The family of Walter Scott returned to downtown Charleston this week, saying they are deeply concerned that former North Charleston police officer Michael Slager could be moved into community custody earlier than expected.
Relatives say they recently learned that federal sentence recalculations under the First Step Act may reduce the amount of time Slager spends in prison.
Family Speaks Outside Federal Courthouse
During a Wednesday news conference near the federal courthouse in Charleston, family members and community leaders expressed frustration and disbelief.
Denise Scott said the federal law allowing inmates to earn time credits was never intended for violent crimes.
The family described the possibility of an earlier transfer as another painful chapter in a case that has already stretched over years of legal proceedings.
Slager Received 20-Year Federal Sentence
Slager pleaded guilty in 2017 to violating Walter Scott’s civil rights after fatally shooting him during a traffic stop in North Charleston in 2015.
He was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after a judge applied a second-degree murder sentencing enhancement. The sentence was later upheld by the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
First Step Act at Center of Dispute
The controversy now focuses on the First Step Act, which allows eligible federal inmates to earn credits through rehabilitation and educational programs.
Those credits can sometimes lead to earlier placement in halfway houses or home confinement before full release.
However, the Federal Bureau of Prisons says some inmates may be excluded depending on their convictions, and any transfer decisions remain discretionary.
Family Calls Situation a “Loophole”
Walter Scott’s relatives argue the law is creating a loophole that could benefit someone convicted in a high-profile police shooting case.
The family said they plan to:
- Launch petitions
- Contact the Department of Justice
- Reach out to members of Congress
- Demand transparency about any sentence credit calculations
Supporters say they want federal officials to clearly explain whether Slager qualifies for any custody changes and why.
Larger Debate Over Sentencing Reform
The case is now part of a broader national discussion about how sentencing reform laws apply in violent crime cases involving law enforcement officers.
For the Scott family, the focus remains on accountability and ensuring the public fully understands any decisions regarding Slager’s custody status.
