Ravell Dominque McLaughlin
BENNETTSVILLE, S.C. (WPDE) - An 18-year-old man was arrested in Bennettsville in connection to a home invasion that happened Tuesday, according to a press release from the Marlboro County Sheriffs Office.
Ravell Dominque McLaughlin of Bennettsville has been charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct 1st degree, Kidnapping, Burglary 1st degree, Armed Robbery, and Larceny.
These charges stem from a home invasion on Dundee drive in Bennettsville on Tuesday according to Sheriff Fred Knight.
An investigation revealed that McLaughlin used a trash can to break in the second level of the home, according to the press release.
While inside the home, a woman who lived there startled McLaughlin, and he physically and sexually assaulted the victim at knifepoint, according to the press release.
Another resident came inside and found McLaughlin in the home, but McLaughlin ran away, according to the press release.
Marlboro County Sheriff's Office, Bennettsville police, Chesterfield County Sheriff's Office and SLED continued to investigate evidence found at scene. A break in the case came through DNA evidence.
The DNA matched McLaughlin, according to the press release.
Warrants were served to McLaughlin's residence, and when he arrived around 1 a.m on Saturday, he was arrested, according to the press release.
“This is one of the most terrifying cases I have been involved with in my over 30 year career. This defendant had the nerve to commit this brutal crime at a well lit and occupied home. He is a real and legitimate danger to the public and now he is off the street. I commend the public for their help, patience and prayers over the last few days. I commend the victim’s in the case for the bravery they have exhibited through the whole process. I would like to thank the MCSO Investigators who have worked nonstop for the last few days from the crime scene to all that has to be done. The Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office and Bennettsville Police Dept went above and beyond all that was asked of them also. They spent many man hours with us daily going from door to door and interviewing witnesses. The State Law Enforcement Division went above and beyond with many different resources as well as the SLED DNA Dept for staying late on this Friday night to finish this case. This was a team effort and I hope that the healing process can begin for the victim’s," said Sheriff Knight.
