CPD: Bond denied for man accused of sexually assaulting minor

Columbia Police Department investigators believe Brandon McLaughlin allegedly persuaded the victim to leave the Randall Avenue area with him.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– A 38-year-old man was arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl.

Investigators believe Brandon McLaughlin allegedly persuaded the victim to leave the Randall Avenue area with him.

Also, McLaughlin is accused of driving the victim to his Gill Street apartment, preventing her from leaving and sexually assaulting her.

While responding to a separate emergency call for service at the complex, CPD found the victim and after investigating determined that the child was reported missing by her mother, officers say.

Officers contacted the victim’s mother who arrived at the scene and then requested EMS to take the victim to a hospital.

Officers say McLaughlin was charged with kidnapping and criminal sexual conduct in connection with the incident.

He is at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center after a judge denied his bond.