A late-night house party in Oconee County ended with the event’s security guard in custody instead of any guests. Deputies arrested Jordan Lebron Hardesty, 20, of Toccoa, early Sunday and booked him into the Oconee County Detention Center.
According to the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies initially responded just after midnight to a disturbance at a home. During the investigation, they learned of a separate complaint that a woman at the party had been placed in handcuffs by Hardesty, who identified himself as a security guard working the event. Authorities say he is not certified by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, which regulates private security officers in the state.
Allegations and Charges
The woman told deputies she had asked security to remove another individual from the party, but they refused. She said the disagreement escalated into a verbal argument, after which Hardesty allegedly handcuffed her and struck her in the face multiple times.
Hardesty has been charged with kidnapping and third-degree assault and battery. His combined surety bond was set at $26,087.50. He remains in custody while awaiting further court proceedings.
Investigation Ongoing
Under South Carolina law, kidnapping is a felony offense that can carry significant prison time, while third-degree assault and battery is classified as a misdemeanor. The sheriff’s office says the investigation remains active as deputies continue interviewing witnesses and reviewing evidence. Officials have not released additional details about the woman’s injuries or upcoming court dates.
