What does denying immunity mean in the Scott Spivey case?

The judge found Boyd did not meet the burden for self-defense immunity at this stage. The ruling does not decide guilt or liability. It allows the wrongful-death lawsuit to continue and leaves criminal exposure to grand jury review. Expect ongoing discovery, more filings, and higher short-term legal costs.

How does South Carolina stand your ground apply here?

South Carolina law lets a defendant seek pretrial immunity from criminal charges and civil claims by proving lawful self-defense by a preponderance of evidence. The court denied that request, so issues move forward to civil litigation and a grand jury. Future hearings can still reassess facts, evidence, and credibility.

Why does this matter to investors in Horry County?

Immunity denial can increase litigation duration, discovery breadth, and settlement leverage. That can pressure county legal budgets, insurance retentions, and premiums. Watch council agendas, reserve notations, and disclosures. Carrier actions on pricing or exclusions, plus any rating-agency commentary, will help size potential fiscal impact over time.

What are practical next steps to track this case?

Check court dockets weekly for motions and scheduling. Follow grand jury updates, mediation orders, and any settlement conferences. Monitor county budget amendments, risk-management reports, and insurer renewal terms. Media coverage and public-meeting agendas often surface policy changes that can alter exposure and timeline assumptions.

Law and Government

Scott Spivey Case, February 21: Judge Denies Boyd Immunity; Suit Proceeds

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 21, 2026

Scott Spivey is back in focus after a South Carolina judge denied Weldon Boyd immunity in a stand your ground hearing on February 21. The wrongful-death lawsuit now proceeds while a grand jury review continues. For investors, this ruling raises potential municipal liability in Horry County and could affect insurer reserves and public-safety policy costs. We break down the legal standards, timeline signals, and risk markers that matter for county budgets, insurers, and anyone assessing policy exposure tied to the Scott Spivey case.