Aiken County Man Arrested for Sexual Assault on Minor

Aiken County Man Arrested for Multiple Counts of Sexual Assault on a Minor

Granitville, Aiken County – A 50-year-old man, Hector Fredi Reyes-Villanueva, has been arrested on multiple charges of sexual assault against a minor. The arrest occurred on April 29, 2025, following reports made to law enforcement officials detailing the alleged abuse of a girl who is approximately six years old.

The allegations against Reyes-Villanueva include three separate incidents of sexual assault, with the first reported occurrence taking place in 2014. The details came to light when the victim disclosed the incidents to authorities on November 20, 2024. It has been reported that Reyes-Villanueva intimidated the young girl by threatening to harm her and others if she revealed the assaults to anyone.

Reyes-Villanueva now faces three counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct, a serious felony that carries a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison for each charge. Following his arrest, Aiken County Magistrate Lauren Maurice established a surety bond of $15,000 for each count he is facing.

As of now, Reyes-Villanueva remains in custody at the Aiken County detention center. There are currently no scheduled court dates in connection with this case, leaving the next steps in the judicial process uncertain at this time.

Community Response and Resources

The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office has taken the initiative to remind the public about the importance of reporting suspected child abuse. They encourage anyone with knowledge of or suspicions regarding potential child abuse to contact 911 for emergencies or to file non-emergency complaints through the South Carolina Department of Social Services.

Background on Third-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct

Third-degree criminal sexual conduct refers to unlawful sexual contact with a minor and is classified as a felony in South Carolina. This statute encompasses various forms of sexual misconduct and is treated with the utmost seriousness by the legal system, reflecting the societal commitment to protecting vulnerable populations, especially children.

The legal definitions and classifications of sexual crimes are structured to address both the severity of the act and the necessity for stringent penalties. With maximum potential sentences of up to 15 years for each count, the courts aim to deter similar behavior and provide a measure of justice for victims.

Cases such as this highlight the ongoing efforts to combat child exploitation and abuse in communities nationwide. Efforts include not only law enforcement response but also education and awareness initiatives meant to empower victims and communities to speak out against such crimes.

The community’s involvement is crucial in safeguarding children, and being informed about resources and how to report abuse can make a significant difference. By fostering an environment of trust and safety, authorities hope to minimize instances of abuse and ensure that victims receive the help and support they need.

This ongoing case against Reyes-Villanueva underscores the vital role of local law enforcement and community vigilance in protecting the rights and safety of children in Aiken County.