Three Individuals Charged for Harboring Escaped Convict in Beaufort County, South Carolina

Three Individuals Charged for Harboring Escaped Convict in Beaufort County, South Carolina

In Beaufort County, South Carolina, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has recently charged three individuals with harboring an escaped convict charged with human trafficking. The individuals identified in this case, Kalynn Jade Cloud (20), Amani Nekwan Vaughn (30), and Guy Frank Talley III (27), allegedly concealed an escaped convict within their community.

The Case Unfolds

An official statement by SLED spokesperson Renée Wunderlich revealed that the escapee, 29-year-old Jaquan Duvall Barnes, was discovered on July 7 by Jacksonville Sheriff’s deputies and was later extradited to South Carolina. Following his handover to the authorities, Barnes was charged on July 11 with human trafficking of a minor, two counts of second-degree and third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and unlawful escape.

Barnes’ Preconceived Escape

According to the arrest warrants, during his trial and sentencing awaiting period at the Jasper County Detention Center, Barnes escaped the facility using tools and following an elaborate pre-planned escape strategy. His escape sparked an intensive manhunt resulting in his capture in neighboring Jacksonville.

Harboring Charges of the Trio

The accused trio—Cloud, Vaughn, and Talley—had allegedly given refuge to Barnes at Beaufort’s residence of Talley around June 9 or June 10. The investigations led to the discovery of their connection in assisting Barnes evade law enforcement. The charges brought against them reflect the severity of the crime committed, and their actions have been condemned.

The authorities have taken strong measures against individuals assisting lawbreakers, especially individuals involved in serious crimes such as human trafficking. It is illegal and punishable under law to harbor, conceal, or assist an individual that has escaped from law enforcement. Proactively reporting such elements to law authorities is encouraged and helps maintain community safety.

All Arrested and Detained

All three accused individuals along with Barnes have been detained at the Beaufort County Detention Center. The actions of these individuals have raised concerns about the safety of the community. The authorities have expressed will to take necessary actions and precautions to maintain community trust and safety. The case remains under active investigation, and the court proceedings are planned to commence soon.

The case evidences the obligation of citizens to act responsibly by not aiding or assisting lawbreakers. Such actions not only compromise personal integrity but also community safety. Regular updates on this case will be given as investigations continue.