FBI searches home of couple accused of burning cross in yard facing neighbors’ property

HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF/Gray News) – Federal agents searched the home of a couple accused of burning a cross in their yard near Conway, South Carolina.

Kevin Wheeler, a spokesperson for the FBI, said on Wednesday morning that agents went to Worden Butler and Alexis Hartnett’s home along Corbett Drive for a civil rights investigation involving allegations of racial discrimination.

Wheeler said they are investigating the couple for the cross-burning incident and harassment allegations.

The FBI said in a statement that it has been working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, as well as local and state agencies to investigate, “and we’re dedicated to ensuring equality and fairness within our communities. ... As this is an ongoing investigation, additional details cannot be provided, but rest assured, we are dedicated to this matter and the civil rights of all Americans.”

WMBF was the first on the scene Wednesday morning after learning that FBI were at the home. Multiple threats were made toward the WMBF crew, and an object was thrown at them by Hartnett.

Neighbors Shawn and Monica Williams told WMBF they walked outside their home to a burning cross facing their home over Thanksgiving weekend.

“We are still traumatized and devastated by the event that happened to us. We want justice to prevail,” the Williams family said in a statement after learning the FBI opened an investigation into their neighbors and their alleged actions.

The Williams couple claims Butler has used hate speech. He has also allegedly chased off surveyors and people from the water or sewer departments.

Police in Horry County arrested Butler and Hartnett following the cross-burning incident. The two have been charged with second-degree harassment.

A police report shows that during the arrest, Hartnett yelled racial slurs at his neighbors, which was caught on body camera.

Since their arrests, the NAACP has launched an investigation into the cross-burning.

Horry County Police Chief Joseph Hill called the cross-burning incident appalling and unacceptable.

South Carolina remains one of two states without a hate crime law. Members of the NAACP said it’s time to renew efforts and call on lawmakers to pass a hate crime law in the state.

While on scene, Hartnett’s father confirmed the 27-year-old has struggled with her mental health, but claims it’s no excuse for her alleged behavior.

Several neighbors also said the couple harassed them as well. One neighbor who has lived in the area for nearly four decades said their neighborhood was quiet before the couple moved in.

Investigators said it encourages any who may be subjected to crimes involving hate and discrimination to contact law enforcement and the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit an online tip at tips.fbi.gov.

Copyright 2023 WMBF via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.