Calhoun Falls, October 12, 2025
News Summary
Johnnie Waller, a 71-year-old former Mayor of Calhoun Falls, has been arrested on charges of criminal sexual conduct following an inappropriate encounter with a vulnerable patient at Self Regional Medical Center. The incident prompted an immediate investigation after hospital staff reported concerning behavior. Waller, who was visiting the hospital in a pastoral capacity, has now been barred from all Self Regional Healthcare properties while the case is ongoing. The local community has been left shocked by the allegations against a long-serving public figure.
Calhoun Falls
Johnnie Waller, a 71-year-old former Mayor of Calhoun Falls and a pastor, has been arrested on charges of criminal sexual conduct. The arrest took place following a report made to police by staff at Self Regional Medical Center on September 27, 2025, after staff observed a situation in a patient’s room that raised immediate concerns.
This incident involved an inappropriate sexual encounter with a patient who has been deemed to lack decision-making capacity by multiple physicians. The patient is currently under the care of the Department of Social Services. The nature of the encounter prompted an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the situation.
Waller, who was known to frequent the hospital in a pastoral capacity, was found to be visiting patients in his role as pastor, raising questions about the appropriateness of his actions. Police began an investigation that included collecting surveillance footage, gathering statements from hospital staff, and conducting interviews to piece together the details of the encounter.
A warrant was issued for Waller’s arrest on charges of third-degree criminal sexual conduct. He was subsequently booked into the Greenwood County Detention Center and has been barred from all Self Regional Healthcare properties while the investigation continues. As of October 11, 2025, Waller no longer appears on the inmate database of the Greenwood County Detention Center, and there is no record of his case in online Greenwood County court records.
Waller served as mayor of Calhoun Falls since 1992, in a town located in Abbeville County, which has a population of approximately 2,000 residents. Following the incident, Self Regional Healthcare confirmed the arrest and stated that Waller has never been employed or affiliated with the healthcare facility. The hospital has indicated its intent to cooperate fully with the Greenwood Police Department during the ongoing investigation.
In regard to visitation policies, Self Regional Healthcare did not specify any particular rules concerning clergy visitation for spiritual support, instead choosing to refer to their general visitation policy. The healthcare facility emphasized its commitment to comply with safety protocols, including the reporting of any illegal activities to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
Background Context
Waller’s arrest has shocked the local community, given his longstanding role as mayor and his involvement in the church. The allegations against him highlight critical issues regarding the protection of vulnerable individuals in healthcare settings. The case has drawn attention to the need for clear guidelines and policies regarding clergy and hospital interactions, particularly when it involves patients who may not have the capacity to give informed consent.
Conclusion
As investigations continue, the local community awaits further details regarding both the legal proceedings against Waller and the implications this incident may have for policies involving clergy within healthcare settings. Continued cooperation between the healthcare facility and law enforcement underscores the seriousness with which these allegations are being taken.
FAQ
Who is Johnnie Waller?
When was Johnnie Waller arrested?
What prompted the investigation of Johnnie Waller?
What charges has Johnnie Waller faced?
Is Waller still in custody?
What is Self Regional Healthcare’s response to the incident?
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Johnnie Waller |
| Age | 71 |
| Position | Former Mayor of Calhoun Falls, Pastor |
| Charges | Third-degree criminal sexual conduct |
| Date of Arrest | September 27, 2025 |
| Incident Location | Self Regional Medical Center |
| Status on Inmate Database | No longer appears as of October 11, 2025 |
| Population of Calhoun Falls | Approximately 2,000 residents |
| Cooperation with Investigation | Self Regional Healthcare is cooperating with police |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Mayor of Calhoun Falls Arrested on Criminal Charges
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: Former Calhoun Falls Mayor Arrested on Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges
- USA Today: Former South Carolina Mayor and Pastor Arrested
- Audacy: Pastor and Former Upstate Mayor Arrested on Sex Crime Charge
- Index Journal: Cowan Sworn In as Calhoun Falls Mayor
- Wikipedia: Calhoun Falls, South Carolina
Author: HERE Greenwood
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