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ANDERSON COUNTY, SC (BFMG) — The family of missing 20-year-old Jessica Barnes has launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with search efforts and expenses after more than 50 days without contact. The Pendleton Police Department began a missing persons investigation after Barnes’ mother, Cecilia Varvara, reported her disappearance on Sept. 12. Varvara told police that Jessica’s phone was disconnected following an argument on Aug. 1 with Jessica’s husband, Brandon Barnes, the last day anyone saw her.
Jessica, who married Brandon in January, was a victim of domestic violence, according to her family, although no incidents between the couple have been reported to local authorities. Varvara is concerned about her daughter’s whereabouts as police have yet to locate her.
Other women have publicly accused Brandon Barnes of abuse in past relationships, with an active order of protection against him, according to FITS News. Pendleton Police Chief Robert Crosby, the lead investigator on Jessica’s case, said Brandon Barnes was previously convicted of domestic abuse involving a prior relationship. However, police have not named him as a suspect or person of interest in Jessica’s disappearance but continue to actively investigate, following leads and evidence collected from a recent search warrant at the couple’s home.
The Pendleton Police Department, along with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), executed a search warrant at the couple’s residence near Laurel Drive on Friday. Meanwhile, Varvara continues to search for her daughter while working overtime as an Uber driver and caring for Jessica’s four younger siblings.
The family is asking for the public’s help in sharing Jessica’s story to aid in the search and to raise awareness for other domestic violence victims. They also request donations to support their efforts.
A reward is being offered in the case, and tips can be reported to Anderson Area Crimestoppers anonymously online or by calling 1-866-917-TIPS (8477)
The family asks that Jessica’s story continue to be shared in an effort to find her and to inspire other domestic violence victims to come forward and seek shelter. They ask that if you find it in your heart to support Jessica’s story, to please make a small donation if you can.
