Medford, OR – A 29-year-old Medford man, Anthony James Parker, was arrested last week after being found with two underage girls in his car at a rest area in Grants Pass. Parker now faces over thirty charges, including sex abuse and related offenses.
According to court records, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers approached Parker’s vehicle at the Manzanita rest area on Thursday morning. Inside the car were two girls, aged 16 and 17. Initially, both girls claimed Parker was their brother, but further investigation revealed this statement was false.
Upon contacting the parents of the two girls, discrepancies in their stories were uncovered. The 17-year-old’s mother told troopers she was unaware that her daughter was with Parker and had no knowledge of their meeting. She immediately made arrangements to pick up her daughter and bring her home. In contrast, the 16-year-old’s mother was aware her daughter was with Parker and had given them permission to be together. It was later discovered that the 16-year-old girl was pregnant, allegedly with Parker’s child.
This revelation prompted a more thorough investigation into the nature of Parker’s relationship with both girls. A search of the 17-year-old’s phone revealed that Parker had allegedly been sending sexually explicit photos to her. Parker, who was detained and questioned by authorities, reportedly admitted to dating the 16-year-old girl since May of the previous year. He also allegedly attempted to pursue a romantic relationship with the 17-year-old.
As of now, Parker is facing multiple charges related to sex abuse, exploitation, and other offenses. He is scheduled to appear in court next Monday in Douglas County.
The case has raised significant concerns about the safety and well-being of young individuals, particularly in situations where consent and age differences are in question. Authorities continue to investigate the full scope of Parker’s activities, and further charges may be forthcoming.