Solicitor says more arrests possible in Pawleys Island church case

Authorities are continuing an ongoing criminal investigation surrounding Pawleys Island Community Church following the recent arrest of a fifth person tied to the case, according to 15th Circuit Solicitor Jimmy Richardson.

Among those charged in the investigation is Michael Anthony Fields. Fields served as the Director of Operations and Missions at the church, a administrative and leadership position where he was directly responsible for the security of the church property.

Solicitor Richardson stated that it is common for law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to make multiple arrests during complex investigations of this nature. As investigators continue working through evidence, prosecutors indicate that additional arrests or charges could still be made.

Pawleys Island Community Church is a well-known place of worship in Georgetown County, situated along the southern edge of the Grand Strand. Because many residents across Georgetown and Horry counties attend, volunteer at, or interact with regional church missions, updates regarding leadership and property security at the institution carry widespread interest for the surrounding coastal communities.

The 15th Circuit Solicitor's Office handles prosecution for both Georgetown and Horry counties. Officials have not released further details on potential additional suspects at this time, as the active investigation remains open. Anyone with relevant information regarding the case is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the 15th Circuit Solicitor's Office.