A man has been taken into custody following an incident involving the assault and abduction of a student from Clemson University, according to the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities reported that the incident occurred at an off-campus apartment complex in Clemson, South Carolina, on Tuesday morning.
Officials report that Darrell Scott Brooks, 57, from Oconee County, requested a young female Clemson student to drive him to “his broken-down car.” During their journey, Brooks compelled the student to stop in a church parking area on Fants Grove Road in Anderson. Brooks subsequently launched an attack on the student with a knife, further assaulting her by trying to restrain her.
Deputies reported that Brooks deceived the student by asserting he was affiliated with Clemson University.
A passerby noticed a young woman in distress and responded to her cries for help, allowing the student to break free. Authorities reported that Brooks escaped by driving the student’s vehicle into Seneca.
A white Audi Q5 has been reported stolen and was seen in the Westminster area, according to the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office.
During a regular patrol on Longcreek Highway close to Mar Val Drive, a deputy came across a vehicle that fit the description of the stolen vehicle that had been reported. As the deputy tried to pull him over, Brooks sped away, leading to a chase.
The deputy indicated that Brooks was operating the vehicle in a dangerous manner, overtaking on double yellow lines and exceeding the speed limit. The pursuit concluded on Longcreek Highway close to Raines Road, as Brooks lost control of the vehicle and crashed into an embankment.
Brooks exited the vehicle and sprinted up a hill prior to being apprehended by deputies.
Authorities reported that Brooks was taken to the hospital for assessment and care. During the search of his wallet, deputies found that Brooks was operating a vehicle with a suspended license.
Brooks faces serious charges including kidnapping, grand larceny, and assault with the intent to engage in criminal sexual conduct, according to ACSO.
Brooks faces charges from OCSO for failing to stop for a blue light, resisting arrest, and receiving stolen goods. Furthermore, Brooks faced charges for violating probation, engaging in reckless driving, operating a vehicle under suspension, and possessing marijuana.
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Authorities reported that Brooks has been taken into custody at the Oconee County Detention Center, where a total surety bond of $28,267.50 has been set.
Authorities in Anderson County have reported that Brooks is a registered sex offender from Oconee County and has recently completed a significant prison sentence this past spring.
The university is actively supporting the student during her recovery and is offering various resources, according to ACSO.