Conway Man Indicted for Burning a Cross to Intimidate Black Neighbors

FLORENCE, S.C. - A federal grand jury in Florence returned a two-count indictment, presented by the U.S. Attorney's Office, charging Worden Evander Butler, 31, formerly of Conway, for interfering with the housing rights of his Black neighbors and using fire to commit a federal felony.

The indictment alleges that on Nov. 24, 2024, Butler made a series of Facebook posts about his next-door neighbors, including that he would give "his racist neighbors . . . a good scare for the health. With a cross in the lawn." Butler uploaded photos of the victims' home, vehicles, and mailbox to his social media.

Butler then set up a cross in his backyard and set it on fire.

"Every family in America has a right to feel safe in their own homes," said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. "Defendant Butler's actions threatened this fundamental right. This office will continue to protect South Carolian's fundamental rights."

"Racial animosity has no place in our community," said FBI Columbia Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jose Charriez. "This indictment reflects the serious nature of the alleged crimes and our dedication to ensuring the victims see a just resolution."

Butler faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. Butler was arrested in California and will make an initial appearance on April 22 in the Eastern District of California. Butler will be arraigned in the District of South Carolina on May 5 at 2:30 p.m. at the McMillan Federal Building in Florence, S.C.

The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and Horry County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elle E. Klein is prosecuting the case.

All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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