Florence County Sheriff Urges Parental Involvement Amid Surge in Youth Violence and School Threats

Florence Faces Rising Youth Violence and School Threats: Sheriff Calls for Parental Involvement

Florence, SC – The peace and safety of our children have become a pressing concern for the Florence community as school threats and instances of teenage violence continue to rise. In a heartfelt plea, Florence County Sheriff TJ Joye is urging parents to take an active role in guiding their kids away from violence and weapons.

Recent data revealed that since early September, over 60 threats have been reported against schools across 23 counties in South Carolina. These alarming figures highlight a disturbing trend, leading Sheriff Joye to hold a press conference on September 25, where he emphasized the need for parents to be vigilant with their children’s behavior.

Past Incidents and Current Situation

In Florence County alone, the sheriff’s office has made five arrests linked to these school threats, stressing the seriousness of each incident. Joye expressed his frustration at the situation, saying, “We cannot parent your child. That’s not our job.” He highlighted the resources required to investigate every threat, which involves the sheriff’s cyber crime unit, consuming valuable time and energy that could be used elsewhere.

The issues transcend Florence County. For example, Marlboro County High School switched to e-learning due to increasing threats and violence, while a Charleston County football game was canceled amidst similar concerns. These actions show how the ripple effects of youth violence touch various communities.

Tragic Youth Violence

The recent tragedy of a 14-year-old named Jakari Doctor, who was shot and killed in Johnsonville, has only intensified the urgency of this matter. Just a day later, another teenager was injured by gunfire. Sheriff Joye remains resolute in his plea for parents to closely monitor their kids’ activities, saying, “Parents or guardians who help supply a gun to a teenager, whether intentionally or unintentionally, are at risk of being arrested.”

The sheriff’s office is making a proactive move by offering free gun locks to anyone in need, available at the sheriff’s office lobby. This effort aims to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands and ensure the safety of the community’s children.

A Community Solution

During the press conference, Calvin Robinson, a local pastor, echoed the sheriff’s sentiments, stating that fighting youth violence is a collective responsibility. He emphasized the need for a supportive community, where schools, churches, and local leaders work together to guide and protect the youth.

Robinson remarked, “We need a village. The village includes the churches, it includes the educators, it includes the leaders within the city and the county, where we have to come together and save our children or we’re gonna lose an entire generation due to gun violence.” This notion of community involvement is crucial, as many parents are occupied with their daily lives, and children need additional support.

Moving Forward

With the school year underway and threats lingering, the sheriff is making a strong appeal to the residents of Florence County. “I need your help to control your child,” Joye stated, reminding the attendees at the press conference that school officials cannot take on the responsibility alone.

Parents are encouraged to stay engaged with their children’s social media activity and overall behavior, understanding that threats must be taken seriously. “If you hear something, say something,” Joye urged, emphasizing that every report is vital in ensuring safety.

As Florence grapples with this concerning trend, the hopes of the community lie in unity and proactive action. Parents, leaders, and citizens alike are encouraged to take a stand for a safer future for the children of Florence.