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South Carolina Sextortion Law Nears House Vote

Author Jim Slade

South Carolina’s proposed “Sextortion Law” is nearing a vote in the state’s House of Representatives.  South Carolina House Bill 3583 takes aim at sexual extortion of teens and at-risk adults, and would increase penalties in hopes of curbing online scammers.

The bill is deeply personal for York County House Representative Brandon Guffey, the bill’s primary sponsor.  His son Gavin committed suicide last year after being targeted by online extortionists.

A Winthrop University student at the time, Gavin Guffey was extorted online after a video chat with someone he thought was a trusted contact.  He ended his own life in July.  His father hopes to strengthen laws concerning extortion of teens, saving other parents from a similar tragedy.

“In South Carolina, extortion or blackmail gets you 30 days in jail or $1,000 fine,” Rep. Guffey told WCNC-TV.  “So, in this case, if you use someone’s photos for leverage on them and you are an adult, then you will be looking at a 15-year minimum sentence and that’s if you’re doing it to a teen or a child.  Also, if you’re doing it to an at-risk adult.”

At the very least, the bill’s sponsors hope it will serve as a warning to parents about online safety for children and teens.  House Bill 3583 was previously referrred to the House Judiciary Committee.  If it passes an upcoming vote in the full House of Representatives, it will move on to the state Senate.

These South Carolina Tiny Towns Are Two Of The Best In The US

The south is full of small towns. We talk about them often, and there are plenty to showcase. Then of course there are the major cities, which also get some respect and notoriety. But when you are craving a getaway where time really does slow down, and you can feel a part of the culture sometimes a small town is even too big. So perhaps plan a visit to a “tiny town”. The experts over at Southern Living Magazine and their readers recently voted on a list of the South’s Best Tiny Towns. And two South Carolina tiny towns were featured. The towns on the list are all under 10,000 population. And one in Texas has less than 100 residents who call it home.

In total twenty-one tiny towns were featured on this list. I’ve already told you two are in South Carolina. Both are coastal South Carolina tiny towns. Additionally, one North Carolina mountain town was featured. It happens to be a place I’ve visited often. There is also a Smoky Mountain town that’s not too far from the North Carolina border. Additionally, another Tennessee town, and a couple from Georgia. While I haven’t visited every place they included on this list, the ones I have been I’d recommend! So the next time you’re in the mood for a weekend getaway perhaps try this tiny town in North Carolina or one of the others. Keep reading to see the North and South Carolina towns featured or you can read the full Southern Living analysis here.

  • South Carolina

  • Folly Beach, SC

    One of the beaches in the greater Charleston area is Folly Beach. Time here is spent away from the hustle and bustle of the holy city, but you’re close enough for an easy day trip or meal. While at Folly, spend time on the newly renovated pier, and enjoying the beach. You’ll also find appealing beach bars and casual eats. Folly is the perfect beach town for those who love to relax and unwind!

    Population: 2,056

  • Georgetown, SC

    Situated in the area of South Carolina south of Myrtle Beach, Georgetown offers a completely different feel. This town of just over 8,000 people sits on the Winyah Bay and is actually the third oldest city in the Palmetto State. Visitors can enjoy shopping and dining along the scenic waterfront, fishing, and boating, and tours documenting the town’s rich history. And if you dare check out the ghost tours for a little spooky fun!

    Population: 8,333

  • North Carolina

  • Blowing Rock, NC

    Just outside of Boone sits Blowing Rock, NC. This quaint mountain town is somewhere I actually grew up going every summer. It’s beautiful year round, and features a small quaint downtown with shopping, restaurants, a public park, welcoming inns, and multiple festivals. In the summer check out the monthly Art In The Park festival where artisans from around the country set up booths monthly or in the winter check out Blowing Rock Winterfest. You’re a short drive from Boone, Banner Elk, and the area ski resorts. Plus Grandfather Mountain and Tweetsie Railroad.

    Population: 1,397

  • Some Other Cities Recognized By Southern Living

    • Dahlonega, GA
    • Sanibel, FL
    • Broken Bow, OK
    • Gatlinburg, TN
    • Tybee Island, GA

    View the full list and Southern Living’s analysis of these towns here.

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Author Jim Slade
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