A Kershaw County man is facing charges after state investigators say he knowingly filed a false report of child abuse or neglect. According to the South Carolina Department of Social Services, 54-year-old Norman “Bubba” Ernst was arrested May 29th following an investigation by the DSS Office of Inspector General. Authorities allege Ernst provided false information to the agency’s Child Protective Services division, prompting an investigation into the claims. He was charged with one count of knowingly making a false report of abuse or neglect and was booked into the Kershaw County Detention Center. DSS officials say false reports can divert valuable resources away from legitimate cases involving children and families in need. The case will be prosecuted by the Fifth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
Monday, June 8, 2026
