Teen charged in connection with planning his own kidnapping
LEXINGTON, S.C. (WOLO)– Lexington Police say a teen has been charged in connection with planning his own kidnapping.
Sema’j Corvin Gardner charged in connection with faking his own kidnapping, says Lexington PD. (Photo: Lexington Police Department)
17-year-old Sema’j Corvin Gardner was allegedly kidnapped on Sunday, May 3.
Officers say when two Black males, armed with handguns, burglarized a home in the 900 block of Hendrix Street in the Town of Lexington, and took a teen, it allegedly was planned by the teen.
During the incident, the two males allegedly assaulted and threatened to kill several family members before taken Sema’j Gardner.
An investigation into the incident revealed that Gardner conspired with the two males in planning his own kidnapping from his home with their help.
Gardner was found by law enforcement Monday evening, and he is being charged as an adult on six counts of kidnapping, six counts of assault & battery – 1st degree, conspiracy,
pointing and presenting a weapon, and burglary – 1st degree.
He was taken to the Lexington County Detention Center.
When seen in Lexington County Bond Court, the 17-year-old was not given a bond and will remain in custody, according to the police department.
A 16-year-old juvenile male has also been arrested and charged in connection with the incident.
The 16-year-old is being charged with six counts of kidnapping, six counts of assault & battery – 1st degree, conspiracy, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, pointing and presenting a weapon, and burglary – 1st degree.
The teen is in South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (SCDJJ) custody awaiting to be seen in Lexington County Family Court for a bond hearing.
Law enforcement are continuing to investigate and ask that if you have information about the unidentified Black male involved in this case contact Detective Corporal Kenneth Heath at 803-358-1557 or email him at kheath@lexsc.gov.
Those with information can also contact Midlands Crimestoppers in the following ways:
PHONE TIP – Call the toll-free number at 1-888-CRIME-SC (888-274-6372.)
WEB TIP – Go to www.midlandscrimestoppers.com and click “Submit a Tip.”
MOBILE TIP – Download the new P3 Tips app on your Apple or Android Device.
You can remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.
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