COLUMBIA, South Carolina — A Richland County man has pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime after admitting he fired a gun to intimidate a Black neighbor because of his race, according to prosecutors. The case highlights ongoing gaps in state-level hate crime laws and the reliance on federal charges in such incidents.
Jonathan Felkel, 34, entered the guilty plea in federal court and faces up to 10 years in prison, with a plea agreement requiring at least eight years served. Prosecutors said Felkel fired a semi-automatic rifle into the air in July 2025 while yelling a racial slur at neighbor Jarvis McKenzie, who fled the scene. Authorities stated Felkel later told police he acted because McKenzie was Black and “did not need to be around.”
Officials said those statements were key in establishing racial motivation, allowing federal civil rights charges under housing protections. Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott called the incident “disturbing,” emphasizing the lasting impact on the victim and his family.
Felkel also faces separate state charges, including assault with intent to kill, along with a local hate crime enhancement. South Carolina remains one of two states without a statewide hate crime law, prompting renewed calls from law enforcement to adopt broader protections.
Sentencing is expected in the coming months.
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