Sheriff: Johnson County arrest made in juvenile grooming investigation

Deputies say 36-year-old Martel Oneal faces charges after an investigation into suspected grooming of a 15-year-old.

WRIGHTSVILLE, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 36-year-old man Sunday after an investigation into suspected grooming of a juvenile.

According to a news release, deputies began investigating around 8 p.m. Saturday after a confidential source reported possible inappropriate communication between Martel Oneal and a 15-year-old. The report came during a domestic dispute that was called in to 911.

Investigators reviewed digital evidence and interviewed both Oneal and the juvenile. According to the release, Oneal admitted to making verbal statements about physical contact and an emotional connection with the juvenile.

The sheriff’s office says no evidence of sexual physical contact was found.

Oneal was arrested around 2 p.m. Sunday and charged with attempting to seduce, solicit, lure or groom a minor for sexual exploitation.

“The safety and well-being of our children is a top priority of the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office,” Sheriff Greg Rowland said. “Any behavior or communication that endangers or exploits our youth will be met with swift and firm action. I want to personally commend my deputies and investigators for their diligence in responding, reporting and handling this sensitive matter with professionalism and care.”

The case remains under investigation. If you have information, call (478) 854-4003 or message the agency on Facebook.