Sex Crime

Broward Teacher Accused of Student Sex Crimes

A teacher in Broward County was recently arrested and charged with crimes related to a sexual relationship with a student that cops say began when she was 13 years old.

Daniel Azemar was working at the Sinai Haitian Seventh-day Adventist School in Plantation when the relationship with the student began in August, according to authorities. The 34-year-old man is now facing charges of sexual battery, lewd and lascivious battery on a minor, and lewd and lascivious molestation on a minor. 

The victim’s parents contacted police officers after uncovering inappropriate, “sexually graphic” text message conversations between Azemar and the girl. The victim later admitted to her parents that the person on the other end of the text conversation was Azemar, her social studies and math teacher.

The victim reportedly told police that the relationship began after an incident in which Azemar lured her to a back room to supposedly help gather supplies. He kissed her and began inappropriately touching and fondling her, according to the victim. The relationship later progressed to sex as she entered the eighth grade, according to the cops.

Azemar, who is married, later admitted to the relationship. He claimed that the victim “understood” him and, in text and Snapchat messages uncovered by authorities, told the victim he wanted to marry her.

The arrest comes just months after a handful of Broward County Public Schools students came forward to accuse substitute teacher Christopher Falzone of misconduct. They claim Falzone groped them while they were students at elementary schools where he regularly filled in.

Florida Sex Crime Law

Sex crimes—and allegations of those offenses—may happen more often than many people suspect. These are serious criminal offenses that can come with life-changing consequences for everyone involved. For the person accused of the crime, that includes possible prison time, steep fines, and being forced to register as a sex offender.

In Florida, state law generally makes it a crime to have sex with anyone under the age of 18. The specific penalties in any sex crime case vary widely based on the circumstances. Generally, a person convicted of statutory rape is looking at up to 15 years in prison. The penalties increase for repeat offenders.

Talk to an Experienced Florida Sex Crimes Attorney Today

Because of the potential consequences, it is vital that anyone charged with—or even suspected of—these offenses seek the counsel of an experienced Florida sex crimes attorney. A seasoned lawyer can help you start building a possible defense immediately, sometimes even before any charges have been filed.

The Florida sex crimes attorneys at Whittel & Melton represent clients throughout the Sunshine State who have been charged with a wide variety of offenses, including sexual assault, rape and child pornography. Our attorneys work tirelessly to fight these charges head on. We have offices throughout the state, including in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and Pensacola. Contact us online or call (866) 608-5529 for a free evaluation.

Fri Mar 15, 12:23am