A York, SC woman has been sentenced to nine months in prison for poisoning her co-worker’s drink with a degreaser.
Tina Michelle Burch, 58, of York, SC, pleaded guilty to felony malicious tampering with human food or drug products, a charge carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years. Judge Dan Hall imposed a 10-year sentence, suspended to nine months in prison and three years of probation. Burch must also pay $1,500 in restitution.
The incident occurred in June 2023 at a business off Galleria Boulevard in Rock Hill. Surveillance video captured Burch pouring a cleaning product into her co-worker’s iced tea. The victim suffered vomiting and facial numbness after consuming the tainted beverage and required medical treatment.
Burch’s motive remains unclear. Both prosecutors and defense attorneys have been unable to establish a clear reason for her actions. This case marks one of only two known felony convictions for tampering with food or drugs in York County.
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