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Lexington County Community Confronts Rising Crime Issues

Local residents gather to address rising crime concerns in Lexington County.

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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

Marcell Williams from Lexington and Joseph White from West Columbia were taken into custody during a civil disturbance in a grocery store parking lot. Williams faces charges for the unlawful carrying of a firearm, while White is facing several serious drug-related charges, including trafficking crack cocaine and possession of heroin. During this arrest, police confiscated a significant amount of illegal drugs, underlining the ongoing issues of drug-related crimes in the area.

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

Tony Leonard, a 44-year-old man who was caught with large quantities of various drugs and cash exceeding $12,000. Leonard faces serious charges, including six counts of distribution of crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and multiple drug trafficking allegations. These arrests are a testament to the ongoing challenges surrounding drug operations in the community.

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.