Calhoun Falls, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Johnnie Waller, the former mayor of Calhoun Falls, has been arrested on charges of third-degree criminal sexual conduct. The 78-year-old was taken into custody following an investigation initiated by reports from healthcare staff regarding inappropriate conduct with a long-term care patient. After posting a $50,000 bond, he is barred from any Self Regional Healthcare properties as the investigation continues in cooperation with local law enforcement and the Department of Social Services. Waller’s long political history raises concerns within the community amidst ongoing financial issues.
Calhoun Falls – Johnnie Waller, the former mayor of Calhoun Falls, was arrested on October 8, 2025, facing charges of third-degree criminal sexual conduct. The 78-year-old political figure, who has spent over two decades in public service in Abbeville County, was taken into custody as the result of an investigation that began when staff from Self Regional Healthcare reported allegations of inappropriate conduct involving him and a vulnerable patient.
The investigation commenced on September 27, 2025. It was reported that Waller was found in the room of a long-term care patient who is under the care of the Department of Social Services and has been deemed incapable of making personal or medical decisions by multiple physicians. Law enforcement collected surveillance footage from the hospital and obtained statements from staff to assist with the investigation.
Following his arrest, Waller was booked into Greenwood County Detention Center but was released after posting a $50,000 surety bond. He has been issued a trespass notice, which prohibits him from entering any properties associated with Self Regional Healthcare. Although Waller was previously active in the community, Self Regional Healthcare issued a statement clarifying that he has never been affiliated with their organization.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted in cooperation with the Greenwood Police Department and the Department of Social Services. Due to the sensitive nature of the case, further information is not being released at this time to safeguard the identity of the patient involved.
Johnnie Waller has a long history in local politics, having served a total of 22 years as mayor of Calhoun Falls over non-consecutive terms, first elected in 1992 and re-elected in 2013. Prior to his tenure as mayor, Waller was also elected to the Abbeville County School Board in 1986. His arrest has occurred against the backdrop of recent financial challenges and leadership disputes within the town of Calhoun Falls.
Summary of Key Details:
- Former mayor Johnnie Waller arrested for third-degree criminal sexual conduct.
- Investigation initiated on September 27, 2025, by healthcare staff reports.
- Incident involved a long-term care patient under the Department of Social Services.
- Waller was booked and later released on a $50,000 bond, facing a trespass notice.
- Ongoing investigation in cooperation with law enforcement and social services.
- Waller has a long history in Abbeville County politics, serving 22 years as mayor.
- Self Regional Healthcare confirms Waller’s arrest but states he was never affiliated with them.
Background Context:
Calhoun Falls has struggled with financial issues and leadership disputes recently, making Waller’s arrest a significant moment in the town’s political landscape. His long tenure in public service, alongside the serious nature of the charges he faces, has raised concerns in the community.
FAQ
Who was arrested?
Johnnie Waller, former mayor of Calhoun Falls.
What was he arrested for?
He is facing third-degree criminal sexual conduct charges.
When was he arrested?
Waller was arrested on October 8, 2025.
How old is Johnnie Waller?
He is 78 years old.
What initiated the investigation?
The investigation began on September 27, 2025, after staff at Self Regional Healthcare reported inappropriate conduct.
What was Waller’s role in the hospital?
He was reportedly observed in a vulnerable patient’s room under pastoral care.
What is the status of the patient?
The patient involved is a long-term care patient under the Department of Social Services and has been deemed incapable of making medical or personal decisions by multiple physicians.
What are the next steps for Waller?
The investigation is ongoing, and he has been placed on a trespass notice barring him from all Self Regional Healthcare properties.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Arrest Date | October 8, 2025 |
| Charges | Third-degree criminal sexual conduct |
| Age | 78 years old |
| Investigation Start Date | September 27, 2025 |
| Bond Amount | $50,000 surety bond |
| Trespass Notice | Barring entry to all Self Regional Healthcare properties |
| Years Served as Mayor | 22 years |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Mayor Charged with Criminal Sexual Misconduct
Former Mayor Charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct
Calhoun Falls Faces Scrutiny Amid Sex Crime Arrest and Financial Mismanagement
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina
- Wikipedia: Criminal Sexual Conduct
- WYFF4
- Google Search: Johnnie Waller
- Index Journal
- Google Scholar: Calhoun Falls politics
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Misconduct
- Audacy
- Google News: Calhoun Falls
Author: HERE Greenwood
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