Witnesses report man repeatedly submerging 7‑year‑old as she screamed for help
SUNSET BEACH, NC — Just sometimes a beach trip turns into a nightmare. A man and woman are facing misdemeanor child‑abuse charges after witnesses reported a disturbing incident involving a 7‑year‑old girl near the Sunset Beach Pier.
According to police, Christopher Maurice Lee, 38, of Arcadia at Grande Dunes in Myrtle Beach, S.C., is accused of repeatedly dunking the child’s head underwater while holding her upside down by her legs.
Witnesses told officers the girl screamed and cried for him to stop.
Lesley Suzanne McClam, 26, of Calabash, identified as the child’s mother, was also charged. Investigators say she failed to intervene despite the child being placed at “substantial risk of physical injury.”
McClam’s citation states the dunking was done “as punishment and out of anger.”
Police emphasized that this charge represents the most serious level of misdemeanor offenses under North Carolina law. Both individuals were charged with one count of misdemeanor child abuse.
The Sunset Beach Police Department continues to review witness statements and any available video. Social services has also been notified.
Anyone with additional information or footage is encouraged to contact the Sunset Beach Police Department to assist investigators.
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