Columbia Man Sentenced for Hate Crime

Jonathan Felkel received an eight-year state prison sentence for hate intimidation and assault in Columbia.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Crime — General

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Jonathan Felkel has pleaded guilty to state charges of hate intimidation and first-degree assault and battery. He was sentenced to eight years in prison to be served concurrently with a previous federal sentence.

Why it matters

The conviction marks the first time an individual has been charged under the Richland County hate crime ordinance. The state sentence ensures additional accountability for the intimidation and threats directed at his neighbor.

Felkel received an eight-year state prison sentence for his crimes, which will run concurrently with his nine-year federal term. The case remains notable as the first prosecution under the Richland County hate crime ordinance.

The players

Jonathan Felkel

He is the defendant who was convicted of hate intimidation and assault after threatening his neighbor.

Jarvis McKenzie

He is the neighbor who was targeted by Felkel's threats and gunfire.

The details

Felkel was indicted for violating the housing rights of Jarvis McKenzie after he fired a gun and made threats toward him. He officially entered his guilty plea for the state-level charges during a court appearance on October 6, 2026.

In July 2025, Felkel threatened neighbor Jarvis McKenzie.
In December 2025, Felkel was indicted.
On October 6, 2026, Felkel pleaded guilty to state charges.

Legal Context

This case marks the first time that Richland County's hate crime ordinance has been utilized to secure a conviction. The prosecution sets a new precedent for how local authorities in the area address bias-motivated intimidation and violence.

The sentencing confirms the active enforcement of local hate crime statutes within Richland County. Residents are now aware that bias-motivated violence carries both state and federal legal consequences.

The takeaway

This case highlights the intersection of local and federal law in addressing housing rights violations and personal safety. It serves as a reminder that threats against neighbors can result in significant concurrent prison sentences.