A South Carolina case that shocked communities across the country is drawing renewed outrage after details resurfaced about a former radio DJ who received a significantly reduced prison sentence despite allegations involving hundreds of underage girls.
The Case Against DJ Kidd
Jason Roger Pope, a 46-year-old from South Carolina known professionally as DJ Kidd, pleaded guilty in August 2023 to 13 felony charges. Those convictions included five counts of trafficking a minor, five counts of criminal conduct with a minor, and three additional criminal conduct charges.
Prosecutors stated that Pope targeted and exploited nearly 700 underage Black girls between 2017 and 2019. They also alleged he knowingly exposed at least one victim to HIV.
The Sentence That Sparked Outrage
Although prosecutors pushed for a harsher punishment, a judge suspended part of Pope's 30-year sentence and ordered him to serve 19 years in prison. Upon release, he must register as an offender, remain under close supervision for at least five years, and have no contact with any victim.
Many in the community expected the maximum penalty given the scale of the allegations. The reduced sentence has been widely criticized as insufficient.
How He Operated
Authorities say Pope used his status as a local DJ to gain access to teenagers through dance parties, social media promotions, and direct messaging. He allegedly leveraged his local celebrity status to build trust before recruiting victims into exploitative situations.
According to court records, one underage girl was approached through social media and later confined inside a home in Darlington, South Carolina. Investigators said Pope used threats, manipulation, and blackmail to maintain control. Several victims also accused him of supplying substances and money.
Years Of Delays
The case experienced repeated delays spanning nearly four years. Pope underwent mental health evaluations after his defense argued he was not competent to stand trial, citing an autism diagnosis. Prosecutors challenged that and presented their own expert who determined Pope was competent. Before trial could begin, Pope entered a guilty plea.
Investigators noted that Pope's interactions with law enforcement involving young girls dated back to 2011.
Bottom Line
693 alleged victims. 13 felony convictions. 19 years. The numbers tell a story that many feel reflects a system that failed to deliver proportional justice for hundreds of young Black girls in South Carolina.
