Myrtle Beach, SC, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Mary Moriarty, a 59-year-old woman from Surfside Beach, was arrested during a protest in Myrtle Beach for brandishing a firearm. Charged with two counts of pointing a firearm, she was released on a $100,000 bond after expressing regret for her actions. The incident occurred at a nationwide protest against the Trump administration. Moriarty’s next court appearance is scheduled, and she faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Myrtle Beach, SC – Woman Arrested for Brandishing Gun at Protest Released on Bond
Mary Moriarty, a 59-year-old resident of Surfside Beach, South Carolina, was arrested on Saturday for brandishing a firearm during a “No Kings” protest in Myrtle Beach. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. in Chapin Memorial Park, where Moriarty’s actions led to her being charged with two counts of pointing and presenting a firearm.
Moriarty was taken into custody without incident by officers who observed the event unfold. Following her arrest, a judge set her bond at a total of $100,000 during a hearing held on Sunday morning. Later that same day, Moriarty posted her bond and was released from jail.
During the bond hearing, Moriarty expressed regret for her actions, labeling them as an “ignorant move.” She claimed that the firearm she displayed was not loaded at the time. After spending 18 hours in custody, she indicated that she had reflected on her decisions and felt remorseful.
As part of the conditions of her release, the judge issued a public safety order, preventing Moriarty from contacting the two individuals she threatened with the firearm. Additionally, she is prohibited from possessing any firearms or deadly weapons as she awaits her next court appearance on December 19 at 1 p.m. in Conway. If convicted, Moriarty could face a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
The “No Kings” protest is part of a nationwide movement opposing the Trump administration, with approximately 2,700 protests planned across the country on the same weekend. While some attendees, like Alex Meranco, did not witness the weapon being brandished, they noted that the incident did not instill fear in them, nor did it deter their resolve to protest against the administration.
Myrtle Beach Police confirmed that there were no additional arrests or citations issued related to the protest. Public records indicate that Moriarty is not currently eligible for a public defender.
The incident has garnered media attention, with local news outlets requesting the arrest report for further details about the events surrounding Moriarty’s arrest.
Key Details of the Incident
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Arrest Date | Saturday, around 2 p.m. |
| Location | Chapin Memorial Park, Myrtle Beach |
| Charges | Two counts of pointing and presenting a firearm |
| Bond Amount | Total of $100,000 |
| Next Court Appearance | December 19 at 1 p.m. in Conway |
| Max Penalty if Convicted | Up to 10 years in prison |
| Protest Context | Part of a nationwide movement against the Trump administration |
FAQ
What charges did Mary Moriarty face?
When is Moriarty’s next court date?
What are the consequences if Moriarty is convicted?
Was the weapon loaded during the incident?
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