Myrtle Beach J1 Students Changed Housing After Host's Alleged Sexual Comments

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) – Myrtle Beach police are investigating allegations that international students working in the area were mistreated by someone who hosted them.

A report obtained by WMBF News says an officer was notified Wednesday of an incident in which the person housing J1 visa students “made sexual/lewd comments” to some of them.

The report also notes that “the feedback was so bad that students had to find other ways to accommodate” and tells the housing coordinator what happened.

It is not known exactly what was said. The person accused of making the comments was also not identified in the report.

The owner of the International Student Center in downtown Myrtle Beach, Yahor Huryonovich, said this recent incident could impact those who live in the Grand Strand during the summer.

“The students come from different countries, they don’t know how to handle a situation like this. They’re a little afraid to call the police because they don’t know what’s going to happen next or how dangerous it could be,” Huryonovich said.

Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune also issued a statement on the investigation.

“I care about these students and want them to have a positive experience while working in our community. We are very appreciative of our J1s,” Bethune said in a statement to WMBF News.

WMBF News asked Myrtle Beach police for comment on the case and said it is an ongoing investigation.

Stay with WMBF News for updates.

Copyright 2024 WMBF. All rights reserved.