Donald Ralph Chewning, 53, of Saluda, was sentenced this week in Saluda County General Sessions Court after pleading guilty to committing Abuse or Neglect of a Vulnerable Adult resulting in Death. The victim, Rev. James Chewning, was 79 years old and a retired Methodist minister. Donald Chewning was the stepson of the victim. Circuit Court Judge Frank R. Addy, Jr., imposed a sentence of twenty-two (22) years. Under state law, this charge is classified as a violent crime and is a “no parole” offense.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant Solicitor Robby McNair and Assistant Solicitor Bradley Pogue. Assistant Solicitor McNair stated, “It’s hard to believe this could happen in America. Rev. Chewning was a hostage in his own house, confined to his bed where he was beaten, tortured, and left without medical care. We are grateful to see justice served today.”

The S.C Law Enforcement Divisions (SLED) began an investigation on November 2, 2017, after receiving a report of a suspicious death at 320 S. Calhoun Street in the Town of Saluda. First responders who arrived at the residence found the elderly victim with bruises and blood on his face. They observed zip ties in his bed, on the floor, and in the trash can that had been used to bind the victim.

An autopsy was conducted by forensic pathologist Dr. Janice Ross of Newberry and determined the cause of death to be blunt force trauma and medical neglect. Dr. Ross found evidence of at least three individual blows to the head that caused subdural hemorrhaging. The autopsy determined that the victim suffered from gangrene on his feet, along with signs of sepsis. The victim also suffered from numerous bed sores.

SLED Agents determined that Donald Chewning had acquired “power of attorney” rights regarding his stepfather’s finances. The investigation revealed that approximately $60,000.00 in cash had been withdrawn by Donald Chewning from the victim’s financial accounts over a period of 22 months. At the time of his death, Rev. Chewning had only .93 cents in his bank account.

During the investigation, Donald Chewning admitted to losing his temper and striking his stepfather in the head about a month prior to his death. He also admitted to having knowledge that the victim was being bound and duct taped on occasions, sometimes with rags placed into his mouth. He also admitted to having knowledge that the victim was in a declining state of health and failing to seek appropriate medical care.

Donald Chewning is being transferred to the S.C. Department of Corrections to begin immediate service of his prison sentence.