SAND SPRINGS (OK)
KOKH [Oklahoma City, OK]
July 28, 2026
By Kimberly Querry-Thompson
A pastor and former school security guard in Sand Springs has been arrested after an investigation into alleged inappropriate behavior involving a child, officials said.
The Sand Springs Police Department said the investigation began in November 2025 after officers received a Department of Human Services referral reporting suspicious interactions between an adult and a child.
Police interviewed the suspect, identified as 42-year-old Marcus Owens, who denied having a relationship with the child. Owens told investigators he was like a father figure to the victim.
Earlier this month, the victim spoke with Sand Springs detectives and provided details about an alleged sexual assault.
On Monday, detectives arrested Owens on one count of sexual battery.
Because of Owens’ tribal citizenship, the case is being sent to the FBI and the Muscogee Creek Nation.
Officials said Owens previously worked for Sand Springs Public Schools as a security guard, teacher’s assistant, paraprofessional and substitute.
“Owens has also been heavily involved in his church for many years as a pastor and has had access to children for, at least the last 15 years,” the Sand Springs Police Department said.
Investigators encouraged any other potential victims to come forward and report abuse to their local police department.