Orangeburg County, South Carolina – A disturbing case involving a father and his young son has led to criminal charges after deputies say a man called for law enforcement help but was ultimately identified as the aggressor. Investigators allege the father threatened the child with violence when the boy simply asked for something to eat.
A statement from the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office says 44-year-old Thomas Baker has been charged with unlawful conduct toward a child after deputies responded to his home over the weekend. What began as a call about an “unruly” 11-year-old quickly shifted when deputies spoke with the child and reviewed video evidence.
What Deputies Found During the Investigation
According to the sheriff’s office, Baker initially told deputies that his son was not listening and had become difficult to control. But after speaking with the child, authorities learned the incident began with a basic request for food.
The juvenile told investigators he asked his father for something to eat. Deputies say the father responded with a threat:
“Get out of my room or I’m going to wreck your face.”
Officials say the situation escalated further when Baker allegedly told his son he should “take a knife and stab it in the neck and pull it out that way.” Deputies described the threats as severe and dangerous, especially directed at a child seeking help for a basic need.
Shocking Statements Caught on Video
The sheriff’s office reported that parts of the interaction were captured on video and later provided to investigators. According to the documents, Baker made it clear he would not offer his son support under any circumstances.
One of the most alarming comments deputies say Baker made was:
“If you are on fire, I’ll pour gas on you so you burn even more.”
Officials called the threats “appalling” and emphasized that evidence did not support the father’s original claim that the child was acting out.
Sheriff Ravenell Calls the Incident “Heartbreaking”
Orangeburg County Sheriff Leroy Ravenell condemned the father’s actions in a statement posted publicly.
He referenced a biblical passage while speaking about the case.
“It reminds me of the verse in Matthew that asks if your son asks for bread who would give him a stone? This boy didn’t even get a stone,”
Sheriff Ravenell said.
Investigators say the child did not receive food, support, or protection from the parent who was responsible for his care.
Child Removed From the Home for Safety
Authorities confirmed the 11-year-old has been placed with a family member while the investigation continues. Deputies say ensuring the child’s safety was their immediate priority once the details of the incident were confirmed.
The case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when calls for help are not what they appear to be. Deputies said that instead of showing defiance, the child expressed fear while describing the threats made against him.
Understanding Charges of Unlawful Conduct Toward a Child
Under South Carolina law, unlawful conduct toward a child can include a wide range of behaviors that place a minor at unreasonable risk. That may include:
- Threatening a child with violence
- Failing to provide basic needs such as food
- Placing the child in a dangerous emotional or physical environment
- Exhibiting reckless disregard for the child’s well-being
If convicted, individuals can face jail time, probation, and long-term restrictions involving child custody.
What Happens Next
Baker’s case will move forward through the court system, and the sheriff’s office says further decisions regarding custody, supervision, and protective orders will be handled by family and juvenile authorities.
Investigators emphasized that video evidence and statements from the child were key to understanding the full context of what happened inside the home.
Public Reaction and Awareness
Cases involving threats toward children often lead to strong reactions from the community. Child-advocacy experts say verbal threats, especially from a parent or guardian, can have long-lasting effects on a child’s emotional health.
Officials encourage anyone who suspects a child is in danger to contact law enforcement or social services immediately. In many situations, children rely on outside adults to speak up on their behalf.
Conclusion
Deputies say a call intended to remove a child from a home instead revealed a deeper and more troubling situation. With charges now filed, the 11-year-old is staying with relatives while the investigation continues.
If new developments arise in the case, the sheriff’s office says they will update the public through official channels.
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