An Augusta man has been arrested in connection with an ongoing investigation into suspicious behavior at the Diamond Lakes walking track.
Tyrone Bernard Gaynor Jr., 31, of the 3700 block of Fairington Drive, was taken into custody Wednesday after authorities received reports of a man following women at an uncomfortable distance, a RCSO press release says.
The investigation was initiated after a Facebook post featuring a photo of the suspect was shared on social media. The post quickly garnered attention, and members of the public helped identify the individual. Deputies from RCSO’s Road Patrol and Criminal Investigations Division increased their presence in the area following the online tip.
At around 12:53 p.m. today, Gaynor was located on the walking track, where he was arrested and brought in for further questioning. One victim, who had previously encountered Gaynor at 2 p.m. Sunday confirmed she had taken the initial photo shared online.
Following the investigation, Gaynor was charged with misdemeanor Stalking. RCSO officials are asking anyone who may have been followed or harassed by Gaynor, or anyone with additional information or video footage, to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 706-821-1000, via Facebook Messenger, or by email at PIO@AugustaGA.gov.
Gaynor has a record of arrests in the area, including assault and battery in Aiken County from 2023 and reckless conduct in 2014.
Sheriff Gino Brantley praised the community for their assistance in the case, underscoring the role that public awareness plays in solving crimes.
“We appreciate the public’s assistance in these types of incidents. Always maintain situational awareness, leave any area where you observe suspicious activity, and call 911 immediately. If possible, obtain video footage, license plates, or other identifying information, and we will follow up. Together, we will make Augusta safer and better for everyone,” Brantley said.
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