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Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Repair in Walterboro, SC

The summers can be hot and humid, especially near coastal areas, meaning your HVAC system works extra hard in the afternoons. On the opposite side of the spectrum, winters can be cold and chilly enough to cause ice storms and months of winter jacket-wearing.

That's why it's crucial that home and business owners have access to a trustworthy HVAC system that is ready to keep you warm when needed and cool when the temps heat up. But in order to maintain and repair complex residential and commercial HVAC systems, you need a team of reliable technicians to take care of you and your family. JAC Services has got your HVAC repair in Walterboro, SC covered, no matter how large or small the problem.

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Why We Best

The JAC Services Difference

At JAC Services, we specialize in providing top-notch installation, repairs, and maintenance services for HVAC systems in homes, businesses, and restaurants. Moreover, we are a reputable food equipment service provider that utilizes cutting-edge technology and upholds the highest standards of integrity and excellence.

We aim to provide you with the same level of exceptional service, skilled HVAC repair, and affordable prices that we would want for ourselves. At the end of the day, our goal is to keep you comfortable in your home or business while providing you with the necessary equipment and repairs to keep on working. And as locals who live in the Lowcountry, we're committed to providing those services at prices that won't make you go bankrupt. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes us stand apart from others: personalized and reliable HVAC services that you can rely on 24/7.

A few of our specialties include:

  • HVAC Repair in Walterboro, SC
  • HVAC Maintenance
  • Residential HVAC Services
  • Commercial HVAC Services
  • Refrigeration and Freezer Repair
  • Food Service & Restaurant Equipment Maintenance

Whether your restaurant needs new equipment ASAP or the HVAC unit in your commercial property is acting up, our team has the tools and training to fix your problem correctly, so you can get back to loving life in South Carolina.

Residential HVAC Repair in Walterboro, SC

They say that home is where the heart is, but it's also where you're most comfortable - unless, of course, your A/C or heat goes out when you need it most. When it does, you need a reliable source of help that can remediate the situation quickly and with professionalism, and that's where JAC Services comes in.

JAC Services is here to take care of all your heating, cooling, and HVAC requirements, whether you require a regular HVAC check or an urgent repair on your heating or cooling system. Our team of skilled technicians is committed to providing personalized and prompt service that goes above and beyond your expectations. Why? Because that's how we would want our families treated, too.

It all starts with an in-depth inspection to determine what the problem is. From there, our skilled technicians will help you select the best HVAC solution for your needs. We offer a wide range of residential HVAC services, including:

  • Preventative Maintenance Programs
  • Heating & Air Repair
  • Tankless Water Heater Repair and Installation
  • UV Light Installation
  • Coil Cleaning
  • Belt Replacement
  • Filter Changes
  • Drain Pan Cleaning
  • More

Once we discover the best HVAC services for your needs, we use of the highest quality parts and time-tested preventative maintenance solutions to ensure your home is comfortable year-round.

Call Now for Home Heating & Air Services arrow

How Preventative Maintenance is Key to Residential HVAC Longevity

As homeowners, it's crucial to ensure that our HVAC systems are maintained year-round. Whether they're keeping us cool during hot summers or giving us warmth during South Carolina's cold winters, HVAC systems work tirelessly to ensure a cozy indoor environment for ourselves and our families. However, it's important to note that regular maintenance is key to maintaining efficiency, minimizing costs, and increasing the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Cost Savings

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in Walterboro, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Efficiencys

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in Walterboro, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Longevity of the HVAC System

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in Walterboro, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Cost Savings

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in Walterboro, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Efficiencys

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in Walterboro, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Longevity of the HVAC System

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in Walterboro, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Commercial HVAC Repair in Walterboro, SC

As a business owner, you know that commercial HVAC failure can cause major disruptions to your daily operations. Whether due to age, wear and tear, or unresolved issues, the sudden breakdown of your HVAC unit can lead to uncomfortable temperatures and unpleasant noises. At JAC Services, we understand the importance of keeping your commercial HVAC system running smoothly, and we're here to provide expert maintenance and repairs to ensure that your business stays comfortable and productive, no matter the time of year.

Our licensed and insured technicians offer a variety of commercial heating & air solutions tailored to your budget and specific needs, from one-off fixes to ongoing maintenance plans. We put our clients first when it comes to commercial HVAC repair, which is why so many entrepreneurs and "doers" choose JAC Services over the rest.

When you trust our team, you can rest easy knowing your business is in knowledgeable, capable hands. We always prioritize the following for our commercial clients:

  • Quick Response Times
  • High-Quality Workmanship
  • Full-Service HVAC Repair & Installations for Businesses in South Carolina
  • Competitive Pricing
  • Custom Maintenance Plans
  • More

When your HVAC system needs expert attention, don't risk your livelihood with amateurs - contact JAC Services today to get your job done right.

Food Service & Restaurant Equipment Maintenance

Food Service & Restaurant Equipment Maintenance

As the coolest company in Walterboro, we know the best ways to turn up the heat. While JAC Services is known for HVAC repair in Walterboro, SC, we also provide commercial entities like restaurants with professional equipment maintenance and repairs. Because having the proper equipment is necessary, but making sure it works correctly is crucial. When it doesn't, your food service clients aren't happy, and your revenue stream suffers.

From fryers and grills to steamers and heating cabinets, we've got you covered, whether you're a restaurant in downtown Walterboro or a catering company in Summerville. We strive to exceed your expectations by ensuring that you receive prompt, individualized service from a team that truly cares about your success. Our high-trained technicians can help repair and maintain a wide range of restaurant equipment, including:

Have an emergency? Don't stress - we also offer last-minute equipment maintenance and repairs when you need them the most. Call us today for a quote on any restaurant equipment repair or maintenance need.

5 Signs It's Time to Repair Your Commercial Kitchen Equipment

It might not be fun to hear, but the truth is that commercial kitchen equipment doesn't last forever. Refrigerators experience leaks, freezers malfunction, and ventilation systems stop working. The issue is that when you're focused on providing excellent food and service to your customers, you may not be aware of these issues. Here are some of the most common warning signs that it's time to repair your restaurant equipment.

Problems Finding Parts

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Unreliable Performance

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Disconcerted Staff

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Faulty Door Seals

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Problems Finding Parts

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Unreliable Performance

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Disconcerted Staff

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Faulty Door Seals

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Commercial Refrigeration and Freezer Repair?

Ice is nice when it comes to keeping your refrigeration and freezer equipment operating at peak performance, and JAC Services is your partner in ensuring that happens. Our knowledgeable technicians will work closely with you and your management team to find refrigeration and food service equipment solutions that fit your business needs and budget. From repairs to preventative maintenance, JAC Services is the answer to all your refrigeration needs.

We specialize in several commercial refrigeration and freezer repair services, including:

  • Freezers
  • Coolers
  • Faucets
  • Ice Machines
  • Hot Water Heaters
  • Exhaust Hoods & Air
Technician

How Do I Know if I Need Commercial Freezer Repair?

  • Frost Buildup - Your unit should be freezing food, not itself. Consistent frost is a sign of sealing issues, which should be corrected ASAP.
  • Spoiled Food - The main goal of commercial fridges and freezers is to keep food fresh. If your food is spoiling, something is wrong.
  • Flooding - Like most commercial equipment in restaurants and kitchens, leaks are a telltale sign that you need equipment repair.
  • Strange Noises - Most commercial freezing equipment hums. But if you hear loud, unusual sounds (or even a lack of noise), it could be time to call for repairs.
  • Increased Energy Bill - One of the first signs your equipment needs repairs is that your power bill is more expensive than ever before.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensuring your commercial freezer is always in top condition. It's important to keep a lookout for any potential problems, as catching them early can prevent costly repairs and headaches for your business down the line. JAC Services is the go-to expert for all your commercial freezer and refrigerator maintenance needs. We offer repair services, installations, and even remote temperature monitoring to keep your business running smoothly. Don't hesitate to contact us today for all your freezer repair needs.

Technician

Why Choose Us?

Trust JAC Servies for the Best HVAC Repair in Walterboro, SC

At JAC Services, we're honored and privileged to serve homeowners and business owners in South Carolina. We're proud to have built an exceptional team of hardworking technicians and experts who are fully dedicated to providing you with HVAC repair in South Carolina - from minor repairs to major installations and everything in between.

Contact our office today so that we can learn more about your residential or commercial HVAC concerns. That way, we can provide you with a cost-effective solution, so you can continue being comfortable in your home or office.

Phone (843) 863-0465

What Clients Say About Us

Latest News in Walterboro, SC

Walterboro family demands answers after dog run over by postal driver

WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCSC) - Ring camera footage from a Walterboro home appears to show a dog being run over by a U.S. Postal Service driver who did not stop or slow down, a Colleton County woman says.The dog, Yogi, survived but awaits surgery that could result in his leg being amputated. If not, a BluePearl Pet Hospital in Summerville says because of his poor quality of life, he might have to be euthanized.“She’s been delivering our mail for over a year,” Paula Gouge, Yogi’s owner, said. “She knows m...

WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCSC) - Ring camera footage from a Walterboro home appears to show a dog being run over by a U.S. Postal Service driver who did not stop or slow down, a Colleton County woman says.

The dog, Yogi, survived but awaits surgery that could result in his leg being amputated. If not, a BluePearl Pet Hospital in Summerville says because of his poor quality of life, he might have to be euthanized.

“She’s been delivering our mail for over a year,” Paula Gouge, Yogi’s owner, said. “She knows my dogs. She’s pet my dogs before... And I don’t know if she might have given him treats in the past and he was running for a treat.”

BluePearl Pet Hospital says Yogi suffers from a dislocated hip, broken femur and lower spine and internal injuries. The family has been in contact with Officer Suzi Reeves with Colleton County Animal Services, who is handling the case.

“Officer Reeves told me that we did nothing wrong,” Gouge said. “We did not break any laws. We do not have to keep him on a leash.”

Matthew Breen, managing partner of Lowcountry Law, LLC, says the family can decide to sue this driver for negligence and depending on what the solicitor decides, the driver could face charges as high as a hit and run.

“Yes, they might have needed to restrain their animal,” Breen said. “But at the same time... that doesn’t give us an excuse, ‘Well, that dog doesn’t have its leash on and it’s outside the road. I can just run it over and kill it.’”

He says it’s important for pet owners to be diligent.

“You want to make sure that you protected your pet to the greatest extent that you could, and if they’re injured, that you can recover civilly against the wrongdoer who injured your pet,” Breen said.

Reeves says the driver will face at least two citations under the proper care of animals under the Colleton County Code of Ordinances. She says the driver has been identified and she claims she didn’t know she hit the dog.

“He’s only eight and a half years old,” Gouge said. “He’s not done. I just pray that he can get better and be a miracle dog and run around on three legs.”

The Walterboro Postal Service declined to make a comment because the case is under investigation. The postal service Southern Area Corporate Communications says they’re still reviewing the video and gathering additional details about the incident.

Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.

Hundreds of jobs coming to Colleton County amid housing shortage

WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCSC) - Colleton County has two large industries coming around Walterboro in the near future and county officials are already thinking about how this is going to affect housing.Pomega Energy Storage Technologies, a subsidiary of Kontrolmatik Technologies that makes lithium-ion batteries, is investing $279 million to build a facility located in the Colleton Industrial Campus ne...

WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCSC) - Colleton County has two large industries coming around Walterboro in the near future and county officials are already thinking about how this is going to affect housing.

Pomega Energy Storage Technologies, a subsidiary of Kontrolmatik Technologies that makes lithium-ion batteries, is investing $279 million to build a facility located in the Colleton Industrial Campus near Walterboro.

“That is the largest economic investment of a company coming to this county in history,” Colleton County Councilman Scott Biering said.

This industry will bring in 575 jobs, but that’s not all. Biering says Boise Cascade Company, a leading manufacturer for building materials, will also bring in 30 additional jobs and developers have already sent in applications.

“I think there’s two developments, like maybe 100 houses per development,” Biering said. “And that’s a big deal for us.”

Mark Wysong, the president of the Colleton County Chamber of Commerce, says this will bring greater prosperity to the city of Walterboro.

“Right now, that’s one of the biggest challenges that we have in Colleton County is affordable housing,” Wysong said.

Wysong says these industry jobs will increase the median income within the county, improving the housing market overall. Biering says there are roughly 9,000 people that leave every day to go work in neighboring counties and they want to try to keep those people a little closer to home.

“There’s not been a whole lot of homes and developers in this area for a long time,” Biering said. “So, this is something new to us to have this amount of interest.”

Wysong says he knows locals will want to keep their small town the way it is, but no one should have to worry about losing it.

“While retaining the small-town feel, I think these new developments coming in will adopt that look and feel, so you retain this really small neighborhood community,” Wysong said.

Biering says these housing developments are only in the planning stages, and nothing has been approved so far.

“We like to live, work and play here,” Biering said. “We’d like to keep it closer to the center. So, I think the housing will be a big plus in that direction.”

Biering says Pomega is hopefully expected to break ground in 2024.

Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.

Walterboro neighbors concerned about new halfway house opening in the community

WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCBD) – Community members are concerned about a new ministry that is set to open in the Walterboro area.Shield Ministries, an organization that claims to help convicted sex offenders rehabilitate and re-enter society, will open its doors off Barracada Road near Highway 17-A. CCSO: Beware of ‘sextortion’ scams...

WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCBD) – Community members are concerned about a new ministry that is set to open in the Walterboro area.

Shield Ministries, an organization that claims to help convicted sex offenders rehabilitate and re-enter society, will open its doors off Barracada Road near Highway 17-A.

About 50 men could be housed at the property at any given time as the first phase of their three-phase program to help the men improve their lives.

“Shield Ministries is an organization that works to help men transition from the devastation of their past into a thriving future,” explained David Truluck, executive director for Shield Ministries.

But those who live nearby say they are concerned about having sex offenders so close to their homes, children, and grandchildren.

“I’ve lived here for 35 years. I love Walterboro. I love the community,” said neighbor Lisa Langdale.

Langdale is worried about what is going in at this old church site in her rural neighborhood. “I’m just really concerned about living in the neighborhood, for our children, and living in the neighborhood even for myself,” she said.

She’s even part of a new Facebook group that has gained more than 600 followers.

“What do you say to people who maybe they live nearby, they have children or grandchildren at their house, and they’re concerned? What would you say to them,” we asked Truluck.

“Well, we have been a big asset to the community. When you look at our history, we have great relationships with law enforcement agencies,” Truluck replied.

There is also concern about Truluck, personally, because he is a registered sex offender.

“I believe the offense was committ or attempt a lewd act on a child. Do you understand why people might be concerned about an organization that you’re leading being right there in their neighborhood as well,” News 2 asked.

“I do understand why they would be concerned about that, but one of the things I would like to communicate to them is, I’ve been through the process of healing I’ve been through court-ordered counseling, which we will be providing,” he replied.

When asked if he could guarantee that none of the men in the program would bring harm to anyone in the community, Truluck said “I don’t think we could give that type of guarantee,” but cited the program’s “zero percent recidivism” rate.

A community meeting geared toward showcasing the proposal will take place Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m. across from Tractor Supply on Bells Highway in Walterboro.

Leaders with Shield Ministries say they are in the process of getting the property ready to open, however, they do not have a specific opening date at this time.

Walterboro's Jim Brown follows in Lee Brice's footsteps, gunning for a music career

SOUTH CAROLINA (WCIV) — It’s amazing. It was already 15 years ago, I did a story on an aspiring singer/songwriter leaving for Nashville after his time as a Clemson Tigers long snapper. It worked out pretty well for that guy- Lee Brice.This week, we do the same story. A former Clemson long snapper, leaving to follow his music dreams in Nashville. Walterboro’s Jim Brown.If passion could be purveyed, Jim Brown has always found a way to do it.Walterboro's Jim Brown follows in Lee Brice's footsteps, gunning ...

SOUTH CAROLINA (WCIV) — It’s amazing. It was already 15 years ago, I did a story on an aspiring singer/songwriter leaving for Nashville after his time as a Clemson Tigers long snapper. It worked out pretty well for that guy- Lee Brice.

This week, we do the same story. A former Clemson long snapper, leaving to follow his music dreams in Nashville. Walterboro’s Jim Brown.

If passion could be purveyed, Jim Brown has always found a way to do it.

Walterboro's Jim Brown follows in Lee Brice's footsteps, gunning for a music career. (WCIV)

“I sing vocally very gritty and aggressive," said the Pinewood Prep grad.

If purpose and passion meet, Jim Brown will find a way to connect them. In his fifth year at Clemson, he was awarded a scholarship by Dabo Swinney.

The Walterboro native has a deeply rooted passion, and now, is his time to shine.

“I taught myself how to play guitar in HS after an ACL injury, bedridden for two weeks so I picked up a guitar and learned to play. When football was over, just latched on to it— all music. Singing vocals, piano, music theory, songwriting- started diving as deep as I could and it sort of got me to here," he said.

Construction consultant is the title that pays the bills for now. But Jim Brown is ready for that chord progression to take the next step. Similar to going from walk-on to scholarship player.

“I’m not trying to be the next Chris Stapleton, but I want to make music that hopefully relates to people on some level," Brown said.

Music, can always take you home. His first single is doing just that.

“The Devil and the Gavel” is his ode to the Murdaugh murders saga in his hometown of Walterboro.

“In Charleston I played a lot of gigs, covers around town and on weekends, Thursday, Friday, Saturday at Edisto Beach and Walterboro. Now, more songwriting. At the end of the day, what I want to do is release music that I have, keep playing. I know its something I’m fortunate to have, and kind of let people know this is my thing," Brown said.

He doesn’t know Lee Brice. He’s never met him. But he hopes his passion will help him follow the same path.

Walterboro residents concerned by plans for halfway house with sex offenders

WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCIV) — A new halfway house and treatment center coming to Walterboro is concerning those who live near the property.Shield Ministries plans to use a vacant church campus off Barracada Road near Highway 17-A to help men enrolled in the organization's treatment and reeducation program.But neighbors say they’re worried because a majority of the men in the program are registered sex offenders."We help them transition from the devastation of their past into a thriving future," said Dav...

WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCIV) — A new halfway house and treatment center coming to Walterboro is concerning those who live near the property.

Shield Ministries plans to use a vacant church campus off Barracada Road near Highway 17-A to help men enrolled in the organization's treatment and reeducation program.

But neighbors say they’re worried because a majority of the men in the program are registered sex offenders.

"We help them transition from the devastation of their past into a thriving future," said David Truluck, the executive director of Shield Ministries.

Shield Ministries said their focus is on reforming and preventing recidivism in men who have dealt with poverty, addiction, and violence.

The non-profit currently has two facilities in North Charleston and plans to open their third.

"We found this facility in Walterboro in Colleton County that was secluded, but not isolated, and would allow us to take these young men out of the environment that consistently contributed to their going back to prison," Truluck said.

In Shield Ministries' 2021 annual report, out of 60 participants, seven graduated the 18-month program.

70 percent of this year’s applicants are registered as sex offenders. Truluck said there will be between 40 to 50 men living at the Walterboro location.

Residents in the neighborhood are concerned about their children’s safety.

"How is it a good idea? Tell me how this benefits us as a county, as a community in any way, shape or form. There's no upside to this. It's not financial for us, not financial for anybody," said Nikki Nettles, a neighborhood resident.

"For them to all be in one place and to have to deal with it all in one place; I just think that's too much of a threat for the community," resident Lisa Langdale said.

Truluck said the men who have graduated the program have a zero-recidivism rate.

Truluck himself is a registered sex offender, something else that concerns residents.

"I worry. We already have a lot of people that walk up and down the road and now we're going to change the dynamics of who it is walking up and down the road, and that really worries me," Nettles said.

Dr. William Burke, the president of Southeastern Assessment, said their first obligation is public safety.

"We will be taking them to work, bringing them back to the facility. If there's any need for them to go into the town, we would take them so they would always be supervised by a ministry staff member," Truluck said.

Dr. Burke said every participant is polygraphed every six months, drug tested at random, and their telephone and internet usage is monitored daily.

If they don't follow protocol, they are kicked out of the program.

"It means that they are arrested, and they are scheduled to go before a probation board and or go before a judge to for them to determine do they go to prison or do they get another chance to back out in public," Dr. Burke said.

Dr. Burke said in order to prevent recidivism, they must provide a place for people to control their behavior.

"We don't want to be a community liability. We want to be a community asset. And we stress accountability and responsibility. And we have we make it clear that the men are going to be held to a high standard. If they do not meet that standard, they will be expelled from our program," Truluck said.

But residents don't want that happening in their backyard, near their children.

"Our plan is to stop this, but if we can't, then what do we do? We have to educate, we have to help each other," Nettles said.

Shield Ministries said they are still in the development stages, so there is no timeline as to when the facility in Walterboro will open.

A community meeting to discuss the halfway house is scheduled for Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m. across from tractor supply on Bells Highway in Walterboro.

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