A Clinton High School student has received a rape charge in connection with a report made to law enforcement officials in August 2015.
Lester Eduardo Pineda Morales, 19, of 201 Loop Road, Clinton, was charged with statutory rape, a felony offense. According to Sampson County Sheriff’s reports, Morales was arrested at Clinton High School on Tuesday and subsequently placed under $40,000 secured bond for the charge.
The charges stem from a report made to authorities about 10 months ago. Lt. Marcus Smith said the alleged offense involved a 14-year-old victim.
“On Aug. 8, 2015 the victim’s guardian reported to law enforcement officials that their daughter — 14 years old at the time — had inappropriate sexual contact with the suspect,” Smith stated on Wednesday. “As a result, an investigation into the incident began and enough probable cause was established to charge the suspect.”
No further information was released in the case. Morales has an initial court date of this Friday, June 3.