Florence County, South Carolina – A Florence County investigation into stolen copper wire that allegedly knocked out internet service near Johnsonville has led to a second arrest, months after investigators say about $50,000 worth of cable was taken from a provider.
The case stretches back to July, but Florence County Sheriff’s Office investigators say the latest arrest came Sept. 14, when 31-year-old Megan Rae Powell of Johnsonville was taken into custody on a long list of charges tied to the alleged theft, transportation and sale of nonferrous metal.
According to investigators, Powell is accused of cutting copper wires belonging to Frontier Internet on or about July 8, 2026, near Johnsonville. Authorities allege the stolen material was later sold to a metal recycler in Hemingway.
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Investigators said the incident did more than result in the loss of valuable copper. The damaged lines allegedly disrupted internet service for Frontier customers in the area. The Florence County Sheriff’s Office estimated the value of the stolen wire at approximately $50,000.
Powell, of 601 Macks Lake Road, was charged with one count of Obtaining Nonferrous Metals/Disrupting Critical Infrastructure under South Carolina law.
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She also faces five counts of Transportation or Possession of Stolen Nonferrous Metals, five counts of Unlawful Sale of Nonferrous Metals and six counts of Injury to Real Property to Obtain Nonferrous Metals.
Powell was being held at the Florence County Detention Center while awaiting a bond hearing, according to the Sheriff’s Office. Additional booking information is available through the FCSO Booking Website.
Her arrest is the second announced in connection with the investigation.
Authorities previously arrested 43-year-old Shawn Chapman Stone on July 16, 2026, on similar charges. Stone is also being held at the Florence County Detention Center.
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The charges against Powell and Stone are allegations. The case remains part of the Sheriff’s Office investigation into the theft of copper wiring and the resulting disruption to internet infrastructure in the Johnsonville area.
