Oklahoma City police have arrested a 30‑year‑old man and charged him with two counts of lewd acts with a child under 16 following alleged sexual assaults of two teenage girls in July.
Alleged timeline
According to arrest documents, the 14‑year‑old foster child first contacted the suspect via the social‑media app Snapchat. After disclosing her age, she left her shelter on the night of Saturday, July 18, and the suspect picked her up across the street at an apartment building.
During the drive, the suspect reportedly threatened the girl, telling her she would be returned to the shelter if she refused to perform sexual acts. The victim later told investigators that she was raped multiple times, both in the suspect’s vehicle and at his home.
Police say a 17‑year‑old friend of the victim, who lives in Midwest City, was subsequently brought to the suspect’s house. The reports state that the suspect forced the 14‑year‑old to watch as he sexually assaulted the 17‑year‑old.
After the assaults, the suspect drove both girls back to the 17‑year‑old’s residence on Monday night, July 20.
Agency response
The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) did not learn that the 14‑year‑old had left the shelter until Tuesday, July 21, when a shelter employee called to request contact information for the 17‑year‑old’s mother. The mother then informed the caseworker that the younger girl was at her home. DHS subsequently alerted law‑enforcement officials, who began the investigation.
Legal status
The suspect remains in jail awaiting trial. He faces two counts of lewd acts with a child under 16, and prosecutors indicated that additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Community concerns
Local officials emphasized the importance of protecting children in state care. A DHS spokesperson said, “Protecting children in our care is one of our most important responsibilities, and we will continue working with law enforcement to uphold that responsibility.” The case has raised questions about shelter oversight and the need for stronger safeguards when minors use social‑media platforms to communicate with adults.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about the suspect or similar incidents to contact the Oklahoma City Police Department.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
