CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – Preston L. Vinson, 48, a former athlete from the University of South Carolina who was volunteering at James Island Charter High School, was arrested on Friday and charged with attempted murder.
According to records, Vinson is also facing charges of possession of a weapon during a violent crime and pointing and presenting a firearm at a person. However, details surrounding the incident that led to his arrest have not been disclosed despite inquiries to the sheriff’s office.
Following his release from jail, Vinson’s attorney, Bill Nixon, issued a statement asserting that Vinson was in a lawful location, had been assaulted, and acted in self-defense, claiming his client looks forward to clearing his name through the judicial process.
While Vinson is listed as an athletics assistant at James Island Charter High School, an assistant coach confirmed that he does not hold a teaching position and is a volunteer assistant. The Charleston County School District noted that James Island Charter High School manages its own hiring and has its own governing board.
Vinson was released from the Charleston County Detention Center on Saturday at 4:24 p.m. after posting a $105,000 bond.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.