April 16, 2025

Recent Arrests in Florence, SC Highlight Safety Concerns

News Summary

Florence, SC is facing serious safety concerns following multiple recent arrests, including a man apprehended for internet crimes against children and another involved in a shooting incident in Florence, AL. Community members are shaken by these events as they raise questions about local safety and youth supervision. Law enforcement agencies are actively addressing the issues to restore a sense of security in the region.

Florence, SC: Recent Arrests Raise Concerns Over Safety

Florence, SC is in the news this week with a series of arrests that have raised eyebrows and highlighted ongoing safety issues in the region. From troubling internet crimes to violent incidents involving firearms, the community is fully engaged and seeking answers.

Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Makes a Major Arrest

On a seemingly ordinary Tuesday morning, Wade Jackson Tolbert, a 23-year-old man, was taken into custody as part of a thorough investigation conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Tolbert stands accused of possessing sexually explicit material involving juveniles, a serious charge that has sparked significant concern among local residents. The investigation is a joint effort involving the Florence Police Department and both local and federal agencies, clearly showing the gravity of the situation.

This case is currently being prosecuted by the Attorney General’s office, which signifies the importance and seriousness of such crimes against children in our communities.

Shooting Incident Leads to Arrest in Florence, AL

Florence, AL, another incident has arrested the attention of law enforcement. A 34-year-old man, identified as Alejandro Carranza-Gonzalez, was arrested following a shooting at Hearn Trailer Park on April 11. Carranza-Gonzalez has been charged with Assault-2nd Degree after allegedly shooting a 21-year-old man who suffered a gunshot wound to the foot.

The victim was promptly transported for medical treatment by EMS, showcasing how quickly local authorities responded to the emergency. Following the shooting, police executed a search warrant at a residence on Belview Road, resulting in Carranza-Gonzalez’s arrest. He was later booked into the Lauderdale County Detention Center but managed to secure his release after posting a $2,500 bond.

Teenagers Facing Consequences for Reckless Behavior

North Willamson Road in Florence, SC. The younger teens were reportedly in a car with a small child during the shooting, raising immediate safety concerns for everyone involved.

Following the incident, the teenagers were taken into custody and are now under the care of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice in Columbia. Community members are undoubtedly relieved that no one was injured, but the event has raised questions about youth safety and supervision in the area.

Motive for Violence: Assault and Kidnapping Incident

Elijah Hameed Harkless, also 23 years old. Harkless was apprehended on multiple charges ranging from third-degree assault and battery, larceny, kidnapping to second-degree assault and battery, and even stalking.

According to reports, Harkless confronted a victim at her workplace and followed her to a storage area, where he committed an assault. He didn’t stop there; he reportedly assaulted her again at a different location and even stole her phone, possibly to prevent her from calling for help. Police were alerted when it became apparent that Harkless was attempting to locate the victim again at one of her workplaces.

Community Response

Law enforcement is actively working to address these issues, and the success of these efforts will undoubtedly play a vital role in restoring a sense of security and trust among the residents.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Deputy Injured in I-95 Collision in Florence, SC
China Accuses U.S. NSA of Cyber Attacks During Asian Winter Games
Cody Balmer Denied Bail After Arson Attack on Governor’s Residence
South Carolina Shrimpers Push for Tariffs Amid Struggles
Victor Martinez-Hernandez Convicted of Murdering Rachel Morin
Deputy Hospitalized After Collision on Interstate 95
Teen Grazed by Bullet at Weekend Party in Florence County
Tragedy Strikes Florence as Police Charge Juvenile in Shooting Incident
Titan Farms Faces Wage Violation Scrutiny in South Carolina
Tragedy Strikes as New York Helicopter Tours Shuts Down After Fatal Crash

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER

FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence 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 Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit