Crime & Courts

‘Violent and armed’ man is wanted by Richland County sheriff

A search is underway in South Carolina for a man called “violent and armed,” by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

There’s a search for 63-year-old Joseph Boykin Jr., the sheriff’s department said Wednesday night in a news release.

Boykin is wanted in connection to multiple charges — including assault, kidnapping, and larceny, according to the release.

Specific information about the crimes, along with when and where they occurred, was not available.

Boykin has ties to the Blythewood area, the sheriff’s department said.

While the sheriff’s department is asking for information that will help it locate Boykin, it warns members of the public to “not approach” him.

Anyone who sees Boykin, or who has information about him, is asked to call the sheriff’s department at 803-576-3000, CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC or submit an online tip.

In the case of an emergency, always call 911.

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This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 7:38 AM.

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Noah Feit
The State
Noah Feit is a Real Time reporter with The State focused on breaking news, public safety and trending news. The award-winning journalist has worked for multiple newspapers since starting his career in 1999. Support my work with a digital subscription
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