News Summary
Laurens County, SC, is in shock after a series of violent incidents, leading to multiple arrests. The community grapples with incidents of stabbings and fatal shootings, with law enforcement working diligently to ensure justice is served. Among those arrested is Charlton Eric Brown, charged in connection with a stabbing, and Vincent Marc Viner, charged with murder after a fatal shooting. Local authorities stress the importance of combating crime and urge residents to report suspicious activities.
Laurens County, SC – Multiple arrests have been made in Laurens County following a series of violent incidents, including a stabbing and a fatal shooting. Law enforcement officials have been working diligently to address these incidents and apprehend suspects involved in criminal activities.
A stabbing incident occurred on Wednesday, where the victim was attacked and sustained multiple wounds to the right arm, abdomen, chest, and right leg. The suspect, identified as Charlton Eric Brown, an 18-year-old, was arrested at his home in Fountain Inn. Brown faces serious charges, including assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and possession of a deadly weapon during a violent crime. He has been denied bond as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
In a separate and tragic incident late Tuesday night in Clinton, a 69-year-old man named Rufford Jones was found with multiple gunshot wounds. After being transported to Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital, Jones succumbed to his injuries. The suspect in the shooting, Vincent Marc Viner, 34, was arrested on-site and has been charged with murder. He is currently held at the Johnson Detention Center while awaiting a bond hearing. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is assisting with the crime scene investigation.
In addition to these violent incidents, there has been a series of arrests involving various individuals on charges ranging from driving under the influence to domestic violence. Highlights of these arrests include:
- Rachel Donovan, from Laurens, was charged with an open container violation and driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content of .16 or higher, marking her first offense.
- Nicole Gilbert from Gray Court was arrested for failure to appear after being released on misdemeanor charges—this occurred twice.
- Brittany West of Travelers Rest faces charges of breach of peace and resisting arrest during her encounter with law enforcement.
- Zachary Westmoreland, also from Laurens, has been charged with multiple counts of sexual exploitation of a minor.
- Joie Strickland, hailing from Greer, SC, also faces failure to appear charges.
- Carl Smith from Clinton was charged with domestic violence in the second degree.
- Shannon Simpson of Laurens was found in possession of less than one gram of meth or cocaine base, marking a first offense.
- Ashley Fowler from Chesnee was charged with breach of trust with fraudulent intent involving a value of $2,000 or less.
The ongoing incidents have sparked concern among community members, with law enforcement emphasizing the importance of addressing these violent acts swiftly. Authorities have not disclosed specific details regarding the motives behind the stabbing or shooting incidents but are actively investigating each case to ensure justice is served.
As these cases unfold, local officials continue to work closely with law enforcement and community members to maintain safety and security in Laurens County. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities to assist in the efforts to combat crime.
The weather in Laurens County today sees a blend of morning clouds transitioning to afternoon sunshine, with temperatures reaching a high of 73°F. Winds are blowing from the west-southwest at 10 to 15 mph. Tonight, expect clear skies with a low temperature around 48°F.
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Additional Resources
- Laurens County Arrest Report – April 25
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
- Fox Carolina: 18-Year-Old Charged in Stabbing
- Google Search: Laurens County crime
- BBC News Article
- Google Scholar: Crime Reporting
- Laurens County Arrest Report – April 9
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- Laurens County Arrest Report – April 10
- Google News: Laurens County
