David “Dave” Johnston, a Charleston-based attorney formerly with George Sink P.A., a personal injury law firm, is facing federal charges related to the January 6 Capitol riot. On Tuesday, Johnston announced his intention to contest these charges, disclosing that his employment had been terminated by George Sink’s firm immediately after his court appearance. The 69-year-old Johnston, known for representing motorcycle accident clients, commented through his attorney, Randy Hough, that his law license is voluntarily suspended as he awaits trial. “I have willingly agreed to have my law license suspended by the Office of Disciplinary Counsel,” Johnston said, explaining that his suspension ensures the South Carolina Bar isn’t pressured by the “politically sensitive” nature of the case.
Johnston and his associate, Chadwick “Chad” Gordon Clifton, 47, were arrested by the FBI on Friday and now face several federal misdemeanor charges, including entering and remaining in a restricted area and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds. Evidence against the two includes photographs and cellphone records documenting their presence inside the Capitol building during the January 6 events. Following their arrests, both men were released on $25,000 unsecured bonds.
The charges against Johnston and Clifton do not include more serious allegations such as vandalism or resisting law enforcement. However, they still face significant legal challenges, particularly due to South Carolina’s law licensing requirements. Lawyers in the state are required to take an oath to “preserve, protect, and defend” both the South Carolina and U.S. Constitutions—a commitment that will likely play a role in Johnston’s defense.
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Johnston’s departure from George Sink P.A., a prominent personal injury firm with multiple offices across South Carolina, marks a high-profile exit for a firm well-known for its extensive advertising in the state. George Sink and his firm have not yet responded to multiple requests for comment, and Johnston’s profile has since been removed from the firm’s website. The removal comes amid growing scrutiny over Johnston’s involvement in the January 6 events, where Trump supporters attempted to prevent Congress from certifying President Joe Biden's election victory.
As Johnston’s case unfolds, it places him among the 16 South Carolina residents charged in connection with the January 6 incident, joining a range of others, from a Citadel cadet to a truck driver. Nationally, the U.S. Justice Department has pursued charges against over 800 individuals in relation to the riots, marking it as the department’s largest-ever investigation.
In his statement, Johnston emphasized his eagerness to present his case in court, maintaining his plea of not guilty and expressing regret that his role in the Capitol events is impacting his career. For the legal community in South Carolina, Johnston’s case raises complex issues about the professional and ethical obligations of attorneys, particularly in politically sensitive cases.
