Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me Laurens, SC

Facing criminal charges Near Me Laurens, SC can be a deeply traumatic experience, with even minor offenses having a significant impact on an individual's personal and professional life. The consequences of a criminal record can be severe, resulting in job loss, loss of friendships, and even estrangement from family. For many, the only hope of leading a normal life is to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer Near Me Laurens, SC, fighting for their rights from the outset of legal proceedings.

This is where Lauren Taylor Law comes in, offering hope and proficient legal representation to those who need it most. Our criminal defense team was established specifically to help hardworking people who are facing a difficult road ahead due to criminal charges. With years of experience and deep knowledge in the field, we are committed to ensuring our clients maintain their freedom, so they can move forward with their lives and provide for their families.

We have extensive experience in handling all types of criminal cases Near Me Laurens, SC, from run-of-the-mill DUI charges to more nuanced cases involving juvenile offenses. Unlike other criminal defense law firms, we take a personalized approach to every case, utilizing cutting-edge legal strategies and innovative technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients.

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Some of the most common cases that our lawyers work with include the following:

Misdemeanor Cases
DUI Cases
Burglary Cases
Domestic Violence Cases
Juvenile Crime Cases

Theft Cases
Violent Crime Cases
Weapons Charges Cases
Shoplifting Cases
Many More

Selecting the best criminal defense lawyer for your case in South Carolina often means the difference between freedom and conviction. When your future is on the line, contact Lauren Taylor Law to work with a fierce advocate willing to fight for your rights. Of course, when you've been charged with a crime, having extra knowledge about South Carolina law can go a long way. Before we touch on some of our specialties, it's important for you to understand the various types of criminal defense cases in South Carolina.

What Type of Criminal Defense Do You Need in South Carolina?

Criminal cases in South Carolina are broken down into a few different categories. As a very general rule, crimes that are punishable by three years or less are considered misdemeanors in South Carolina. Anything punishable by more than three years in prison is usually classified as a felony.

Federal and State Cases

Crimes can be classified as either state crimes or federal crimes, depending on whether they violate state laws or federal laws. The decision on which category to pursue charges under is typically made by the prosecutor. Generally speaking, crimes such as assault, robbery, domestic violence, theft, and rape are considered state crimes. Federal crimes, on the other hand, may include computer crime, major drug trafficking, hate crimes, and money laundering, which are often handled by agencies like the FBI or IRS.

Plea Deals

It's common for cases to be resolved outside of court. A plea deal allows the defendant to admit guilt to one or more charges without having to go through the trial process. In fact, your criminal defense attorney Near Me Laurens, SC, and the prosecutor of your case work together to reach a mutually agreeable deal, to avoid the risks and unpredictability of a trial. By taking a plea deal, you may receive a reduced sentence and avoid the stress of a full-blown legal battle.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Cases in South Carolina

For the average person charged with their first crime, understanding the difference between a misdemeanor crime and a felony crime can be hard to grasp. In simple terms, misdemeanors are usually considered petty crimes. They often result in fines and can involve time already served at a local county jail. Trials and plea deals for such offenses often move quickly due to their nature.

On the other hand, felonies are much more serious crimes that are classified by degrees. The most severe of these are first-degree felonies, while the least serious are sixth-degree felonies. When someone is charged with a felony, they may face hefty fines and a prison sentence of over a year in a federal or state institution. Those who have been convicted of a felony may encounter difficulties after their release, which is why it's crucial to have a reliable criminal defense attorney.

SC Code Section 16-1-20 provides us with a helpful penalty outline as it relates to felonies and misdemeanors:

For a Class A felony, the maximum sentence is 30 years.
For a Class B felony, the maximum sentence is 25 years.
For a Class C felony, the maximum sentence is 20 years.
For a Class D felony, the maximum sentence is 15 years.
For a Class E felony, the maximum sentence is 10 years.
For a Class F felony, the maximum sentence is 5 years.
For a Class A misdemeanor, the maximum sentence is 3 years.
For a Class B misdemeanor, the maximum sentence is 2 years.
For a Class C misdemeanor, the maximum sentence is 1 year.

It's important to note that these are maximum sentences, and the actual sentence may be less depending on the specific circumstances of the crime.

Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney Near Me Laurens, SC?

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer is a serious decision that should not be delayed. The longer you wait, the fewer opportunities you have for a positive outcome, as the penalties, fines, and potential jail time can increase. It's important to seek counsel from experienced criminal law attorneys, like Lauren Taylor Law, to protect your career, family, and personal freedom. When you work with our criminal defense law firm in South Carolina, you can rest easy knowing we:

Instigate a pre-trial investigation covering involved parties, police, witnesses, and more
Secure expert witnesses to testify on your behalf, such as private investigators, doctors, polygraphists, and more
Examine and evaluate the evidence against you to ensure it was collected in a legal manner

Here are just a few reasons you should hire a seasoned attorney if you've been charged with a crime in South Carolina:

Deep Understanding of the South Carolina Judicial System

Hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer is crucial for many reasons, one of which is their understanding of the complex judicial system. The legal system can be difficult to navigate, even for those who work within it frequently.

But with a proficient defense lawyer on your side, you'll have a personal guide through the process specific to your criminal case in South Carolina. At Lauren Taylor Law, we believe in demystifying the judicial process by providing one-on-one counsel and a comprehensive explanation of South Carolina court proceedings when needed.

Have Your Best Interests at Heart

When you work with Lauren Taylor Law, you're being represented by a team of hardworking, client-first advocates who aren't afraid to fight for your rights. That's very important in the world of criminal law, where lawyers and other parties may try to fool you into saying or doing something to jeopardize your case. From your initial consultation to the time your case is closed, your criminal defense attorney Near Me Laurens, SC, should always prioritize your best interests and advise you on how to proceed in your case.

Fight for a Fair Future

If you are facing criminal charges, a skilled defense attorney can advocate for you and work to secure a better outcome. They may be able to negotiate reduced charges or penalties or even have your case dismissed if the police obtained evidence illegally.

This can prevent a felony conviction from tarnishing your record and causing harm to your current or future career. Additionally, a reduction in penalties can help you avoid jail time and hold onto your job. Ultimately, a dismissal of your case can spare you from a life in the legal system and help you secure a better future for yourself and your family.

Prosecutor Relationships

At Lauren Taylor Law, our criminal defense attorneys have decades of combined experience. We've seen and done just about all there is to do in terms of criminal defense in South Carolina. Along the way, we've developed relationships with local prosecutors that help us obtain desirable results for clients. Establishing a cordial rapport with an "opponent" may seem strange, but it benefits both sides as familiarity breeds a more pleasant experience.

A skilled lawyer who has cultivated a positive relationship with your prosecutor can significantly impact the verdict of your case. Through their amicable ties, they may secure a favorable plea bargain or negotiate a reasonable bond. Our team of criminal defense attorneys has provided legal representation for clients in almost every county within South Carolina.

Honest Advice on Possible Outcomes

Could you imagine your criminal defense lawyer painting a positive picture of your case, only to be charged with a felony resulting in years of prison time? At Lauren Taylor Law, we aren't in the business of sugar-coating your case or bending the truth. We understand the potential consequences of a conviction and can offer guidance on the best course of action for your specific case.

Our experienced attorneys are knowledgeable about the tendencies of judges in South Carolina and can advise you on whether to accept a plea deal or fight the charges in court. We prioritize your best interests and work to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. That way, you have a fair shot at freedom and living a normal life outside of the South Carolina court system.

When Is It Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me Laurens, SC?

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One of the most common questions we hear from prospective clients is, "When should I hire a criminal defense attorney for my case Near Me Laurens, SC?" While no two situations or clients are ever truly the same, there are common criminal situations to consider. Here are some guidelines to help you determine when it's appropriate to hire a criminal defense attorney for your case:

If you have been accused of committing a crime
When you are involved directly with a crime
When you are considered to be a party to a crime, such as when you aid in or plan a crime
If you hurt someone unintentionally
If you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor, such as petty theft or assault with a deadly weapon

If you have been associated with any convictions mentioned above, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a lawyer or law firm experienced in handling such cases. Losing a case could have severe consequences, and you need expert guidance to navigate through the legal process. At Lauren Taylor Law, our criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in handling such cases and can offer you a consultation to help you understand your rights.

Understanding the Arrest Process in South Carolina

If you have been accused of a crime, you and your family are probably curious about the process that lies ahead regarding your criminal case. Generally speaking, the process for criminal cases in South Carolina is as follows:

Investigation: Law enforcement will investigate and gather evidence before charging you with a crime.

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Charges: After your arrest, you will have a trial to determine the charges being presented against you. It's recommended to find a lawyer as soon as possible to help defend your case.

Initial hearing: You will be brought before a magistrate judge to learn more about the charges being brought against you.

Discovery: Before the trial, the prosecutor and your attorney will gather evidence and information to prepare their cases. This includes finding witnesses to testify during the trial.

Plea bargaining: If the case against you is strong, the prosecutor may offer a plea deal to lessen the severity of the sentencing. If you plead guilty, there will be no trial, and the charges will be determined.

Preliminary hearing: In some cases, there may be a hearing to present evidence in your favor before the trial, after you have chosen to plead not guilty.

Pre-trial motions: Before the trial, the prosecutor can make a motion to decide on a certain issue. These motions range from dismissing a charge to moving the trial venue.

Trial: Both sides present their case during the trial and bring in evidence to convince the jury. Shortly after the trial, the verdict is announced.

By understanding the legal process for criminal cases in South Carolina, you can better prepare for what's ahead and work with your criminal defense attorney Near Me Laurens, SC, to defend your case.

Common Criminal Cases at Lauren Taylor Law

Having served criminal defense clients in South Carolina for years, our team of experienced lawyers has worked with a litany of cases, from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. We understand that no two issues are the same and that every client has unique needs and concerns regarding their case. We also understand that knowledge can go a long way, and as such, would like to summarize some standard cases our attorneys work with daily:

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What Clients Say About Us

Divorce Attorney for Hillevi McGaughey

★★★★★

If you are looking for an excellent experience with a difficult situation I highly recommend this firm. the entire team is professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, and truly dedicated to their clients. I especially appreciate how welcoming and supportive they are during the whole legal process. They took the time to listen, explain everything clearly, and made me feel like is was in good hands. It is clear that they genuinely care about their clients and the work that they do.

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Kenny Legge

★★★★★

Sydney Ford, our attorney, was absolutely amazing. I can’t say enough positive things about her or the team members at Lauren Taylor Law. My mom needed legal assistance with a divorce, and since I’m across the country, I spent a long time researching firms until I found Sydney at Lauren Taylor Law, and I’m so grateful I did. From California, I was able to help my mom in South Carolina because Sydney went above and beyond in every possible way, even doing some major detective work when needed to help serve my mom’s ex-partner. Sydney's attitude is consistently positive, welcoming, and steady, which turned what could have been a nightmare divorce into a clean, streamlined, and manageable process for both my mom and me. I couldn’t recommend Sydney or Lauren Taylor Law more highly!

Child Support Lawyer for Emily Surpin

★★★★★

Gabriella Graham helped me navigate the divorce process smoothly and made my options clear and easy to understand every step of the way so I cannot recommend her enough. The rest of the staff I had the pleasure of interacting with were friendly, professional, and helpful, too. I was confident that, regardless of going through such a stressful and emotional time personally, Gabriella and everyone else at Lauren Taylor Law had my best legal interests in mind.

Child Custody Attorney for Benjamin Norton (Ben)

★★★★★

Lauren Taylor Law did an excellent job and has been the best legal experience I have ever encountered. Everyone I interacted with was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and empathetic. I highly recommend them anyone making a hard decision about which firm to choose!

Personal Injury Lawyer for Charles Rose

★★★★★

I retained the services of the Lauren Taylor Law Firm and was introduced to Ms Alexa Croen. The law firm's business manager, Ms Meg Jones, earned an A for her conscientious billing practices, timely statements and assistance . Ms Croen earned an A+ for her professionalism, attention to detail and promptness in communication. Throughout my interaction with Ms Croen I was treated respectfully and felt that Ms Croen was genuinely empathetic to my situation and was pleasant throughout our relationship. Ms Croen not only was adequately prepared for our court presentation, but also prepared me for my testimony and my case was favorably adjudicated in short order.

Family Law for Taylor B.

★★★★★

Gabriella Graham is incredible. Definitely recommend her!!

Attorney for JD Long

★★★★★

I had an excellent experience working with Gabriella at Lauren Taylor Law during a custody case involving my daughter. Family law matters can be incredibly stressful and deeply personal, and throughout the entire process, Gabriella represented me with professionalism, intelligence, compassion, and a clear understanding of both the law and the circumstances surrounding my case. What I appreciated most was her ability to be both a strong advocate and a steady, level-headed presence. She took the time to understand my concerns, communicated clearly with me throughout the process, and made sure I understood my options and the reasoning behind her recommendations. I never felt like I was simply another case on her desk. I felt that she was genuinely invested in representing me well and helping me reach the best possible outcome for my daughter and my family. Gabriella was thorough, prepared, responsive, and professional in every interaction I had with her. I’ll never forget at the first hearing she had Notes detailing multiple strategies which only demonstrated to me that she had spent time and truly cared about the outcome. When difficult decisions needed to be made, she gave me straightforward advice rather than simply telling me what I wanted to hear, which I greatly respected. Her preparation and attention to detail gave me a great deal of confidence during an otherwise uncertain and stressful time! Thank you, Gabriella and team. If you are facing uncertain times reach out to this firm and feel assured sure that they will fight for the best possible outcome and be prepared for the case. Just make sure to be honest and upfront about the circumstance, even if aspects of it may not be easy to relive or express. I can’t stress this enough as it allows for a full and complete picture which will allow the team at LTL to do the best job possible.

Estate Planning for Jamiee Hudson

★★★★★

I can’t say enough nice things about this firm and Alexa ???? Going through such a tough season of separation and then divorce was not easy, but working with Alexa from the first call to the hug after court was something I will forever be grateful for. She was professional, personable, consistent, and prompt. She answered all of my questions and even gave more insight than I knew to ask for. I pray I never have to call her again for the same reason, BUT I would in a heartbeat should life flip upside down again. 100% recommend calling this firm if you need help through your situation like I did.

Sexual Harassment Attorney for Willie Watkins

★★★★★

Amber is absolutely amazing. I had the opportunity to see firsthand how much Amber cares about the people she helps every day. She is incredibly kind, patient, and compassionate, and she treats everyone with genuine respect and empathy. She takes the time to listen, answer questions, and make people feel comfortable during what are often stressful situations. Anyone who interacts with her will quickly see how dedicated she is to providing excellent support and making others feel heard and valued. Lauren Taylor Law is fortunate to have someone with her professionalism, warmth, and commitment to helping others.

Lawyer for Cody Griner

★★★★★

Alexa is THE attorney to work with over on Daniel Island!!! Give her a call for all of your legal needs!!!

Divorce Attorney for Alex C

★★★★★

Not many attorneys can say they drafted your prenup and married you — Gabriella Graham did both, brilliantly. She guided me through the agreement with professionalism and total clarity, then brought genuine warmth to officiating our wedding ceremony. She's outstanding on every front.

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Shardae Brown

★★★★★

From start to finish I was met with communication, empathy and understanding. I truly appreciate the hard work provided by the amazing women at Lauren Taylor Law.

Child Support Lawyer for Janelle Morrison

★★★★★

I cannot commend Alex and the team at Lauren Taylor Law more highly to you! Alex is exceedingly efficient- administratively gifted, concise, clear- I never felt like she wasted a second of my time. She called on-the-nose, emailed clearly, thoroughly, and yet briefly. Alexa also helped on my case and she was phenomenal- tracking with and handling a lot of details, holding it all together. Traci was always warm, kind, and helpful. Meg was clear, prompt, thorough, and upfront. I loved how nothing was hidden: the communication and clarity regarding my case was always a top priority and as a woman of very limited means, this was extremely helpful and orienting. Alex endured a 12 hour mediation with me and was phenomenal at every moment. She protected me from OC who was extremely petty and very difficult to work with. She provided clarity, offered or affirmed and celebrated creative offers, and spoke candidly with me about my options. She even encouraged me on a personal level. I truly felt she had my and my kids best interest at heart from day one. You can't pay people to care- they either do, or they don't. And that's the gift with LTL. You're not paying them to try to get them to care. They just DO care. We pay them to do the difficult, strenuous, risky work of representing us- caring comes because its who they are. But it's the most invaluable piece of the journey: and you literally can't afford to go without it. Healing is not possible if the entire legal process is just adding more trauma. At least get yourself an attorney who is kind and cares! Cannot recommend Alex more highly- you'll be in the best hands!!

Child Custody Attorney for Ronnie Wells

★★★★★

Ms Alexa was an absolute Angel ????. A very kind individual who with her very persona made this very emotional process really really easy to deal with. Highly intelligent, dedicated, informative and very thoughtful. To be honest, I felt like I was with a close friend rather then an attorney. She was great and I really appreciate it.

Personal Injury Lawyer for Emily

★★★★★

Sydney Ford is an incredible family law attorney. She is knowledgeable, professional, warm, empathetic, and empowering. She helped me in ways that will empower me to be a powerful mother in the years to come and I cannot recommend her more highly.

Family Law for Ron Hanna

★★★★★

Sydney was incredibly compassionate and helpful. Her expertise made my life much easier during a very difficult time. I hope to never require her services again, but if for any reason I do, Sydney will without a doubt be my first and only stop.

Attorney for William Breen

★★★★★

Top notch lawyers would highly recommend

Estate Planning for B P

★★★★★

Professional and highly skilled. Would use again.

Sexual Harassment Attorney for Janice Ford

★★★★★

Sydney is an outstanding attorney who consistently demonstrates professionalism, attention to detail, and a strong command of the law. She takes the time to thoroughly understand each situation and provides clear, practical guidance every step of the way. What really sets Sydney apart is her dedication to her clients. She is responsive, strategic, and genuinely invested in achieving the best possible outcome.

Lawyer for Mercedes Nicole

★★★★★

Sydney was so great to work with! She made our entire process a breeze and made sure to have every detail of info needed. Highly recommend to anyone!!

Divorce Attorney for Terresa Clopton

★★★★★

Sydney was amazing in handling my adult adoption case. She was very responsive and was very friendly. Our court date was a little nerve wracking for us, and she put us right at ease. I highly suggest using this firm!!!

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Amy Brooks

★★★★★

Gabriella Graham’s knowledge of the law truly impressed me! She’s a great advocate and fights on your behalf for the justice that you deserve.

Child Support Lawyer for Jessica Ford

★★★★★

Attorney Gabriella is the absolute BEST! She is compassionate, knowledgeable, and will fight for her clients. I highly recommend having her on your side, to make an extremely stressful situation, so much easier!

Child Custody Attorney for Haley Marie

★★★★★

Gabriella is an amazing attorney and person. She steps up to the plate, she is super helpful and she is someone you want on your side! I highly suggest Gabriella, you’re missing out if you dont have her represent you!

DUIs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in a fine or jail time. A SC DUI lawyer can defend your rights during your case.

Misdemeanors: These crimes are less severe than felonies and are usually punishable with fines and jail time. Many of the crimes we handle at Lauren Taylor Law are misdemeanors at the state level.

Burglary: When you enter a home and commit theft, you've committed a burglary. This crime is a felony and, as such, can result in up to 10 years of prison time.

Domestic Violence: This type of crime can range from abuse in the family home to a fight in public. Penalties for domestic abuse range in severity and can change if an injury is involved.

Drug Charges: Drug charges are very common in South Carolina and can range from possession, intent to deliver, and trafficking.

Shoplifting: This crime is a form of theft that may be classified as an infraction rather than a misdemeanor in certain cases.

Theft: Theft, or larceny, is defined as unlawfully taking possessions that belong to an entity or person. Theft is different from burglary and shoplifting, though prosecutors often stack those charges together.

Weapons Charges: Possessing, utilizing, or selling an unlicensed weapon are all examples of weapons charges, which can carry very serious consequences in South Carolina.

Juvenile Crimes: When it comes to criminal charges involving minors, the term "juvenile crime" refers to offenses committed by individuals under the age of 18. However, depending on the seriousness of the crime, some young people may face trial as adults.

Violent Crimes: When an individual is subjected to or threatened with violence, it is considered a violent crime.

Uncompromising Advocacy without Judgement

Lauren Taylor Law is the go-to choice for clients who value honesty, hard work, and transparent communication. Our mission is not to judge individuals who have been accused of crimes. Rather, we aim to secure the best possible defense for our clients while upholding their rights and freedom. If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges in South Carolina, don't leave your fate to chance. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself before it's too late - contact a Lauren Taylor Law criminal defense attorney Near Me Laurens, SC today.

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Deputies: Nearly 30 people arrested after illegal ‘street takeover’ blocks roadway

LAURENS COUNTY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office said nearly 30 arrests were made during an illegal “street takeover” over the weekend.The sheriff’s office said the “street takeover” took place on Mountville Road and White Plains Road on Saturday. It was widely advertised online beforehand.A neighbor reports at least 75 people showed upThe neighbor said, “There was a large crowd, but they were not just in the road. They were also going down the side of th...

LAURENS COUNTY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office said nearly 30 arrests were made during an illegal “street takeover” over the weekend.

The sheriff’s office said the “street takeover” took place on Mountville Road and White Plains Road on Saturday. It was widely advertised online beforehand.

A neighbor reports at least 75 people showed up

The neighbor said, “There was a large crowd, but they were not just in the road. They were also going down the side of the road. They had like easy pop tints. I mean, it looked like a party, but they were all the way across the road completely blocking the road.”

During the event, the sheriff’s office said 29 arrests were made.

“Not every event advertised on social media is a good idea. This was one of them,” the sheriff’s office said.

According to the sheriff’s office, the Roadway Protection and Safety Act makes it illegal to participate in, organize, be a spectator, aider or abettor of a street takeover.

This bill was passed to “curb the dangerous trend of coordinated groups blocking intersections, highways, and commercial parking lots for reckless driving exhibitions such as burnouts, drifting, and donuts,” according to the sheriff’s office.

The sheriff’s office said people were seen standing in the roadway while multiple ATVs, cars and sports bikes performed drag racing, stunt maneuvers, burnouts, and donuts. The roadway was completely blocked and shut down.

“A little friendly advice: If you’re planning illegal activity, posting an invitation for everyone to see probably isn’t going to work out for you,” the sheriff’s office said.

According to the sheriff’s office, “street takeovers” are dangerous, impede traffic, encourage reckless behavior and turn public roads into a playground. This is setting the scene for someone to get seriously hurt.

Several of the people arrested did not live in Mountville and several live outside the county, according to the sheriff’s office.

“Our deputies will continue to respond to these events and hold those responsible accountable. Public roadways are not for reckless stunts. Think twice before making the drive to Laurens County to participate in something that ends with blue lights and jail,” said Laurens County Sheriff Don Reynolds.

Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with FOX Carolina. For more free content like this, .

Officials issue update on multi-car train crash near Laurens, Greenwood Co. lines

CROSS HILL, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - Laurens County Fire Service reported that emergency responders are on the scene of a multi-car train derailment that occurred early Monday.Officials said the incident happened around 5:20 a.m. after 17 train cars were derailed near Whitten Road in Laurens County and near Greenwood County. Six of those train cars have the capability to safely contain hazardous material.CSX launched a hazmat team to inspect the six train cars and confirmed that they did not contain hazardous materials, officials ...

CROSS HILL, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - Laurens County Fire Service reported that emergency responders are on the scene of a multi-car train derailment that occurred early Monday.

Officials said the incident happened around 5:20 a.m. after 17 train cars were derailed near Whitten Road in Laurens County and near Greenwood County. Six of those train cars have the capability to safely contain hazardous material.

CSX launched a hazmat team to inspect the six train cars and confirmed that they did not contain hazardous materials, officials said. This derailment did not result in a hazardous spill and there is no threat of contamination from hazardous materials.

Greenwood County officials reported white material released from one rail car has been identified as sodium borate, an ingredient in laundry detergent. It is classified as non-hazardous material for transport.

CSX is working to remove the material through operations designed to prevent impacts to the environment, including a skid steer and vacuum truck, officials said.

At this time, no spills have been reported into Lake Greenwood. A containment boom will be deployed in the water as make sure there are not any residual impacts. Officials said the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is managing boat traffic on the lake near the lower train trestle.

CSX crews have been working to restore the train tracks on Monday night, officials said. These These repair efforts are expected to continue throughout the afternoon and into Tuesday evening.

Officials said the last step of this restoration process consists of reparations to the bridge. Pile drivers have been transported to the incident site to complete this final step. Additionally, turbidity curtains have been placed in the water to contain any debris that may fall into Lake Greenwood during this step.

Nearby residents are advised that the work conducted by the pile drivers may produce noticeable, temporary noise, officials said.

Stay with FOX Carolina as we work to learn more.

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Train derails in Laurens County near Lake Greenwood. Here's the latest

Emergency crews and environmental monitoring teams are on the scene in Laurens County after a multi-car CSX train derailment near Lake Greenwood early Monday morning.First responders were called to the scene near Cross Hill and Whitten Road around 5:20 a.m. Monday after 17 train cars were derailed. CSX crews are working to clear the derailment.No injuries or hazardous spills have been reported. However, Greenwood County said that a white material was released from one rail car and has been identified as sodium borate, an active...

Emergency crews and environmental monitoring teams are on the scene in Laurens County after a multi-car CSX train derailment near Lake Greenwood early Monday morning.

First responders were called to the scene near Cross Hill and Whitten Road around 5:20 a.m. Monday after 17 train cars were derailed. CSX crews are working to clear the derailment.

No injuries or hazardous spills have been reported. However, Greenwood County said that a white material was released from one rail car and has been identified as sodium borate, an active ingredient that can be found in laundry detergent. The county said they do not believe any material from the spill has reached Lake Greenwood.

According to Greenwood County officials, an environmental cleanup firm is on-site and confirmed that all derailed railcars were empty. The firm will remain in the area throughout the cleanup process to monitor environmental conditions.

Also, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is directing boat traffic around the lower train trestle on Lake Greenwood. As of 10 a.m. only one of the elevated openings beneath the train trestle is open for boat passage.

According to Laurens County, all residents located on the south side of the train tracks that run perpendicular to Whitten Road will be unable to travel on Whitten Road until the scene is clear. The county also said that many residents in the area may have received a "Shelter in Place" alert. The alert was not released as a result of an immediate threat to safety but to inform residents that an incident has occurred and leaving the area is not possible at this time. However, emergency personal can reach residents if an issue arises.

County officials are asking the public to avoid the area while cleanup operations continue.

CSX and environmental crews expect to remain on-site throughout the day to remove the derailed equipment and inspect the track.

This is an evolving story.

Air quality index (AQI⁺) and PM2.5 air pollution in Laurens • 42 Followers • 20:00, Oct 02 Local time

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