(Walhalla, SC) On Monday, July 26, 2021, after the jury had been seated and the trial was to begin, Tristan Young pled guilty to two violent crimes -Domestic Violence 1st Degree and Kidnapping. The Honorable R. Scott Sprouse imposed a sentence of 17 years on Kidnapping and the maximum sentence of 10 years in prison on the Domestic Violence 1st Degree charge. The sentences are to be served concurrently.
Senior Assistant Solicitor Bethany Blundy presented the State’s case which occurred during the week of March 16 through March 20, 2020. During the week-long episode, Young held the female victim against her will, duct taping her and shoving socks into her mouth to muffle her cries for help as he whipped her with a broomstick and burned her back. The victim was finally able to text family members and tell them to call the police. A family member then went to the location and transported the victim to safety. She was seen at the ER where her injuries were treated. Oconee County Sheriff’s Officers Master Deputy Scealf, Deputy Trace Smith and Lt. Kevin Cain responded and investigated the case, arresting the defendant.
“Law enforcement’s quick response and investigation helped preserve vital information which led to the defendant’s arrest and conviction, allowing the victim in this case to see justice served,” stated Solicitor David Wagner.