Grove City man accused of raping 15-year-old girl in park

A Grove City man is accused of raping a 15-year-old girl in a park earlier in the year.

According to a criminal complaint, the alleged victim told police she met up with 18-year-old Hunter McElroy in Memorial Park back in June of 2024.

Police say a third party was with them as well, but once they left, McElroy asked the alleged victim to go into his car to talk.

According to the complaint, once the two were in the vehicle, McElroy forced the victim to have sex with him. Police say the alleged victim repeatedly asked McElroy to stop, but he told her to be quiet and not to tell anyone.

According to the complaint, when police spoke with McElroy, he continuously gave false statements denying that he knew the alleged victim at all and denying that he touched her beyond holding her hand.

Eventually, police say McElroy admitted to lying and admitted that he "forced himself on her" and described the sexual activity in great detail that matched what the alleged victim told officers.

Police say McElroy admitted that he knew his actions were wrong and blamed his actions on "uncontrolled sexual arousal."

McElroy is facing several charges including rape, aggravated indecent assault, corruption of minors, indecent assault and open lewdness. He's due back in court for a preliminary hearing November 27.