Man Accused Of Sexually Abusing Boys Apologizes

A former rescue squad recruiter accused of molesting children has been brought back to Burke County to face charges.

Richard Murphy was taken into custody in Kill Devil Hills along the North Carolina coast Thursday afternoon. Authorities said he fled there and changed his name to Trevor Fury when they began investigating him in 2004. He was working as a taxi driver in Kill Devil Hills.

Murphy used to recruit teens from area high schools for the East Burke County Rescue Squad. He’s accused of having sexual relations with as many as eight boys ages 13 to 17 that he tried to recruit.

Murphy spoke with Eyewitness News reporter Dave Faherty outside the Burke County jail. He said he expected the arrest.

“I’m very apologetic to all the victims involved,” he said.

Murphy said he doesn’t know exactly how many children were involved.

“I have no count. It’s a small number, less than 10,” he said.

Murphy said he’s also sorry for how his arrest reflects on the rescue squad.

“I’m very apologetic for disgracing my credibility and the organization,” he said.

Murphy could face more than 50 charges. He’s being held on $1 million bond.

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