
Hampton County
Hampton County Man Convicted of Murder in Broad Daylight Shooting
HAMPTON, S.C. — It’s not what you think. Hampton man convicted of murder. You’re probably looking to see another Alex Murdaugh article from us. A 25-year-old Brunson man has been found guilty of murder in the broad daylight shooting of an acquaintance, marking another chapter in Hampton County’s ongoing struggle with violent crime.
Trampas Adam Prater was convicted Wednesday of murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime in the May 26, 2022, killing of 26-year-old Stuart Miller of Ravenel. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole.
“This defendant brazenly and wantonly killed a man and then threatened to do the same to others,” said Reed Evans of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, who prosecuted the case. “He is done terrorizing this community. Justice was served in Hampton County.”

A Chilling Crime
Witnesses testified that Prater, described as having a “crazy look in his eye,” threatened Miller while the two were in the backyard of a Belle Lane home in Varnville. Gunfire rang out, and three witnesses reported hearing the shots. One stated they saw Prater pointing a gun at Miller before fleeing the scene, warning nearby people that anyone who “snitched would be next.”
Miller’s lifeless body was discovered by a neighbor who called 911. Investigators from local law enforcement and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division found a .40-caliber casing near the body.
The three-day trial saw Evans call 10 witnesses, and the jury returned a guilty verdict after 90 minutes of deliberation. Circuit Court Judge Carmen T. Mullen sentenced Prater to life imprisonment.
A Troubling Pattern of Violence in Hampton County
Hampton County has faced rising levels of violence in recent years, with firearm-related homicides and assaults becoming increasingly prevalent. According to data from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), Hampton County’s violent crime rate stands at 690 incidents per 100,000 people, significantly higher than the state average of 500 per 100,000 people. The county has reported a 15% increase in violent crimes over the past five years, driven largely by shootings and gang-related activities.
In 2023 alone, Hampton County recorded 18 homicides, placing it among the highest per capita in the state. Firearms are the leading weapon of choice in these crimes, accounting for 78% of violent incidents.
Prater’s criminal record reflects this trend. He had a prior conviction in 2021 for unlawful carry of a firearm, part of a broader issue with repeat offenders in the county.
Career Criminal Unit Secures Justice
Evans is a member of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office Career Criminal Unit, which focuses on the circuit’s most violent and habitual offenders. Since its formation in 2009, the unit has prosecuted 553 defendants, securing convictions in 503 cases and earning 64 life sentences.
“Repeat offenders like Prater are the reason this unit exists,” Evans said. “By removing individuals like him from the streets, we aim to restore safety and security to our communities.”
A Community on Edge
Hampton County residents continue to grapple with the impact of violent crime, which has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. Local leaders and law enforcement agencies are calling for increased resources, community engagement, and stricter gun control measures to curb the violence.
“This case highlights both the challenges we face and the importance of holding violent offenders accountable,” Evans said.
As Hampton County seeks solutions, Prater’s conviction represents a moment of justice in a community desperate for change.
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