A South Carolina police captain was arrested on Thursday amid claims that he concealed evidence in a child sexual abuse case.
McBee police Captain Gregory Block, age 40, was summoned to the hospital in October 2024 when Janece Curtiss, 34, reported that her child sustained injuries from falling into a refrigerator while unattended. However, a doctor suspected sexual abuse and informed the police, as the hospital staff found Curtiss’ explanation inconsistent with the nature of her child’s injuries, as reported by WIS.
Curtiss allegedly mentioned to Block that a known sex offender had been seen loitering nearby. Following this, the child underwent a reassessment and was discharged, with the understanding that Block and Curtiss would secure further medical attention.
Block initially contacted the Department of Social Services, but then reportedly called them back an hour later, stating that the child’s injuries matched claims made by an unidentified third party. He declared his intention to investigate the matter himself and cancelled the agency’s involvement, according to WIS.
Officials stated that Block’s report, the result of this purported investigation, was incomplete and misleading.
Four days afterwards, Curtiss’ child was readmitted to the hospital due to blood in their urine, difficulty urinating, and a bad odor. WIS reported that Block expressed no concern regarding potential sexual assault.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division revealed that Block and Curtiss began a sexual relationship after these events. Despite this, the child did not receive further medical evaluation, and SLED discovered there was no evidence of a forensic interview, contrary to Block’s reports to both DSS and medical personnel. It was noted that there was no indication any medical documentation had been reviewed in the case.
DSS initiated an investigation in July when Curtiss allegedly resisted taking her child for a forensic assessment. Authorities claimed she also pressed the doctor to amend the medical report to state there was no proof of sexual abuse.
“Block never scheduled a forensic interview … as he told DSS and medical providers that he would,” officials concluded, according to the Belleville News-Democrat.
Block was charged with misconduct in office as well as obstruction of justice, while Curtiss is charged with unlawful conduct towards a child and obstruction of justice. Both of them are free on $5,000 bail.
McBee officials said they are aware of the allegations against Block, who is suspended without pay. WSOC-TV reported that the entire police department is under investigation.
[Feature Photo: Chesterfield County Detention Center]
