Effingham County man arrested following investigation near Lake Sara Beach

Friday, 16 January 2026

An early-morning investigation near Lake Sara Beach has led to the arrest of a 22-year-old Effingham County man and an ongoing law enforcement inquiry.

According to the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrested Sullivan J. Chern of Sigel during the early hours of Wednesday after discovering an occupied vehicle near the beach. 
Authorities say the occupants were identified as Chern and a female juvenile. Following further investigation, Chern was taken into custody.

Chern has been charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse, a Class 2 felony, and sexual exploitation of a child, a Class A misdemeanor. He is currently being held at the Effingham County Jail. Officials say the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.

As with all criminal cases, Chern is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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