Barnwell, South Carolina, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Ty’Ran Dixon, a former football player, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit after being wrongfully imprisoned for over two months for a murder he did not commit. His legal team argues that there were significant investigative failures, including a failure to act on evidence identifying the true killer. The lawsuit highlights issues of wrongful arrests and the justice system, raising questions about law enforcement practices and accountability.
Barnwell, South Carolina — Ty’Ran Dixon, a former Newberry College football player, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit after being wrongfully imprisoned for over two months for a murder he did not commit. The lawsuit arises from Dixon’s wrongful arrest in August 2024, concerning the murder of Jasmine Roach, which took place in October 2023.
Dixon was incarcerated for 67 days despite presented evidence refuting his involvement in the crime. His legal team asserts that he faced grave injustices, including a lack of evidence against him and significant failures during the investigation processes leading to his imprisonment. The lawsuit targets specific deputies from the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office, including Sheriff Steven Griffith.
Initial evidence identified the true perpetrator as Ty’Ren Dickson, a person whose name was provided to Sheriff Griffith within 12 hours of the murder. The two men, though similarly named, possess distinct physical characteristics—Ty’Ran Dixon weighs approximately 300 pounds, while Ty’Ren Dickson weighs around 180 pounds. This critical detail highlights the investigators’ failures in promptly rectifying the misidentification.
Dixon’s attorneys argue that despite the prompt information regarding the possible actual suspect, law enforcement did not take necessary corrective actions. Even nine days after the arrest warrant for Dixon was issued, Barnwell County investigators were still deliberating on whether they had the right individual in custody. Internal communications revealed that officers intended to show Dixon’s photograph to a witness but ultimately failed to follow through with this crucial step.
The Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office has not commented publicly on the recent federal complaint. However, they have denied accusations in a related state lawsuit, claiming that any misidentification was unintentional and not characterized by malicious intent. The ongoing lawsuit describes the events as a “miscarriage of justice,” emphasizing newly uncovered mistakes during the discovery phase, suggesting that Dixon endured unnecessary suffering and a grave violation of his civil rights.
Throughout his wrongful incarceration, Dixon expressed deep despair, often praying for relief from his unjust situation. His case has raised considerable attention surrounding issues of wrongful arrests and the integrity of law enforcement practices.
This incident follows a growing concern nationwide regarding wrongful imprisonments and the systemic flaws in how investigations are conducted. In recent years, several cases have shed light on the breakdowns in criminal justice, emphasizing the dire need for reform in investigative methods and accountability within law enforcement agencies.
As the lawsuit progresses, it may prompt further scrutiny into the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office’s protocols and the handling of information in criminal investigations. The outcomes of such legal actions may not only impact Dixon’s life but also contribute to a broader discussion about the importance of accuracy and justice within the legal system.
FAQ
What charges was Ty’Ran Dixon wrongfully imprisoned for?
Ty’Ran Dixon was wrongfully imprisoned for the murder of Jasmine Roach, although he did not commit the crime.
How long did Ty’Ran Dixon spend in jail?
Ty’Ran Dixon spent 67 days incarcerated following his wrongful arrest.
Who is the actual suspect in the murder case?
The actual suspect identified in the case is Ty’Ren Dickson.
What does the lawsuit claim about the investigation?
The lawsuit claims that there were significant failures in the investigation that led to Dixon’s wrongful arrest, and it describes the situation as a “miscarriage of justice.”
Have the authorities responded to the allegations?
The Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office has denied the allegations in a separate state lawsuit but has not publicly addressed the recent federal complaint.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Ty’Ran Dixon |
| Duration of Imprisonment | 67 days |
| Murder Victim | Jasmine Roach |
| Actual Suspect | Ty’Ren Dickson |
| Investigation Failures | Lack of immediate action following suspect identification |
| Nature of Lawsuit | Federal civil rights lawsuit |
| Description of Injustice | Claims of a “miscarriage of justice” |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Newberry College Player Files Civil Rights Lawsuit
Former Football Player Sues for Wrongful Imprisonment
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
- WIS TV: Former Newberry College football player files second lawsuit over wrongful arrest
- On3: Newberry College football player Mycheal Edwards Wallace killed in shooting
- Newberry Observer: Newberry College Hall of Fame spotlight honors Blake Mayes
- The State: NFL news related to Newberry College
- 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.
