HOLLY SPRINGS, MS (abc24.com) - A Mississippi college professor is jailed and fired after being accused of raping a student. Investigators say the assault happened at Rust College in Holly Springs last month, but police are just now talking about it.
Sylvester Oliver is charged with sexual battery, accused of attacking a female student in his office. The 62-year-old was head of Rust College's humanities department.
"There's definitely a level of trust there. The alleged victim stated she was in his office to speak with him about financial aid," says Holly Springs Police Chief William Hollowell.
"It's a small school. It's a shame that a kid is trying to go to school and further their education and you have people like that in these offices," adds Holly Springs resident Jay Jenkin.
Rust administrators refused to comment on the recent arrest or a previous firing of Oliver from the college. If convicted, Oliver could face more than 10 years in prison.
