News Summary
Lexington County, South Carolina, is facing increasing crime rates, prompting law enforcement’s intervention. Recent arrests, including two men charged with sexual exploitation of minors, underline serious issues within the community. Other incidents, such as firearms and drug-related arrests, further highlight the urgent need for public safety measures. Local residents and organizations are responding with increased community engagement to combat these concerning trends, aiming to foster a safer environment for all.
Lexington County: A Community Grapples with Serious Crimes
In a shocking turn of events that has rattled the community, authorities in Lexington County, South Carolina, have made notable arrests that highlight ongoing concerns about crime in the area, especially regarding the protection of children.
Arrests for Sexual Exploitation of Minors
South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has announced the arrest of Timothy Mark McCullough from West Columbia and John Anthony Kayton from Lexington. These men were taken into custody on charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors. McCullough, who is 68, faces five separate counts of sexual exploitation, all classified as third-degree offenses. Each of these charges carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison. On the other hand, 50-year-old Kayton has been charged with one count of the same crime.
The investigation leading to these arrests was spearheaded by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, working in conjunction with the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. The arrests came about after investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which alerted them to suspicious activities involving these individuals.
Ongoing Community Efforts Against Child Exploitation
Both men were apprehended on February 26, 2025. It is important to remember that they are presumed innocent until proven guilty, as emphasized by the Attorney General. These arrests shed light on the extensive efforts that are currently underway to combat the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This worrying trend has been a focal point for law enforcement, emphasizing the need for community vigilance.
A Separate Incident in Cayce
Further Investigations and Concerns
The Cayce Police Department is also deep in an investigation regarding a deadly shooting that occurred recently, claiming the life of 22-year-old Jalen Allen. With more than three suspects identified in connection to the shooting, authorities have noted potential ties to gang activity. The investigation is not limited to local police, as multiple law enforcement agencies, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), are working collaboratively to address the situation.
Undercover Drug Operation Results in Arrest
Community Response and Initiatives
The series of recent arrests has undoubtedly sent ripples through the community, stirring conversations about safety, protection, and how to effectively combat both drug-related and exploitative crimes. Let’s keep our eyes open and our community informed.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Lexington School Employee Arrested on Serious Charges
Hazmat Team Responds to Odor Incident at Chapin High School
Columbia’s Dark Turn: Teen Arrested for Murder
Columbia Residents Reel from Columbiana Mall Shooting Sentencing
Lexington County Asks for Community Help in Dollar Tree Incident
Tragic Death of 7-Month-Old Rocks Chapin Community
Columbia’s Culinary Legacy Faces Heartbreaking Closures
Lexington County’s Major Gambling Bust Unveils Shocking Details
Manhunt in Chapin, South Carolina for Murder Suspect
Additional Resources
- SW Lex Ledger
- The State
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Lexington County crime news
- Encyclopedia Britannica: crime in South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington 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 Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. 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, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
