Florence man sentenced to 15 years for Hartsville Armed Robbery

Derick Je-Vard George, age 50 of Florence, SC, pled guilty to Armed Robbery and Possession of a Weapon During the Commission of a Violent Crime on Monday, March 17, 2025 just before his trial was scheduled to begin in Darlington County General Sessions Court. The charges stemmed from a September 1, 2022 incident where George robbed the Refuel Convenience Store located on N. Fifth Street in Hartsville, SC. Judge Brian Gibbons sentenced the defendant to 15 years incarceration. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Solicitor Patti Parker.

During the plea, the state presented information that George entered the store around 1:30 am and demanded money. The clerk saw a firearm tucked into the defendant’s waistband. The clerk was able to provide law enforcement with a description of George, his clothing, and the vehicle he traveled in. Later, the clerk picked George from a photo lineup.

“The victim kept her cool and was able to provide law enforcement with the information necessary to identify the defendant,” said Deputy Solicitor Parker. “Her quick thinking made this prosecution possible.”

After the plea, Solicitor Mike Burch thanked law enforcement for their investigation and assistance with the trial preparation. “Hartsville PD’s actions in apprehending this violent criminal has allowed us to put Derick George where he belongs, behind bars,” said Burch. “I am glad he is off the streets of Darlington County.”

Armed Robbery is classified as a violent and most serious crime and George will have to serve 85% of his sentence before he is eligible for any release. The sentence will be served in a facility to be determined by the South Carolina Department of Corrections.