Irmo, SC 05/20/2026 - The Irmo Police Department arrested Joseph Seth Braxton at a residence in New Friarsgate on May 20, 2026, at 10:30 AM. Braxton has been charged with Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Violent Crime, Drug Trafficking, Possession with Intent to Distribute, and Possession of a Controlled Substance. Upon executing a search warrant of the residence, the search yielded: 106oz Plant Marijuana 9oz (minimum) THC Vape Products 46oz THC Wax 3g LSD x3 Alprazolam 2.6oz Psilocybin Approximately $11,400 US Currency x3 semi-auto handguns x1 Revolver x2 Assault Rifles x1 Shotgun Assorted Ammunition Braxton was transported to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.

West Columbia 05/16/2026 – Seven Brookland-Cayce High School athletes in basketball and track and field have committed to compete in their sports at the collegiate level. The seven seniors participated in a signing ceremony at the school Friday. They are: Tionna Goodwin: Basketball, Columbia International University Isaiah Daniels: Track and field, Voorhees University Jamarion Griffin: Track and field, Voorhees University Malik Finch: Track and field, Voorhees University Darian Toller: Track and field, USC-Aiken Beckett Riley: Basketball, Spartanburg Methodist College Isaiah Oree: Basketball, Pfeiffer University The signing event was held in the school’s Hall of Fame Room, attended by coaches, family, friends, teammates, and faculty and staff. Brookland-Cayce High School athletes, from left, Jamarion Griffin, Malik Finch, Isaiah Daniel, Tionna Goodwin, Isaiah Oree, Beckett Riley, and Darian Toller during Friday’s signing event.

Irmo, SC 05/13/2026 - The Town of Irmo is proud to announce that Councilman Mike Ward has officially completed the South Carolina Palmetto Leadership Academy, a statewide initiative hosted by the Conservation Voters of South Carolina Education Fund designed to equip emerging and established leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively serve their communities. The Palmetto Leadership Academy (SCPLA) is a comprehensive training program that focuses on key areas of governance, leadership, and conservation, including government budgeting, Freedom of Information Act compliance, procedural responsibilities, and environmental stewardship. Participants also engage with experts across multiple sectors to better understand issues such as energy consumption, land conservation, community health, and water resource management. Councilman Ward emphasized the importance of technical knowledge and accountability in public service when stating, “True conservation is rooted in being a good steward of our resources, both our natural environment and our taxpayers’ dollars. This opportunity provided me with additional training in topics like government budgeting, FOIA laws, and procedural duties. This helps ensure local leaders aren’t just well-intentioned but are technically proficient and fiscally responsible. When our elected officials have a good working knowledge about the ‘nuts and bolts’ of governance, we ensure that local government remains efficient, transparent, and accountable to the people of South Carolina.” Ward also highlighted the broader impact of the program on leadership development across the state: “Additionally, leadership is about taking ownership of our own backyard. The PLA program equips any South Carolinian with the tools to lead from the front on local issues, even if you’re not in any kind of position yet. This program combined some of the technical components of leadership with additional topics, such as conservation. I was able to listen to professionals from various industries talk about topics like energy consumption, land conservation, community health, water conservation, and many other topics that I will use as I help make decisions for the future of Irmo.” The Town of Irmo commends Councilman Ward for his commitment to continued learning and professional development, and for bringing enhanced expertise back to the Irmo community. His participation in the Palmetto Leadership Academy reflects the Town’s ongoing dedication to strong, informed, and forward-thinking leadership. The Town of Irmo is proud to announce that Councilman Mike Ward has officially completed the South Carolina Palmetto Leadership Academy, a statewide initiative hosted by the Conservation Voters of South Carolina Education Fund designed to equip emerging and established leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively serve their communities. The Palmetto Leadership Academy (SCPLA) is a comprehensive training program that focuses on key areas of governance, leadership, and conservation, including government budgeting, Freedom of Information Act compliance, procedural responsibilities, and environmental stewardship. Participants also engage with experts across multiple sectors to better understand issues such as energy consumption, land conservation, community health, and water resource management. Councilman Ward emphasized the importance of technical knowledge and accountability in public service when stating, “True conservation is rooted in being a good steward of our resources, both our natural environment and our taxpayers’ dollars. This opportunity provided me with additional training in topics like government budgeting, FOIA laws, and procedural duties. This helps ensure local leaders aren’t just well-intentioned but are technically proficient and fiscally responsible. When our elected officials have a good working knowledge about the ‘nuts and bolts’ of governance, we ensure that local government remains efficient, transparent, and accountable to the people of South Carolina.” Ward also highlighted the broader impact of the program on leadership development across the state: “Additionally, leadership is about taking ownership of our own backyard. The PLA program equips any South Carolinian with the tools to lead from the front on local issues, even if you’re not in any kind of position yet. This program combined some of the technical components of leadership with additional topics, such as conservation. I was able to listen to professionals from various industries talk about topics like energy consumption, land conservation, community health, water conservation, and many other topics that I will use as I help make decisions for the future of Irmo.” The Town of Irmo commends Councilman Ward for his commitment to continued learning and professional development, and for bringing enhanced expertise back to the Irmo community. His participation in the Palmetto Leadership Academy reflects the Town’s ongoing dedication to strong, informed, and forward-thinking leadership.

West Columbia, SC 05/13/2026 – Fifty Lexington Two high school students in the district’s Early College and Dual Enrollment programs have earned diplomas or certificates and were invited to participate in Midlands Technical College’s graduation ceremony this week. All of the students, from Airport and Brookland-Cayce High Schools, earned college credits — at no cost — during their regular high school days. Lexington Two was among the area’s first school districts to partner with Midlands Tech to offer this accelerated academic opportunity for its students through the Dual Enrollment/Early College program. “Through our Dual Enrollment program with Midlands Technical College, our students are proving that college and career success can begin long before high school graduation,” said Dr. David McDonald, Chief Academic and Innovation Officer. “Earning an associate degree while still in high school reflects their hard work, determination, and the incredible opportunities available here to Lexington Two students.” Seven students, all seniors, received associate in art and/or associate in science diplomas. These students have earned a minimum of 61 college credits and have taken 20-plus college courses. Lexington Two students who received both their associate in art and associate in science diplomas are Olivia McIntosh, Madelyn Mendez-Pelaez, and Carolina Redmond-Murillo, of Airport High School, and Charles Balkema and Prince Patel, of Brookland-Cayce High School. Hector Hernandez of Airport and Tennessa Cunningham of Brookland-Cayce both received an associate in art diploma. Forty-three juniors and seniors received their general college studies certificates. These students have earned at least 18 college credits and have successfully completed six or more specific courses identified as transferable to all South Carolina 4-year colleges. Two other students received their health science preparation certificates. There are roughly 106 Lexington Two students in 9th through 12th grades who are currently enrolled in various stages of the Early College and Dual Enrollment programs, with that number growing in the 2026-2027 school year. Some of the Lexington Two high schools pose at Colonial Life Arena before participating in the Midlands Technical College graduation ceremony this week.

West Columbia, SC 05/13/2026 - David Earl Bender, a 43-year-old West Columbia man, was sentenced last month to twenty (20) years in prison following his conviction at trial on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in Lexington County, for Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature. Chief Administrative Judge Debra R. McCaslin presided over the jury trial and imposed the sentence. Under South Carolina law, Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature is classified a violent, serious, and no-parole offense. The maximum sentence for this charge is twenty years in prison. Assistant Solicitors Bruce H. Norton II and Melissa Moon oversaw the prosecution of this case, and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. On September 24, 2024, Lexington County Detention Center declared a medical emergency after the victim was found injured inside his cell. Investigators with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department responded to the assault that took place in the jail. Investigators were able to determine that Bender and the victim were cell mates, and the incident occurred while Bender and the victim had been placed into the cell for the night. When investigators spoke to Bender, he advised them that the victim had fallen during a verbal argument over a detention center issued tablet. At trial, the jury heard evidence of the assault as most of it was audio recorded by the tablet device, as Bender had been using the phone application at the time of the assault. The tablet devices record all captured audio when an inmate is using the phone application. The victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition. During the trial, the jury heard testimony that the victim suffered extensive physical injuries including major head trauma, facial fractures, multiple broken ribs, and a collapsed lung. The victim had to be placed on a ventilator and spent over six months in the hospital before being released. Bender has prior convictions for Aggravated Assault, Domestic Violence, Failure to Stop for Blue Lights, and Resisting Arrest. Bender has been transported to the South Carolina Department of Corrections to serve his sentence.

Lexington, SC 05/13/2026 – This summer, Lexington County Public Library invites the community to Unearth a Story and embark on a journey of discovery that will inspire and open doors to vast possibilities of imagination, learning and fun. The library’s annual Summer Reading Program kicks off May 26 and runs through July 31 — and it's open to all ages. “Reading together is quality time. Whether it’s bedtime stories or a shared chapter book, it builds strong bonds and sparks meaningful conversations. Without regular reading, kids can lose up to two months of progress over summer break. Our program helps keep their skills sharp so they’re ready for school in the fall,” says Youth Services Coordinator Jennifer Smith. Participants can track their reading and complete activities using the Beanstack Tracker App or with a paper tracking card available online and at all 10 library locations beginning May 26. Children who sign up will receive a free book, with additional prizes like dinosaur squishies, restaurant vouchers and grand prize drawings throughout the summer for everyone. To celebrate the start of Summer Reading, each library branch will host a kickoff event filled with fun and entertainment. Dates and times can be found at lexcolibrary.com/summerreading. Enjoy a full calendar of free programs and special guests this season, including fan favorites Porkchop Productions and Mad Platter, as well as author talks with Dick Harpootlian and Tom Poland. The Summer Reading Program is made possible by the support of generous sponsors, including Columbia Museum of Art, Pelican’s Snoballs, Texas Roadhouse, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Lexington County Blowfish, Salsarita’s Fresh Mexican Grill and Frankie’s Fun Park, along with other valued community partners. Join Lexington County Public Library this summer to explore, read and Unearth a Story!

Batesburg - Leesville 05/13/2026 - Lexington County School District Three announces Nicole Yaworski as the new Assistant Principal of Batesburg-Leesville Elementary School, effective July 1, 2026. Ms. Yaworski, who is affectionately referred to as “Coach Y” by her students, will replace Samantha Kennedy, who will transition to Batesburg-Leesville Middle School as the school’s new principal. Currently serving as a Physical Education teacher at Batesburg-Leesville Elementary School, Ms. Yaworski also serves the district as Assistant Athletic Director and Head Varsity Girls Tennis Coach at Batesburg-Leesville High School. Ms. Yaworski earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Lander University and recently completed her Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to student success, school leadership, and community involvement. In addition to her classroom and leadership responsibilities, Ms. Yaworski has led numerous school initiatives including serving as the school’s PBIS leader, Student Activities Committee leader, and Related Arts & Special Areas Team leader. She was named Batesburg-Leesville Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year in 2025 and currently serves as Lexington County School District Three’s overall Teacher of the Year. “I am incredibly honored and excited to transition into the role of Assistant Principal at the school where my teaching career began,” said Ms. Yaworski. “This district and school have played a significant role in shaping me both personally and professionally, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the students, staff, and community in a new capacity. I look forward to supporting student success, fostering meaningful relationships, and helping build upon the strong foundation that makes this school such a special place.” In her spare time, Ms. Yaworski enjoys playing fetch with her dogs, spending time with family, and attending sporting events.

Lexington SC 05/13/2026 – Jeffrey “Mason” Williams of Pelion High School (PHS) was selected as the 2026 Doris Burkett Scholarship recipient. Since 1995, the Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center has administered the Doris Burkett Scholarship and has awarded more than $130,000. The late Doris Burkett served as the Executive Director of the Lexington Chamber for 12 years and was a proud graduate of Gilbert High School. The scholarship is given to one Lexington School District One student and requires a maximum of a 4.0 grade point average and active engagement in community and extracurricular activities. “The recipient, Jeffrey “Mason” Williams, has shown great ambition to achieve excellence,” said Trey Powell, Doris Burkett Scholarship Chairman. “Mason record embodies these ideals. As a Palmetto Boys State delegate, Future Farmers of America (FFA) President, and three-sport varsity athlete in football, golf, and track and field, he has demonstrated remarkable leadership and discipline. His commitment to growth—from attending the FFA National Convention to participating in the SC Commissioner's School for Agriculture—distinguishes him as a student who is deeply dedicated to both his community and his future.” Mason plans to attend Clemson University Bridge program at Tri-County Technical College to study turfgrass management. For more information on the scholarship, contact Nina Glisson at (803) 359- 6113. Pictured (From L to R): Lee Ayers & Anne Marie Green– DBS Board Members, Hon. Kathy Henson – Lexington County School District One Board Chair, Dr. Keith Price – Superintendent, Lexington County School District One, Jeffrey “Mason” Williams – Scholarship Recipient, Sean Bishton – Principal, Pelion High School, Itzel Morales, FFA Advisor, Pelion High School and Trey Powell, Board Chair, Doris Burkett Board of Directors.

Batesburg-Leesville, SC 04/28/2026 - Lexington County School District Three announces the hiring of Polly Peyinghaus as the district’s new Director of Child Nutrition. She will officially begin her role in May. Mrs. Peyinghaus brings a wealth of experience in child nutrition and school food service operations. She currently serves as the Child Nutrition Coordinator for Aiken County Public School District, where she has demonstrated strong leadership and a commitment to providing high-quality, nutritious meals to students. Prior to her work in Aiken County, Mrs. Peyinghaus served in Lexington County School District One as a Food Services Field Supervisor. In that role, she supported managers and teams in the field on a daily basis, providing the tools and guidance needed to serve students with a joyful spirit while maintaining full compliance with program standards. A resident of Leesville, Mrs. Peyinghaus earned her bachelor’s degree from Hyles-Anderson College in Indiana. She is passionate about supporting student wellness through innovative and effective food service programs. Outside of her professional work, Mrs. Peyinghaus enjoys cooking and spending time with her family. She is married to her husband, Rob, and has three adult children—Melyssa, Clayton, and Moriah—and three grandchildren, Ashton, Lola, and Jamison. In her free time, she and her husband enjoy exploring the charm of small towns, especially discovering local eateries and unique shops. She also finds great joy in spending time at the beach.

West Columbia, SC 04/11/2026 - Airport High School’s Student Council brought home two top state and national honors. At the South Carolina Association of Student Councils conference in March, Airport was recognized as a State Gold Council, the 10th consecutive year the council has received the distinction. Criteria includes council involvement, council organization, and projects throughout the year in school service, community service, and school promotion and spirit. In addition, Airport was recognized with a 2nd place award for Trick or Treat Lane in the Community Outreach category, and a 3rd place award for Community Care Celebrations in the Recreational category. The state conference draws hundreds of student leaders from across South Carolina for workshops, featured speakers, networking, and other activities. Airport’s Student Council also has been recognized by the National Student Council as a National Gold Council of Excellence, an award Airport has received for several consecutive years. The award is given annually to schools with an exemplary record of leadership, service and activities that aim to improve the school and community. Among requirements of a National Council of Excellence Award, a council must demonstrate successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community. Councils like Airport’s, which are awarded at the gold level, have successfully demonstrated the highest levels of leadership. Members of Airport High School’s Student Council pose during the recent conference of the South Carolina Association of Student Councils.

West Columbia, SC 04/11/2026 - Three Lexington Two middle schools have been recognized with Palmetto Silver Awards from the SC Department of Education for academic achievement and student progress on State Report Cards. Busbee Creative Arts Academy, Fulmer Middle School, and Northside Middle School scored average in student achievement and excellent in student progress, earning all three the recognition. “We are very proud of the improvement that these schools are making,” said Dr. David McDonald, the district’s Chief Academic and Innovation Officer. “Each has worked hard to ensure that their students are making progress toward the state's rigorous goals. We look forward to continuing our work as a district to improve student achievement.” The Palmetto Gold and Silver awards program was established by the South Carolina General Assembly as part of the Education Accountability Act (EAA) of 1998. The program recognizes and rewards schools for attaining high levels of absolute performance, high rates of growth, and for making substantial progress in closing the achievement gap between groups of students, according to the Department of Education. “Having three schools earn Palmetto Silver Awards is a strong reflection of the focused work, shared commitment, and continued progress happening across our district,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Angela Cooper. “We are grateful for the dedication of our school leaders, teachers, staff, students, and families who make this kind of achievement possible."-- Three Lexington Two middle schools have been recognized with Palmetto Silver Awards from the SC Department of Education for academic achievement and student progress on State Report Cards. Busbee Creative Arts Academy, Fulmer Middle School, and Northside Middle School scored average in student achievement and excellent in student progress, earning all three the recognition. “We are very proud of the improvement that these schools are making,” said Dr. David McDonald, the district’s Chief Academic and Innovation Officer. “Each has worked hard to ensure that their students are making progress toward the state's rigorous goals. We look forward to continuing our work as a district to improve student achievement.” The Palmetto Gold and Silver awards program was established by the South Carolina General Assembly as part of the Education Accountability Act (EAA) of 1998. The program recognizes and rewards schools for attaining high levels of absolute performance, high rates of growth, and for making substantial progress in closing the achievement gap between groups of students, according to the Department of Education. “Having three schools earn Palmetto Silver Awards is a strong reflection of the focused work, shared commitment, and continued progress happening across our district,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Angela Cooper. “We are grateful for the dedication of our school leaders, teachers, staff, students, and families who make this kind of achievement possible." Northside Middle School was one of three Lexington Two schools that received a Palmetto Silver Award for academic achievement and student progress. Shown here are Principal Dr. Tiffany Hall, far right, Assistant Principal Bryson Summers, far left, with a group of Northside teachers and students.

Lexington, SC 01/11/2026 - Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher has positively identified the person who was found shot outside an apartment complex in the 3500 block of Fernandina Road in the Columbia area of Lexington County on April 4, 2026, shortly before 1:00 PM. According to Coroner Fisher, Mr. Ke'Mari Samar'Trey Ford, 18, of Lexington was pronounced dead at the scene due to multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. The Lexington County Coroner’s Office and the Lexington County Sheriff's Department continue to investigate the incident. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Ford.