Former School Security Officer Faces Assault Charges

News Summary

Terrence Alonzo Hicks, a former school security officer, has been charged with second-degree assault and battery following an altercation at Greenwood Elementary School. The incident involved a confrontation with a parent, leading to alleged excessive force used by Hicks. As the community grapples with the implications of this incident, Florence 1 Schools is revamping its security measures, including hiring armed officers, to enhance safety and prevent future occurrences.

Terrence Alonzo Hicks Faces Charges Following School Altercation

In the quaint city of Florence, a former school security officer, Terrence Alonzo Hicks, has found himself in a heap of legal troubles. Just this past Friday, a bond hearing was held for the 36-year-old after serious allegations emerged against him. The Florence County law enforcement complex was a hub of attention as Magistrate Mona Andrews set Hicks’ bond at $3,000.

Hicks is facing charges of second-degree assault and battery due to an incident that reportedly took place at Greenwood Elementary School. The case has become a point of contention and concern in the community, and many are watching closely to see how it unfolds.

Caught in Controversy

On the day of the incident, a mother named Antoinette Eaddy claimed that she had arrived late to pick up her children from school. Upon her arrival, Eaddy allegedly encountered Hicks, who instructed her to leave the premises. This interaction seemingly escalated into a confrontation that no one saw coming.

According to Eaddy, Hicks used excessive force during the altercation, stating that he grabbed her, slammed her against the wall, and even placed her in handcuffs while pressing down on her head. Eaddy’s ability to breathe was compromised as a result, leading to a terrifying and distressing experience for her.

As the situation spiraled out of control, Eaddy’s sister, Makisha Cooper, was on the phone with her and promptly called for help. Officers from the Florence County Sheriff’s Office soon arrived on the scene. They confirmed that a warrant for Hicks’ arrest has been issued, marking a significant move in this unfolding saga.

The Legal Backdrop

Hicks’ attorney, Taylor Bell, defended his client during the hearing, stating that Hicks has no prior criminal record and poses neither a flight risk nor a danger to the community. Having spent 15 years in private security and law enforcement, Hicks believed he had the qualifications to serve as a school security officer. However, after the incident, he has been officially dismissed from his position, casting a shadow over his once-respected career.

While Bell requested a personal recognizance bond for Hicks, which would allow him to go free at no cost, the judge declined this request. The courtroom echoed with tension as the community’s concern lingered in the air.

Changes in School Security

$191.1 million, which marks an 8% increase from the prior year. Notably, this budget includes hiring armed security officers for each of the 13 elementary schools, totaling a cost exceeding $400,000.

This significant investment aims to enhance security and prevent escalation of similar incidents in the future. Parents and teachers alike have expressed their support for the introduction of school resource officers, emphasizing the crucial role they play in safeguarding students.

The district is on track to finalize a contract with an armed security company by the end of the month, with plans to have these officers ready to serve by July 31, the first day of school. Such steps are crucial in addressing the rising concerns about safety within schools and promoting a secure environment for students.

As the legal proceedings for Terrence Alonzo Hicks unfold and the school district revamps its security measures, the Florence community is left to navigate their feelings about safety, accountability, and the importance of protecting their children.

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Additional Resources

• WPDE: Terrence Alonzo Hicks Faces Charges Following School Altercation
• WMBF: School Security Guard Charged with Assault
• Times Daily: Florence Police Investigate Fatal Shooting
• Encyclopedia Britannica: School Security
• Google Search: Florence School Safety