Sumter man charged after violating state’s Roadway Protection Act; 1st use of law by Sumter police since enacted in May 2026

A local man turned himself in to authorities after he reportedly organized a “street takeover” in August. 

According to Tonyia McGirt, public information officer for Sumter Police Department, Eric Olander Johnson, 35, was charged for organizing and promoting a street party held along Atlantic Avenue on Aug. 27. 

Johnson was booked at Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center. An investigation is ongoing. 

This violation is the first for Sumter Police Department since South Carolina enacted the Roadway Protection Act in May 2026, McGirt told The Item. 

The law defines street takeovers as the unauthorized, deliberate and coordinated obstruction of public roadways, highways, intersections, parking lots or other public areas for illegal vehicle exhibitions, including burnouts, drifting, doughnuts, speed contests, stunts, wheelies or other reckless driving maneuvers disregard safety. 

These gatherings are often organized without proper permits in violation with local ordinances. 

Organizers, promoters and participants can face misdemeanor to felony charges for their involvement and can be sentenced to hefty fines or imprisonment, if convicted. 

The act also allows law enforcement to seize the vehicles involved. 

Sumter Police Department asks that residents and visitors take steps before deciding whether to attend a social gathering advertised  through social media:

◼ Do some research before you, your tween or teen go. Who is the organizer? Is the event permitted? Is security provided and are they state certified? Ask any question and consider all factors that could have a bearing on your personal safety.

◼ Parents are encouraged to keep up with what your kids are doing and where they’re going. Ask the tough questions and act accordingly to keep them safe and away from trouble.

◼ Teens and young adults are encouraged to let a trusted adult or responsible peer know their plans, who you may be with, where and contact information.

◼ Always have a safety plan or exit strategy.

◼ If something doesn’t seem right, call law enforcement to check it out and  always dial 9-1-1 should an emergency arise.

If you are planning an event, please be aware that “all events on city property,  parks, rights-of-way, streets, sidewalks, etc. must be preapproved a minimum of 12 weeks in advance."

A special events application can be found on the city’s website at: https://www.sumtersc.gov/tourism/things-do/festivals-events/city-sumter-specialevent-application.

For questions, concerns or to report unauthorized/suspicious activity within the city limits, visit Sumter Police Department at 335 N. Lafayette Drive or call (803) 436-2700.