Pinellas County Man Accused of Raping 13-Year-Old Girl

Whittel & Melton, LLC 727-847-2299 – Florida Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys

A 35-year-old Clearwater, Florida man was arrested Sunday night after being accused of sexual battery on a 13-year-old girl.

Clearwater police claim the girl went to a residence to meet with the man’s nephew and after learning the boy was not home, was allegedly forced by the man into a bedroom where she was sexually battered.

The girl’s mother contacted police after learning about the alleged incident.

Police arrested and charged the man with Sexual Battery.

The man was arrested and taken to the Pinellas County Jail, where he remained Monday morning. His bail was set at $50,000.

According to jail records, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agents are currently investigating for possible violations.

Sex offenses carry serious penalties in the State of Florida that can include lengthy prison terms and mandatory registration as a sexual offender. Unfortunately, cooperating with law enforcement or pleading guilty to charges can make a bad situation worse. The best way to attack a sex crimes charge is to confront the allegations as early on as possible with the help of a Florida Sex Crimes Attorney.

Sexual battery refers to any type of nonconsensual sexual activity forced upon an individual against his or her will. This crime is commonly referred to as rape and in the state of Florida there are assorted variations of the sexual battery statute that carry with them distinctive components that the State must prove in order to obtain a conviction. With that said, there are a variety of potential punishments for a sexual battery charge all depending on the different elements of the crime. Like most sex crimes charges, the age of the victim and the age of the accused play a pivotal role in determining the possible penalties for committing this type of offense.

The Florida Sex Crimes Lawyers at Whittel & Melton fully understand the seriousness of a rape allegation. Felony sex offenses have the potential to ruin your life and take away your freedom. Early intervention is critical to combat sexual offenses. Depending on the circumstances associated with your arrest, our attorneys may be to file motions to suppress evidence which could result in your case getting dismissed, or convince prosecutors to reduce the charges against you. Oftentimes, it is necessary to challenge sex crimes allegations at trial. At Whittel & Melton, we are prepared to do whatever it takes to achieve the best possible outcome for your unique situation.

If you are accused of committing sexual battery in Clearwater or anywhere in the state of Florida, contact the Florida Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys at Whittel & Melton online or call our Pinellas County office at 727-847-2299 or dial us toll-free at 866-608-5529.