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DeKalb man accused of inappropriate relationship with 15-year-old boy

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga — DeKalb County police said they will become more aggressive going after adults who they believe are having inappropriate relationships with minors.

This week, officers arrested a 47-year-old man charged with having a relationship with a 15-year-old boy.

William Matthews Simmons helped to run an architectural firm in DeKalb County.

“In the state of Georgia, the age of consent is 16, for any type of a relationship,” Lt. J.A. Lewis said.

Using social media postings and the 15-year-old’s parents, police were able to find the evidence they needed to press charges.

“The relationship has been going on for about six months or so,” Lewis said.

Simmons turned himself in after being charged with aggravated child molestation.

“We advocate for all children in DeKalb County. 47 or 15, that’s not the appropriate ages and it’s not the appropriate time,” Lewis said.

The public safety director told Channel 2’s Ryan Young, his entire team is working harder to watch the Internet and protect underage kids.