Nineteen-year-old St. Croix resident Bernard A. Hodge, also known as “Junie,” was arrested by V.I. Police officers and now faces a series of charges based on a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl, according to a release from the police.
Hodge has been charged with second-degree aggravated rape, child abuse and unlawful sexual contact.
The date of the arrest was not given in the police news release.
According to the police statement, the relationship with the minor was discovered by a family member and confirmed through medical examinations, the police say.
Hodge was born on St. Thomas and lives in Estate Williams Delight. His bail was set at $50,000 and he was remanded to the Golden Grove Correctional Facility, pending further court action.
Police Commissioner Novelle E. Francis Jr. reminded the public that engaging in sexual intercourse with a person younger than 18 is legally classified as rape. A person found guilty of the offense can face from 10 years to life in prison, Francis said.
