Berkeley County, South Carolina, has recorded 27 impaired driving deaths this year, with officials anticipating more during the holiday season amid South Carolina’s national lead in such fatalities. A dedicated DUI prosecutor, Camille Weal-Thomas, has handled over 150 cases since starting in February 2024, funded by a state public safety grant. Statewide, alcohol-related driving deaths rose to 428 in 2024 from 406 in 2023, continuing an upward trend.​
DUI Penalties
First-time offenders face minimum fines over $1,000, plus attorney fees, mandatory drug/alcohol courses, license suspensions, and potential jail time based on case severity. Higher blood alcohol levels, like 0.34 seen in addiction cases, lead to stricter enforcement under the 0.08% legal limit.​
Key Officials’ Warnings
DUI Prosecutor Camille Weal-Thomas emphasizes protecting innocent lives despite offenders’ circumstances, noting recent case upticks. Coroner Darnell Hartwell highlights the lifelong guilt for drivers causing deaths or injuries, calling holidays his office’s busiest period.​​
Prevention Tips
Plan ahead for outings with ride-sharing apps, avoid driving impaired, and always wear seatbelts to counter risks from others. South Carolina ranks high nationally, with drunk drivers causing 43% of traffic deaths versus the U.S. 32% average.​
Addiction Resources
WakeUp Carolina provides free support groups, naloxone, and rapid intervention post-overdose alerts in Berkeley County. The Ernest E. Kennedy Center offers substance abuse prevention, intervention, treatment, and Alcohol Drug Safety Action Programs locally.
