Barnwell, South Carolina, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Ty’Ran Dixon, a former Newberry College football player, has filed a civil rights lawsuit after being wrongfully imprisoned for 67 days due to mistaken identity related to a murder charge. His arrest resulted from investigative errors despite prior identification of the true suspect. Dixon’s legal team cites negligence and misconduct by law enforcement services, while he now seeks both justice and a return to his football career abroad. The case highlights critical flaws in police procedures and the lasting impact of wrongful imprisonment.
Barnwell, South Carolina – A former Newberry College football player, Ty’Ran Dixon, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit after being wrongfully imprisoned for 67 days in connection with a murder charge that turned out to be based on mistaken identity. Dixon was arrested at Boston’s Logan Airport upon returning from Finland in August 2024, accused of the murder of 21-year-old Jasmine Roach, which occurred on October 15, 2023.
The arrest stemmed from a series of investigative errors that began within hours of the crime. Sheriff Steven Griffith had received reliable information identifying the actual suspect, whose name is Tyren Dickson, although the two individuals have different physical profiles—Dixon weighs approximately 300 pounds, while the real suspect weighs about 180 pounds. Despite these evident discrepancies and confirmation about the true suspect’s social media profiles, law enforcement actions were delayed.
Dixon’s attorneys highlight significant lapses in the police investigation specifically blaming the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office, Aiken Public Safety, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) for negligence, false arrest, malicious prosecution, and defamation. Internal emails dated nine days after Dixon’s arrest revealed skepticism from investigators about whether they had apprehended the correct individual.
Throughout his time in custody, Dixon faced life-threatening conditions, housed among violent inmates, and often placed in solitary confinement due to his status as a professional football player. His lawsuit outlines the brutal treatment subdued during his incarceration, further highlighting the emotional and psychological toll the wrongful imprisonment inflicted on him.
Despite acknowledging the mistake in arresting Dixon, the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office has not offered any apology to him or his family. This admission followed persistent pressure from Dixon’s legal counsel, but the consequences of their actions have left a lasting impact on Dixon’s life.
Dixon’s legal team describes the incident as a “cascade of screwups” that not only resulted in the wrongful arrest of an innocent individual but also allowed the actual suspect to remain at large for over a year. The public’s trust in law enforcement is further strained as this case exposes the failures of investigative procedures.
Currently, while fiercely advocating for justice regarding the wrongful charges against him, Dixon is also pursuing his football career in Finland. He continues to navigate through the psychological aftermath of two months spent behind bars and seeks public awareness and rectification of the injustices he has suffered.
Background Context
The wrongful arrest of Ty’Ran Dixon has raised serious questions about law enforcement procedures and the identification process used in serious criminal investigations. With the proliferation of social media and advancements in technology, timely sharing of critical information about suspects is crucial in preventing miscarriages of justice. Dixon’s case exemplifies how a failure to act promptly can have devastating consequences for the individuals involved and perpetuate the suffering of victims and their families.
Key Features of the Case
- Ty’Ran Dixon wrongfully imprisoned for 67 days
- Arrest based on mistaken identity related to the murder of Jasmine Roach
- Immediate identification of the true suspect was ignored
- Lawsuit filed citing negligence and misconduct by law enforcement
- Dixon now seeks justice while pursuing a football career abroad
FAQ
What was Ty’Ran Dixon accused of?
Ty’Ran Dixon was wrongfully accused of murdering Jasmine Roach in October 2023.
How long was Dixon imprisoned?
Dixon was imprisoned for a total of 67 days before being exonerated.
What led to Dixon’s wrongful arrest?
His arrest was based on mistaken identity, confused with the actual suspect whose name is Tyren Dickson.
What does Dixon’s lawsuit claim?
It claims negligence, false arrest, malicious prosecution, and defamation against the involved law enforcement agencies.
Has the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office acknowledged the mistake?
Yes, they have admitted the arrest was a mistake but have not issued a formal apology to Dixon.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Newberry College Football Team Prepares for Upcoming Season
Former Athlete Files Civil Rights Lawsuit Over Wrongful Imprisonment
U.S. Government Acknowledges Mistaken Deportation Case
Additional Resources
- WRDW: 2nd Lawsuit Filed over Wrongful Accusation in Barnwell County
- WACH: Pro Football Player Sues After Wrongful 67-Day Imprisonment
- The State: Investigation into Ty’Ran Dixon’s Wrongful Arrest
- WRDW: Football Player Sues After Wrongful Murder Accusation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wrongful Imprisonment
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
