Teacher of the year allegedly sent over 60 love letters to 11-year-old student

ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. (TCN) -- An elementary school teacher stands accused of stalking a young girl, writing her dozens of "love letters," and joining her church.

On Monday, July 8, the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office received a report about 27-year-old Dylan Dukes, alleging he sent an 11-year-old child a personalized box with a letter for each day of the week for summer break. In total, deputies said Dukes sent over 60 "love letters" to the former student of Starr Elementary.

An arrest warrant reviewed by WYFF-TV alleges that Dukes also gave the victim multiple gift cards, photos, and an "unwanted hug which made the victim feel uncomfortable."

According to the sheriff’s office, Dukes learned the girl would no longer be a student at Starr Elementary, so he also joined her family’s church.

During a search of Dukes’ classroom, detectives reportedly found pictures of the victim tucked away in his desk. However, deputies noted the images were not sexual in nature.

Dukes was booked into the Anderson County Detention Center on a charge of stalking.

The sheriff’s office said, "Detectives were able to stop the harassment and stalking before it became anything physical, which the juvenile was in fear of."

Dukes was reportedly awarded teacher of the year at Starr Elementary for the 2023-2024 school year.

In a statement obtained by WYFF, the superintendent of Anderson School District 3 said, "Upon learning of the investigation, the teacher was placed on administrative leave in accordance with our district policies. The district is fully cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation."