Four people charged in connection with Forest Drive robbery
Columbia police have arrested four people in connection with a robbery at gunpoint on Forest Drive, WLTX reported. Deonte Benjamin, 28, has been charged with armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, unlawful carrying of a pistol and possession of a stolen pistol. Mary McMarva and Erika Dickerson, both 22 years old, have been charged with accessory after the fact and criminal conspiracy. An unnamed 15-year-old male has also been charged in connection with the robbery. The robbery took place on Dec. 26. The victim was not injured.
Lexington County could demolish 99 homes to reduce future flood damage
According to The State, the Lexington County Council is considering demolishing up to 99 homes in Irmo near Kinley Creek. In neighborhoods near the creek, regular flooding causes erosion in people's backyards and sometimes damage to homes and roads. The removal of homes and relocation of families would cost about $24.8 million. The Council is also considering some slightly cheaper options, such as drainage improvements along the creek. Relocation of homes seems to be the most permanent solution, but the county faces tight financial constraints.
House passes bill limiting spending on former presidents
The Associated Press reported that the House of Representatives has passed a bill that would limit the amount of taxpayers' dollars used on ex-presidents' expenses. Any ex-president who earns more than $600,000 per year would not be eligible to have his travel or office expenses paid by the federal government. Allocations would be incrementally reduced for any ex-president who earns more than $400,000 per year. Pensions would stay about the same at $200,000 per year.