South Carolina Influencer Ben A Critic Sues Restaurant After Being Ordered Out and Reported to Police

Trayvon Turner walked into Percy & Willie's planning to create a food review for his audience. Minutes later, the South Carolina influencer known as Ben A Critic became involved in a lawsuit tied to an argument inside the Florence restaurant.

Percy & Willie's, its parent company, and several managers are accused of removing him from the business, falsely accusing him of assault, and blocking his efforts to drive away. Turner is seeking compensation for emotional distress, reputational damage, and lost earnings.

Management informed him that cameras were not allowed inside. As reported by Atlanta Black Star, online clips later showed him questioning why he was being forced out rather than being asked to stop.

Only seconds passed before workers moved to contact police. A 911 call was placed even though he had already agreed to go.

Screen grabs from the altercation show him repeatedly asking what rule he had violated while trying to understand why law enforcement was responding. William Hal Neel III allegedly used his body to guide the content creator toward the door, while operating partner Jeffrey Chamblee allegedly blocked his vehicle in the parking lot.

Police were reportedly told Neel had been struck, an allegation that did not lead to criminal charges. Ben A Critic maintains the policy was enforced differently because he is Black and says other patrons were permitted to use cameras without being ordered out.

Threats followed, business opportunities disappeared, and a disagreement that lasted only moments spread far beyond South Carolina. Social media users weighed in across multiple platforms, with supporters and critics debating the treatment he received and the restaurant's handling of the situation.

Restaurant representatives had not publicly commented on the lawsuit when it was filed. The case remains pending, and both sides are expected to have an opportunity to present evidence as the dispute moves forward.