By admin 
The leader of a small private school and nonprofit organization in Columbia was arrested again for criminal sexual conduct after another victim came forward, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department announced.
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Louai Elkhatib, 55, received an additional charge, this time for criminal sexual conduct with a minor.
He was also charged with one count of criminal sexual conduct in the first degree and four counts of assault and battery in the first degree on July 20.
Elkhatib, is the listed CEO and treasurer of Mission Hope Foundation, which runs the Islamic Academy of Columbia, a private school, as well as a mosque. It is located on Kneece Road off Decker Boulevard.
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, a victim originally reported sexual assaults by Elkhatib in late June that they said spanned years. During an investigation, four more victims came forward with reports of sexual assault, the sheriff’s department said.
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Officials said Elkhatib would use his position as the Iman at the mosque and administrator of the school to hold power over the alleged victims during the sexual assault if they attempted to refuse. The sheriff’s department said it believes there may be more victims.
On July 25, investigators were contacted by an additional victim regarding an incident that occurred between 2000 and 2001.
Six victims have been identified so far.
Elkhatib was out on surety bond following his arrest last month, but was taken into custody again on Tuesday. He is being held at Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing.
The sheriff’s department is still encouraging any possible victims to come forward and speak with investigators. Those interested can call (803) 576-3000.
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