BREAKING NEWS: Otway Man Arrested on Ten Rape Charges Involving Teen
An Otway man is behind bars after investigators say a disturbing pattern of sexual abuse involving a teenage victim came to light over the weekend in Scioto County.
According to Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman, a detective was contacted on Saturday, January 31, 2026, by a mother who reported that her 14-year-old child disclosed being sexually assaulted. A deputy and detective immediately responded to the residence and began an investigation.
Sheriff Thoroughman said the investigation revealed the alleged sexual assaults were not isolated incidents, but had been occurring since the victim was 13 years old. Detectives identified a suspect, who was then transported to the sheriff’s office for questioning.
Following the interview, deputies arrested Derek Ray Stanley, 36, of Otway, Ohio.
Stanley has been charged with ten counts of rape, all first-degree felonies under Ohio law. He is currently being held in the Scioto County Jail on a $1 million bond.
Court records indicate Stanley is scheduled to appear in Portsmouth Municipal Court on Monday, February 2, 2026.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and authorities believe additional information may still come forward. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact Detective John Cart at 740-354-7327.
Law enforcement officials say cases involving juvenile victims are handled with urgency and care, and they encourage parents and guardians to report concerns immediately so investigators can intervene and protect vulnerable children.
