that Bullard, Michael, Rowell, and Joyner are all innocent, and that they have done nothing wrong whatsoever. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Joyner hire them all when he is elected Solicitor in the upcoming election. Deal with it, and watch the new leadership take over!
By Dandy Sandifer on June 17th, 2009 at 5:47 pm
W. Rooker and John Wilson,
Your ignorance is surpassed only by your stupidity. Neither of you dimwits have your facts together. I can’t wait to watch the new leadership you speak of “take over” as you put it. They will have difficulty getting hired at Kroger when this is all said and done.
By samantha robbins on June 17th, 2009 at 5:59 pm
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Ex-BiLo exec on June 17th, 2009 at 10:59 pm
Mr. Sandifer, speaking of dimwits!!! Where’s there a Kroger in town???
By none surprised on June 18th, 2009 at 12:16 am
Hodge stated in the paper Bullard paid Michaels for project management, backhoe work, and bush hogging. I thought the Michaels only did Business and real estate? Mercy Ministries is more mysterious than the CIA. Who knows what they really do. Where is their office? Who do you contact if you need help from them? They certainly are not the Pee Dee Coalition.
By Teal on June 18th, 2009 at 10:23 am
Folks, I would take a good look at some of the people that are “defending” these thugs on here. Maybe we should all look at who we are doing business with and decide if we really want to buy our insurance, use realtors or use the services of those that are supporting Hodges and his cohorts.
By Dandy Sandifer on June 18th, 2009 at 10:58 am
First of all, I never said the Kroger was in town. Second, I have the best insurance in town ever though I had to relocate, and even my buddies that come by every weekend to gamble will tell you that. Finally, Helen Keller has a better chance of finding a needle in a hay stack than Joyner, Rowell, Michael, and Bullard ever being in charge, much less successful around here. If you can’t find a Kroger, there is always “Freds” or the local laundry mat.
By Alvin Didright on June 18th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Mr. Sandifer,
Seems that you must be a well educated, well positioned member of the community if you can talk down two attorneys, successful businessman, and licensed health care provider.. where did you attend graduate school? Harvard? No need to answer, your illustration above tells me all I need to know about your level of integrity. And by the way, the group of people you cowardly attack are already successful. I won’t address the relocation and “best insurance” statement since you and I both know you are not Mr. Sandifer.
By Big Bubba on June 18th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Hey ya’ll, I has not been here for few day, so I decided get to Ruby libray to use the computer. I has had to pick a bunch of corn and beans out in my garden. That stuff will go bad ifen’ you don’t git it picked. WOW, it seems likes everyone is starting to bite at each other about some of these suspected scoundrels in our great county. Don’t ya’ll know ifen you start fussing among yourself then this separates all of us that wants the right thing done? Listen people, quit fussin’ about who is and who ain’t guilty!!!! Big Bubba says to let the FBI or whomever weed out the bunch of “possums in the pig pen”. Ifen they are guilty then let the chips fall and they will. Then ifen one is not guilty then we will support them and appreciate them for who they is. For every 1 person that is defending these names, Big Bubba sees that 10 people are complaining about or says that they is doing something wrong. Also, I has another issue. All of you that has to cuss or use nasty words—Please stop. My pappy, rest his soul, alway use to say “Big Bubba you doesn’t has to use nasty words or cuss’ to git anywhere. It makes you look ignorant and stoopid.” I do believes every word that my pappy said, rest his soul. So to you that has to use nasty words, think about what pappy, rest his soul, said. Does this relate to you? Has anyone been thinking about the “Big Bubba Independence party” the we is gonna have down in Cheraw for July 4th? I has and so has Big Buck, my shewarwar. I am gonna git a new white T-shirt to wear and I wants to meet all of you. Later ya’ll!!!!Until the scoundrels are all dragged into the jailhouse, I is—
Big Bubba—purveyor of truth, justice and the American Way.
By I agree with ALVIN ALL THE WAY on June 18th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
I agree with Alvin.
Alvin He didn’t attend graduate school. I think we both know who Dandy and Jacmee are.
By stanley yelnates on June 18th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Okay, I give up!!!!!! I can guess whom the attorneys are and the licensed health care provider. BUT, just who are you referring to as a SUCCESSFUL business man?
By Hairy Thomas Johnson Lees on June 18th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
My cousin is innocent so leave him alone!!! The only thing Mr. Michaels has ever done wrong is forgetting to starch some “Dockers” from time to time.
By Alvin Didright on June 18th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
to Stanley Yelnates:
Mr. Michael is the successful businessman. You would be so lucky to be where he is at. Think about it.. government job, business owner, multiple properties owned..but you deserve some credit also, being a man in uniform such as you are is quite an accomplishment. What you pulling down per year, $35k?
By right now on June 18th, 2009 at 10:14 pm
j r joyner will Never be solicitor… Laughable. I feel sorry for his wife…
By john on June 19th, 2009 at 8:06 am
RIGHT NOW
Tell me about feeling sorry for his wife. There is a story in what you said.
By Jr Pointer on June 19th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Joyner running for Solicitor is more than just laughable. This guy is the most cocky, self righteous, nobody. Who think he actually has a real chance. He is a stupid leg shaver – who worked for a stupid saggy butt fudgepacker.
By john on June 19th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Jr Pointer
You and right now seem to know Joyner. What’s his story?
By Jr Pointer on June 19th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
To: John
Jr’s story is like this. He is a person that graduated from Regent University school of Law; he then married kelly who works at First Bank, He got a job as an assistant solicitor working for Jay. They have a tahoe and acura and live on Market Street. JR is a cocky, self righteous wannabe.
By T Whyte on June 19th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
To Jr Pointer,
I happen to know Mr. Joyner and it seems you don’t know him has well has you think. Mr. Joyner appears to have all the elements of success, beautiful wife, a home on Cheraw’s main street, two automobiles, his own law firm and so much more. So if anyone is a “wannabe” as you state, it may be you.
By T Whyte on June 19th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
It is kind of hard to say I’m a wannabe. For example Joyner went into the court room of the Chesterfield (Shallihanger) case so he could be on national tv. If that isn’t a wannabe, then what is. You can know someone all you want, but everyone has skeletons in their closets. No one says he didn’t have nice things.
But when my tax dollars is paying for a judicial system that pays a salary to a man that goes swimming at Hodge’s mothers, when he is supposed to be serving the 4th circuit. That is when I get angry, or a man that goes and back stabs the person who signs his checks. I get angry… So say what you want about who want. Yet it still doesn’t make the problem go away. Vote for joyner is you want, but he will not win. Anyone can own a home on Cheraw’s main street, make a car payment, and start a business. The element of success is not what you have in life either.
By john on June 19th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Jr Pointer
Two things please?!
First – I meant what is the real unknown story behind Joyner? He seems like a very nice hard working young man. He may very well have a good chance at a political office unless you tell the story.
Second – What is or is there a connection between Rep Vick and Rev. Vick?
By show me some facts on June 19th, 2009 at 9:55 pm
I smell sour apples with Mr. Joyner. It seems the only words people can come up with to describe him is “arrogant” and “pompous.” While those personal adjectives are not as admirable as some but if I had to have a lawyer or politician fighting on my side I would appreciate a certain level of arrogance. If your life or livlihood depended on one man (such as a lawyer) would you not want someone who believes he cannot be beaten and refuses to allow any man, regardless of rank or power, to intimidate him?
Maybe some of you are just irate defense attorneys that Mr. Joyner busted on while he was prosecuting and now you are concerned that, instead of being in competition with you in the court room, you now must compete against him on a business level? Do not mistake arrogance for confidence.
Maybe some of you are simply jealous and refuse to admit that Mr. Joyner is one of the most well-liked men in the county. Aside from the “cheruvian bourgeoisie,” politicians, lawyers, and a biased group of people who have a burning desire to express their ignorant and factless opinions….Mr. Joyner is considered a well-respected renaissance man that has an uncanny ability to put a smile on anyone’s face.
By all in on June 19th, 2009 at 10:28 pm
john, rep vick and rev vic are the same, rev just sold his soul to the devil Hodge to become rep, am I losing you Jr Pointer. I know its hard for someone who is having a hard time getting an associates degree from the tech school. Who’s going to pay your tuition next semester since you lost your free ride? Joyner just got caught up in the lure that Hodge deals, the same lure that caught our mayor and myrteen lee. Their going down with him also. Thank goodness Joyner got away from the mess, I bet he could really tell some stories on the deals the old fudgepacker/child molester made him make in the courtroom to line Hodges pockets with.
By please on June 20th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
please. mr joyner did not “get away” from any mess. he was fired because the new solicitor saw him for the joke he is. please. one of the most well liked men in the county? please. put a smile on my face? please. i am sure joyner does have stories to tell… which he wont because he is as dirty as any… and i can assure you there are stories to be told him… and believe me its not because anyone is jealous… unless you are jealous of people who are coniving and make unbelievable statements about people who SHOULD be the CLOSEST to him. please. leave the loser. please.
By john on June 20th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
all in and jr pointer
The pastor of Westside Baptist Church is the state Rep? Now I am really confused.
By all in on June 20th, 2009 at 9:41 pm
just read the charlotte observer article from wednesday where Hodge states that he has “absolutely not” misappropriated funds. I guess all that italian marble that’s in your office downtown was just a going away present from the tax payers. uh-oh safrona, looks like you are dead in his sights to take the fall. don’t worry though he’s such a swell guy he wouldn’t do that. just read his last quote about how he stepped down in light of the investigation because he didn’t think that was fair to the new solicitor. that man doesn’t even care for his own mother much less the new solicitor.
By The 1st none surprised on June 20th, 2009 at 10:55 pm
No, John, the pastor of Westside is Ted’s brother Chad. He also owns Sub Station in Wal-Mart, I believe. He’s a pretty nice guy, from what I’ve heard. But then again I don’t know either Ted or Chad personally.
By The 1st none surprised on June 20th, 2009 at 11:56 pm
By the way, in regard to the story above, if law enforcement was the source, why was no arrest record made? If it was a state and local arrest, who decided to cover this up? Maybe SC SLED needs to be investigated, too. What else are they willing to overlook if it’s a prominent official. Child molestation, as well, perhaps, considering some of the entries on these solicitor sites are mentioning that. What a sad, sad day if that’s true, especially if someone is covering that up. But nothing surprises me in politics.
By all in on June 21st, 2009 at 5:17 pm
1st none surprised, there were no arrests made. that’s what the problem is. they were caught in the sting and a phone call was made to sled and the officers were told to let him go. the stipulation was that he not run for solicitor again. speculation is his connection stepped down from the sled chief position because of the chop-shop scam,as well as the cover up regarding the prostitution sting on 95. if you recall stewart just up and resigned much like hodge claims he did. anybody with any kind of common sense knows he resigned because they were there to fire him. just like the new car he has, they took the truck because it was state property. same as safrona finch’s van being taken away although she claims to be still employed,she’s just away on medical leave and will not be employed when that expires. as a matter of fact,she might not get to finish that if the fed’s decide to act within the next three weeks. maybe she and jay can share a cell over in columbia. uh-oh safrona, i feel some type of illness coming on. don’t worry though, i’m sure the federal pen has excellent health care providers.
By The 1st none surprised on June 21st, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Thanks for the info. all in. I heard the same thing about Stewart resignation. How sickening, these people with plenty of money from their jobs alone have to resort to covering up chop-shop scams, etc. Now I wonder what everyone knows on Hodge for him to so readily cover up so much. It seems that he was doing their bidding far beyond chop-shop, being gay, being in this kind of bust. Someone somewhere knows something really big and really awful, otherwise I would think Hodge and others would say, ok, I did wrong, correct it and move on. Something stinks to high heaven here, beyond money, bathroom sex at rest stops, chop shop scams, drugs, etc. I speculate it’s along the lines of local mafia involvement, child abuse, murder, something. These people are far too scared over current investigation. Yeah money is important and jails bad, but come on. What’s the REAL story here? I’ve heard all sorts of things, some going back decades. I hope the FBI will investigate it all. The Sheffield shooting, the boy dying in jail, people disappearing, all of it.
By john on June 27th, 2009 at 1:54 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?
By The 1st none surprised on June 27th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
I don’t know anything about Mrs. Finch or anyone who worked in Sol. office, except that I do know Mrs. Bullard had serious problems with Pee Dee Coalition. I don’t know if they’re non-profit or not, but read Andrea Blue’s comment under Drip Drip Drip or one of these links. I can only comment on CPD (some of them) and municipal judge. If I don’t know, I can’t say. Then there was the entry from 1st Methodist Church on one of these links and there was some sort of issue with money they donated to Mercy Ministries. It does appear obvious that some sort of shady dealing was going on, at least in Cheraw and Cfld Courthouse because of the number of comments about the topics. As with anything involving people in certain positions around here, one will have to work hard to get accurate information.
By all in on June 28th, 2009 at 3:24 pm
the 1st none surprised, do tell. what serious problems did bullard have with pee dee coalition. seems to me after reading posting on drip,drip,drip she has the support of their executive director. that doesn’t sound like a serious problem to me. the money from the 1st Methodist church was a fifty dollar a year donation. i remember reading that on an earlier posting. what should be revisited was the real estate deal that Vick and Hodge pulled ($5000+) with the house on mercy ministry property. Hodge’s buddy Matt Rivers was in on that deal as well. i wonder if they would still try to pull that fast one if they knew how much trouble it was going to bring them
By john on June 28th, 2009 at 4:31 pm
What house on what property of MM? Do you mean the old Retirement Village that was bought for nothing? I heard that the old house on that property was now a horse barn.
By all in on June 29th, 2009 at 12:18 am
There is a house that is surronded by the property that the Ministry purchased. Bullard and Michael had negotiated a deal to purchase the foreclosed house for $6500. Hodge would not let them continue because he had Ted Vick working on the purchase. Didn’t you read the post that spelled it all out. Hodge blocked his employee’s because he and Vick saw an oppourtuntity to make a quick dollar. Vick bought the property for $7500 and sold it to the Ministry for $12,500 withing two months. That didn’t include the closing costs that Matt Rivers charged them for his share. The horse barn is another story. The construction of this establishment was solely funded by the Ministry. The operation of the horse barn therapy has nothing to do with the Ministry. It was just another way Hodge sought to scam cash money out of the system. The program operating through equine therapy is a product of the solicitor’s office. All construction and maintenance costs were being run through the Ministry controlled by Hodge. The Ministry is assuming all liability from a drug and alcohol program run through the solicitor’s office. I still find it hard to believe that people in this county are doubting the fact of the wrong doings by our public officials!!! I guess it’ll take some photo’s of people in handcuff’s to make believer’s. Stay tuned to your local news outlets, I think this oppourtunity is just around the corner.
4
By Big Bubba on June 29th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Okay People! How’s ya’ll doing? This here wesite discussion has been brewing over a month now. I has seed several of these accused scoundrels when I went to Cheraw to git some dog and hog food. They is looking mighty pale and sickly, even some needs to shave. Is anyone gonna’ git locked up? Who knows!!!But, I knows one thing—-it is time to party regardless of the current condishuns. SO, on July 3rd, all ya’ll is invited to the Big Bubba hoedown down in Cheraw. The town told me that they wanted to sponser the Big Bubba picnic, so I says that they could. We is gonna shoot a bunch of fireworks. Listen ya’ll, to everyone that comes up and talks to Big Bubba, I will have a little present for you. But, you is got to say “Is you Big Bubba?” I will have Big Buck with me, but not to worry he don’t bite. He is a bit old and only has a few teeth left to chew Bar-B-Que with. Look ya’ll, I gotta go weed the garden. If we doesn’t talk before Friday night, I look forward to seeing all my friends. For now I is–
Big Bubba
By The 1st none surprised on June 29th, 2009 at 10:10 pm
You’re absolutely right, all in on. I am waiting for photos of people in handcuffs, particulary one. As for me, I can fully believe that those accused are guilty. People, myself included, don’t want to believe it because it diminishes trust and everyone wonders who do we vote for if all of these people are guilty? I feel bad for their children especially. More people than anyone knows have spoken out about the way things have run politically around here for decades. They either went to jail or got black-balled or learned to keep their mouths shut. Then again, they sent people to jail and prison for less than what they were doing so let them pay for their crimes as well. Good to see you back, Big Bubba.