Sarasota Minister Receives Life in Prison for Sexually Abusing 13-Year-Old Boy

Whittel & Melton, LLC 866-608-5529 – Florida Sex Crimes Attorneys

A 42-year-old Christian minister was sentenced to life in prison Monday for sexually abusing a 13-year-old boy.

Prosecutors claim the man befriended the child and his family in Georgia before moving to Sarasota.

In Sarasota, the man apparently started a storefront church that had around 15 to 20 members.

The man was arrested last year after the boy told detectives he had been abused for two years, starting in 2009.

Last month, the man was found guilty of three counts of molesting a child under 16 but over 12.

Those accused or charged with sexual abuse or child sex offenses must often face harsh public opinion and hostile prosecutors. In fact, most people are only too willing to believe the worst about those accused of child sex crimes. The Florida Sex Crimes Attorneys at Whittel & Melton are more than aware that not everyone accused of a sex crime is guilty of the charge. We know the consequences a conviction carries, which is why we believe those facing sex-related charges require a strong defense and representation.

While the Florida criminal justice system is meant to protect our communities, it is not flawless. False or exaggerated claims of child sexual abuse can send an innocent person to prison for extended periods of time and negatively affect their future. These cases are driven by emotions, which can sometimes throw objectivity out the window. Without a criminal defense lawyer fighting for your side, the judge and jury may be swayed by emotional evidence attacking your good name.

Accusations of child sexual abuse are serious and must be handled accordingly. These charges can be brought against anyone at any time, regardless of any opposing evidence. With so much at stake, it is crucial to use every tool at your disposal to influence a positive outcome for your case. In child sex abuse cases, early intervention is critical. The longer you wait to mount a defense strategy, the more time you give the prosecution to build its case against you.

If you or someone you love has been charged with child sex abuse anywhere in the state of Florida, contact the Florida Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys at Whittel & Melton online or dial us statewide and toll-free at 866-608-5529.

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