Greenwood, S.C., September 17, 2025
News Summary
Ty’rez Aunteavious Thomas, 19, was sentenced to 35 years in prison for a series of armed robberies in Greenwood, S.C. He lured victims via Facebook Marketplace, leading to violent confrontations, including one where a victim was shot multiple times. The case highlights the dangers associated with online sales and the necessity for community vigilance.
Greenwood, S.C. – A 19-year-old man, Ty’rez Aunteavious Thomas, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison following his guilty plea to multiple charges related to a series of armed robberies that occurred earlier this year. The incidents took place in January 2023 and involved three separate armed confrontations that raised concerns about safety in the community.
During one of the robberies, a victim suffered serious injuries after being shot multiple times. Thomas utilized a fraudulent profile on Facebook Marketplace to target unsuspecting victims by posting an advertisement for an iPhone for sale, subsequently luring them to locations near his residence on Bintage Road.
The first robbery targeted a family visiting from out of town, where Thomas reportedly held a gun to the father’s head and forced the family out of their vehicle. The stolen car was later recovered at Phoenix Place Apartments. In another incident, Thomas requested a potential buyer to meet at a different location to acquire the phone. During the ride, he brandished a gun, resulting in a physical struggle where the buyer was shot multiple times. Thomas then fled the scene in his truck.
Law enforcement agencies acted swiftly to investigate these armed robberies and identified Thomas as the primary suspect. Upon investigating his residence, authorities found sufficient evidence linking him to the crimes. During the interrogation process, Thomas confessed to the armed robberies, leading to his arrest and subsequent booking at the Greenwood County Detention Center.
This sentencing marks a significant development in a series of violent crimes that have drawn attention to the dangers associated with online marketplaces. The use of social media platforms for facilitating such crimes has raised alarms within communities about safety while conducting transactions. The case serves as a reminder to individuals using platforms like Facebook Marketplace to exercise caution and vigilance when meeting with potential buyers or sellers.
In light of the sentencing, law enforcement agencies continue to encourage the community to report any suspicious activities linked to online sales to ensure greater safety as such incidents remain prevalent across the nation.
Key Details of the Case
- Defendant: Ty’rez Aunteavious Thomas
- Age: 19
- Location: Greenwood, S.C.
- Sentence: 35 years in prison
- Number of robberies involved: 3
- Timeframe: January 2023
- Notable incident: Victim shot multiple times
- Method: Lured victims through Facebook Marketplace
Background Context
The escalation of online-oriented crime has necessitated increased awareness and preventive measures from both users of social media platforms and law enforcement. The rise of digital transactions has transformed how individuals buy and sell items but also has led to criminal activity taking on new forms. Authorities stress the importance of taking precautions when engaging in sales or purchases online to avoid becoming victims of similar crimes.
FAQ Section
- Who is Ty’rez Aunteavious Thomas?
- Ty’rez Aunteavious Thomas is a 19-year-old from Greenwood, S.C. who was sentenced to 35 years in prison for a series of armed robberies.
- What were the crimes that Thomas committed?
- Thomas committed multiple armed robberies in January 2023, using a fake profile on Facebook Marketplace to lure victims.
- Were there any injuries during the robberies?
- Yes, one robbery resulted in a victim being shot multiple times.
- How did Thomas lure victims?
- He advertised an iPhone for sale on Facebook Marketplace and directed potential buyers to locations near his home.
- What measures are being taken to ensure community safety?
- Law enforcement agencies are encouraging the community to report suspicious activities and remain vigilant when engaging in online transactions.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Ty’rez Aunteavious Thomas |
| Age | 19 years |
| Location of Crimes | Greenwood, S.C. |
| Sentence | 35 years in prison |
| Date of Incidents | January 2023 |
| Method of Crime | Online luring via Facebook Marketplace |
| Number of Victims | multiple victims, including a family with small children |
| Outcome of Robberies | One robbery resulted in a victim shot multiple times |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Armored Truck Driver Targeted in $700,000 Armed Robbery
Five Louisiana Law Enforcement Officials Indicted in Fraud Scheme
Greenwood Police Chief Outlines Goals for 2025
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina News
- Index Journal
- My Clinton News
- Wikipedia: Criminal Activity
- CBS News
- Google Search: Armed Robbery Statistics
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
