HEMINGWAY, SC (WBTW) – New details have been released about the man investigators say claimed to be attacked by a large black wild animal resembling a cat.
In an arrest warrant released Friday, investigators say Rickey Lynch, 33, of Hemingway, admitted he had lied about the attack and “cut his own clothing to give the appearance of being torn and ripped to resemble an animal attack.”
Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office investigators say they had probable cause to believe Lynch caused public fear and panic in the community when he reported the incident to authorities.
Lynch was charged with one count each of breach of peace and filing a false report.
@GTownSheriff has charged Rickey Wesley Lynch, 33, of Moore Drive, Hemingway, after admitting a story about being attacked by a large black cat was not true. Lynch has been charged with 1 count each of Breach of Peace and Filing a False Report. pic.twitter.com/unoMgdQfDV
— Georgetown County Sheriff (@GTownSheriff) February 13, 2019
Deputies responded on Tuesday to an animal attack report where a man said a large, black cat dragged him into a ditch.
Lynch reportedly stated that the cat dragged him into a ditch while he was walking along Dennis Drive toward Willard Loop.
He also said he saw a cub cross the road before he felt something grab his pant leg and drag him to the ground, according to investigators.
Lynch said the animal ripped off his shirt sleeve before walking away and making a “crying noise.”
“He said the animal was a black colored oversized cat-like animal approximately waist high with a tail that dragged the ground,” investigators stated. “He was able to get to a safe location before contacting 911. He was transported to a local hospital.”
