Teen Gun Violence Winners Named in SC

Thirteen schools across South Carolina submitted 110 entries to the 13th Annual Project Sentry Logo Contest, with students competing to express their commitment to non-violence and prevent gun violence in their schools. The winners were announced by United States Attorney Bill Nettles in Columbia, SC.

Ean Bane from Ocean Drive Elementary, North Myrtle Beach, SC, won the K-2nd grade division, while Kaden Crawford from Reuben Elementary, Newberry, SC, took the top spot in the 3rd-5th grade division. Elias Ryans from Westview Middle School, Greenwood SC, emerged as the winner of both the 6th-8th grade division and the overall contest. Elody Bensch from Waccamaw High School, Pawley’s Island SC, won the 9th-12th grade division.

Each division winner will receive a $50.00 award, with Elias Ryans receiving an additional $50.00 award as the overall winner. All participants will receive a Certificate of Appreciation for their logo submissions. The contest is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods/Project CeaseFire program, aimed at strengthening efforts to prevent gun crimes among young people and ensuring a safe learning environment for children.

The winning entries were selected by ‘The Insiders,’ a group of students from the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice who travel the state promoting community awareness of juvenile crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office collaborated with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers’ Association Foundation to provide the cash awards.

Project Sentry is a vital initiative in promoting gun safety and preventing juvenile gun violence. For more information on the program and to view this year’s winning submissions, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/sc/programs/logowinners.html.

Contact Person: D. Josev Brewer at (864) 282-2100 for further details.