Child reported being sexually abused, then more victims were found, SC cops say
A South Carolina man was recently arrested on multiple sex crimes where children were the victims, according to the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office.
Tommy Jene Woods, a 56-year-old Silverstreet resident, was charged with three counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct (with minor), the sheriff’s office said Wednesday in a news release.
Woods was arrested April 2, Newberry County court records show. The charges were filed following a lengthy investigation, according to the release.
The investigation began after a minor victim came forward reporting a sexual assault, the sheriff’s office said. During the course of the investigation deputies identified additional victims, both of whom are minors, according to the release.
Based on the investigation deputies obtained a search warrant for Woods’ home, where multiple electronic devices, marijuana, guns and items believed to be associated with sexual crimes were discovered, the sheriff’s office said.
Woods was booked into the Newberry County Detention Center, according to the release. Bond was set at $200,000 on the combined charges and Woods remains behind bars, the sheriff’s office said.
Despite the arrest, the sheriff’s office is continuing to investigate Woods and encourages anyone who might be a victim, or who has information, to call 803-321-2211.
“I commend the courage of the victims who came forward and the diligence of our investigators in bringing this case forward,” Sheriff Lee Foster said in the release.
Woods is not currently listed on the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division’s sex offender registry.
This is not the first time that Woods has been charged with a crime.
In addition to other arrests over the past five decades, in 2006 Woods was found guilty of criminal domestic violence, court records show.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREThis is a breaking news story
In a breaking news situation, facts can be unclear and the situation may still be developing. The State is trying to get important information to the public as quickly and accurately as possible. This story will be updated as more information becomes available, and some information in this story may change as the facts become clearer. Refresh this page later for more updated information.
This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 1:05 PM with the headline "Child reported being sexually abused, then more victims were found, SC cops say."
