Charleston, August 22, 2025
News Summary
A federal judge has dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed against U.S. Representative Nancy Mace. The claims arose after Mace alleged that Eric Bowman and three others engaged in predatory behavior. The ruling cited protections for Congress members during official duties. Meanwhile, Bowman faces charges for unrelated domestic violence. Additionally, the Charleston Animal Society is promoting a pet adoption initiative, and local authorities address a rise in overdose incidents while investigating an arson case.
Charleston – A federal judge has dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed against U.S. Representative Nancy Mace, ending a legal battle stemming from her allegations that several men were sexual predators. The ruling, made by U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel, cited a legal provision that protects members of Congress from being sued while carrying out their official duties, thereby shielding Mace from the claims made in the case.
The lawsuit was brought forth by Eric Bowman, one of the four men Mace named during a speech on the floor of the U.S. Capitol in February. In her remarks, Mace accused Bowman and the others of predatory behavior, which led to the legal response. The dismissal of the lawsuit came as federal and local authorities continue to address serious legal issues surrounding Bowman, who turned himself in on an unrelated charge of first-degree domestic violence linked to a 2016 incident.
In the criminal case against him, video evidence allegedly shows an argument during which a woman is heard screaming, and a man can be seen striking her. Following his arrest, Bowman’s bond was denied, highlighting the severity of the situation surrounding him beyond the defamation claims against Mace.
In other news occurring in Charleston, the Charleston Animal Society is launching a ‘Clear the Shelter’ initiative designed to facilitate the adoption of pets. The campaign will offer discounts of 50% on more than 600 pets, with free adoptions scheduled for the following weekend, promoting animal welfare and encouraging community engagement in pet adoption efforts.
Additional developments in Charleston include the arrest of two suspects connected to a shooting incident that transpired on Monday afternoon, resulting in one man being hospitalized with gunshot wounds. Police received assistance from bystanders, who helped guide them to the suspects after the shooting, which occurred around 1 p.m. on Rivers Avenue. The victim’s condition prompted urgent measures, which were administered before he was transported to a local hospital.
Moreover, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office has reported a troubling rise in overdose incidents throughout the region. In a recent overview, it was revealed that out of 27 reported overdose cases, five were fatal, with a significant number of these incidents occurring in North Charleston. To tackle this alarming trend, authorities have collaborated with the Econo Lodge and the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund to establish additional Naloxone stands, aiming to provide critical support for individuals struggling with substance abuse.
Lastly, an investigation is underway concerning two vehicles believed to have been intentionally set on fire in downtown Charleston. Local authorities are treating the matter as an arson case, working diligently to uncover the details surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
Summary of Key Events
- Federal judge dismisses defamation lawsuit against Rep. Nancy Mace.
- Eric Bowman, one of the accused men, faces unrelated domestic violence charges.
- Charleston Animal Society offers discounts for pet adoptions to encourage community involvement.
- Arrests made in connection to a shooting on Rivers Avenue.
- Rising overdose incidents prompt increased availability of Naloxone in Charleston.
- Investigation launched into suspected arson in downtown Charleston.
FAQ Section
What lawsuit was dismissed by the federal judge?
The lawsuit was a defamation claim against U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, relating to her accusations of sexual predation against Eric Bowman and three other men.
Why was the lawsuit dismissed?
The dismissal was based on a federal law that protects members of Congress from legal actions arising from their official duties.
What charges does Eric Bowman currently face?
Eric Bowman has turned himself in on charges of first-degree domestic violence stemming from a 2016 incident.
What is the Charleston Animal Society’s new initiative about?
The initiative, ‘Clear the Shelter,’ aims to facilitate pet adoptions by offering discounts and free adoptions, encouraging community participation in animal welfare.
What recent crime incident occurred in North Charleston?
Two suspects were arrested following a shooting that occurred on Monday afternoon, leaving one man injured.
What measures are being taken to address overdose incidents in Charleston?
Authorities have installed additional Naloxone stands in collaboration with community organizations to combat the increase in overdose cases.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston Resident Sues Uber After Violent Incident
Stephen Bowden Announces Reelection Campaign for Charleston City Council
House Subcommittee Votes to Subpoena DOJ in Epstein Case
Alan Wilson Announces Gubernatorial Campaign in South Carolina
Trump Administration Freezes $6 Billion in School Funding
The Transformative Landscape of Legal News for Lawyers
Nancy Mace Visits Charleston County Sheriff’s Office
4th Circuit: Lawyer Wins Title IX Case for Student
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial: Lawyer Discusses Serious Allegations
Alan Wilson Announces Gubernatorial Candidacy
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: North Charleston Police Detain 2 in Shooting Incident
- Wikipedia: North Charleston
- Count on 2: Police to Conduct Traffic Checkpoints in Downtown Charleston
- Google Search: Charleston Police Checkpoints
- Spectrum Local News: Shrimpers Sue Charleston Restaurants Over Fraud Scandal
- Google Scholar: Shrimp Fraud Scandal Charleston
- Live 5 News: Charleston County School District Financing Improvements
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston County School District
- Count on 2: North Charleston PD Investigating Shooting on Rivers Ave
- Google News: North Charleston Shooting
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.
