Feb 18, 2026

Man arrested at FHSU residence hall for alleged sexual battery

Posted Feb 18, 2026 3:56 PM
Tavares photo Ellis County
Tavares photo Ellis County

By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post

A 21-year-old man was arrested for allegedly inappropriately touching someone at a Fort Hays State University residence hall.

FHSU Police Chief Terry Pierce said campus police were dispatched to the hall at about 2:11 p.m. on Feb. 10.

Based on the victim's description, Marque Elston Tavares was quickly apprehended by assisting officers. The suspect was identified by the victim and arrested, Pierce said.

He was booked into the Ellis County Jail for alleged sexual battery. Pierce said neither the victim nor the suspect was a student. Law enforcement provided no other details.