When Fraud Allegations and Refund Disputes Affect Organized Metal Detecting Hunts

Reports Surrounding Organized Metal Detecting Events Raise Broader Concerns

Metal detecting is a hobby built on trust, shared history, and a strong sense of community—particularly when it comes to organized hunts commonly referred to as seeded hunts or natural hunts. From large organized beach hunts, to relic field hunts, participants often travel across state lines and pay pricey upfront fees to attend the events, relying on the representations of organizers.

Over the past several years, a growing number of metal detectorists from multiple states have publicly expressed concerns related to certain organized detecting events and the individuals or groups responsible for organizing them. These concerns have been shared through social media discussions, community forums, and direct participant communications reviewed by Focus Speed as part of this investigation.

According to statements provided by participants, some individuals report that payments were accepted for events that were later canceled or repeatedly postponed. Several participants allege that refunds were not issued within the timeframes they state were promised or expected. Some participants report receiving partial refunds or full refunds, while others state they are still awaiting reimbursement as of the time of publication. These accounts reflect participant statements and have not been independently verified through legal proceedings.

What Metal Detecting Participants Are Reporting

Several individuals in the metal detecting hobby have publicly raised concerns about organized metal detecting events. Participant statements have included claims involving:

• Payments were made for metal detecting hunts that allegedly did not occur
• Repeated event rescheduling followed by cancellations
• Limited or no communication after payment was submitted
• Public statements indicate refunds were promised. Participant reports suggest some refunds were issued, while others remain outstanding based on individual accounts.

Some participants state they possess documentation such as electronic payment confirmations, canceled checks, and written correspondence. A small sample of supporting documentation (screenshots) is provided below. These statements reflect participant accounts.

Who Is South Carolina Dirt Diggers?

Publicly available online activity suggests that a group operating under the name “South Carolina Dirt Diggers” began appearing in metal detecting community discussions around August 2015. The group currently maintains a large Facebook presence with approximately 5,900 members, where metal detecting events and related activities have been promoted.

However, a review of publicly accessible government business registration records raises questions regarding the group’s formal legal status. As of January 30, 2026, a search of the South Carolina Secretary of State’s Business Name Database did not identify a registered business entity operating under the name “South Carolina Dirt Diggers.” Additionally, a review of the South Carolina charitable and nonprofit registries did not identify a nonprofit organization using that name. Additional searches were conducted in several commonly used business registration jurisdictions, including Delaware and Nevada, which also did not show a corresponding registered entity under that name as of the same date.

Screenshots documenting these database search results are included below for transparency and verification of the publicly available records reviewed during this investigation.

It is possible that the name “South Carolina Dirt Diggers” operates as a “doing business as” (DBA) designation or informal group name that may not appear in publicly searchable business registries. Focus Speed did not locate records confirming or disproving the existence of a DBA filing under that name at the time of publication, and the absence of such records does not necessarily indicate whether the name is or is not legally registered through other channels.

As part of the research to write this article, participants voluntarily provided screenshots of payment transactions related to certain event(s) registrations and or were public posts on social media. According to the materials submitted by participants or found online, payments appear to have been directed through digital payment platforms, including Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App. The screenshots provided by participants show transactions associated with the phone number 864-321-5682 and the name Kandi Chilson as displayed within those payment platforms at the time the transactions were recorded.

These screenshots are included below for documentation purposes and reflect participant-submitted materials showing how payments were reportedly processed. The available documentation does not independently confirm how the referenced payment accounts are structured, whether they are associated with a registered business entity, nonprofit organization, or personal account, or who ultimately controlled or administered the accounts at the time the transactions occurred. Focus Speed is presenting this information solely as part of the documented participant accounts and has not made any determination regarding ownership, legal status, or liability connected to the referenced payment methods.

Publicly Documented Coverage and Previously Reported Successful Events Associated With South Carolina Dirt Diggers

South Carolina Dirt Diggers has been referenced in multiple regional media outlets over the past decade, often in connection with organized metal detecting events and club activities.

In April 2021, Grand Strand Lifestyle Magazine published a feature titled “Can You Dig It” The article describes participation in a hunt organized by South Carolina Dirt Diggers and includes the following captioned account:

“I accompanied Jerdon to the Lowcountry to join around 60 other hunters, all members of the South Carolina Dirt Diggers, a club boasting some 200 members from all over the U.S. They each paid $150 for the privilege of hunting on hundreds of acres in rural Jasper County, southwest of Charleston, just north of Beaufort and the Georgia state line. The deal they struck with the landowner, not uncommon in the hobby, is one where the lion’s share of the entry fee goes to the landowner, and anything found by any individual hunter is theirs to keep.”

Additional coverage appears in a News19 (WLTX) article titled “I was hooked.’ SC treasure hunters find hidden secrets in the ground”, published May 12, 2022. The article states in its second paragraph:

“Kandi Cochran Ready of Ninety-Six runs the Facebook group SC Diggers, a metal detecting club, which means she is not just well-versed in the hobby, but is instrumental in setting up hunts for the group.”

An earlier profile published by Lexington Life titled “Metal Detectorists on the Hunt” (no publication date listed) references the origins of the group and Kandi’s involvement, stating:

“Back in 2015, she and others developed the South Carolina Dirt Diggers page on Facebook. It began as a way for a few local diggers to share their finds, but today there are over 5,400 members both statewide and across the country. Before the pandemic, the group met monthly at the Flight Deck Restaurant in Lexington. Now their sessions are announced when scheduled on their Facebook page.”

Further mention appears in The Clarion Newspaper article titled “Steward to Speak at Historical Association” on January 21, 2026:

The article references a significant find—a button cast to commemorate the inauguration of President George Washington—discovered during a dig hosted by South Carolina Dirt Diggers at a site associated with Revolutionary War activity in Shappells, South Carolina..

In South Carolina Living, an article titled “Buried Treasure”, published June 1, 2017, also references the group:
https://scliving.coop/sc-life/sc-life-features/buried-treasure/
The article quotes:

“The reason everyone loves digging in South Carolina is the vast array of relics dug here,” says Kandi Cochran-Ready, president of South Carolina Dirt Diggers club. “You have the Revolutionary War and an abundance of Civil War artifacts. With the Civil War starting in Charleston, that area is loaded with stuff.”

The same article describes Kandi’s role in organizing annual hunts, including securing landowner permissions and selecting locations based on historical research. It further outlines club information, listing statewide membership, annual hunts, and contact details.

“As club president, Cochran-Ready finds a site for the annual dig and secures permissions from the landowner. For this event, she’s leased the property from a hunt club.”

The article also references an organization, when they meet and contact information

South Carolina Dirt Diggers
LOCATION: Statewide membership
MEETINGS: Holds an annual hunt, location to be determined
INFO: Kandi Cochran-Ready, kready74@hotmail.com

Documented History of Organized Hunts Running As a Business Or Charity, but Tax Status Remains Unclear

Taken together, available published accounts indicate that metal detecting events, “organized hunts,” have been publicly associated with a group identified as South Carolina Dirt Diggers. Reports and promotional materials suggest that participation fees were collected for events, and the group has been referenced in various media outlets as a club or organized entity.

However, based on a review of publicly accessible business and charitable registration records as of January 30, 2026, no clearly identifiable registered business or nonprofit entity operating under the exact name South Carolina Dirt Diggers was located. This absence of readily verifiable registration records leaves unanswered questions regarding the group’s formal organizational structure, registration status, and which regulatory or tax frameworks, if any, may apply to events involving paid participation.

Documented Advance Event Payments, Subsequent Reschedules, and Hunt Cancellations

Multiple screenshots reviewed for this report appear to show payments submitted months in advance for scheduled metal detecting events. The transactions display completed payment status. These records document that payments were submitted; however, the screenshots alone do not establish intent, business structure, or wrongdoing.

Based on participant statements, group communications, and documentation reviewed, several events were identified by individuals who reported submitting payments but stated the events did not occur or were later described as canceled, postponed, or uncertain at the time of reporting. These events include:

• Charleston Hunt — April 18th to 20th, 2025, October 31 to November 1, 2025
• Estill Hunt — May 17 to 18th 2025, November 22 to 23, 2025
• Georgetown Hunt — May 31st to June 1st, 2025, December 13 to 14, 2025
• Louisiana Hunt — January 18 to 19, 2026 (Port Hudson location)
  

Representative screenshots of payments allegedly sent to Kandi Chilson for events that participants state were promoted with refund assurances.

Additional posts, messages, and group announcements reviewed indicate that some advertised hunts were later described as rescheduled or delayed. Communications reviewed reference a Charleston-area hunt being moved to a later fall date, an Estill-area hunt being postponed until later in the year, and a Louisiana hunt being described as uncertain or pending.

One group announcement reviewed states: “ALL HUNTS HAVE BEEN CANCELED OR POSTPONED UNTIL FALL.”

This language appears in dated group posts captured in screenshots reviewed for this report. Supporting documentation and screenshots are included for reference.

Refund Representations Then Changed

Multiple public and private communications reference refunds in the event of cancellations. These include:

• Statements indicating refunds would be issued if hunts did not occur
• Claims that refunds could take “up to six months.”
• Instructions such as:
  • “You will get your refund.”
  • “Message Wain Wright, and he will put you on a refund list.”

Example

In the two screenshots below, it shows on April 1,7 2025, that refunds would be issued, that everyone will get a refund, then on April 25th, it stated No Refunds will be issued

Communication After Refund Inquiries

In reviewing materials provided for this article, some individuals who say they paid to participate in hunts later reached out with questions about refunds. In a few of those cases, follow-up communication was no longer available through Facebook Messenger; they felt they were blocked. As shown in the screenshots below, Messenger displays the message “This person is unavailable on Messenger.” The screenshots reflect the status of the accounts at the time they were captured. The information reviewed does not indicate why the messaging status changed or whether it was the result of user settings, platform policies, or other factors.

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Participant Refund Requests

Available screenshots and participant communications indicate that multiple individuals reported submitting refund requests related to event participation. According to these communications, some participants stated they were unable to attend rescheduled event dates, submitted formal refund requests, and provided documentation such as receipts or payment confirmations to support their requests.

Several individuals also indicated that they did not receive responses for extended periods following their inquiries. These communications include a combination of public comments, private messages, and follow-up attempts reportedly sent weeks or, in some cases, months apart.

Taken collectively, these records reflect multiple reported refund inquiries submitted by participants, without drawing conclusions regarding intent, causation, or outcome.

Inconsistent or Evolving Explanations

A review of publicly available posts and shared communications indicates that a range of explanations were referenced over time in relation to reported delays. These explanations have included references to personal illness, landowner-related complications, a reported house fire that allegedly impacted records, statements indicating refunds were pending receipt from property owners, and references to records needing to be recovered or reconstructed at a later time.

These explanations appear to have been communicated at different points, and publicly available information does not consistently reflect clearly defined timelines or projected resolution dates associated with these matters.

Recognized Hardships

It is important to acknowledge that publicly shared statements by Kandi and or family, referencing delays have included serious and potentially distressing circumstances, such as personal health challenges and a reported house fire that allegedly affected records. Situations involving illness or property loss can be deeply disruptive, both personally and professionally, and often require significant time to recover from. At the same time, participants have expressed concerns and sought clarity regarding refunds and event outcomes. This report recognizes that unexpected hardships can occur while also noting that participants have continued to seek communication and resolution regarding their transactions.

Alleged Communication Breakdowns

Some individuals have publicly stated that, after requesting refunds, they were unable to continue communicating with event organizers. These statements include claims that participants were blocked from commenting, removed from online groups, or otherwise restricted from further direct communication.

These statements represent allegations made by individual participants and are presented here as reported claims without independent verification or conclusions regarding cause or intent. Screenshots referenced in this section are included below for contextual documentation.

Community Reports Regarding Refund Requests for Deceased Event Registrant

Reports Indicate Some Participants Received Refunds

Available documentation and participant statements suggest that some individuals report receiving refunds related to the events discussed. These accounts appear to vary in timing, method of reimbursement, and communication process. While certain participants have indicated that refunds were successfully issued, others have publicly stated they are still seeking resolution. These reports are based on individual statements, screenshots, and communications reviewed during research; however, refund outcomes may differ by participant and circumstance. Determinations regarding the completeness, consistency, or legal sufficiency of refunds would ultimately fall under the review of appropriate authorities, contractual terms, and applicable consumer protection laws.

Past Additional Allegations and Reported Concerns Involving Charitable and Youth-Related Activities

This video discusses allegations about individuals described by community members as operating misleading seeded hunts. It also references claims that charities may have been affected. The video includes commentary circulating online about South Carolina Dirt Diggers and is presented as part of ongoing public discussion.

Reported Participant Impact and Law Enforcement Contact

A publicly available social media post authored by a third party states, “There are now over 65 of us waiting on refunds.” This number has not been independently verified by Focus Speed and is presented as an attributed claim rather than a confirmed total.

Several individuals within the metal detecting community have publicly stated that they submitted reports to law enforcement regarding matters referenced in this report, including contact with the Saluda County Sheriff’s Office. Based on publicly available statements and discussions, approximately 30 individuals have indicated they filed police reports. These figures are based solely on self-reported claims made in public forums and conversations and have not been independently verified. Individuals who state they communicated directly with investigators report that complaints were received and reviewed. As of the time of publication, law enforcement agencies have not released any official confirmation of report totals, investigative findings, charges, or case determinations related to these claims.

Individuals who believe they may have been affected by organized metal detecting events are encouraged to contact law enforcement directly:

Saluda County Sheriff’s Office
Email: f.hopkins@saludacounty.sc.gov
Phone: 864-445-2112

Law enforcement agencies commonly note that reports submitted by multiple participants may assist investigators in identifying broader patterns of activity, even in situations where individual financial losses appear limited.

What Federal Law Says About Refunds for Organized Events and Paid Services

While there is no single federal statute that specifically mandates refunds for event tickets, organized hobby events, workshops, or recreational services, organizers remain subject to federal consumer protection standards. Most notably, Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. § 45) prohibits “unfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce.” Regulatory guidance and enforcement actions under this statute have generally held that businesses may face scrutiny if payments are accepted for services or events that are canceled, substantially changed, or not provided as represented, particularly where refund assurances, guarantees, or specific service commitments were advertised or included in agreements. In addition, disputes involving event cancellations or non-performance may also be evaluated under general contract law principles, which typically require parties to either fulfill agreed services or provide appropriate remedies when contractual obligations are not met. Each situation is fact-specific and may depend on the terms disclosed to participants and the representations made at the time of payment.

South Carolina Refund Laws and Consumer Protection Rules for Event Organizer

At the state level, South Carolina’s Unfair Trade Practices Act (SCUTPA), codified under S.C. Code Ann. § 39-5-20, prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices in trade or commerce. Courts applying SCUTPA generally examine whether conduct could mislead or harm consumers and whether such conduct affects the public interest. While SCUTPA does not establish a universal refund timeline or automatic refund requirement for events or recreational services, it may apply in circumstances where services are allegedly misrepresented, not delivered as promised, or where refund policies are not honored after payment is accepted. Enforcement can occur through state regulatory authorities or civil proceedings, and determinations typically depend on the specific facts, documentation, and representations associated with each transaction.

Elder Financial Abuse Laws and Refund Disputes

If event tickets were purchased by elderly individuals age 60 or older, and refunds were promised but not issued, the situation could potentially fall under elder financial abuse statutes, depending on the facts and findings by authorities. At the federal level, protections for older adults are supported through the Elder Justice Act, which recognizes financial exploitation of seniors as a form of abuse and supports investigation and enforcement efforts. At the state level, many jurisdictions have more specific laws. For example, South Carolina law under South Carolina Omnibus Adult Protection Act (S.C. Code § 43-35-10 et seq.) defines financial exploitation as the improper, unlawful, or unauthorized use of a vulnerable adult’s funds or property. Additionally, refund-related disputes may also fall under broader consumer protection regulations such as Federal Trade Commission Act Section 5, which prohibits unfair or deceptive business practices. Whether a specific case meets the legal threshold for elder abuse or consumer fraud would depend on documented agreements, representations made, intent, and determinations by law enforcement or a court.

Why Reporting Concerns in the Metal Detecting Community Matters

Experts in fraud and consumer investigations note that combined participant reports can help establish timelines, jurisdictional scope, and potential behavioral patterns. Organized metal detecting events sometimes operate across multiple states or private properties, which can create regulatory gray areas.

Even when individual losses appear small, combined reports can help investigators evaluate:

• Event organization patterns
• Representations made to participants
• Payment and refund timelines
• Potential multi-state regulatory concerns

Proper documentation and reporting help authorities conduct lawful and thorough reviews.

Impact on the Metal Detecting Hobby and Community Trust

Metal detecting is widely recognized as a hobby built on trust, shared history, and community collaboration. Organized metal detecting hunts often attract families, retirees, veterans, and new hobbyists seeking both education and recreation.

Some participants have publicly stated their primary concern is preventing similar situations from affecting other detectorists. Community members have also expressed concerns that unresolved disputes involving organized metal detecting hunts could impact trust across the hobby. Questions have also been raised about whether similar events could be promoted under different branding, reinforcing the importance of transparency and accountability within the detecting community.

Due Process and Responsible Metal Detecting Event Reporting

Allegations are not proof of wrongdoing, and all parties involved in organized metal detecting events are entitled to due process under the law. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to preserve documentation and provide factual statements directly to investigators rather than relying on speculation or online disputes.

Responsible reporting helps protect participants, legitimate event organizers, and the overall reputation of the metal detecting hobby.

What Happens Next in the Investigation

Based on statements from individuals who report contact with investigators, authorities may still be gathering participant statements and supporting documentation related to organized metal detecting hunts. Public statements suggest some participants have taken part in follow-up interviews. As of this writing, no official investigation results or enforcement outcomes have been released.

Final Thoughts on Organized Metal Detecting Event Safety

The metal detecting community continues to grow through organized hunts, rallies, and educational events. Maintaining trust between organizers and participants remains critical to the hobby’s long-term success.

When concerns arise regarding organized metal detecting events, transparency, clear communication, and proper legal channels help protect both participants and reputable organizers. Individuals who believe they may have been affected are encouraged to contact appropriate authorities for guidance.

Screenshots referenced in this report reflect account and communication status at the time they were captured and are provided for contextual documentation.

References:

Government Sites:

• https://search.scsos.com/charities
• https://businessfilings.sc.gov/businessfiling/Entity/Search
• https://icis.corp.delaware.gov/ecorp/entitysearch/namesearch.aspx

Articles:

• https://grandstrandmag.com/feature/can_you_dig_it
• https://www.wltx.com/article/features/sc-treasure-hunters-find-hidden-secrets-in-the-ground/101-565739153
• https://llandiclife.com/metal_detectorists/
• https://clarionnews.org/stewart-to-speak-at-historical-association/

Social Media

• https://www.facebook.com/groups/687028264734800
• https://www.facebook.com/groups/1080399450521011
• https://www.facebook.com/groups/768782224484464
• https://youtu.be/gnBTlaHiHuU?si=QWMqFGXkpMgkSqm2

Other

• https://web.archive.org/web/20140207193545/https://sctaa.blogspot.com/