MYRTLE BEACH, SC – A registered sex offender has been arrested on multiple charges of sexually assaulting a child under the age of 11 following an extensive investigation by the Myrtle Beach Police Department, authorities announced.
According to police, the investigation began on January 6, 2026, after officers received a report of possible sexual abuse involving a minor. Detectives determined that between April and November 2025, the suspect, identified as Justin Edward Markante, 41, of Myrtle Beach, committed multiple sexual acts with a 5-year-old victim at a residence on the 6700 block of Jefferson Place.
Investigators confirmed that Markante is a registered sex offender. On January 29, 2026, he was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor under the age of 11 and one count of obscene exposure of private parts in a lewd and lascivious manner.
During Markante’s arrest, police executed a search warrant at his residence, where another man, Salahuddin O’Neal, 50, was found in possession of marijuana and multiple firearms. O’Neal was charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana (first offense), eight counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted violent offender, and eight counts of felony possession of a firearm.
Investigations Lieutenant Tom Vest praised the collaborative efforts of the Myrtle Beach Police Department’s Investigations and Patrol divisions and the U.S. Marshals Service Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, which includes members of the MBPD, Horry County Police Department, and Horry County Sheriff’s Office.
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- Justin Edward Markante, 41, charged with multiple counts of child sexual assault and obscene exposure.
- The alleged crimes occurred between April and November 2025 in Myrtle Beach.
- Co-resident Salahuddin O’Neal, 50, charged with firearm and drug offenses after search of the home.
Lt. Vest said the department remains committed to standing up for victims and ensuring those accused of such crimes are held accountable in court. Markante is currently being held pending trial.
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