Sema’j Corvin Gardner, 17, of Lexington, is being charged as an adult for the planning of his own kidnapping, a plan which took place on May 3. Another teen has been arrested in connection, but the third person involved has not been identified. 

A statement from the Lexington Police Department said two armed Black males burglarized a home on Hendrix Street in Lexington, and that during the burglary, "they assaulted and threatened to kill several family members, ranging in age from 12 to 61-years-old." 

A search was then underway after it was reported that the 17-year-old was kidnapped from the home during the burglary. 

Town of Lexington and Lexington County law enforcement, along with the FBI, found that "Sema’j Gardner conspired with the two male subjects in planning his own kidnapping from his home with their involvement," according to the LPD release. 

He is being charged with six counts of kidnapping, six counts of assault and battery in the first degree, conspiracy, pointing and presenting a weapon, and burglary in the first degree.

He was denied bond and remains in custody. 

An unnamed 16-year-old is also being charged in connection with the incident. He is being charged with six counts of kidnapping, six counts of assault and battery in the first degree, conspiracy, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, pointing and presenting a weapon, and burglary in the first degree.

His bond hearing is upcoming as of this publication. 

The third person said to be involved has not been identified, according to police. 

"This investigation continues and if you have information about the unidentified Black male involved in this case, contact Detective Corporal Kenneth Heath at 803-358-1557 or email kheath@lexsc.gov," the LPD release read. 

You can also contact Midlands Crimestoppers at 888-274-6372, on their website or on their app. You can remain anonymous.