CHARLESTON — Charleston Police are delving into a homicide investigation at a housing authority-owned apartment on King Street, where a suspect with a history of violence was apprehended. Barry Jerod Stanley, 41, was arrested following a report of an unresponsive resident at approximately 7:45 p.m. on June 30. The victim, who suffered a violent assault, was found at 676 King Street, according to a police news release. The identity of the deceased is pending confirmation by the Charleston County Coroner’s Office. Police have identified Stanley as an acquaintance of the victim.
The apartment complex, owned by the Housing Authority of the City of Charleston, is located north of the Septima P. Clark Parkway and in proximity to the Recovery Room Tavern. This incident marks a grim chapter in Stanley’s troubled history with law enforcement.
Stanley’s Troubled Past
Stanley’s criminal record dates back over a decade. In March 2013, a dramatic incident unfolded when Stanley’s girlfriend fled to a neighbor’s house, screaming that he was attempting to kill her. This led to a 911 call and a subsequent 12-mile police chase, as reported by The Post and Courier at the time. During the pursuit, Stanley was seen discarding a bag of drugs from his vehicle, resulting in charges of failure to stop for a blue light and trafficking cocaine.
In 2014, Stanley was convicted after a two-day trial and received a 33-year prison sentence due to prior drug convictions. His criminal history includes drug and assault charges, with time served between 2004 and 2011, according to Chrysti Shain, spokesperson for the S.C. Department of Corrections.
Legal Proceedings and Early Release
In a turn of events, Stanley’s lengthy sentence was cut short when an appellate court ordered a resentencing in 2023. He was released in June 2023 after serving approximately 10 years. However, his freedom was brief; Stanley returned to prison in April 2024 for first-degree assault and battery. He was released again at the end of that year, as confirmed by Shain.
Since January, Stanley had been on supervised release, as noted by the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services. His return to criminal activity raises questions about the effectiveness of the parole system and the challenges of reintegrating individuals with a history of violent crime.
Community Impact and Reactions
The homicide on King Street has sent shockwaves through the local community, with residents expressing concern over safety in the area. The Housing Authority of the City of Charleston, which manages the apartment complex, has not yet commented on the incident. Local businesses and residents are on edge, recalling the neighborhood’s past struggles with crime and violence.
Experts in criminal justice emphasize the importance of effective rehabilitation and monitoring of parolees to prevent recidivism. Dr. Emily Carter, a criminologist at the University of South Carolina, explains, “The transition from incarceration to community life is fraught with challenges, particularly for individuals with a history of violence. Comprehensive support systems are crucial to reducing the risk of reoffending.”
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues, Charleston Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The case highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and the management of individuals with criminal backgrounds. The community awaits further details from the police and the coroner’s office, hoping for closure and justice for the victim.
The arrest of Barry Jerod Stanley serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in balancing public safety with the rehabilitation of former offenders. As Charleston grapples with this latest tragedy, the focus remains on finding solutions to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of its residents.
About The Author
