Midlands mosque leader charged with sexual assaults

RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– RCSD Sheriff Leon Lott says a Midlands mosque leader was arrested for the sexual assaults of women dating back over a decade.

Louai Elkhatib was charged in connection with sexual assaults of women dating back over a decade, says RCSD. (Photo: Richland County Sheriff’s Dept.)

On June 30, a victim reported to RCSD about sexual assaults she experienced that spanned over years.

During the investigation, the victim identified the suspect as Louai Elkhatib and informed investigators that he is a spiritual leader at her mosque with the Mission Hope Foundation, which also operates a school where he served as a school administrator.

As the investigation continued, four more victims came forward with reports of sexual assault by Elkhatib, according to Richland Co. Sheriff’s Dept.

Investigators learned that Elkhatib would use his position as the Iman at the mosque and administrator of the school to hold power over the victims during the sexual assault if they attempted to refuse as the victims were members of the mosque and employees of the school.

Elkhatib was placed under arrest and charged with four counts of assault and battery 1st degree and one count of criminal sexual conduct 1st degree.

He was taken to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center where he is awaiting a bond hearing.

Richland County Sheriff’s Department believes that there are more victims that have not come forward due to Elkhatib’s position at the mosque and school.

Deputies encourage any additional victims to come forward to investigate further acts by Elkhatib.