Charleston, South Carolina, September 24, 2025
News Summary
Eric Bowman, a former owner of the Charleston Battery soccer team, has been denied bail due to serious domestic violence and harassment charges. A judge cited community safety concerns, especially after new video evidence emerged showing Bowman assaulting his estranged wife. Facing a potential ten-year prison sentence, Bowman has a history of legal troubles and is currently battling cancer, complicating his case even further.
Charleston, South Carolina – Eric Bowman, a 45-year-old software engineer and former owner of the Charleston Battery professional soccer team, has been denied bail amid serious charges of domestic violence and harassment. A judge ruled that Bowman will remain in custody due to safety concerns within the community. This ruling comes after an emotional appeal from his estranged wife, Melissa Britton, who expressed fears for her safety and the importance of enforcing court orders against him.
Bowman faces a significant legal battle, with a charge of first-degree domestic violence pending against him, alongside prior charges for harassment and stalking. The judge’s decision to keep him in jail was strongly influenced by newly surfaced video evidence related to a violent confrontation with Britton that occurred in 2016. The footage, discovered during a State Law Enforcement Division investigation, reportedly depicts Bowman physically assaulting Britton, including acts of slapping, kicking, and choking.
This recent development in the case follows Britton’s decision to file a criminal complaint after she was made aware of the video’s existence, which surfaced following allegations made by U.S. Representative Nancy Mace against Bowman and others. If convicted on the first-degree domestic violence charge, Bowman could face up to 10 years in prison.
Bowman’s legal troubles are compounded by a prior arrest. Before facing these new charges, he had been out on bail for a harassment charge related to placing a tracking device on Britton’s car in July 2024. Although a stalking charge connected to this incident has been dismissed, Bowman’s legal and personal situation has garnered significant media attention, especially following the accusations by Rep. Mace made during a U.S. House floor speech.
During the bond hearing on September 19, Circuit Judge Donald Hocker found that Bowman had violated bail conditions, especially in light of the new video evidence presented by the prosecution. Bowman, who has publicly accused Britton of manipulating the legal system against him through social media posts, faces continued scrutiny and community concern.
Bowman’s history of violent behavior also includes a $4.66 million civil verdict related to an incident in 2018, where he was found responsible for assaulting a man with a golf cart during a bar dispute. Compounding his challenges, court documents indicate that Bowman is also battling cancer, adding another layer of complexity to his legal fight.
The incident at the heart of the domestic violence charge reportedly took place at Bowman’s residence in Sullivan’s Island on September 26, 2016. Emotional testimonies from the bond hearing included detailed accounts from Britton, describing Bowman’s threats and abusive tendencies. Bowman’s defense attorney has expressed concerns about the potential influence of media attention on the judicial process, indicating the defense’s intention to continue pursuing bail and a fair trial to establish Bowman’s innocence amidst the heightened scrutiny.
Key Facts Summary
- Defendant: Eric Bowman, 45, software engineer and former owner of Charleston Battery.
- Charges: First-degree domestic violence, harassment, stalking.
- Court Ruling: No bail granted due to community safety concerns.
- Evidence: Video showing Bowman engaging in physical violence against Britton.
- Previous Arrest: Placed tracking device on Britton’s car in July 2024.
- Potential Sentence: Up to 10 years in prison if convicted of domestic violence.
- Legal Context: Prior civil verdict for assault resulting in $4.66 million judgment.
- Health Status: Currently suffering from cancer.
FAQ Section
What charges is Eric Bowman facing?
Eric Bowman is facing a charge of first-degree domestic violence, along with previous charges of harassment and stalking.
What was the reason for denying bail?
A judge ruled that Bowman will remain in jail, citing concerns for community safety.
What is the potential sentence for Bowman if convicted?
If convicted of first-degree domestic violence, Bowman could face up to 10 years in prison.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Eric Bowman |
| Age | 45 |
| Background | Former owner of Charleston Battery soccer team |
| Charges | First-degree domestic violence, harassment, stalking |
| Bail Status | Denied |
| Community Safety Concern | Yes |
| Potential Prison Sentence | Up to 10 years |
| Health Status | Suffering from cancer |
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Eric Bowman Jail & Nancy Mace – Domestic Violence
- Wikipedia: Domestic Violence
- Live 5 News: Sullivan’s Island Man & Bond Status
- Google Search: Eric Bowman Domestic Violence
- ABC News 4: Eric Bowman Seeks Bond in Domestic Violence Case
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Domestic Violence
- Count On 2: Eric Bowman Turns Himself In
- Google News: Eric Bowman Domestic Violence
- FITSNews: Businessman Tied to Nancy Mace Arrested
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.
