News Summary
In Charleston, local entrepreneur Eric Bowman has been charged with harassment and stalking by his estranged wife, Melissa Britton. The case has raised serious safety concerns within the community. Bowman turned himself in to the police after allegations surfaced regarding a tracking device on Britton’s vehicle. The courtroom proceedings revealed Britton’s fears for her safety, while Bowman awaits trial. This case sheds light on the urgent issues of domestic abuse and harassment, prompting broader discussions on community safety.
Charleston Entrepreneur Faces Serious Charges: A Community Concern
In Charleston, tensions are running high after local entrepreneur Eric Bowman was charged with harassment and stalking. The case revolves around his estranged wife, Melissa Britton, who has come forward with serious accusations against Bowman, raising significant concerns about safety and the implications of the unfolding situation.
Turning Himself In
Bowman, a 45-year-old software engineer known for founding the Stream Live media platform, turned himself in to Sullivan’s Island police on April 8, 2025. Booked into the Al Cannon Detention Center early that day, the entrepreneur faces grave accusations that could alter his life dramatically. The charges stem from an unsettling incident involving a tracking device allegedly placed on Britton’s car, discovered during a trip to New York in July 2024.
Recognizing the Victim’s Fear
During a bond hearing on the same day, Britton identified herself as the victim, expressing substantial fear for her safety. Her testimony painted a picture of a man who poses a “clear ongoing danger” not just to her, but to her family and the surrounding community. The courtroom heard details of a troubling remark made by Bowman following a previous domestic disturbance at their home, further amplifying worries about his behavior.
The Legal Outlook
Bowman appeared virtually from jail, seemingly unmoved by the statements made. Judge James Gosnell set his bail at $10,000, divided equally between the two misdemeanor charges. Despite a request to deny bail completely, the judge allowed this amount, underlining the serious nature of the accusations but acknowledging the legal classifications of the charges.
Under South Carolina law, both charges carry potential fines ranging from $200 to $1,000 or imprisonment. Specifically, the stalking charge could lead to a maximum of one year behind bars. Adding to the courtroom drama, a no-contact order was issued, preventing any communication between Bowman and Britton.
A Shadow of Allegations
This arrest comes within two months of U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace‘s public declaration, where she labeled Bowman a “sexual predator” during a congressional speech. In her statement, Mace alleged that two sexual assaults occurred at his home, one being recorded. While Bowman has denied these accusations, branding them as “baseless” and “repugnant,” the allegations have sparked waves of concern in the community.
A Troubled History
Bowman has had a high-profile career, including founding SPARC, a software company, and owning the Charleston Battery soccer team, a position he left after a challenging ownership period. His personal life, however, has seen police intervention many times in 2023 due to reported domestic disturbances. Fortunately, these previous call-outs did not lead to any arrests, but this latest incident highlights ongoing issues within the marital conflict, described as fraught with escalating tensions and threats.
Community Response
Given this backdrop, Mace has continued to advocate for accountability in cases of sexual misconduct and harassment in her district, shedding light on a critical social issue that resonates widely. The implications of these events have extended beyond personal repercussions for Bowman, serving as a reminder of the pressing need for community awareness and safety in domestic situations.
As the situation unfolds, the Charleston community watches closely, hoping for resolutions that prioritize safety and justice for those affected. With two charges looming, the implications of these actions will likely echo through the streets of the city and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Bowman Arrest Details
- Wikipedia: Stalking
- ABC News 4: North Charleston Man Charged
- Google Search: Eric Bowman Charleston news
- Moultrie News: CCSO Reports Inmate Casualty
- Google Scholar: Domestic Violence Law South Carolina
- Count On 2: SLED Charges North Charleston Man
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Legal Aspects of Stalking
- Live 5 News: SLED Charges Charleston Co Man
- Google News: Stalking Charges Charleston Eric Bowman
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
