News Summary
Robert Blanton II, a fire captain in West Columbia, has been arrested on serious charges of domestic violence and kidnapping. The alarming incident occurred on January 13, where Blanton allegedly assaulted a woman over accusations of infidelity. Police intervened after the victim managed to seek help, and visible signs of distress were evident. Blanton has been placed on administrative leave as the investigation unfolds, raising concerns about conduct within the Lexington County Fire Service.
West Columbia Fire Captain Arrested for Domestic Violence and Kidnapping
In a shocking turn of events in West Columbia, a local fire captain, 38-year-old Robert Blanton II, has found himself in a rather troubling situation. Blanton, who has been serving with the Lexington County Fire Service since March 2015, has been arrested and is now facing serious charges of domestic violence and kidnapping. The arrest follows a disturbing incident that occurred on January 13.
The Incident Unfolded
During this incident, Blanton allegedly got into a heated confrontation with a woman he is said to have accused of being “unfaithful in their marriage.” This was fueled by Blanton allegedly discovering a water bottle containing dip spit in the trash before the altercation began. Unfortunately, things escalated quickly from there.
Reports indicate that Blanton didn’t hold back during the confrontation. He is accused of physically assaulting the woman, throwing her from one chair to another, and even strangling her, which led to her experiencing a temporary loss of hearing in her right ear. To make matters worse, he reportedly pushed her head into the ground and prevented her from leaving their home. In a desperate attempt to keep her from seeking help, Blanton disposed of her phone.
Police Intervention
It wasn’t until the woman managed to call for help that police arrived on the scene. Upon their arrival, they observed visible signs of distress, including bruising and swelling on her arms and face. The situation was serious enough that law enforcement took swift action, leading to Blanton’s arrest for domestic violence in the first degree and kidnapping. He was subsequently transported to the Lexington County Detention Center.
Workplace Consequences
As a direct result of this incident, Blanton has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation unfolds. This kind of behavior is particularly disheartening coming from someone in a position of trust and responsibility within the fire service.
A Pattern of Troubling Incidents?
In a related sidebar, it’s worth noting that the Lexington County Fire Service has seen another troublesome scenario unfold recently. Another firefighter, Nathan Bardeen, was charged with third-degree criminal mischief and menacing after an argument with an acquaintance in April. The altercation resulted in $395 worth of damage to a door. He was arrested on April 30 and remains on paid administrative leave, with a court appearance scheduled for May 15.
Additionally, firefighter Robert Perkins was arrested on June 26 for theft by unlawful taking, following an incident of shoplifting under $500. He is also on paid administrative duty as the department waits for results from an ongoing investigation.
Reflections on Safety
These allegations raise serious questions about workplace safety and conduct within the Lexington County Fire Service. Community members are understandably concerned when they hear of their local heroes being embroiled in such serious accusations. The very nature of their work requires a high level of integrity and trust, which seems to be at odds with these incidents.
While every individual is innocent until proven guilty, the community is left to wonder about the standards of professionalism among those tasked with protecting them. The upcoming court dates for Blanton and others will surely attract attention, as the community seeks accountability and assurance that their safety is the top priority for the fire service.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Fox 56 News
- Google Search: Lexington firefighter arrested
- Kentucky.com
- Wikipedia: Firefighter
- WTVQ
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Firefighter
- WKYT
- Google News: Lexington fire department
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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.
