On Thursday, May 1st, 2025, Union County Sheriff’s Office (UCSO) deputies responded to a residence in the Unionville area to serve an active Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) on 40-year-old Joseph Proffitt. 

Upon arrival, deputies discovered that Proffitt had fled the residence prior to their arrival. During their initial investigation, deputies determined that Proffitt had attempted to set fire to the shared residence before leaving the area. UCSO detectives, Crime Lab personnel and the Union County Fire Marshal’s Office were immediately contacted and responded to the scene. 

An arson investigation was initiated, and Fire Marshal’s personnel determined there were multiple points of origin for the fires, confirming that Proffitt had attempted to intentionally destroy the home by igniting fires in various areas. 

Deputies located Proffitt at a nearby residence a short time later. He was taken into custody without incident and charged with Felony Second-Degree Arson. He was processed into the Union County Detention Center, where the active Domestic Violence Protection Order was officially served, specifically prohibiting him from contacting the victim. Proffitt was taken before a local judicial official and placed under a $100,000 secured bond. Shortly after midnight, he was able to post bond, securing his release. 

Early on Friday, May 2nd, 2025, just a few hours after his release, Proffitt violated the terms of the protection order by contacting the victim. UCSO deputies and detectives quickly located him once again, took him into custody, and charged him with Violation of a Domestic Violence Protection Order. He was presented before another local judicial official, who placed him under a $30,000 secured bond. As of this release, Proffitt remains in custody at the Union County Detention Center. 

Sheriff Eddie Cathey stated, “The safety of our residents, especially those affected by domestic violence, will always be a priority for this agency. I’m proud of the quick action taken by our deputies, detectives, and fire investigators in this rapidly evolving situation. 

Their hard work and commitment to protecting this community makes a real difference, and we’ll continue to stand with victims and pursue justice on their behalf.” 

Union County Fire Marshal Jon Williams emphasized, “Intentionally setting a fire is not only reckless, it’s a dangerous crime that puts lives, property, and first responders at serious risk. We’re working closely with the Sheriff's Office to hold those responsible accountable.” 

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information regarding these incidents is urged to call 911 or contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office at (704) 283-3789. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Union County Sheriff’s Office smartphone app, available for free download on both iOS and Android platforms. 

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, we encourage you to seek assistance immediately, and we have included local and national resources below that may be helpful. 

Domestic Violence Resources and Contact Information 
Always call 911 if you are able for immediate help in an emergency. 

Local Resource: 
Turning Point Domestic Violence Services:
(704)283-7233
Website for Turning Point 

National Resource: 
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1(800)799-SAFE (7233)
Domestic Violence Support | National Domestic Violence Hotline