Aiken Man Arrested for Threatening Two Women with a Gun

Aiken Man Arrested for Threatening Two Women with a Gun

AIKEN, S.C. – A local man is in custody after allegedly threatening to kill two women while armed with a gun. The incident took place on Thursday at the Econo Lodge on Richland Avenue West, where police responded to reports of a disturbance.

Incident Overview

Officers from the Aiken Department of Public Safety arrived at the scene after receiving a call about a possible weapon involved in the disturbance. Upon their arrival, they were notified by a witness that a man in one of the hotel rooms was making comments about killing everyone.

The situation escalated when officers approached the room. As they knocked on the door, a woman exited, followed closely by the suspect, identified as 36-year-old Joseph Satterwhite. Once outside, Satterwhite reportedly informed the officers that he had a gun on his side.

Victims’ Accounts

Inside the hotel room, officers spoke with two women who provided alarming accounts of the events. One of the women claimed that as she was leaving the room, Satterwhite grabbed her and forcibly pushed her back inside. He then allegedly made the women sit on the bed and threatened them with dire consequences if they tried to leave.

According to one of the victims, Satterwhite pulled out a gun during this confrontation and explicitly threatened to kill them if they tried to escape.

Suspect’s Claim

During questioning, Satterwhite admitted to raising his gun at the women but denied making any verbal threats to kill them. His claims were met with skepticism given the accusations from the victims.

Charges and Detention

Satterwhite was taken into custody and booked into the Aiken County Detention Center. He is facing multiple serious charges, including domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature, burglary, kidnapping, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and sale or delivery of a pistol to certain persons.

Community Response

This incident raises significant concerns about safety in the Aiken community, specifically regarding domestic violence and armed threats. Local residents have expressed their shock at the event, highlighting the need for robust measures to protect individuals, particularly vulnerable groups such as women.

Authorities continue to investigate the specifics of the incident while the community grapples with the implications of such violent behavior on local safety. The case has brought forward discussions about awareness and prevention strategies against domestic violence and similar threats.

Conclusion

The Aiken Department of Public Safety urges anyone with relevant information to come forward. They also remind the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately. As the legal process unfolds, the community hopes for justice and a resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of its residents.