News Summary
In a swift response to an armed robbery at the Baymont Inn in Florence County, two men identified as Keith Lavontai Cooper and Xavier Malik Blow were arrested shortly after the incident. Armed with a firearm, the suspects threatened a victim and fled with cash. Their rapid apprehension by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office highlights the importance of timely law enforcement action in ensuring community safety. Both suspects face multiple charges including armed robbery and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Florence County, SC – Two men have been arrested following an armed robbery at the Baymont Inn in Florence County on Thursday night. The incident occurred around 8 p.m., prompting an immediate response from the Florence County Sheriff’s Office to a call reporting the robbery.
The suspects have been identified as Keith Lavontai Cooper, 29, and Xavier Malik Blow, 38. At the time of the robbery, both men were reportedly dressed in all-black clothing. Allegedly, they entered a motel room, brandished a firearm, and threatened the victim while demanding money. They managed to flee the scene with an undetermined amount of cash.
After the robbery, witnesses reported seeing the pair leave the motel in a silver Nissan sedan. Responding deputies conducted a brief search in the area, which led to the successful apprehension of both suspects shortly after the incident concluded.
Upon their arrest, deputies confirmed the identities of Cooper and Blow through the victim’s testimony. Both suspects are now facing multiple charges, including armed robbery and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. In addition, they are charged with conspiracy/criminal conspiracy. The accused are currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center, where they await a bond hearing.
Details of the Incident
The robbery began when Cooper and Blow entered the motel room at the Baymont Inn. The situation escalated quickly when they threatened the victim with a firearm. Reports indicate that the motive behind the robbery was financial gain, although the total amount stolen has yet to be disclosed. The swift response from law enforcement was crucial in securing the suspects soon after their getaway.
Law Enforcement Response
The timely intervention by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office underscores the importance of rapid law enforcement response to violent crimes. Through a coordinated effort, officers were able to locate and arrest the suspects, ensuring safety in the community and providing a sense of justice for the victim.
Community Impact
Incidents of armed robbery can have a lasting impact on local communities, instilling fear and uncertainty among residents. The quick resolution of this case serves to reinforce trust in the police force, as they actively work to ensure the safety of the public. Authorities continue to urge witnesses and anyone with information about such crimes to come forward, contributing to safer neighborhoods.
Previous Incidents
Armed robbery remains a serious issue in many regions, including Florence County. Recent statistics indicate that such crimes have seen fluctuations in frequency but remain a key focus for law enforcement agencies. Local authorities regularly implement measures to reduce crime rates and enhance public safety, such as increased patrols in high-risk areas and community outreach programs.
As the legal proceedings against Cooper and Blow proceed, the Florence community is reminded of the importance of vigilance and reporting suspicious activities. The police urge anyone who may have additional information related to this incident or other similar events to contact the appropriate law enforcement agencies.
Residents can expect updates as this case develops, and law enforcement continues its efforts to ensure that justice is served. Meanwhile, the Baymont Inn and its patrons are working to restore a sense of normalcy following the alarming incident.
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Additional Resources
- WPDE: Two arrested in armed robbery at Baymont Inn
- Wikipedia
- WBTW: 2 jailed in armed robbery at Florence County hotel
- Google Search: Florence County armed robbery
- WMBF News: 2 charged in Pee Dee armed robbery investigation
- Encyclopedia Britannica
- WPDE: Former detention center employee charged with armed robbery
- Google News: Florence County crime
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.
