CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte couple no longer wants to live in fear.
(Warning: Story contains graphic details or images)
They told WCNC Charlotte that they're a target of ongoing threats, racism and harassment by their neighbors. The couple said it happened at their retirement home in Myrtle Beach.
“I don’t want it to happen to anyone, on any side of the fence," Shawn Williams said.
Two years ago, the couple bought their new home in Horry County, South Carolina. But it hasn't ever felt like home, as they've constantly been tormented by their neighbors.
“The n-word over and over, we need to get out of here, the whole bit," Monica Williams said.
"It's a place I’m supposed to be able to relax, but I can’t relax in an environment where I have to be constantly aware," Shawn Williams said.
From racial slurs to threats of violence, and most recently, a burning cross over Thanksgiving weekend, the family is in sheer disbelief.
“It’s been traumatic for my whole family because they had to witness this," Monica Williams said.
“The issue of safety and security has been broken; the issue of fear and intimidation is now in play," Shawn Williams said.
The burning of the cross was the last straw for the couple. After calling the police, their neighbors were arrested and charged with second-degree harassment, but both made bail the next day and are now awaiting trial.
"He’s dangerous," Monica Williams said. "We feel like he means business when he wants to do harm."
Now, there's a call to create change.
South Carolina is one of two states in the U.S. without a law allowing extra punishment for hate crimes. Hate crimes are motivated by someone's race, religion, gender, or other background.
Over the past several years, a hate crime bill has made it through the South Carolina House and to the Senate floor, but it's always stopped there.
“They’ve got to come out of the dark ages," Monica Williams said.
The Williams, who are also veterans, said a lack of hate crime legislation makes the Palmetto State look backward.
“You just hope that in this country that you serve proudly and honorably, you can live in peace proudly and honorably." Shawn Williams said. “This has got to stop, hate is something you learn."
The NAACP is now investigating the incident.
Contact Lexi Wilson at lwilson@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.