October 9, 2025

Calhoun Falls Faces Scrutiny Amid Sex Crime Arrest and Financial Mismanagement

Calhoun Falls, October 9, 2025

News Summary

Former Mayor Johnnie Waller of Calhoun Falls was arrested for criminal sexual conduct, coinciding with growing concerns over the town’s financial management. A forensic audit uncovered $20,000 in questionable credit card expenses and ongoing issues with water quality have left residents alarmed. Officials are under investigation for financial irregularities, and pending lawsuits further complicate the situation. The community seeks answers as the investigation unfolds.

Calhoun Falls

Former Calhoun Falls Mayor Johnnie Waller was arrested on Wednesday by the Greenwood Police Department for criminal sexual conduct in the third degree. The arrest took place at approximately 10:30 a.m., and Waller was subsequently booked into the Greenwood County Detention Center, where he was later released on bond. The Greenwood Police Department is actively investigating the situation and has encouraged the public to stay informed through their updates.

This arrest occurs amid increasing scrutiny of Calhoun Falls’ financial management. A recent forensic audit has raised serious concerns about recordkeeping and financial mismanagement within the town government. The audit highlighted approximately $20,000 in questionable credit card spending primarily related to food purchases. As a result, Calhoun Falls is now facing its fourth consecutive fiscal year without a passed budget, prompting further examination of its officials’ conduct.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is currently investigating financial irregularities in Calhoun Falls, following an invitation from town officials to review potential improprieties. Town Clerk Stephanie Copelan reported incidents of documents and files disappearing from her desk, which adds to the concerns over the handling of town finances. The audit has also uncovered unpaid bills and major issues with water quality, where residents have expressed alarm over brown water issues stemming from leaks and broken meters.

The financial controversies do not end with the forensic audit. Mayor Terrico Holland and Town Clerk Wendi Lewis are facing a pending breach of contract lawsuit from the City of Abbeville related to unpaid water bills. Additionally, private financial problems plague Mayor Holland as well. A retired local businessman, Rick Lind, loaned him $4,500 in 2023 to open a grocery store that was never established, leading to a lawsuit against him. Following court proceedings, a default judgment was awarded to Lind for $4,830 after Holland failed to appear in court.

In addition to civil problems, Mayor Holland has been accused of mismanaging public funds and is entangled in numerous legal issues. These include a significant $400,000 lawsuit concerning unpaid water bills. Investigators have identified issues in town governance, including an email from acting Town Clerk Stephanie McElrath that flagged suspicious charges on a former clerk’s credit card linked to other potential financial misconduct.

As the investigation proceeds, the water issues in Calhoun Falls remain a pressing concern for residents. Complaints regarding water safety persist as residents continue to question the quality of their water supply. The ongoing investigation and allegations of financial misconduct have placed Calhoun Falls under heightened scrutiny from both the local community and law enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who was arrested?

Former Calhoun Falls Mayor Johnnie Waller was arrested for criminal sexual conduct.

When was Johnnie Waller arrested?

Waller was arrested on Wednesday at around 10:30 a.m.

What are the charges against Johnnie Waller?

Waller faces charges of criminal sexual conduct in the third degree.

What is the current state of Calhoun Falls’ finances?

The town is experiencing scrutiny due to a forensic audit revealing approximately $20,000 in questionable credit card spending and issues with financial mismanagement.

What legal actions are pending against officials in Calhoun Falls?

Mayor Terrico Holland and Town Clerk Wendi Lewis are named in a pending breach of contract lawsuit from the City of Abbeville over unpaid water bills.

What is being done about the water quality issues in Calhoun Falls?

Residents have raised alarms about brown water issues, and further investigations are ongoing.

Key Features of the Incident

Element	Details
Arrest	Former Mayor Johnnie Waller arrested for criminal sexual conduct.
Investigation	Ongoing investigation into financial mismanagement in the town.
Financial Concerns	Forensic audit revealed $20,000 in questionable spending.
Water Quality Issues	Residents have expressed concerns regarding brown water.
Pending Lawsuits	Officials named in breach of contract lawsuit over unpaid bills.