An employee with Laurens District 55 Schools was arrested on Monday after an investigation by the Laurens Police Department (LPD), according to public information. No additional information was immediately provided as to the alleged conduct that led to the criminal charge.
The LPD responded to a report from Laurens Elementary School regarding an alleged incident involving a student and a staff member. After reviewing video evidence and conducting an investigation, the LPD secured a warrant for Cruelty to Children.
Teresa Nicole Hill, 50, was arrested and has since been released on a personal recognizance bond.
“This matter was handled through a thorough investigation, and appropriate action was taken based on the evidence,” said Chief Heath Copeland. According to information sent to parents from District 55, Hill’s employment was terminated on Monday.
In a message to parents, the district said, "Laurens 55 maintains strict policies and expectations to ensure that all employees uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. We take these charges extremely seriously and are fully cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation and legal proceedings continue. While we cannot comment further on the specifics of this ongoing legal matter, please know that we remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining a safe, supportive, and ethical environment for all students and staff.”
The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office posted:
After receiving information from the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office regarding a Laurens County resident uploading, downloading, and possessing suspected child pornographic material, the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office initiated its own investigation.
After a thorough investigation, arrest warrants were obtained. Due to the nature of these crimes, further details will not be released at this time.
On February 18th, an operation was conducted which included the arrest of the suspect and the execution of a search warrant at the suspect’s home on Hammett Street in Laurens. The residence was found to be in deplorable condition with a hole in the floor, rodent droppings, and animal feces and urine located in numerous places throughout. A child has been residing at this location. Building and Codes responded and deemed the structure to be condemned.
James Allen Cockrell of Laurens was arrested and charged as follows:
-Four (4) counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, 2nd Degree
-Unlawful Neglect of a Child
-Violation of Humane Animal Care Ordinance
-No Proof of Rabies Vaccination
In addition, Claudia Burnett of Laurens was also arrested and charged as follows:
-Unlawful Neglect of a Child
-Violation of Humane Animal Care Ordinance
-No Proof of Rabies Vaccination
“This arrest reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community. Crimes involving exploitation of children are the most disturbing we encounter. There is also a startling truth that we see far too often; where there is cruelty toward animals, there are frequently other terrible and deeply troubling crimes. That connection cannot be ignored. We will pursue these despicable people relentlessly. I commend our Investigator for the diligent work put into such a difficult and disturbing case. We will continue to hold offenders accountable and seek justice for every victim.” – Sheriff Don Reynolds
The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office posted:
On February 3rd, Animal Control responded to Midway School Road in Cross Hill in reference to a doghouse containing a dog discarded on the side of the road.
Upon arrival, the deputy did discover the doghouse containing a deceased dog with a chain still on its neck. The dog was severely malnourished. After further investigation, Animal Control was able to identify the individual who discarded the dog, as well as the identity of the owner.
At the dog owner's home, another dog was located and observed to be severely emaciated, but alive. This dog was removed and medical care was sought immediately.
Leroy Todd of Laurens was arrested today, February 12th, and was charged with two counts of Ill Treatment of Animals.
Sammie Price of Laurens was arrested on February 9th and charged with littering in reference to discarding the deceased dog and doghouse on the side of the road.
“This is another example of cruelty and neglect that has no place in our community. No animal deserves to suffer from starvation or mistreatment. I am proud of the diligence shown by our Animal Control staff in identifying those involved and ensuring the surviving dog received immediate care.”
– Sheriff Don Reynolds
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.
