Kershaw County’s “Screw Bandit” receives probation, ordered to repay 41 victims
April 13, 2026
On April 2, Michael David Branham pleaded guilty to stalking, malicious injury to personal property over $10,000, and breach of peace – aggravated in nature. The Honorable Heath Taylor sentenced Branham to five years in a South Carolina Department of Corrections facility, suspended on probation for five years, with the requirement that he repay $14,965.59 in restitution to 41 victims.
From July 30, 2025, through Jan. 25, the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office received dozens of reports of screws and nails placed along Watts Hill Road and Donna Drive, Elgin. These fasteners caused dozens of flat tires and forced residents to take longer detours to avoid the areas.
Investigators found reports documenting Branham’s history of harassing his ex-girlfriend, who lived in the area. Law enforcement tracked Branham’s phone, placing him at the locations where the screws and nails were found.
KCSO investigators later discovered that Branham worked as an electrician and had access to the types of hardware located. Branham admitted to placing screws and other sharp objects on roadways he knew his ex-girlfriend regularly traveled on, hoping to flatten her tires.
The Fifth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office prosecuted the case. Assistant Solicitor Michael Bradbury represented the State, and KCSO Investigator Michael Davidson led the investigation.