Irmo, September 19, 2025
News Summary
In a shocking incident, two employees of the Green Charter School of the Midlands, Sulaymaan Benoit and Tina Shaw, were arrested on serious charges including sexual misconduct and failure to report child abuse. Benoit faces multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct involving young students, while Shaw is accused of failing to report the allegations and conducting improper searches. The case was initiated after a concerned parent contacted the authorities. Police are investigating and urge others with information to come forward.
Irmo – Two employees from the Green Charter School of the Midlands have been arrested on serious charges, including sexual misconduct and child abuse reporting failures. Sulaymaan Benoit, 32, who served as an afterschool director and substitute teacher, faces eight counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct involving three students aged between 7 and 12 years old. Tina Shaw, 41, the school’s principal, has been charged with failure to report child abuse related to the allegations against Benoit. She also faces two counts of second-degree assault and battery for conducting improper searches on two students.
The arrests were prompted by a parent who notified the police after the principal was informed of the allegations against Benoit. The Irmo Police Department took immediate action, and both Benoit and Shaw have been booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, where they are awaiting bond hearings. Police believe there may be additional victims and are actively encouraging current and former students and employees with information to contact the Investigations Division at 803-781-8088.
Irmo Police Chief Robert Dale has emphasized the paramount importance of creating safe educational environments for children. He criticized the failure of mandated reporters to act appropriately in such situations, underlining that educators and administrators bear a critical responsibility to protect students and report any suspected child abuse.
Benoit had been employed at the school for two years prior to his arrest. The serious nature of the charges raised concerns regarding the duty of care owed to students by school employees. This case has attracted attention not only due to its serious allegations but also because it highlights the ongoing issue of child safety within educational settings.
The investigation into this matter continues, and authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. The effectiveness of mandated reporting by school staff is crucial in safeguarding children and ensuring that allegations of misconduct are addressed swiftly and competently.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical roles that educators and school administrators play in the safety and well-being of students. Upholding these responsibilities is essential to maintaining trust within the school community and safeguarding vulnerable populations.
FAQ
Who was arrested in the Irmo case?
Sulaymaan Benoit, 32, and Tina Shaw, 41, were arrested by the Irmo Police Department.
What are the charges against Sulaymaan Benoit?
Benoit faces eight counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct involving three students aged 7 to 12 years old.
What charges does Tina Shaw face?
Shaw has been charged with failure to report child abuse related to the allegations against Benoit, as well as two counts of second-degree assault and battery for conducting improper searches on two students.
What prompted the police investigation?
The investigation was initiated after a parent notified police of the allegations against Benoit.
What should individuals do if they have more information?
Authorities are encouraging current and former students and employees with information to contact the Investigations Division at 803-781-8088.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrested Individuals | Sulaymaan Benoit, 32, and Tina Shaw, 41 |
| Charges Against Benoit | Eight counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct involving three students |
| Charges Against Shaw | Failure to report child abuse, two counts of second-degree assault and battery |
| Investigative Trigger | Notification from a parent |
| Current Status | Both individuals are in custody at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center |
| Police Contact | Investigations Division at 803-781-8088 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Coroner Sues Police Over Alleged False Arrest in Poker Raid
South Carolina Education Lottery Announces Latest Winning Numbers
North Carolina Education Lottery Breaks Sales Records
Community Responses in Columbus County Amid Crime and Progress
Record Powerball Jackpot Reaches $1.787 Billion
Two Players Win Huge Powerball Jackpot
Warrant Service in New Friarsgate Subdivision Declared Safe
Brittany Dorroh Named News19 Teacher of the Week
Richland County Schools Approve Budget Increases
Investigation Launched After Suspect Dies in Police Custody
Additional Resources
- WLTX News
- The State
- WISTV
- Greenville Online
- WYFF4 News
- Wikipedia: Child abuse
- Google Search: Irmo Police Department news
- Google Scholar: Mandatory reporting child abuse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child abuse
- Google News: Irmo High School incident
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, 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 Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
