Former S.C. State Trooper Charged After Caregiver's Sexual Assault Allegation

Authorities say Wayne LaBounty made inappropriate advances toward home health aide while receiving care after on-duty crash.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:18am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of handcuffs against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the serious nature of the criminal charges in this case.A harsh, gritty close-up of the tools of law enforcement, a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play in this case of alleged abuse.Lexington Today

A former South Carolina state trooper has been arrested and charged with first-degree assault months after a home health aide accused him of making sexually explicit comments, exposing himself, and attempting to inappropriately touch her while she was providing care following his involvement in a car crash.

Why it matters

The case raises concerns about the vulnerability of home health aides and the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures to protect them, especially when providing care for former law enforcement officers or other individuals in positions of authority.

The details

According to authorities, in November 2025 a home health aide filed a complaint alleging that 63-year-old Wayne LaBounty made sexually explicit comments, exposed himself, and tried to touch her inappropriately while she was providing care following his involvement in a car crash in September 2025. The aide claimed LaBounty pinned her arms and kissed her neck, and also made derogatory and racially insensitive remarks during the incident.

  • In September 2025, LaBounty was involved in a car crash while on duty as a state trooper.
  • In November 2025, the home health aide filed a complaint against LaBounty.
  • On April 15, 2026, LaBounty was arrested and charged with first-degree assault.

The players

Wayne LaBounty

A 63-year-old former South Carolina state trooper who was charged with first-degree assault after a home health aide accused him of sexual assault.

Home Health Aide

The caregiver who filed a complaint alleging that LaBounty made inappropriate advances toward her while she was providing care following his car crash.

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)

The state law enforcement agency that investigated the allegations against LaBounty and filed the first-degree assault charge.

Lexington County Sheriff's Office (LCSO)

The local law enforcement agency that initially took the complaint from the home health aide before turning the investigation over to SLED.

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What they’re saying

“what goes on in this house stays in this house.”

— Wayne LaBounty, Former State Trooper

What’s next

A judge has ordered that LaBounty not go near the victim or her family as he awaits trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the vulnerability of home health aides and the need for stronger protections and oversight to prevent abuse, especially when providing care for former law enforcement officers or other individuals in positions of authority.