News Summary
In one of his final acts as President, Joe Biden granted a pardon to E.W. Cromartie, a former city council member from Columbia, SC. Cromartie, who dedicated over 25 years to public service, navigated a controversial political career, including a legal battle that resulted in prison time for tax evasion. His commitment to community development and activism has left a lasting impact, and the pardon opens a new chapter for this influential figure in local politics.
Columbia Buzzed as Biden Pardons Local Political Icon E.W. Cromartie
The sun was setting on President Joe Biden’s administration when he made headlines with a last-minute act that had many in Columbia, South Carolina, talking. Among his final acts in office, President Biden granted a pardon to E.W. Cromartie, a former city council member who played a significant role in local politics for over 25 years.
A Colorful Political Career
Ernest William “E.W.” Cromartie isn’t just a name in Columbia—he is a symbol of commitment to public service and what it means to be a dedicated community leader. Cromartie began his political career back in 1983, quickly becoming one of the first African-Americans elected to the Columbia City Council. His tenure was marked by a strong bond with the community, often likened to an “old-fashioned political machine” due to his ability to connect with constituents.
During his time in office, Cromartie was a driving force in a number of improvements around downtown Columbia. His work included not just fundamental infrastructure updates, like new sewer lines, but also the establishment of community resources such as the Drew Wellness Center. His commitment was hard to overlook, as he was known to tackle local issues head-on and to respond personally to calls from citizens.
Controversy Strikes
However, Cromartie’s political journey hit a significant bump in the road when he found himself in legal trouble. In 2010, the councilman pleaded guilty to tax evasion and structuring payments to avoid federal reporting requirements. Over the course of the proceedings, it was revealed that he failed to pay over $25,000 in federal income taxes and made substantial cash deposits just under the IRS reporting thresholds—more than $200,000 to be precise. This led to a federal prison sentence of 366 days, with Cromartie serving nine months behind bars before being released.
His conviction led to the surrender of his South Carolina law license and drew criticism, overshadowing much of his political legacy. Advocates, however, defended his record in public service, vowing that Cromartie’s contributions to Columbia couldn’t be easily dismissed.
A Community’s Voice
Cromartie’s attorney, I.S. Leevy Johnson, stood by the former councilman during the difficult years following his conviction. Johnson emphasized that Cromartie had been a valuable asset to the community and worked tirelessly for its betterment. Over the years, many notable community members and local leaders rallied to support Cromartie. They penned letters that highlighted his dedicated service and influence, seeking vindication for a man they believed had made a significant difference in the lives of many.
Despite his past mistakes, the narrative did not forget to mention how Cromartie owned a network that included professionals, community leaders, and everyday citizens, demonstrating his influence across Columbia. Even a former judge said that Cromartie’s positive impacts outweighed his criminal actions.
The Pardon Dynamics
Receiving a pardon from the President is no small feat, and it seems that Cromartie’s persistence in seeking one has finally paid off. It was reported that he sought this second chance for several years. During sentencing, Cromartie accepted responsibility for his actions and admitted to having mishandled his personal and financial affairs alongside his public duties. Many of his closest friends believed that such struggles contributed to his legal issues.
Now, with the presidential pardon under his belt, the city of Columbia may see a renewed chapter in E.W. Cromartie’s life. As he moves forward, his previous accolades in public service could perhaps pave the way for a redemption story that resonates across the community that has known him for so long. Columbia waits to see what’s next for this beloved son of the city.
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Additional Resources
- WACH: Biden Pardons Former Columbia Councilman Cromartie
- Wikipedia: E.W. Cromartie
- The State: Local Crime News
- Google Search: E.W. Cromartie
- WIS TV: Former Councilman Cromartie Hopes to Avoid Disbarment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Politics in South Carolina
- The State: Latest News Updates
- Google News: Columbia South Carolina News
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