Man charged with sex crimes involving two children in Oconee County

19-year-old Brady Austin Baltzegar arrested and denied bond on three counts of first-degree criminal sexual misconduct with a minor

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:53pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a handcuff key against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the gravity of allegations involving the sexual abuse of minors.A symbolic close-up of a handcuff key highlights the serious legal consequences facing an individual accused of sexual crimes against children.Westminster Today

A 19-year-old man named Brady Austin Baltzegar has been arrested in Oconee County, South Carolina and charged with three counts of first-degree criminal sexual misconduct with a minor. The investigation began in February after deputies received information regarding allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct involving Baltzegar and two children in the town of Westminster.

Why it matters

Sexual crimes against minors are a serious and disturbing offense that can have long-lasting impacts on victims. This case highlights the importance of law enforcement investigating such allegations thoroughly and the justice system holding perpetrators accountable, while also raising awareness of the need for greater child protection measures in the community.

The details

According to the Oconee County Sheriff's Office, the investigation into Baltzegar began in February after deputies received information about allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct involving him and two children in Westminster. Baltzegar was arrested early Friday morning and booked into the Oconee County Detention Center, where a judge denied bond for him on all three charges during his initial court appearance. He will appear before a circuit court judge at a later date regarding his bond.

  • The investigation began in February 2026 after deputies received information about the allegations.
  • Baltzegar was arrested early on the morning of April 17, 2026.

The players

Brady Austin Baltzegar

A 19-year-old man who was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree criminal sexual misconduct with a minor.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Baltzegar will appear before a circuit court judge at a later date regarding his bond.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for vigilance and action to protect vulnerable children from sexual predators in the community. It is a sobering reminder that such crimes can happen anywhere, and that the justice system must work swiftly to investigate allegations, arrest suspects, and bring them to trial to ensure the safety of all children.