July 27, 2025

Surge in Crime Shakes Gray Court and Laurens County

News Summary

A recent uptick in criminal activity has alarmed residents of Gray Court and Laurens County, leading to numerous arrests including a violent stabbing at a local business. Law enforcement is responding to these concerns as community vigilance becomes more critical. Arrests include serious charges like domestic violence, unlawful child neglect, and assault. A shocking stabbing incident at ZF Transmissions and a carjacking with a high-speed chase mark the escalation in crime, urging residents to remain vigilant in reporting suspicious activities.

Gray Court and Laurens County, SC – A disturbing surge in crime has been reported across Gray Court and Laurens County, with numerous arrests made this week, including a violent stabbing incident at a local business. The recent spike in criminal activities highlights ongoing safety concerns, prompting local authorities to bolster community vigilance.

Among the arrests, several individuals were charged with serious offenses. Thomas Pulley from Gray Court faces charges for the unlawful use of a 911 number. Mikell Lloyd, a resident of Eastover, SC, was charged with multiple counts of breaking into motor vehicles and financial transaction card theft. In Gray Court, Lee Johnson faces a charge for first-degree domestic violence, while Michael Howard was charged with receiving stolen goods valued at $2,000 or less and resisting arrest. Other notable arrests include Dakota Sergent for assault and battery in the third degree and Justin Smith for grand larceny, with a value of stolen goods between $2,000 and $10,000.

In addition to these incidents, Brandon Shell from Laurens is charged with unlawful neglect of a child or helpless person. Law enforcement also dealt with Karyae Williams, who was charged with driving under suspension (DUI-related) and possession of marijuana/hashish. Furthermore, Leon Willis from Clinton was apprehended for a violation of probation or parole.

A particularly alarming incident occurred on October 7 at ZF Transmissions in Laurens County, where an 18-year-old named Charlton Brown was arrested after allegedly stabbing a coworker multiple times, including once in the chest. The event, which took place during working hours, was captured on video and has raised significant concerns regarding workplace safety. Brown has been charged with assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and possession of a deadly weapon during a violent crime. The motive for the stabbing remains unclear as authorities continue to investigate.

In another serious matter, the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office reported a carjacking incident involving a high-speed chase on the same evening as the stabbing. Two individuals were arrested following a pursuit where shots were fired at deputies. The driver, 20-year-old Braxton Mitchell, reportedly failed to stop at a stop sign and, during the chase, items were discarded from the vehicle. During the incident, a 16-year-old passenger from Simpsonville allegedly fired shots at pursuing deputies. The stolen vehicle was linked to a prior carjacking, and a firearm used in the crime had been stolen from Spartanburg.

The recent escalation in criminal activity in Gray Court and Laurens County reflects an urgent need for community awareness and proactive measures from law enforcement. As authorities navigate these troubling trends, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local officials.

As a backdrop to these recent crime waves, the weather forecast for July 27, 2025, indicates hot and humid conditions, with temperatures soaring to a high of 99°F. The evening will see some clouds clearing to mostly clear skies, with a low around 75°F, providing a stark contrast to the unsettling events unfolding within the community.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.