Teenager was victim of sex crime, says sheriff’s office
The following announcement today from the Oconee Sheriff’s Office:
“A Seneca man is out of jail on a combined $75,000 personal recognizance bond after his arrest last Friday on three counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor – First Degree.
27 year old Marquis Dequavious Hunter, of W.S. 4th Street, was booked into the Oconee County Detention Center around 2:15pm on Friday, February 3rd.
The Sheriff’s Office investigation began on January 12th of this year after a School Resource Officer received word from a School District of Oconee County employee concerning reports of an inappropriate relationship between a teenager and Hunter.
The investigation was turned over to the Criminal Investigations Bureau. After collecting evidence in the case, it was determined that Hunter had recorded, on his phone three, separate videos of sexual conduct between himself and a teenager.
Due to evidence contained, Investigators obtained the three arrest warrants against Hunter.
The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation and in order to preserve the integrity of the investigation, and that of the minor involved, the Sheriff’s Office will not release any information that could in anyway, either directly or indirectly, identify the teenager in this investigation.”
The following is a statement from Oconee School District:
“On Thursday, January 12th, the School District of Oconee County was made aware of a situation involving an employee. The district placed the employee on leave, began an internal investigation and notified law enforcement. As of Friday, January 20th, the individual was no longer employed with the SDOC. District personnel have cooperated fully with law enforcement throughout their investigation. Because this is a legal and personnel matter, no further details can be provided at this time.
Superintendent, Dr. Michael Thorsland, said, ‘We are deeply troubled by the criminal charges against a former SDOC employee and saddened for those who have been directly impacted by the individual’s actions. I am thankful to those involved who acted quickly to ensure the protection of our students. District personnel have been and will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement.’”
Hunter’s Hire Date 8/10/2021
Separation Date: 1/20/2023
Job Titles
- Substitute (8/10/21 – 5/24/22)
- Classroom Assistant (8/15/22 – 1/20/23)
- JV Boys Basketball Coach