A 29-year-old Haines City man was arrested Friday after being accused of committing sexual battery on an 8-year-old girl.
The man has been charged with Sexual Battery on a Person less than 12 years of age, a capital felony.
The investigation reportedly began on Aug. 24, when the 8-year-old girl told her mother that the man entered her bedroom, touched her inappropriately, and forced her to touch him. The girl told detectives that the man had done something similar to her the year prior, as well.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the man apologized to the mother for what he’d done and said he would apologize to the girl, as well. Detectives allegedly have in their possession audio and text message evidence to the man’s admission of the crime and his apology.
Sexual battery is a very serious crime and includes unwanted sexual conduct or touching. Penalties for sexual assault depend on the age of the victim, and the circumstances of the crime. If the alleged victim is under 12 years old, the crime is considered a capital offense and can result in life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
Based on the very harsh penalties, it is important for someone who is facing sexual battery charges in Florida to contact our Florida Sexual Battery Attorneys at Whittel & Melton. We can examine the criminal investigation to determine if your constitutional rights were violated in any way that would justify the suppression of damaging evidence. We can also discuss any possible defense options or plea bargain settlements that could be in your best interest.
For a free consultation, call us today at 866-608-5529 or contact us online.