Ex-security guard charged with sexual battery of student

Authorities say the 29-year-old also gave the 16-year-old access to his handgun.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:13pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a handgun magazine against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the issue of student access to firearms.The alleged handgun access given to a student by a former school security guard exposes broader concerns about firearm safety in educational settings.Beaufort Today

A former security guard at May River High School in Beaufort County, South Carolina has been charged with sexual battery of a student without aggravated force or coercion. The 29-year-old man, Austin Taylor Thompson, was also charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor for allegedly allowing the 16-year-old student access to his handgun.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of sexual misconduct by school employees and the need for thorough background checks and oversight of contracted security personnel. It also raises concerns about student access to firearms, even if unintentional, on school grounds.

The details

According to the arrest warrant, Thompson allegedly had sex with the student three times between October 4-23, 2025, during after-school hours but not on school property. He is also accused of giving the student access to his handgun in the back seat of his car while other juveniles were present.

  • Thompson was charged on April 9, 2026.
  • The alleged incidents occurred between October 4-23, 2025.

The players

Austin Taylor Thompson

A 29-year-old former security guard at May River High School who was employed by Coastal Security Services and contracted to provide indoor security for the school.

May River High School

A high school in the Bluffton area of Beaufort County, South Carolina where Thompson was employed as a contracted security guard.

Beaufort County School District

The school district that oversees May River High School and sent a message to parents about Thompson's charges.

Coastal Security Services

The company that employed Thompson and contracted him to provide security at May River High School.

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)

The state law enforcement agency that charged Thompson with sexual battery and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

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What they’re saying

“We are writing to inform you that a former contracted security guard at May River High School, Austin Taylor Thompson, who was employed by Coastal Security, has been charged by SLED with Sexual Battery with a Student 16 Years of Age and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.”

— Beaufort County School District, School District Statement

What’s next

Thompson remains in custody as of Thursday afternoon. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for thorough vetting and oversight of contracted school personnel to protect student safety. It also underscores the broader issue of student access to firearms, even inadvertently, which can have devastating consequences.