Local theater producer charged with criminal sexual conduct with a minor

A local theater producer was charged Friday with criminal sexual conduct with a minor after he allegedly “engaged in sexual activity” with a 14-year-old cast member of one of his plays.

Phillip Rowe, 48, of Columbia is owner of Theater Rowe Productions, of Lexington, said Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott.

According to the company’s web site, Theater Rowe Productions stages mystery dinner theater plays in Lexington, Goose Creek and Florence.

The victim was a member of the cast in one of Rowe’s productions.

“Rowe befriended the victim and eventually engaged in sexual activity over a two to three month period,” Lott said.

In announcing Rowe’s arrest, Lott appealed to anyone else who may have been a victim , or may know of someone else who was, to come forward.

“It doesn’t matter how long ago it may have occurred, what’s important is that we get you the personal attention you need,” Lott said.

Anyone with information is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC, text CRIMES (274637) and mark the beginning of the message with “TIPSC” followed by the tip information, or log onto www.midlandscrimestoppers.com and click on the red “Submit a tip” tab.

This story was originally published August 21, 2015 at 7:10 PM with the headline "Local theater producer charged with criminal sexual conduct with a minor."