NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — Rose Lorenzo, a North Charleston businesswoman, pleaded guilty to two charges related to a 2025 public corruption investigation and could face up to 15 years in prison.
Details of the Case
Lorenzo originally faced 12 charges tied to the investigation, which revealed that city council members were allegedly taking kickbacks from nonprofit organizations. She admitted to:
- Conspiracy to commit bribery with respect to programs receiving federal funds
- Theft with respect to programs receiving federal funds
Other charges, including lying to the FBI about the transfer of funds from nonprofits to former councilmember Jerome Heyward, were dropped as part of the plea agreement.
Role and Impact
Lorenzo operated a financial firm that wired $40,000 from nonprofits directly to Heyward’s checking account. She accepted responsibility for her actions, with her attorney stating, “She recognizes that this was a lapse in judgment and that good intentions don’t justify breaking the law.”
Sentencing
Prosecutors suggested a sentence of 48 months for the two counts she pleaded guilty to. Lorenzo could face up to 15 years in prison and may be required to pay fines up to $500,000. She is the last of eight defendants charged in the corruption scheme.
