Sentencing and Trial Dates Set in North Charleston Federal Corruption Probe

Court dates are set for Tory Fields and Aaron Hicks, while Rose Emily Lorenzo prepares for a July trial in the North Charleston federal corruption probe.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 17, 2026, 6:58 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from ABC News 4 (WCIV)

Sentencing for Cooperative Defendants

As the federal investigation reaches its judicial phase, sentencing dates have been finalized for two of the seven defendants who previously pleaded guilty. Hason "Tory" Fields is scheduled for sentencing on April 3, 2026, followed by Aaron Hicks on April 15. These proceedings are expected to provide further insight into the depth of the conspiracy, which reportedly involved the misappropriation of federal funds and honest services wire fraud. Court dates for the remaining five defendants who pleaded guilty have yet to be determined by the district court.

The Case Against Rose Emily Lorenzo

The most significant development in the probe involves Rose Emily Lorenzo, the sole defendant to plead not guilty to all charges. Lorenzo’s pretrial hearing is now set for July 2, 2026, with jury selection beginning on July 6. Originally charged in February 2025 with conspiracy to commit bribery, theft involving federal funds, and money laundering, Lorenzo’s legal situation intensified following a secondary indictment. Federal prosecutors added charges of providing false statements to the FBI, falsifying records, and obstruction of a federal investigation, alleging that she actively impeded the probe.

Scope of the FBI Investigation

The North Charleston corruption case has drawn national attention due to the involvement of multiple former elected officials and the alleged misuse of public resources. The FBI investigation has focused on a complex web of financial transactions intended to facilitate bribes and hide the movement of illicit funds. The announcement of these court dates marks a critical step toward resolving a scandal that has clouded the city's administration for over a year.