A report released by the Summerville Police Department details a domestic incident that led to an arrest at a residence on Highway 48 on the night of Dec. 30, 2025.

According to the incident report, officers were dispatched around 9:30 p.m. in reference to a domestic disturbance. The victim, Jeffrey Bryant, told officers that Stephen Hensley had fled the residence on foot prior to their arrival. A witness, Carolyn Duffey, was also present at the scene.

The report states that while inside the residence, Hensley accused Bryant of stealing coffee mugs belonging to Hensley’s mother. Bryant reportedly denied the accusation and said he did not know about the mugs. The situation escalated when Hensley allegedly left the room, returned with a machete, and threatened to stab Bryant in the stomach and cut him. After making the threats, Hensley reportedly called 911 himself before leaving the residence.

Officers and assisting agencies searched the area but were initially unable to locate Hensley. Later that night, police were dispatched back to the residence after being notified that the suspect had returned and was believed to be inside a back bedroom. Officers entered the home, ordered Hensley to come out, and took him into custody without further incident.

Following additional interviews with the victim and witness, police determined that probable cause existed for an arrest. Stephen Hensley was taken into custody and transported to the Chattooga County Jail.