Gainesville Woman Accused of Having Sex with Minor

A 21-year-old Gainesville woman was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl.

The 21-year-old woman was charged with lewd and lascivious behavior with a victim age 12 to 16.

On Dec. 12, the girl’s parents reported to law enforcement that they had found Facebook messages hinting at the sexual relationship. The woman allegedly later admitted to investigators that she had sexual encounters with the girl at least three times, according to an Alachua County Sheriff’s Office arrest report.

The woman told investigators she believed the girl was 16.

She was booked into the Alachua County jail. Her bond was set at $40,000.

Being accused of having sex with a minor can have serious consequences on an individual’s life. An adult that engages in sexual activity with a minor under the age of 18 is considered illegal and being convicted of such a crime can impact a person’s job, where they live, and their reputation. Individuals under the age of 17 in Florida are not legally able to consent to sexual activity, and such activity may result in prosecution for a sex crime. If you are facing sex crime charges in Alachua County, our Gainesville Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can help you safeguard your future.

Florida statutory rape laws are violated when a person has consensual sexual intercourse with an individual under the age of 18. Close in age exemptions exist, also known as “Romeo & Juliet Law,” allowing minors aged 16 or 17 to engage in sexual intercourse with a partner no older than age 23.

Facing a sex crimes charge can be quite frightening. Let us help you establish a powerful defense with the hopes of helping you move on with your life. Your initial consultation with us is completely free. Call us today at 352-264-7800 or contact us online to learn more.