Berkeley County Man Arrested for Online Threats Against Sheriff’s Deputies

Berkeley County residents were alerted to a recent law enforcement action following the arrest of Paul Butler, who was taken into custody on July 7, 2026, after allegedly making threats of violence against Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) deputies on social media. The BCSO has emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for such threats, vowing to investigate and prosecute individuals who intimidate or endanger law enforcement officers.

According to the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began after multiple citizens reported alarming social media posts attributed to Paul Butler. These posts reportedly contained explicit threats targeting BCSO deputies. The Sheriff’s Office considers all threats against law enforcement personnel to be serious and credible, prompting an immediate response. Following the establishment of probable cause by Deputy Baldridge and other BCSO personnel, arrest and search warrants were issued. The BCSO SWAT Team was deployed, and Butler was apprehended without incident with the assistance of BCSO Deputies and members of the U.S. Marshals and ICE.

The Sheriff’s Office reiterated its commitment to aggressively investigating all threats against law enforcement, whether they are made in person or online. The department stated that such threats are not protected by free speech and will not be dismissed as jokes. The BCSO affirmed its dedication to protecting its deputies, who daily put their lives on the line to ensure community safety, and to holding those responsible for threats accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

Sheriff Robert A. “Rob” Blair expressed gratitude to the citizens who came forward with information, highlighting the importance of community partnership in maintaining public safety. “I want to personally thank the members of our community who immediately brought these threats to our attention. Your willingness to report suspicious and dangerous behavior allowed us to respond quickly and appropriately. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and the partnership between law enforcement and our citizens remains one of our greatest strengths.”

The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any observed threats of violence or other suspicious activities immediately. The BCSO also welcomes anonymous tips concerning narcotics violations, wanted individuals, or other criminal acts. These tips can be submitted by calling 304-267-7000 to speak directly with a deputy or by providing information through the department’s online portal.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office

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