David Mangum
Former Dallasite David Mangum is being held in Missouri on a charge of recklessly infecting someone with HIV.
Mangum, 36, told police he’s had at least 300 partners, 60 of those since he moved to Missouri two years ago. Before that, he lived in Dallas and posted ads on Craigslist to find men to hook up with at truck stops, parks and other secluded venues, according to The Associated Press.
Earlier this summer, Mangum told his roommate — whom he’d had sex with — that he was diagnosed with HIV in 2003. The roommate then contacted police after he found out he was HIV-positive.
Mangum, who works at a local grocery store in Missouri, told the roommate he was afraid of rejection if he was honest about his status.
Missouri police are working with Dallas police to determine if Mangum infected anyone during his time in Dallas.
Detective Laura Martin, LGBT liaison with Dallas police, said the situation is speculative at this point and she hasn’t heard about anyone in Dallas having a connection to Mangum.
Martin said people who think they contracted HIV from Mangum should contact the DPD Crimes Against Persons Assault Unit Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at 214-671-3584. People should ask for an assault detective and make an appointment to discuss their encounter with Mangum. She said medical documentation will be required to assist in proving that a criminal offence has occurred.
Zachary Thompson, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, said he was aware of the situation and said anyone who has had unprotected sex with Mangum should contact the DCHHS HIV Surveillance Division at 214-819-2155.
Mangum is being held on a $250,000 bond. If convicted, he faces up to life in prison under Missouri law.
