Judson Hawkins III faces serious charges in Darlington County, South Carolina, after allegedly dismembering his 82-year-old father, Judson Hawkins Jr., and hiding the remains in a 55-gallon drum in a garage on the 2500 block of Kelleytown Road.
Incident Overview
Hawkins Jr. had been dead for months—possibly since late 2025—before discovery on March 18, 2026, per Coroner Todd Hardee. Hawkins III is charged with destruction/removal of human remains and obstructing justice by giving false info during a missing persons probe. A Friday bond hearing denied release; next court date is June 3 at the W. Glenn Campbell Detention Center.
Investigation Status
SLED assisted Darlington County Sheriff in the grim find—no cause/manner of death released yet, pending autopsy. Warrants note he moved the body and misled investigators. Motive unclear: speculation includes delaying funeral costs or benefits fraud, but unconfirmed.
Local Impact
Shocking rural SC case near Hartsville—echoes your interest in area law enforcement news. Heightened scrutiny on elderly welfare amid SC’s aging population. Any ties to prior Hawkins family history?
