A recent decision by prosecutors confirms that the North Charleston police officers who shot and killed 35-year-old Robert Rose in February will not face charges. The incident occurred on February 28 during a standoff after the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Department was called to escort Rose for mental health treatment. Rose, a veteran, was reportedly armed with two hatchets when he was shot by police after ignoring commands to drop the weapons.
The Incident and Investigation
Robert Rose had been struggling with a mental health crisis and barricaded himself inside an apartment on Waverly Place Circle in North Charleston. Prior to the fatal encounter, Rose allegedly injured a Dorchester County deputy’s hand with one of the hatchets before he was able to enter the apartment.
After hours of negotiations, Rose exited the building armed with both hatchets and began slowly approaching a police perimeter. Officers on the scene gave repeated commands for him to drop the weapons, but he did not comply. Officers Pfc. Michael Layton and Pfc. Alexander Wilkinson both opened fire, fatally wounding Rose.
The shooting was captured on camera, and the footage later raised questions from Rose’s family, who held a press conference to demand answers. They wanted to know why a call for mental health assistance led to such a tragic outcome.
Prosecutor’s Decision and Family Response
Following the incident, the 1st and 14th circuits’ Public Integrity Unit conducted an investigation to determine whether charges should be brought against the officers. After reviewing the evidence, the unit decided not to charge the officers, citing “insufficient evidence or conduct not criminal.” The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) also investigated the shooting and concluded that no further examination was required.
In the aftermath, Rose’s family expressed deep sorrow and confusion over his death. Stanley Rose, Robert’s father, addressed the press, claiming that his son had been a good man who had served in the Army National Guard. He argued that his son, who had been dealing with mental health issues, was no threat to anyone and shouldn’t have been shot.
Stanley also expressed frustration that he wasn’t contacted sooner to help de-escalate the situation. He believed his presence at the scene could have made a difference. “That’s my son. I know how to handle him,” Stanley Rose said. “He’d still be here today if they had reached out to me earlier.”
The Officers and Their Return to Work
Both officers involved in the shooting were placed on administrative leave following the incident but have since returned to their duties, according to North Charleston Police Department spokesperson Harve Jacobs.
The Bigger Picture
The incident has once again raised concerns about how law enforcement handles individuals in mental health crises. The tragic death of Robert Rose has highlighted the need for more specialized training and awareness when dealing with such sensitive situations. The family’s plea for better communication and intervention could serve as an important reminder about the complexities of mental health crises and law enforcement responses.
