South Carolina Teacher Sentenced for Harassment

Dylan Robert Dukes, a 27-year-old teacher from South Carolina, will only serve probation after admitting to sending over 60 love letters to an 11-year-old student.

Last week, he pleaded guilty to first-degree harassment for his actions at Starr Elementary School last year, where he overwhelmed the girl with notes, gifts, and unwanted hugs. WSAZ reported on the case.

At one point, Dukes presented the girl with a customized box that contained letters meant for each day of her summer break.

When the girl’s family decided to withdraw her from the school, Dukes even went so far as to join a local church, seemingly to maintain contact.

During a police investigation, authorities discovered numerous pictures of girls tucked away in Dukes’ desk, although they confirmed that none were inappropriate.

The girl’s mother spoke out during a court hearing, expressing her concerns about her child’s unsettling experiences in what should have been safe spaces—like school and church. She mentioned how Dukes had started attending their church, which only fueled her worries about his fixation.

The authorities believed they intervened before the situation escalated into something more serious. The sheriff’s office noted that they managed to halt the harassment and stalking before it could turn physical, which was a genuine concern for the family.

Initially charged with stalking, Dukes ultimately pleaded guilty to a lesser harassment charge. His sentence includes three years in prison, though this is suspended for five years.

As part of his plea agreement, he’s required to undergo mental health counseling, relinquish his teaching license, and adhere to a permanent restraining order prohibiting any contact with the girl.

Interestingly, despite the charges, Dukes was still named the school’s “Teacher of the Year” for the 2023-2024 term. His current situation at the school remains unclear.