Polk County Headmaster Accused of Molesting Student
The headmaster of a Polk County school is accused of grooming a student for sexual activity.
The man has been arrested on two counts of lewd molestation on a 15-year-old male student.
Allegations were first reported to the sheriff’s office against the man on February 4.
He also teaches 7th and 8th grade classes and serves as the school’s football coach.
According to the report, the man is accused of grooming the victim since November of 2018. The man allegedly touched the victim in an inappropriate manner.
The man is accused of touching a male student’s private parts, kissing him and biting his lip.
The man, who is also an ordained minister and an associate pastor, apparently admitted to detectives that he knew his behavior was inappropriate and he should not have engaged in that type of behavior.
He faces two counts of Lewd Molestation of a victim between the ages of 12 and 16. A judge granted him $15,000 bond per charge and to remain under house arrest if he bonds out.
Anytime a person in authority over children is accused of a sex crime, it is a fight for their life. These charges are quite serious, and even if they have no merit, the public will be quick to jump on the bandwagon and label the accused a predator before they have had a chance to defend themselves. Following an arrest, it is of the utmost importance to secure legal representation before you say anything that can be misconstrued by police.
Our Florida Child Molestation Defense Attorneys at Whittel & Melton are experienced in all aspects of sex crimes. We know how to develop a solid defense against these charges and make sure police do not overstep in their interrogations. We will review the charges and evidence against you and advise you on the best way to proceed. In some cases we have been able to get sex crimes cases dismissed or the charges reduced, however every case is different.
If you are facing child molestation charges, we urge you to contact us today for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 for your convenience, so call us now at 866-608-5529.