News Summary
Ricky Dean Clinton, 40, wanted for serious child sex crimes, was apprehended by U.S. Marshals in a collaborative effort with the community. Clinton faced multiple charges, including human trafficking and statutory rape, instilling fear in the Gaffney, SC area. A reward was offered for information leading to his arrest, highlighting the urgency of the case. His capture emphasizes the importance of public involvement in ensuring community safety.
Ricky Dean Clinton, Wanted for Child Sex Crimes, Captured by U.S. Marshals
Gaffney, South Carolina – Ricky Dean Clinton, a 40-year-old man wanted for multiple alleged child sex crimes, has been taken into custody by U.S. Marshals following a coordinated effort by law enforcement and community members. Clinton was connected to a range of serious charges, including human trafficking of a child, indecent liberties with a child, first-degree kidnapping, sexual servitude of a minor, delivering a controlled substance to a minor, and statutory rape.
The apprehension of Clinton marks a significant step forward in addressing grave allegations that have instilled fear in the community. The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the critical role of public involvement in sharing information and tips that contributed to Clinton’s capture. A reward of $2,500 was offered for information leading to his arrest, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the situation.
Clinton was previously known to have been connected to the disappearance of a 15-year-old girl from Gaffney, who went missing on June 13 after leaving a suicide note. Investigators had strong suspicions that she had been in contact with him, which heightened the community’s concern over his activities. In addition to the kidnapping case, Clinton faced separate charges in July for second-degree criminal sexual conduct with another minor in Honea Path, South Carolina, marking him as a persistent threat.
Prior warnings issued by U.S. Marshals indicated that Clinton was considered to be armed and dangerous, with a history of drug use and violent behavior. His physical description indicated a white male, approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing around 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. Clinton also possesses multiple tattoos, including one on his neck, as authorities remained vigilant regarding any alterations to his appearance.
Clinton has family ties in both Gaston and Cleveland counties in North Carolina, which may have enabled his movement across state lines, complicating efforts to locate him. His known locations presented significant challenges for law enforcement, who were closely monitoring tips and sightings reported by the public.
The community’s proactive involvement has been pivotal, illustrating the essential partnership between law enforcement and citizens in maintaining public safety. The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office commended those who provided information that ultimately led to Clinton’s capture and safety restoration for young individuals in the area.
Individuals with any information regarding Clinton’s activities prior to his arrest, or those aware of potential sightings, are urged to come forward. Officers are encouraging tips to be directed to Task Force Officer Terry at 704-813-6884 or through local law enforcement channels. By remaining vigilant and informed, the community can continue to play an active role in preventing future incidents.
Ricky Dean Clinton’s case sheds light on the darker aspects of child exploitation and the crucial need for community involvement in the fight against such crimes. The swift action taken by U.S. Marshals and local law enforcement serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration in ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.
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HERE Resources
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Search Underway for Missing Teen in Gaffney
15-Year-Old Girl Missing in Gaffney, South Carolina
Urgent Search for Missing 15-Year-Old Girl in Gaffney
Additional Resources
- Cleveland.com: Cuyahoga County Sheriff Launches Free Mobile App
- Wikipedia: Child Sexual Abuse
- KFOR: Former Cleveland County Pastor Arrested for Child Sex Crimes
- Google Search: Child Sexual Crimes
- Cleveland19: Cleveland Sex Offender Facing Warrants
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Offender
- Media Zenfs: Cleveland County Officer Charged with Assaulting Inmate
- Google News: Cleveland County Officer Assault
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.
