Newberry Man Accused of Sexually Assaulting 2-Year-Old Girl

Whittel & Melton 352-264-7800 – Florida Sex Crimes Attorneys

Police arrested an 18-year-old Newberry man Thursday on allegations that he sexually battered a 2-year-old child on Sept. 12.

According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the man was charged with one count of sexual assault of a person under the age of 12.

Police claim the man is a friend of the 2-year-old girl’s mother.

According to the arrest report, the man had been drinking and fell asleep at the house. He allegedly went into the bedroom where the girl and her 4-year-old brother were sleeping and committed the sexual act.

Police believe the boy witnessed the alleged incident.

Sex crimes, especially when they are believed to have been committed against children, are taken quite seriously in the state of Florida. With that said, it is important to be aware that all it takes to be charged with a sex crime is a simple accusation that may actually hold no merit. Regardless of the truth, police and prosecutors tend to side with the victim in these cases. That is why it is in your best interest to seek the help of a sex crimes defense lawyer immediately if you find yourself the target of a child sex crime investigation.

Sexual assault or sexual battery is defined as the oral, anal or vaginal penetration by the sexual organ of another person or object. Depending on the age of the victim, this crime is punishable by anywhere between 15 years to life in prison. When the victim is younger than 12, the charge is elevated to capital sexual assault punishable by life in prison.

When you are accused of sexually assaulting a child, it is necessary to consult with a criminal defense attorney that will thoroughly investigate the State’s case against you. The Florida Sex Crimes Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can help you through every stage of your case. By involving us early on, we can speak with any possible witnesses before anyone else has had the chance to influence their version of the story. In certain situations, it may possible to avoid sex crime charges from even being filed.

If you or a loved one has been accused of sexual battery or has been charged with capital sexual assault, contact the Florida Sex Crimes Attorneys at Whittel & Melton online or call our Gainesville office at 352-264-7800. You can reach us 24/7 statewide and toll-free at 866-608-5529.