Logan Federico: What Happened at USC and Why Her Case Is Back in Focus

Logan Federico, 22, was shot and killed on May 3 in Columbia, South Carolina. Police say a repeat offender, Alexander Devonte Dickey, broke into a home near the University of South Carolina. Her father’s testimony at a Sept. 29 field hearing in Charlotte has renewed national attention.

The grieving father condemned “lax policies” that kept a “career criminal” on the streets. Lawmakers heard details about Dickey’s long record and short stints in jail. The hearing centered on rising violent crime and repeat offenders.

Key Details: Logan Federico Case Timeline and Charges

According to investigators, Logan was visiting friends near USC on May 3 when an armed intruder entered the residence on Cypress Street. The suspect, identified by authorities as 30-year-old Alexander Devonte Dickey, allegedly committed multiple break-ins that night. He is accused of stealing car keys and a firearm before entering the home where Logan was sleeping.

Logan was fatally shot inside the residence. Police quickly circulated information about a suspect tied to several offenses, including vehicle theft. On May 4, officers and deputies took Dickey into custody after a separate break-in and house standoff in the Gaston area. Investigators also connected him with subsequent financial-card theft and spending.

Records referenced at the hearing describe a long arrest history for Dickey across the last decade. The father said Dickey had been arrested dozens of times, including for felonies, while serving relatively short periods behind bars. In 2023, Dickey pleaded guilty to third-degree burglary and received a five-year sentence with more than 400 days credited; probation was later shortened for compliance, according to the case summary described at the hearing.

Dickey now faces a full slate of charges, including murder, two counts of first-degree burglary, multiple weapons offenses, grand larceny and financial transaction card theft. Prosecutors have not announced a trial date. The case remains active, and the presumption of innocence applies unless and until guilt is proven in court.

The father’s testimony in Charlotte brought these details into the national conversation. He described the crime, the alleged suspect’s history, and his family’s ongoing pain. Lawmakers and witnesses debated sentencing, probation, and how to manage chronic repeat offending.

Broader Impact: Repeat Offenders, Sentencing, and Public Safety

The hearing spotlighted a wider policy debate. How should courts handle defendants with long arrest records and multiple convictions? Officials discussed sentencing consistency, probation terms, and early release policies. Victims’ families urged tougher measures for those deemed high-risk.

Campus-adjacent safety also came up. Communities with large student populations are pushing for stronger coordination between campus police, city departments, and county agencies. The case is shaping local conversations about lighting, security alerts, and rental-home safety plans.

The story of Logan Federico resonates beyond one city. Her father’s message was simple and direct: protect communities from violent, repeat offenders. The case against Alexander Dickey will move through court. The policy debate that Logan’s death reignited will continue nationwide.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Logan Federico?

She was shot and killed on May 3 in a home near the University of South Carolina in Columbia. A 30-year-old suspect, Alexander Devonte Dickey, was later arrested. The case is active.

Q2: Who is the suspect in the case?

Authorities identified the suspect as Alexander Devonte Dickey. He faces murder, burglary, weapons, larceny, and financial-card theft charges. He remains innocent until proven guilty.

Q3: Why is the case back in the news?

Logan’s father testified at a House Judiciary field hearing in Charlotte on Sept. 29. His remarks focused on repeat offenders and public safety policies.

Q4: What are officials debating now?

Sentencing for repeat offenders, probation supervision, and pretrial decisions. Campus-area safety measures and agency coordination are also part of the discussion.

Q5: What happens next in court?

Prosecutors will proceed with the charges. A trial schedule and motions will follow. Updates will come from the court and law enforcement.

References

U.S. House Judiciary Subcommittee on Oversight. (2025). Field Hearing on Violent Crime and Repeat Offenders, Charlotte, North Carolina — September 29, 2025.

Columbia Police Department (South Carolina). (2025). Arrest announcement and case updates related to the May 3 Cypress Street homicide — May 4, 2025.

Lexington County Sheriff’s Department (South Carolina). (2025). Incident summary and custody information regarding Alexander Devonte Dickey — May 4, 2025.