Columbia, South Carolina, September 25, 2025
News Summary
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit has reversed a lower court’s denial of compassionate release for Demario Covington, a South Carolina man serving a 35-year sentence for drug conspiracy. Covington will have his case reconsidered by the U.S. District Court after the appeals court found that his arguments for early release were inadequately evaluated. The ruling emphasizes the need to reassess Covington’s circumstances in light of recent changes to federal sentencing laws influenced by the First Step Act.
Columbia, South Carolina – Federal Appeals Court Overturns Denial of Compassionate Release for Demario Covington
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit has reversed a lower court’s decision to deny compassionate release for Demario Covington, a 47-year-old man from South Carolina serving a lengthy prison sentence for his involvement in a drug conspiracy. Covington’s case will now return to the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina in Florence for reconsideration, following the appeals court’s ruling that the lower court inadequately evaluated his arguments for early release.
Serving a 35-year sentence, Covington has spent 12 years so far incarcerated due to his conviction for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine. In May 2012, he pleaded guilty to leading a drug trafficking organization that operated from 1997 until 2011. His case involved over 5 kilograms of powder cocaine and 280 grams of crack cocaine, which resulted in a significant prison term.
In its decision, the appeals court noted that Covington’s arguments, particularly those presented in his second compassionate release motion, were not sufficiently addressed by the district court. The comprehensive nature of these arguments included claims that his sentence was grossly disproportionate compared to what he might face if he were convicted under current federal sentencing guidelines. Moreover, Covington cited personal family circumstances, hardships exacerbated by COVID-19 within the prison system, and his rehabilitation efforts during his incarceration as additional grounds for his request.
The appeals court’s ruling follows substantial changes in federal drug sentencing laws, particularly influenced by the First Step Act of 2018, which aimed to reduce sentences for certain drug offenses and address the inequities inherent in previous sentencing practices. This evolving legal landscape has prompted an increase in compassionate release motions as inmates seek to have their sentences reconsidered based on their personal circumstances and the contemporary understanding of drug-related offenses.
While the appeals court did not make a ruling on the merits of Covington’s compassionate release request, it stressed the need for a detailed examination of his circumstances under current legal standards. Ultimately, should Covington be granted compassionate release, he would be subject to 10 years of supervised release, which would involve conditions such as continuing substance abuse treatment and regular drug testing.
This recent development highlights a broader trend in the judicial system, where federal inmates increasingly pursue early release options in light of more humane and equitable sentencing practices. As courts grapple with the implications of these reforms, cases like Covington’s remain in the spotlight, illustrating the ongoing discourse on justice and rehabilitation within the prison system.
Key Background Information
Demario Covington’s conviction stems from his leadership role in a drug trafficking organization that operated for nearly 14 years. His lengthy sentence reflects a time when federal sentencing for drug offenses was substantially harsher. The transformative changes initiated by legislation like the First Step Act are reshaping how courts view these cases now, highlighting instances of overly severe sentencing based on past legal frameworks.
As courts continue to adapt, Covington’s case serves as a significant marker of the evolving judicial landscape regarding compassionate release motions.
FAQ Section
What is compassionate release?
Compassionate release is a legal process that allows incarcerated individuals to be released early due to extraordinary circumstances, such as serious health issues, family emergencies, or significant changes in laws that may affect their sentence.
Who is Demario Covington?
Demario Covington is a 47-year-old man from South Carolina who is currently serving a 35-year prison sentence for his role as a leader in a drug trafficking organization. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine in 2012.
What did the appeals court decide in Covington’s case?
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit overturned a lower court’s denial of Covington’s second compassionate release motion, indicating that the district court failed to sufficiently consider his arguments for early release.
What factors influenced the appeals court’s ruling?
The appeals court took into account significant changes in federal sentencing laws due to the First Step Act of 2018 and emphasized that the district court did not adequately analyze Covington’s claims regarding sentence disparity and rehabilitation efforts.
What happens next for Covington?
His case will be sent back to the U.S. District Court for further consideration, where the court will need to review Covington’s compassionate release request in light of current legal standards.
Chart: Key Features of Demario Covington’s Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Demario Covington |
| Age | 47 years |
| Sentence Length | 35 years (420 months) |
| Years Served | 12 years |
| Conviction Date | May 2012 |
| Crimes Involved | Conspiracy to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine |
| Major Arguments for Release | Sentence disparity, family circumstances, COVID-19 conditions, rehabilitation efforts |
| Supervised Release Requirement | 10 years with conditions |
| Next Steps | Reconsideration by U.S. District Court |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WCNC: SC Man Wins Compassionate Release Appeal
- CNY Central: Convicted Bank Robbery Killer Asks Court for Compassionate Release
- WMBF News: Man Spared Death Sentence Asks for Compassionate Release
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Compassionate Release
- Fox News: Convicted South Carolina Bank Killer Asks for Compassionate Release
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence 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 Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
