Savannah man sentenced to 28 years for Lexington County sexual assault of minor case, says Solicitor’s Office

Michael Shawn Copson, 37, of Savannah was sentenced to two consecutive sentences of 14 years which totals 28 years in the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC).

Photo: Eleventh Circuit Solicitor’s Office

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– According to the Eleventh Circuit Solicitor’s Office, a man has pled guilty to two counts of criminal sexual conduct with a minor.

Michael Shawn Copson, 37, of Savannah was sentenced to two consecutive sentences of 14 years which totals 28 years in the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC).

Investigators say in March 2022, it was discovered that Copson who was 35 at the time had been consistently traveling from Savannah, Georgia to a Lexington County home to visit acquaintances.

During that time Copson began a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old which lasted for about 9 months before the relationship was discovered and reported, say investigators.

Copson admitted to having illegal sexual contact with the minor during an interview with investigators.

The investigation determined there were multiple occasions in which Copson purchased inappropriate gifts for the minor, intimidated her, and attempted to isolate her from her family.

Copson was held at the Lexington County Detention Center since he was extradited from Georgia on November 11, 2022.  He will be transferred to SCDC to serve his sentence.