High School Security Guard Accused of Sexual Relationship with Student

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A private high school security guard in Beaufort, South Carolina has been accused of having sexual intercourse with a 16-year-old student on three separate occasions after school hours and off school grounds. The 29-year-old guard, Austin Taylor Thompson, also allegedly gave his gun to the student and allowed the student to access the weapon in his vehicle.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious breach of trust and abuse of power when school security personnel exploit their position to engage in inappropriate sexual relationships with underage students. It raises concerns about student safety and the need for rigorous background checks and oversight of private security contractors in educational settings.

The details

According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, Thompson is charged with sexual battery with a student 16 years of age and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The arrest warrant alleges that Thompson had sexual intercourse with the May River High School student three times in October of last year, all after school hours and off school grounds. Thompson, who was providing indoor security for the high school, also allegedly gave his gun to the student in front of other minors and allowed the student to have access to the weapon while in his vehicle.

• The alleged incidents occurred in October 2025.
• Thompson was arrested and booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center on April 10, 2026.

What’s next

Thompson is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging any other potential victims to come forward.