News Summary
Anthony Devon Woods Jr., 24, has been arrested in Florence, SC for kidnapping and first-degree criminal sexual conduct. The charges stem from a violent incident involving a firearm and assault against the victim. Witnesses reported the victim in distress during the attack. Woods is held without bond as the community awaits the legal proceedings.
Florence Man Arrested for Kidnapping and Sexual Assault with a Gun
Florence, SC – Anthony Devon Woods Jr., a 24-year-old resident of Florence, was apprehended by local law enforcement on July 10, 2025, following allegations of serious criminal conduct, including kidnapping and first-degree criminal sexual conduct. Woods is currently being held without bond at the Florence County Detention Center.
The charges against Woods stem from an incident reported on June 25 at the Hampton Inn & Suites, located on West Radio Drive. According to police documents, the situation escalated during an argument when Woods allegedly began to choke the victim. It is alleged that he subsequently pointed a firearm at her and forced her to perform sexual acts while inhibiting her ability to leave the motel room or contact authorities for assistance.
Reports indicate that the victim was in a state of distress throughout the attack, repeatedly asking Woods to stop. Witness accounts describe her condition as “in and out of consciousness” as a result of the choking. The violent nature of the assault, particularly the use of a weapon, is detailed in the arrest warrant, emphasizing the intimidating atmosphere created by Woods.
Woods is facing several charges in connection to this incident: kidnapping, first-degree criminal sexual conduct, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and unlawful possession of a weapon. Each of these charges underscores the severity of the allegations and the potential consequences Woods may face if convicted.
The investigation into this incident was initiated after the victim reported the assault to authorities. Law enforcement took swift action, leading to Woods’s arrest less than two weeks following the reported crime. The determined response reflects the seriousness with which such offenses are regarded in the community.
The legal definitions associated with the charges give insight into the possible ramifications of this case. Kidnapping is generally defined as unlawfully seizing and carrying away a person by force or fraud. First-degree criminal sexual conduct typically involves non-consensual sexual acts that occur under aggravating circumstances, such as the use of a firearm or physical harm. Meanwhile, the possession charges relate to the illegal ownership or use of a firearm during the commission of a crime, which can lead to additional penalties.
The community is closely monitoring this case, as violent crimes of this nature present serious implications for public safety. As the judicial process continues, both the victim and the accused will navigate the complex legal system, with emphasis on the rights and protections afforded to victims of violence.
Woods, having been denied bond, will remain in custody while awaiting further legal proceedings. The outcome of this case will likely have lingering effects on both the victims and the broader community as issues of safety, justice, and accountability are brought to the forefront.
As updates become available, the city of Florence will continue to address issues surrounding crime and public safety, as community members seek reassurance in the face of such serious allegations.
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Additional Resources
- WBTW News
- Wikipedia: Kidnapping
- WMBF News
- Google Search: Florence SC sexual assault investigation
- WYFF News
- Google Scholar: sexual assault Florence
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Assault
- WAAY TV
- Google News: Florence crime news
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.
