05/06/2026
May 6, 2026
Georgetown SC
‼️PRESS RELEASE‼️
The Georgetown Police Department is investigating threats and the dissemination of obscene photographs directed toward members of the Maryville Pentecostal Holiness
Church Youth Group.
On May 5, 2026, church members reported to police that individuals associated with the youth group had received obscene photographs and threatening electronic communications. The messages included threats to come to the next youth group service, scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026, and kill members of the congregation.
Investigators with the Georgetown Police Department worked diligently to identify the source of the threats and the individual responsible. The communications were sent through the use of a "spoof" account intended to conceal the sender's identity. Utilizing investigative technology and digital tracing methods, investigators were able to trace the communications back to their original source, ultimately identifying Tyler Mykel Anderson (DOB 12/20/2001) from Andrews, SC, a member of the church, as the suspect.
During an interview with investigators, Anderson admitted responsibility for sending the threatening messages and pics. Warrants were obtained, and Anderson was taken into custody.
Tyler Anderson has been charged with Aggravated Breach of Peace, Dissemination of Obscene Material to Persons Under 18 Years of Age, and Unlawful Communication.
At this time, investigators have identified no credible or immediate threat to the Maryville Pentecostal Holiness Church, its youth group, or its congregation. However, at the request of church leadership, the Georgetown Police Department will maintain an increased presence at the church out of an abundance of caution and to provide reassurance to the congregation and community.
The Georgetown Police Department takes all threats involving places of worship, youth organizations, and the community at large seriously and will continue to thoroughly investigate incidents of this nature.
