Aiken County man arrested for long-term sexual assault

A man from Aiken County has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a girl over several years. Steven Coles Gray II, 46, of Warrenville, was taken into custody on March 18. According to the sheriff's report, the girl claims Gray started abusing her in 2015. She mentioned that she managed to escape from him by staying with friends and relatives in Tennessee. The last reported assault took place on February 28. Gray faces serious charges, including second-degree criminal sexual conduct and first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. The second-degree charge could lead to a prison sentence of up to 20 years, along with fines. The first-degree charge also carries a prison sentence of three to 20 years, with no possibility of probation until three years have been served. As of March 19, Gray remains in detention, and there is no information about his bond. Court dates have not yet been scheduled. Authorities urge anyone who suspects child abuse to call 911 in emergencies or the South Carolina Department of Social Services for non-emergency reports.