Local Man Charged w/Patronizing Underage Girl

A local man has been charged with a felony count of patronizing an underage person engaged in prostitution.

53-year-old Robert R. Davis of Effingham was arrested Sunday by Effingham city police for the alleged acts, reportedly involving a 17-year-old girl.

Effingham County State's Attorney Bryan Kibler said the alleged victim is not 18 years old, and money allegedly changed hands, so that makes the matter a felony, rather than a misdemeanor.

During a Monday court hearing, Judge Allan Lolie set Davis' bond at $36,000. The judge also ordered no contact with the alleged victim, or minors under age 18 excluding household members.

Davis is due back in court on Wednesday for a second look at the matter of bond.