LANCASTER, S.C. — Agents from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) have arrested a Lancaster County man following an investigation into allegations of physical abuse and threats directed at a minor.
Justin Trent Craig, 36, was charged on Monday, December 22, 2025, with Unlawfully Placing a Child at Risk of Harm. He was subsequently booked into the Lancaster County Detention Center.
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to the arrest warrant and affidavit, the charges stem from an incident that occurred on December 16, 2025. Investigators allege that Craig physically assaulted a minor child by using his hands to pick the child up by the neck and chest area.
The affidavit further states that Craig held onto the child’s waist, suspending the minor in mid-air and bending their body backward. These actions reportedly caused visible injuries to the child. During the alleged assault, Craig is accused of verbally threatening the minor, stating that he would kill them.
Witness Intimidation Alleged
The warrant also outlines an event the following day, December 17, 2025, in which Craig allegedly attempted to silence a witness. Investigators say Craig told the witness that if they disclosed what had happened, they “would lose [their] home”.
SLED agents noted that the information regarding the abuse and threats was corroborated by a forensic interview with the witness.
Investigation and Prosecution
The investigation was launched by SLED at the request of the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office. The case will be prosecuted by the 6th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
The charge of Unlawfully Placing a Child at Risk of Harm is a violation of South Carolina Code of Laws 63-5-70.
The affidavit and warrant are below:
SLED CHARGES LANCASTER COUNTY MAN WITH UNLAWFULLY PLACING A CHILD AT RISK OF HARM
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