Ridgeville man sentenced to 14 years for sexual relationship with 15-year-old girl

(WCBD) – A Ridgeville man has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl.

Solicitor David Pascoe stated that William Gibbs, 44, has been convicted of criminal sexual conduct of a minor 3rd degree.

In 2022, the guardian of a 15-year-old female notified the Summerville Police Department after they found text messages between the child and a 42-year-old man.

In their investigation, police found that Gibbs had met the 15-year-old victim through social media before they engaged in a sexual relationship.

According to the Soliciter's Office, the investigation went on to reveal that Gibbs had sent obscene photographs to the minor's cell phone, provided her with marijuana on several occasions, and snuck into the victim's bedroom while her guardian was not at home to engage in these activities.

This case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy Solicitor Kelly Amell LaPlante.

"This case is a reminder of the dangers our children face on the internet, social media, and cell phones," said LaPlante. "We encourage parents to stay vigilant when monitoring their kids' cell phones because behind those screens monsters are waiting to pray on the most vulnerable."

Criminal sexual conduct of a minor 3rd degree carries a maximum penalty of 15 years imprisonment. However, Gibbs was sentenced to 14 after pleading guilty to the charge leading up to his Dorchester jury trial that was supposed to begin next week.

He is being held at the Dorchester County Detention Center.

The Solicitor's Office thanks former SPD Investigator Cameron Hendrix and the Summerville Police Department for their work on this case.