NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – A Charleston County jury has found Kenneth Dawson guilty of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Olivia Goff, in 2020. After deliberating for approximately two hours, the jury convicted Dawson on charges of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime in connection with the fatal stabbing of 35-year-old Goff.
The incident occurred on June 13, 2020, when Goff was fatally stabbed on Bennet Yard Road in North Charleston. Witnesses testified that Goff’s last words were, “Auntie Debra, Kenny stabbed me.” Dawson, a former partner of Goff, was accused of ambushing her on her way to the bus stop after spending the day searching for her.
During the trial, the prosecution argued that Dawson was motivated by jealousy, citing his obsessive behavior and the violent nature of the attack, which involved a knife wound to Goff’s heart. They painted Dawson as a man determined to confront Goff after she had moved on to a new relationship.
Dawson, however, testified in his own defense, claiming the stabbing was an accident. He asserted that Goff’s new boyfriend had provoked him, and during an altercation, he accidentally inflicted the fatal wound while attempting to defend himself. He also stated that he had been receiving threatening phone calls from Goff’s new boyfriend, but phone records showed no such calls.
The defense further argued that Dawson was acting in self-defense and that the stabbing occurred in a moment of confusion. However, the prosecution presented a recorded confession from Dawson, in which he admitted to the murder, stating that Goff “deserved it” because of her new relationship.
Goff’s family members were present in court throughout the trial and testified to the emotional toll Goff’s death had on them. During closing arguments, family members had a visceral reaction to the defense’s claims, with many shaking their heads and visibly distressed.
Following the verdict, victim impact statements were read, detailing the deep sorrow Goff’s family has experienced since her death. In their statement, they described how her loss has forever altered their lives, and they called for Dawson to receive life without the possibility of parole, emphasizing the justice that would bring.
The prosecution also revealed Dawson’s criminal history, which includes multiple domestic violence convictions and a prior charge for child assault. Dawson had spent eight years in Florida prison for the latter crime.
During the sentencing phase, Dawson expressed regret for his actions, speaking about his desire to be a good father to his children. However, the judge, Frank Addy, condemned Dawson’s actions, saying, “To describe you as a wife-beater and a serial abuser of women is perhaps an understatement.” Judge Addy sentenced Dawson to life in prison without the possibility of parole, making it clear that justice had been served.
Dawson’s conviction and life sentence bring some measure of closure to Olivia Goff’s family, but her loss will be felt for the rest of their lives.
