Nearly 50 additional charges laid against teacher

The RNC has laid more charges against 32-year-old Markus Hicks of Paradise.

On September 6, Hicks was arrested who was charged with a single count of sexual assault. Now an additional 49 charges have been laid.

On August 23 the RNC received information related to the use of fictitious identities, social media applications, and concealment to arrange sexual acts.

The accused has now been charged with:

• Three counts of sexual assault

• Attempted sexual assault

• Two counts of possession of child pornography

• Two counts of accessing child pornography

• Four counts of disguise with intent

• Three counts of breach of trust

• Two counts of permitting prohibited sexual activity within a household

• Twelve counts of making sexually explicit material available to a child

• Twelve counts of luring a child

• Eight counts of arranging a sexual offence with a youth

The accused remains in custody awaiting a court appearance.

The Journey Project is a reliable support for survivors of sexual violence. Legal Support Navigators are available to help survivors navigate the justice system.

Anyone experiencing anxiety or crisis as a result of this information, please contact the Mental Health Crisis Line at 8-1-1. In addition, the RNC Mental Health Mobile Crisis Response Team will respond to a crisis where and when it occurs and can be contacted at 709-729-8000. In the event of an emergency always call 9-1-1.

Parents and guardians should be aware that this investigation may create anxiety in children and youth who use various social media platforms. The RNC recommends taking this opportunity to discuss the associated risks of sharing personal and private information online.

The investigation continues.