HORRY COUNTY, S.C. — Horry County authorities have charged a sixth individual in connection with the ongoing investigation into the murder and human trafficking of 11-year-old A’kyri Bell.
What Happened
A’kyri Bell died on June 13 at a Carolina Forest hospital after being found unresponsive at a Sago Palm Drive home. Authorities confirmed her cause of death was head injuries. The case quickly expanded into a larger investigation involving allegations of child abuse, murder, and human trafficking.
On Friday, Alexandria Iman Thomas, 20, was arrested and charged with placing a child in her custody or care at risk. Investigators allege that Thomas, along with several others, stood by and failed to intervene while A’kyri and other minors were subjected to repeated abuse.
The Main Suspect
Authorities previously arrested Camisha McGaskey, 31, on June 18. McGaskey, who was Bell’s guardian and distant cousin, was initially charged with obstruction of justice. Those charges were later upgraded to:
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Murder
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Five counts of human trafficking
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Criminal conspiracy
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Three counts of unlawful conduct toward a child
McGaskey remains in custody without bond at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center.
Additional Arrests and Charges
Police records show that between January 1 and July 11, multiple adults allegedly witnessed McGaskey physically abusing Bell and other children but failed to intervene. Some of their own children were also present during the beatings.
Other suspects and charges include:
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Margaret Roberson, 56 — Charged with five counts of trafficking in persons, criminal conspiracy, and two counts of unlawful conduct toward a child. She remains jailed without bond.
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Lakesha Burnett, 34 — Arrested on August 12, charged with two counts of unlawful conduct toward a child and contempt of court. Bond set at $40,000.
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Darnell Dearmas, 20 — Arrested on August 12, charged with unlawful conduct toward a child. Released on bond with home detention.
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Alantis Thomas, 21 — Arrested on August 12, charged with two counts of unlawful conduct toward a child. Released on $40,000 bond with home detention.
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Alexandria Iman Thomas, 20 — Arrested on August 16, charged with placing a child in her custody or care at risk. Released on $10,000 bond and placed on home detention.
Community Impact and What’s Next
The disturbing case has drawn widespread outrage in Horry County and beyond, with many calling for stronger protections for vulnerable children. Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the trafficking allegations and whether additional charges will be filed.
Officials urge anyone with information related to the case to contact Horry County police immediately.
This story is developing and will be updated as new information becomes available.
