WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina | Bond set for teacher accused of sex with a minor

Bond set for teacher accused of sex with a minor

By Jillian Capobianco - bio | email

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - A former teacher at Lakewood High School faced a judge Friday, charged with criminal sexual conduct with a minor, disseminating obscene materials and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

According to Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis, from October 23, 2008, through June 28, 2009, 33-year-old Edward Hubbard engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct with a 15-year-old female.

"He used his position and authority to manipulate the fragile emotions of a 15, now 16 year old child," read a statement from the family. "After viewing some of the text messages to her, it was clear that he made promises to her to induce her into a relationship."

In addition, the warrant says Hubbard also allowed the victim to view pornographic materials, and that he provided alcohol to the underage victim on or about June 3, 2009.

Hubbard was arrested Thursday and booked into the Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center. 

"There must have been some level of confidence built by the teacher and student," said Major Hampton Gardner.

Gardner said Hubbard broke public's trust, and that's why Sergeant Melissa Addison asked that bond be denied.

"The defendant was a teacher in the community as such, we believe higher standards at the time of these allegations, he was a teacher and we just have to believe that because he has breached that trust, if not all together destroyed it," said Addison.

Hubbard received a $100,000 surety bond Friday, and was told to have no contact with victim or the family. Hubbard was put on house arrest, and must also wear ankle monitor.

According to the school district, Hubbard has resigned.

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