Opinion ID: 1322538
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: South Carolina Sexually Violent Predator Act

Text: The Act provides for the involuntary civil commitment of an individual deemed to be a sexually violent predator, which is defined under the Act as a person who (a) has been convicted of a sexually violent offense, and (b) suffers from a mental abnormality or personality disorder that makes the person likely to engage in acts of sexual violence if the person is not confined in a secure facility for long-term control, care, and treatment. S.C.Code Ann. § 44-48-30(1) (Supp.2008). The procedures of the Act are initiated when a person is about to be released from confinement. At that time, a multidisciplinary team appointed by the Director of the South Carolina Department of Corrections reviews the relevant records, including the person's criminal offense record, to assess whether or not the person meets the statutory definition of a sexually violent predator. Id. § 44-48-50. Upon referral from the multidisciplinary team, the prosecutor's review committee examines whether probable cause exists to believe the person is a sexually violent predator. Id. § 44-48-60. If so, the Attorney General must file a petition in the circuit court asking the court to rule on the issue of probable cause. Id. § 44-48-70. In the event the circuit court makes an initial determination that probable cause exists, the person must be taken into custody if he is not already confined. Id. § 44-48-80(A). Thereafter, the person is allowed the opportunity to appear in person at a hearing to contest probable cause. Id. § 44-48-80(B). Once a probable cause determination is made by the circuit court, the person is required to undergo an evaluation by a court-approved expert. Id. § 44-48-80(D). A trial is then held in the court of common pleas to conclude whether the person is, in fact, a sexually violent predator as defined by the Act. Id. § 44-48-90. The State must prove the allegation beyond a reasonable doubt to either the court or a jury. Id. § 44-48-100(A).