Inmate sentenced to 25 years in prison after setting fire to Jasper County jail

RIDGELAND, S.C. (WTOC) - A Hardeeville man has been sent to prison for his role in a fire at the Jasper County Detention Center in September 2024, according to the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office​.

Officials say Carlton Alexander German, 39, pleaded guilty Thursday in Jasper County General Sessions Court to second-degree arson and conspiracy.

He received the maximum 25-year sentence for second-degree arson, a violent offense.

Assistant Solicitor Trasi Campbell of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office prosecuted the case.

Officials say German admitted that he and other inmates conspired to willfully and maliciously set fire to combustible materials on Sept. 21, 2024, while he was housed at the detention center.

The 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office​ says the fire damaged the facility and caused serious injuries to inmates and staff.

Circuit Court Judge Marvin Dukes accepted the negotiated plea.

German’s criminal record reportedly includes a dozen convictions dating to 2003, including drug and weapons offenses, driving under suspension, burglary and strong-arm robbery.

Two others are accused of participating in the incident: 23-year-old Jamri Tylikk Williams of Hardeeville and 28-year-old Jermon Malik Walker of Savannah.

They face first-degree arson and conspiracy charged. Both are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.