Man Accused of Assaulting Girl in Restaurant Bathroom

Richland County deputies say the suspect has a history of similar offenses in multiple jurisdictions.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:05pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled paper towel on a tiled bathroom floor, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the unsettling nature of a reported sexual assault in a public restroom.A disturbing incident at a local restaurant raises urgent concerns about child safety and the need for heightened vigilance in public spaces.Columbia Today

Richland County deputies have arrested a man accused of following a young girl into a restaurant bathroom and sexually assaulting her. Surveillance footage allegedly shows the suspect, James Mckenzie, watching the girl and then following her into the restroom. Authorities say Mckenzie was found hiding in nearby bushes shortly after the incident and exhibited lewd behavior during questioning. Officials report that Mckenzie has prior charges in Florida, Orangeburg County, and the City of Columbia for similar offenses.

Why it matters

This disturbing incident highlights the ongoing issue of child sexual abuse and the need for heightened vigilance and security measures to protect vulnerable minors, especially in public spaces. The suspect's alleged history of similar crimes across multiple jurisdictions raises concerns about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in preventing repeat offenders.

The details

According to the Richland County Sheriff's Office, the incident occurred on Monday night at a restaurant on Decker Boulevard. The victim, a girl between the ages of 9 and 11, was eating at the restaurant with her family when Mckenzie allegedly followed her into the bathroom and sexually assaulted her. Surveillance footage is said to show Mckenzie watching the girl and then following her into the restroom. Deputies were able to locate Mckenzie hiding in nearby bushes shortly after the incident and reported that he exhibited lewd behavior during questioning.

  • The incident occurred on Monday night at a restaurant on Decker Boulevard.

The players

James Mckenzie

A man accused of following a young girl into a restaurant bathroom and sexually assaulting her. Authorities say Mckenzie has prior charges in Florida, Orangeburg County, and the City of Columbia for similar offenses.

Richland County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident and apprehending the suspect.

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What’s next

The suspect, James Mckenzie, is currently in custody and will face charges related to the alleged assault. The Richland County Sheriff's Office is continuing its investigation and working to determine if there are any other victims or related incidents.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of community awareness, robust security protocols in public spaces, and effective rehabilitation and monitoring programs to prevent repeat offenders from committing such heinous crimes against children. Policymakers and law enforcement must work together to address this persistent issue and protect the most vulnerable members of society.