El Reno Man Arrested For Having Sexual Relationship With Underage Girl

Canadian County Sheriff's deputies arrested an El Reno man who is accused of having a long-term sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl.

According to the Sheriff's Office, Joseph Hill, 28, was taken into custody on Thursday July 11, after authorities say Hill had sent a text message containing a nude photo of the girl to various people, including the girl herself.

The victim had been living with a foster family when the nude photos were sent to her. The girl's guardians found out about the photos and reported to authorities.

Deputies arrested Hill after they spoke with the victim and verified that the photos were actually of her. Investigators learned that an illegal sexual relationship between the victim and Hill had been going on for about three years, beginning when she was 12 years old.

The victim told deputies that Hill had provided alcohol and drugs, including marijuana and meth, to her on a regular basis. She also said she had shared a bedroom with Hill, and that they lived together as a married couple.

Authorities say Hill had even manipulated the victim into wearing a ring, and believing they were basically betrothed to one another for life.

According to the Sheriff's Office, Hill admitted to the crime and said he had moved into or lived at the same house as the victim off and on for the past three years.

The child's mother confessed to knowingly allowing Hill and her daughter to carry on the sexual-relationship at her home.

"It's beyond my comprehension how any parent could stand idly by, and allow a predator to sexually abuse one of their own children, right under their own roof. I hope neither one of them ever see the light of day again," said Randall Edwards, Canadian County Sheriff.

The mother said she had concealed the information from DHS and law enforcement on several occasions. She also admitted to buying condoms for the two.

Hill and the victim's mother were both booked into the Canadian County Jail, where Hill was charged with possession of child pornography and child sexual abuse, and the mother with enabling child sexual abuse.

If convicted, both Hill and the victim's mother can receive up to life in prison. Their bonds are set at $185,000 and $10,000.