Bond Granted for Accused in Lexington County Repo Man’s Death
In the quiet city of Lexington, South Carolina, a notable development has occurred in a tragic case that has captured the community’s attention. Essence Jackson, one of the two individuals charged in the murder of a local repo man, Steve Hughes, was granted bond on Wednesday, marking a significant moment in the ongoing legal proceedings. A Richland County judge awarded her a $75,000 bond after her attorney, Seth Rose, defended her case by arguing that Jackson deserves her constitutional rights.
Details of the Granting of Bond
After spending nearly three months at the Alvin S. Glenn detention center, Jackson appeared before the judge with her attorney. The judge ordered that she be placed under house arrest with electronic monitoring, allowing for a few exceptions, such as going to work or attending medical appointments. This decision comes as the community continues to grapple with the shocking events surrounding Hughes’s death.
Background Information
Steve Hughes was a well-known figure in the Lexington area, particularly for his active participation in local Facebook groups, including “Happenings in Lexington, South Carolina.” His reputation as a caring and engaged community member has made this incident all the more heart-wrenching. Tragically, Hughes was found shot inside his truck, which was parked with its lights flashing and driver’s side door open.
Jackson, along with her brother Raheem DeAngelo Jackson, 20, faces serious charges in relation to this case. While essence Jackson’s attorney argues that she was not the one who pulled the trigger, she has been labeled as a “co-conspirator” in this grievous crime. This distinction has been a focal point in the legal discussions surrounding her bond hearing.
Arguments Presented in Court
During the bond hearing, attorney Seth Rose painted a picture of Essence Jackson as “an impeccable person.” He highlighted her clean criminal record and stellar driving history. Rose stated, “She has never even had a speeding ticket,” reinforcing the argument that she poses no flight risk or danger to the community. He emphasized her local roots, noting that she was born and raised in South Carolina, graduated as an honor roll student from Lower Richland High School, and is responsibly employed.
Rose stated, “A bond is not to punish,” asking the court to consider whether Jackson’s release onto monitored house arrest would endanger the public. His arguments aimed to demonstrate that Jackson is certainly not a threat.
The Victim’s Family Reacts
While Jackson’s supporters voiced relief at the bond approval, Hughes’s family has been left heartbroken and frustrated. Hughes’s daughter, Stephanie, passionately expressed her discontent, stating “I think that the things that are supposed to happen will happen.” She emphasized the pain of the situation while arguing that Jackson may have not directly caused her father’s death, but she failed to act when it mattered most—walking past her father’s dying body without intervening.
Next Steps in the Legal Proceedings
The judge overseeing the case, Circuit Court Judge Thomas Cooper, reminded everyone that the law must consider both sides, indicating the complex nature of the legal system at play. As for Jackson, her next court date has yet to be scheduled, while her brother Raheem remains in custody and has not submitted a motion for bond hearing as of now.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the deeper issues surrounding crime and community safety, leaving many in Lexington reflecting on what has transpired. With emotions running high on all sides, the community watches closely as the legal proceedings unfold, hoping for justice in a truly tragic situation.
