McDermott Man Arrested on Rape Charges Involving Juvenile Victim

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Scioto County, Ohio — A McDermott man faces two first-degree felony rape charges following a lengthy investigation by the Scioto County Sheriff’s Office.

Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman announced Monday that Jose Lopez, 46, of McDermott, was taken into custody without incident on Sunday, May 31, 2026. Detectives acted on an indictment warrant issued after the Scioto County Grand Jury reviewed evidence in the case.

According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation began after reports of a possible rape allegation. The juvenile victim underwent a sexual assault examination, and detectives obtained a DNA sample from Lopez that was submitted to the crime lab for analysis. Lab results contributed to the case presented to the grand jury.

Authorities allege the sexual assaults against the juvenile began when the victim was 10 years old. Lopez is being held without bond in the Scioto County jail. He is scheduled to appear in Scioto County Common Pleas Court at a later date.

Sheriff Thoroughman noted that the investigation remains active, and additional charges could be presented to the grand jury. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Jodi Conkel at (740) 351-1091.

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