ST. STEPHEN, S.C. — Berkeley County deputies are searching for a St. Stephen man accused of assaulting a woman during a domestic violence incident that investigators say left the victim struggling to breathe and suffering visible injuries.
The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday that deputies are actively seeking 52-year-old Fredrick Julius Reaves, who is wanted on a charge of domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature following an incident reported Monday.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded to a residence in the St. Stephen area on June 22 after receiving a report of a physical domestic dispute.
During the investigation, the victim told deputies an argument escalated when she was forcibly dragged into the residence. She reported being struck in the face and strangled with her shirt until she had difficulty breathing and experienced blurred vision.
Deputies said they observed multiple injuries consistent with the victim’s account, including bruising and significant marks around her neck.
As a result of the investigation, deputies obtained an arrest warrant for Reaves on a charge of domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature.
Investigators also learned Reaves is currently on probation through the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services. According to the sheriff’s office, probation agents advised deputies that his electronic ankle monitor was tampered with and removed shortly after the incident.
Deputies say he lives in the area of N. Highway 52 in St. Stephen. Authorities are warning the public not to approach Reaves if he is seen.
Anyone who sees him or knows his whereabouts is urged to call 911 immediately. Information can also be reported to the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center at (843) 719-4505 or submitted anonymously through the sheriff’s office tip system.
The investigation remains ongoing.
