Sex Offense Suspect Used Pets to Lure Child Inside

A Florida man was arrested after a youngster reported to an official at her church that he got her to come into his home by saying her lost dog was there and then allegedly sexually touched her.
In August 2022, a now-11-year-old girl in Southern Florida reportedly purchased a puppy from her neighbor, who was breeding them in his trailer. She took the dog home, and it ran outside and returned to the man’s residence. The youngster reportedly followed her pet and ran inside.
According to reports, the man closed the door behind her. He allegedly started rubbing her shoulders, put his hands on her body, and gave her a kiss on the cheek. The girl reportedly told him to stop, but he allegedly told her he was lonely before pulling down his pants and telling her to touch his privates. She told him she heard her mom yelling for her, and she left the residence.
The youngster did not tell anyone what happened for over a year. Recently, her church group discussed sex trafficking, and she came forward with her account of the events. She reported that she had not done so in the past because the man said he would kill her and her family if she did.
When the authorities were notified, they opened an investigation. They talked to the suspect, who allegedly said his pants accidentally dropped because he had been drinking. 14 dogs, 7 cats, and 7 chickens were found in the home.
The suspect was taken into custody and booked into the Martin County Jail. He is facing preliminary charges of one count of lewd and lascivious exhibition. He was held on a $200,000 bond.
It was reported that the animals were rescued by the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, and they are working on finding them good homes.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.