Deputy Charged with Killing Unarmed Man, Allowing Police Dog to Attack

Columbia, S.C. — A deputy in South Carolina has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and assault after shooting an unarmed suspect five times, leading to the suspect’s death. Additionally, the deputy’s police dog mauled an innocent person during the incident, as per the state authorities.

Former Florence County deputy Treyvon Jonathan Sellers was arrested by state agents on Wednesday. He had been on administrative leave since the shooting incident that occurred on May 26. Sellers was subsequently fired in July following his arrest in an unrelated domestic violence case.

On Thursday, Sellers awaited a bond hearing at the Florence County jail. At this time, jail records did not provide any information regarding his legal representation.

The events began when Sellers pursued 43-year-old William Dwayne Rankin, who had crashed his vehicle into a tree. After the crash, Rankin fled to a nearby home close to Florence. According to a sworn statement from the State Law Enforcement Division, Sellers entered the home through the back door without announcing himself or his intentions.

With his police canine, which was not on a leash, Sellers entered the residence. He ordered the dog to attack without first determining the identity of the occupants inside. The dog ended up biting Johnny Cooper, the homeowner, who was entirely uninvolved in the chase and unfamiliar with Sellers.

While the dog attacked Cooper, Sellers shot at Rankin five times as the latter lay on a couch in the home, according to the sworn statement provided by the State Law Enforcement Division. It was noted that Sellers did not give commands to the dog to stop its assault on the homeowner. The attack continued for roughly 87 seconds, resulting in Cooper suffering permanent injuries to his left arm and shoulder.

Sellers, now 29 years old, has been charged with voluntary manslaughter in connection with Rankin’s death. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence ranging from two to 30 years. He is also facing charges for assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature due to the dog attack, which carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years upon conviction.

In the wake of the incident, Florence County Sheriff TJ Joye released a statement expressing his regret. He noted that he met with both the families of Mr. Rankin and Mr. Cooper to convey his sincere apologies, emphasizing that the incident does not reflect the values, mission, or training of the department.

This case underlines serious concerns regarding police conduct and the use of force, especially in situations involving unarmed suspects and the handling of police animals. As the legal proceedings continue, the community and the families affected are seeking answers and accountability for the actions taken on that fateful day.

Authorities, including Sheriff Joye, are expected to provide further updates as the case progresses through the legal system. The incident has raised questions about law enforcement practices, particularly regarding the proper use of police dogs in high-stress situations.

As the investigation unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how the legal system addresses these significant charges against a former deputy and what implications this may have for law enforcement policies in South Carolina and beyond.