What is a “Violent Crime" Crime in SC?

By the dictionary definition and common understanding of the word “violent,” most people would say a “violent crime” involves a crime where someone deliberately injures or kills someone (or attempts to do the same). However, the SC Code also has a “classification” of violent or non-violent—that is, the word “violent,” when used as a statutory classification, carries its own special legal meaning. Whether a crime is “violent” or not may affect parole eligibility, how much of one’s sentence they serve in prison, and the security level of the facility where a person serves time.

What is an 85%, No-Parole Offense in SC?

85% and no-parole crimes and violent crimes are not always the same, although most violent crimes are also 85% and no-parole. In most cases, inmates can earn work credits, education credits, and good behavior credits that can greatly reduce the amount of time that they serve in prison – but not for 85%, no-parole offenses.

SC Code Section 24-13-150 says that a person convicted of a crime that is a no-parole offense must serve at least 85% of their sentence before they can be released. 

SC Code Section 24-13-100 defines no-parole offenses as Class A, B, or C felonies or offenses that carry a potential sentence of 20 years or more.

SC Violent Crimes Defense in Greenville

If you have been charged with any type of violent crime, do not delay – call the attorneys at Watson Fowler NOW at (864) 467-0380 or fill out our online contact form to set up a free consultation about your case.