March 4, 2026, the South Carolina House of Representatives passed two key juvenile crime bills aimed at holding violent offenders accountable and strengthening communication between law enforcement, schools, and families.
The legislation — H.4151 and H.5120 — gives the justice system stronger tools to respond to serious juvenile crime while helping keep communities safe.
H.5120, sponsored by Rep. Brandon Cox (R-Berkeley), passed the House unanimously. This legislation strengthens the state’s ability to identify repeat juvenile offenders by requiring fingerprinting and photographs when juveniles enter DJJ custody and improving the sharing of critical information with law enforcement and schools.
“Public safety must always come first,” said Rep. Brandon Cox. “This legislation helps identify repeat offenders earlier, improves communication with schools and law enforcement, and ensures the system can respond before dangerous patterns escalate.”
The House also passed H.4151, sponsored by Rep. Weston Newton (R-Beaufort), which ensures that certain juveniles charged with the most serious and violent crimes can be prosecuted in adult court. The bill updates the state’s definition of “juvenile” to allow 16- and 17-year-olds charged with specific violent offenses, including major felonies and weapon-related crimes, to face prosecution in circuit court when appropriate.
“South Carolinians deserve to know that violent crime will be taken seriously,” said Rep. Weston Newton. “This bill ensures our justice system has the tools to respond appropriately when the most dangerous offenses are committed.”
Together, these reforms help keep families informed, schools prepared, and communities safe. They reinforce a simple principle: serious crimes must carry serious consequences — regardless of age.
The South Carolina House Republican Caucus remains committed to advancing policies that protect families, support law enforcement, and strengthen public safety across the state. H.4151 and H.5120 now head to the Senate for consideration.
