August 12, 2025

Escalating Crime Rates in Laurens County Spark Concerns

News Summary

Recent law enforcement activities in Laurens County have led to numerous arrests connected to violent and drug-related crimes. Charges against individuals include domestic violence, animal care violations, and firearm possession. This troubling trend has raised concerns among both residents and law enforcement, who are working to combat the increasing criminal activity in the region. A significant drug bust also highlights the ongoing drug issues affecting local communities. As the situation unfolds, the community hopes for effective measures to enhance public safety.

Laurens, SC – Recent law enforcement activity in Laurens County has led to numerous arrests and criminal charges, highlighting a concerning trend of violent and drug-related crime. Local police departments and the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office have compiled records detailing incidents that demonstrate ongoing criminal activity in the area.

Among the arrested individuals is Anthony Woods from Clinton, who faces charges of first-degree domestic violence. In a separate case, Josh Waters from Laurens has been charged with his first offense related to humane animal care. Derrick Wallace, a resident of Greenville, has been charged with possession of a firearm or ammunition in connection with a previous conviction.

Timothy Thompson from Clinton is facing charges of possession of marijuana (28 grams or less) and driving under suspension, marking his first offense related to licensing issues. Additionally, Barry Smith from Joanna has multiple charges against him, including several infractions relating to driving under suspension and possession of a controlled substance in connection with a past offense. Smith also faces charges for receiving stolen goods worth $2,000 or less.

In other criminal incidents, Gracie Ramsey from Pelzer has been charged with the unlawful use of a 911 number, while Truman Knight Jr. from Gray Court faces charges of possession of burglary implements and second-degree burglary. O’Shavius Johnson from Laurens has been arrested for petit larceny, discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle, and first-degree assault and battery. Moreover, Carius Johnson from Laurens is facing serious allegations including third or subsequent offense driving under suspension.

Expanding beyond Laurens County, a significant drug bust occurred recently in Missouri, where a state trooper arrested three individuals for possessing multiple pounds of methamphetamine. On August 2, 2025, Darrel E. George (58), Heather R. Wayman (43), and Kimberly M. Mason (50) were pulled over for traffic violations, which led officers to discover over 75 ounces (approximately 4.6 pounds) of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in their possession. All three individuals now face charges of second-degree drug trafficking and illegal possession of drug paraphernalia.

Further illustrating the ongoing criminal issues in the region, Dwayne Effren Taylor (66) was arrested on August 4 for retail theft amounting to over $900 from Target. Taylor, with 29 prior arrests for similar offenses, is out on parole and could face severe legal repercussions for his actions given his history.

In a collaborative investigation, two men from Kansas were arrested on July 19 on charges of stealing approximately $24,000 worth of property from Clinton Marina. Officers recovered eight electronic fish finders that linked them to recent burglaries, showcasing the ongoing property crime challenges faced by local law enforcement.

The rash of arrests across Laurens, Clinton, and surrounding counties highlights a troubling trend of escalating violent crime and drug activity in the area. Local law enforcement agencies are actively working to combat these issues, yet the data reflects an ongoing pattern of criminal behavior that raises concerns among residents and authorities alike.

As the situation unfolds, community members continue to watch closely, hoping for effective measures and strategies to address these pervasive issues that affect public safety and wellbeing.

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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.