Howard County man charged with sexually abusing teen employee

BALTIMORE -- An Ellicott City man has been charged with sexually abusing a 16-year-old boy whom he employed, according to Howard County Police.

Joshua Duerk, 54, is charged with sexual abuse of a minor, and third- and fourth-degree sex offenses.

Duerk turned himself in on August 23., and is held on a $100,000 bond at the Howard County Detention Center. 

Police said the incident occurred at Duerk's home in Ellicott City on August 16. 

Statements of charges

Detectives opened an investigation on August 17., and learned that Duerk owns a small business, and has employed teens in the past. 

The teens would often sleep over at Duerk's residence before the day of their shift, where they were essentially groomed. 

On the night of August 16, the 16-year-old boy recalled sleeping in the bed with Duerk. 

The boy claimed that he hadn't always slept with Duerk but as he started to trust him more he went from normally sleeping on a pullout couch to in the bed with him.   

While the boy's back was turned, Duerk made multiple attempts to touch the boy inappropriately. To avoid further escalation the boy turned on his stomach, pretending to be asleep, which prevented Duerk from continuing. 

The two then fell asleep.

The morning after the incident, Duerk asked the boy if he was mad or disappointed with him. This led the boy to believe that Duerk knew he was awake during the assault.  

After the conversation, Duerk purchased a Google Play gift card and gave the 16-year-old $20 cash.

History with family

The mother and father of the victim reported that their three other boys worked with Duerk. 

The family first met him after he attended the teenage boys' lemonade stand multiple times during the summer. 

One of the victims noted that Duerk would pull up to the stand with his Corvette which they were fascinated with.

Duerk owned a bulk trash removal business and advocated to the parents that the boys should work with him. 

All four of the family's children worked for Duerk, two current juvenile children, and two adult children. 

Duerk was also a volunteer coach at Centennial High School from 2007-2010 and is known to attend athletic events at the school regularly. 

Detectives are asking for any additional victims or anyone who may have information to come forward by contacting police at 410-313-STOP or HCPDCrimeTips@howardcountymd.gov.