S.C. Man, 43, Facing Incest Charge After Minor Gave Birth in Parking Lot, Accused Him of Sex Abuse for 3 Years

A 43-year-old South Carolina man, Luis Armando Argueta Montejo, has been charged with multiple counts of sexual offences against a minor, as confirmed by the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO). Montejo faces one count of incest and three counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor, believed to be aged between 11 and 14 at the time of the alleged incidents.

The investigation into Montejo commenced on 11 April 2023 when a minor was discovered giving birth in the car park of Oconee Memorial Hospital. Accompanied by an adult female, the minor was transported to the hospital, where she delivered her child. This alarming incident raised immediate concerns, prompting OCSO deputies to take action.

After the birth, deputies collaborated with an agent from the Department of Social Services, leading to the case being referred to the Violent Crimes Unit within the Criminal Investigations Bureau for further inquiry. The investigation revealed evidence that suggested Montejo had allegedly engaged in sexual intercourse with the young victim over a span of three years, from 2022 to 2025.

Five days following the initial discovery, Montejo was arrested on 16 April 2023. The OCSO stated that sufficient probable cause was established after presenting their evidence to a judge. As a result, a warrant was issued for Montejo’s arrest.

Compounding the seriousness of the situation, both the minor and her newborn child were placed in emergency protective custody to ensure their safety. Authorities are currently awaiting results from tests that will determine whether Montejo is the father of the newborn.

At present, Montejo is being held at the Oconee County Detention Center, subject to an $80,000 surety bond. Shortly after his arrest, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) placed a detainer on him, which necessitates that he remain in custody for an additional 48 hours after any potential release initiated by the OCSO.

As it stands, the OCSO emphasised that the ongoing investigation currently concerns only this single minor female. However, they have not ruled out the possibility of other victims as inquiries continue.

Local authorities urge anyone who may have been a victim of sexual misconduct to reach out for help. Resources such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline and the Crisis Text Line are available for those in need of support.

This case, which has shocked the local community, highlights the urgent need for vigilance and support for minors at risk of abuse. Authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals and addressing such grave allegations with the seriousness they warrant.