The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office recently arrested a Fountain Inn man accused of Domestic Violence, 1^st Degree. 29-year-old, Ramel Isaiah Hicks, of Bonifay Drive, was arrested for the alleged charges. According to the arrest warrant report, on February 16^th, Hicks allegedly pushed the victim as she attempted to enter the residence and pointed a semi-automatic pistol at her head. The incident occurred in the presence of a child. Ramel Hicks has since been released on bond from the Laurens County Detention Center.

A Gray Court woman was recently arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine 2^nd Offense. 26-year-old, Brandy Denise Hysmith, of Beauregard Street, was arrested by the Clinton Police Department February 15^th for the alleged charge. According to a report, Hysmith allegedly had in her possession less than one gram of methamphetamine. Brandy Hysmith was released from the Laurens County Detention Center with a paid cash surety bond February 19^th.

A Greenville man was recently pulled over and arrested for Driving Under the Influence;1^st Offense; Driving Under Suspension, and Resisting/ Assault police officer. 57-year-old, Wayne Eugene McCullough, of Bruce Road, was arrested for the alleged charges February 16^th by the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office. According to the report, Mccullough allegedly assaulted Deputy Miller after being placed under arrest for DUI and DUS. He assaulted Deputy Miller by striking him in the face with his fist, busting his nose. Wayne Eugene McCullough remain behind bars this morning at the Laurens County Detention Center.

The Clinton Police Department recently arrested a Pickens woman Malicious Injury To Personal Property Under $2,000. 30-year-old, Tensleyana Eugina Thomas, of Secona Road, was arrested for the alleged charged February 18th. According to the arrest warrant report, on February 13^th, Thomas allegedly took the victim’s food items out and and poured them onto the kitchen and bedroom floor causing damage to the floor and multiple pieces of personal property belonging to the victim. This alleged incident occurred on North Broad Street in Clinton. She was released from the Laurens County Detention Center February 18^th on a personal recognizance bond.

Webster’s Dictionary describes a hero as someone who shows great courage, and city resident Natasha Mims and City of Clinton officers Officer Barnes, Sgt. Galloway, and Lt. Harris, are just that. Heroes. On February 14th, they all sprang into action to help save the life of 11-year-old A’Rhyan Anderson,

Monday night, during the City Council meeting, our heroes were recognized. We are blessed to live in a community that cares about the well-being of each other, and we are forever grateful for the acts of bravery shown last week.

Matthew Brownlee, a lifelong resident of Hickory Tavern, has announced his candidacy for Laurens County Council District 2. This district encompasses parts of Hickory Tavern, Greenpond, Princeton, and Waterloo.

Brownlee is a graduate of Laurens High School and Piedmont Technical College, and his entrepreneurial background has shaped his commitment to agriculture and community. Currently an entrepreneur and real estate agent, Brownlee’s journey began at the young age of 8, raising laying hens and selling eggs on the family farm. Over the years, he expanded his operations to include selling plants and vegetables.

His active involvement in agriculture continued while working at National Land Realty, primarily focusing on land and rural home sales. Brownlee’s deep roots in Hickory Tavern and active engagement in the community have allowed him to form lasting bonds since childhood, emphasizing the tight-knit nature of District 2, where neighbors support and rely on each other.

Brownlee is determined to limit local government overreach and promises transparency in addressing the issues facing the county. “I was born and raised right here in Hickory Tavern and District two; I understand the heartbeat of this community like no other. I’m dedicated to being proactive on the challenges we face today and those in the future. Growing up in this community has instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and dedication. I pledge to be the voice of the district, actively listening to the concerns of my fellow neighbors,” says Brownlee.

A committed member of Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church, Brownlee also serves on the board of Laurens County Farm Bureau and chairs the Laurens County Young Farmer and Ranchers Committee. Additionally, he is the Chairman of the Lakelands Young Republicans chapter, promoting engagement among young voters in Laurens, Abbeville, Greenwood, and McCormick. His community leadership and service is also evident through his election to the Rabon Creek Watershed Conservation District in 2022, where he is actively serving a 4-year term.

As a member of the Laurens County Farmer and Agribusiness Association, Brownlee showcases his dedication to local agriculture and business interests. He is a strong supporter and volunteer of FFA, 4-H, and Soil and Water Conservation, underlining his commitment to community development.

Matthew Brownlee’s focus includes controlling growth, preserving the heritage of Laurens County, and ensuring a healthy pace of growth for future generations. He pledges to keep taxes as low as possible, strategically use existing funds for ongoing needs, and actively support the backbone of Laurens County – Police, Fire, and EMS.

To learn more or donate click HERE.

The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office said that SLED is currently conducting an investigation after it was discovered that two had been inappropriately utilizing inmate labor for personal purposes. Over the past few weeks the LCSO have been monitoring activities of certain employees at the detention center due to some inconsistencies and questionable activities. Three detention center staff have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation and two individuals, Nicolas A. Walker and Holly Lynn White, have been terminated and charged with misconduct in office.

Sheriff Reynolds released a statement following the discovery:

“In my forty-plus years of law enforcement experience, one of the most disappointing things I encounter is when an officer of the law breaks the law he or she takes an oath to uphold. It hurts to see someone dishonor the badge because it brings reproach to everyone who wears one – especially the ones who do it for the right reasons and do it well.”

Laurens Police Department (LPD) Officers responded to a disturbance call at a residence on Park Street, what they uncovered was far from ordinary.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a disturbing relationship between a 13-year-old female victim and a 24-year-old male suspect. Shockingly, it was revealed that the mother, Heather Nicole Frady (36 years old), was not only aware of the intimate relationship but actively encouraged it and gave them guidance along the way. . She even allowed them to share a bed under their roof, conspiring to justify their actions when visitors were present.

**Charges Against Heather Nicole Frady:**

– Accessory to Criminal Sexual Conduct with a minor 11-14 years of age 2nd degree

– Misprision of a felony

– Contributing to the delinquency of a minor

– Unlawful Conduct Toward a Minor

The suspect, Joshua Tyler Holmes (24 years old), remains at large and is considered armed, dangerous, and desperate.

**WANTED: Joshua Tyler Holmes**

– Criminal Sexual Conduct with a minor 11-14 years of age 2nd degree

– Contributing to the delinquency of a minor

– Exposure of Private Parts in a Lewd and Lascivious manner

– Criminal Solicitation of a minor

Heather Nicole Frady has been arrested and arraigned on the above charges. She is currently held at the Laurens County Detention Center on a $130,000 bond ($100k for CSC, $20k for unlawful conduct, and $5k for the other two charges).

This disturbing case highlights the urgent need for vigilance and community cooperation in protecting our minors from exploitation and abuse.

**Contact Information:**

If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Joshua Tyler Holmes, please contact the Laurens Police Department immediately. Do NOT approach him, please dial 911.

Let’s stand together to ensure the safety and well-being of our community’s children!

Today is President’s Day. As a result, there will be no early voting today for this Saturday’s South Carolina Republican Presidential Preference Primary. There are now three remaining days for early voting, this Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Voters who were registered before the deadline and those who did not vote in the Democratic Presidential Preference Primary are eligible to vote in the Republican Primary, either the next three days of early voting or in the actual primary this Saturday, February 24th.

There is one challenger to Donald Trump for the Republican nomination remaining in the race, as of the South Carolina Primary. That is former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. Ads on TV in the state has been offering a choice to voters other than “the chaos of Trump.”

Registered voters across South Carolina who did not vote in the Democratic Primary earlier this month are eligible to vote either in these final three days of early voting or during the Primary this Saturday, February 24th. Voters will be asked to present Photo ID when checking in to vote. The Laurens County Elections Office on Bolt Drive off Hillcrest is the place to cast early votes.

Voters who have absentee ballots not yet turned in are reminded they should have been mailed no later than one week prior to election day; so they should not be returned in person. Remember to present a photo ID in returning your absentee ballot in person tis week.

Anyone with questions about how an immediate family member or authorized representative can assist you with requesting or returning you absentee ballot should check online at scVOTES.gov.

Laurens County precincts will be open this Saturday from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm. If you’re not sure which precinct you are to vote in, check that out at scVOTES.gov.

An effort to be proactive in solving missing or lost person cases was cited with a new project from the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office. They’re partnering with Upstate Bloodhouse search and Rescue to provide “Scent of Hope” kits to Laurens County residents. These kits reportedly contain materials used to collect the scent of the subscriber which is then sealed and stored. In the event the person goes missing, the scent can then be utilized with the Sheriff’s Office K9 or Bloodhound teams in an effort to locate the individual quickly and efficiently. The kits can last up to five years and are free, thanks to people to make donations to the Upstate Bloodhound Search and Rescue team.

Sheriff Reynolds explained, “When someone goes missing, it is a difficult scenario. Getting a good scent for the K9s and Bloodhounds to use can often be a problem. Items provided from the home can be contaminated by other smells or people living in the home. We need something specific to the person to get us off on the right track.”

The American Alzheimer’s Association reported that six out of 10 people with dementia tend to wander and get lost in their community. The American Academy of Pediatrics reported that nearly half of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder go missing from their environment.

Sheriff Reynolds continued, “We have several people in Laurens County already enrolled in our Project Lifesaver tracking program and this is certainly something to benefit them. We want to provide an extra means of protection should one of our vulnerable residents go missing. We appreciate Taylor with Upstate Bloodhound Search and Rescue for donating these kits to us.”

Kits can be obtained by filling out a form available on the Sheriff’s Office website starting next week or you can stop by our office during normal business hours to fill out the form. A scent collection date will then be scheduled with a Sheriff’s Office employee.

These kits will be available to at-risk residents; someone with Alzheimer’s, a child or adult with special needs, anyone with a diagnosis who is likely to wander and get lost.

Anyone wanting more information on getting a “Scent of Hope” kit should contact Deputy Snow or Sergeant Patterson at 864-681-4509. More information is also available on the Upstate Bloodhound Search And Rescue through Facebook.

The Laurens Library is to celebrate its 94th birthday next month! The celebration will be going on at both libraries, in Laurens and Clinton. March is expected to “roar” into your local library with fantastic public programs for every age group.

At the Laurens Library on March 4th at 4:00 pm children ages 6 – 10 will celebrate by making a special party hat and by enjoying games. Plus, there will be a birthday cake!

Meanwhile the Clinton Library celebrates Easter on March 5th at 11 o’clock when “Craftin’ in Clinton” meets to make little rabbit-eared baskets to hold you Easter treats. This program is for anyone 8 years and older. All skill levels welcome!

Join Dan Wilson of Edward Jones Investments at the Laurens branch on March 5th, 5:30pm, as he presents a beginner’s guide to investing and finance. All ages are welcome.

On March 6, the Clinton Library offers you the opportunity to become a blood donor and help those in need.  Receive a free gift card for your support via the Blood Connection. The mobile unit will be in the Ace Hardware parking lot on Jacobs Highway in Clinton until 2pm.

Multiple dogs and puppies were cited as victims in four warrants served by the Sheriff’s Office last week. The warrants allege the offenses were on or discovered last month, on January 26th. 37-year-old Timothy Arthur Boyter of Tillman Circle, Joanna was charged in one warrant with Ill Treatment of Animals, in General, Torture. It states that on January 26th Boyer knew that a black and white female mixed-breed dog – identified as Dog #9 – was being left without adequate food or potable water for an extended period of time, resulting in the dog being extremely emaciated to the point you could see all it’s ribs hips and spine.

Three warrants charged Timothy Arthur Boyter with violation of a Humane Animal Care Ordinance. One alleges that the defendant knew that dogs identified as dog #17 and dog #18 along with puppies #1 through #17, were not being provided with humane care and treatment because they were being forced to live without proper shelter, sufficient food, and access to potable water. A second warrant with that charge alleges Boyter knew dogs identified as Dog #1 and Dog #10 were not being provide with humane care and treatment, forced to live without proper shelter, sufficient food, and access to potable water. The other warrant with that charge states that Boyter knew that dogs identified as Dogs #2 thorough #8 along with dogs #11 through #16 were also not being provided with humane care, forced to live without proper shelter, sufficient food, and access to potable water.

Bonds on the charges included $5,000 cash or surety on the Ill Treatment charge and $500 on each of the other three.

Two prior convictions were cited by Laurens Police for Enhancing a Shoplifting charge served last week. An Enhanced Shoplifting warrant served Wednesday on 20-year-old Damione Regents Swittenburg of Clemson Street, Laurens alleges that on July 19th last year he stole merchandise valued at $42.08 from a gas station on North Harper Street, then willfully and intentionally walked out of the store, passing all points of sale where he should have paid for the items. A $3,000 cash or surety bond was set on the charge.

The theft of an ATV earlier this month was alleged by the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office last Thursday. Charged with Petit Larceny were 34-year-old Michael Andrew Jacks of Reeder Street, Joanna and Christian Ryan Tyler Burton of Flymm Smith Road, Waterloo, who turns 26 next week. Warrant allege that on February 7th both Jacks and Burton took a green, 50cc Polaris ATV from property on Lake Road near Clinton. The warrants state the stolen ATV was valued at $50.

The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office recently arrested a Cross Hill man for Domestic Violence 2nd Degree, Unlawfully place a child at risk of or cause harm, Breach of Peace, and Resisting Arrest. 39-year-old, Noah Martinez, of Driftwood Road, was arrested for the alleged charges. According to the arrest warrant report, on Febuary 9th, Martinez allegedly pushed the victim to the ground several times casuing minor injury . During the incident Martinez allegedly pushed a victim into the interior walls of the home and down to the ground causing appartent minor injury. He shouted threats showing a clear intent of casuing harm. the assualt occurred when the victim was attempting to intervene in a domestic assault that was occurring. When Deputies arrived to the scene, Martinez was allegedly observed grossly intoxicated while screaming at the top of his lungs using profane language. As officer’s placed him under arrest, he resisted by placiing his foot against the door of a patrol car, refusing to remove his foot, preventing the officer from shutting the door. This occurred on Driftwood Road in Cross Hill. Noah Martinez has since been released from the Laurens County Detention Center.

Lander University and Spartanburg Community College have formed a partnership to enhance the transfer of students from SCC to Lander. An agreement signed by both institutions will allow human services students at SCC to easily transfer their credits to Lander, entering as juniors in Lander’s Bachelor of Science in Human Services program. Students who meet the requirements of the agreement will be guaranteed admission to Lander and will receive priority acceptance into the major.

“Lander University is committed to providing enhanced and seamless pathways for South Carolina’s technical college students to continue their education and achieve a bachelor’s degree,” said Dr. Jim Colbert, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Lander. “This new agreement with Spartanburg Community College establishes another pathway for students of Spartanburg Community College to earn a four-year degree in human services.”

Prior to acceptance, SCC students will complete an Associate in Arts, with a track in human services. From there, the agreement gives students several options to complete their four-year degree. Lander’s B.S. in Human Services can be completed completely online or in-person, depending on each student’s preference. Classes are offered both on Lander’s main campus in Greenwood, or at the University Center of Greenville.

“We are excited to welcome SSC graduates and know that they come well-prepared for success at Lander,” said Dr. Lucas McMillan, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at Lander. “Students in our Human Services program will benefit from our faculty members’ exceptional credentials and experience as well as their mentorship of students for meaningful careers.”

“SCC is proud of the strong foundational courses that we provide to begin a student’s educational pathway in human services,” said Dr. Jenny Williams, dean of Arts and Sciences at Spartanburg Community College. “The opportunity for seamless transfer with Lander ensures students are prepared to enter the workforce ready to secure careers that make our world a better place.”

This transfer partnership is the latest in a series of partnerships between Lander University and South Carolina’s technical colleges. To learn more about transferring to Lander, or to apply now, please visit www.lander.edu/transfer.

ABOUT SPARTANBURG COMMUNITY COLLEGE:

Strategically located across one of the most economically vibrant regions in the United States, Spartanburg Community College (SCC), home of the proud Chasers, is driving the economy forward while empowering thousands of students to Dream it, Chase it, and Live it. Founded in 1963, SCC is South Carolina’s fastest growing public college and prides itself in providing unrivaled access to transformational experiences. Learn how you can begin to chase your dreams online or at five beautifully manicured campuses, encompassing 245 acres punctuated by over one million square feet of state-of-the-art facilities. Join the chase at www.sccsc.edu.

ABOUT LANDER UNIVERSITY:

Founded in 1872, Lander University is a co-educational, state-assisted, four-year university serving over 4,300 students and offering more than 90 areas of study in the liberal arts and sciences. Located in Uptown Greenwood, the university has a long-standing tradition of providing a challenging, enriching education that prepares graduates to lead lives of meaningful activity, of personal satisfaction and of service to others. Learn more at www.lander.edu, or call toll free 1-800-4-LANDER.

Deputies with the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Clinton man accused of Domestic Violence, 2nd Degree. 34-year-old, Joshua Wayne Eubanks, of Whip O Will Drive, was arrested for the alleged charges February 12th. According to a report, on Monday, Eubanks is accused  of grabbing the victim by her throat and slamming her onto the floor, impeding her airway in the process. The victim had visible marks on her throat and back. Joshua Eubanks remain behind bars this morning at the Laurens County Detention Center.  His cash or surety bond total is $25,000.

A man was recently arrested accused of shoplifting a pistol by concealing the weapon in his pants. 41-year-old, Randall  Wooten, of Wade Taylor Road, Oconee, South Carolina was arrested and charged with shoplifting enhanced by the Laurens Police Department February, 12th. According to the arrest warrant, on February 7th, Wooten allegedly concealed a Glock 19 GEN 3 Airsoft Pistol in his pants, knowingly and willingly pass all points of sales, permanently depriving the victim of the full retail value of the merchandise. This offense occurred on East Main Street in the city limits of Laurens.  He has two prior property crime convictions. According to the Laurens County Sheriff’s website, he is on hold for Cherokee County.  Randall Wooten remain behind bars this morning at the Laurens County Detention Center.

The Clinton Police Department recently arrested a Clinton man accused of Assault and Battery 2nd Degree. 21-year-old ,Keizarro Qaumai Conner, of Beauregard Street, was arrested for the alleged charge. According to a report, on February 12th, Conner allegedly struck a victim in the face with a broom handle causing a severe laceration to the victim’s ear, which required stitches, and could have caused moderate bodily injury. This offense allegedly occurred on Beauregard Street. Keizarro Conner remain behind bars this morning at the Laurens County Detention Center. 

The Laurens Police Department recently arrested a Clinton woman accused of Breach of Trust. 34-year-old, Ashley Michelle Neal, of Cricket Lane, was arrested for the alleged charge. According to the arrest warrant report, from August 2021 to December 2023, Neal allegedly received entrusted funds valued at $1,000 which belonged to the victim. Neal converted the funds to her personal use through fraudulent means, with the intent to permanently defraud the owner. This incident occurred at Hillcrest Drive in the City Of Laurens. Ashley Neal was released from the Laurens County Detention Center February 13th on a personal recognizance bond.