The founder of Effingham Theatre is in jail on charges of engaging in a sexual act with a minor.

Tamara Suzanne Tyre, 29, of Guyton is charged with sodomy and aggravated child molestation, both felonies.

“It’s particularly disturbing given in her work she has contact with kids all the time,” said Sgt. Don White, chief investigator for the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office.

Tyre allegedly engaged in oral sex with a 14-year-old on one occasion at her home in July. It was a “one-time thing” and not a pattern, according to White.

ECSO investigators interviewed several people, including Tyre, and secured warrants last week for her arrest, White said. Tyre turned herself in Friday.

“She has been very cooperative throughout the whole incident,” White said.

Tyre is being held at Effingham County Jail. Her case was bound over from magistrate court to superior court because of the severity of the charges, White said, and she will have a bond hearing Thursday before Chief Judge William Woodrum Jr.

Tyre founded Effingham Theatre in 2008. Along with its stage performances each year, Effingham Theatre offers a youth drama camp in the summer.