81-Year-Old Homosassa Man Accused of Sexually Battering 5-Year-Old Girl

An 81-year-old Homosassa man has been accused of sexually abusing a 5-year-old girl.

The elderly man faces charges of lewd and lascivious exhibition, lewd and lascivious molestation and sexual battery on person under 12 years old.

Investigators claim that the girl told deputies the man fondled her over and under her clothes on two separate occasions. Police also believe the man forced the girl to touch him sexually.

According to reports, the girl told a relative after the second incident. The relative alerted law enforcement of what the girl said immediately.

Deputies said that the man initially denied the allegations, however, later admitted the accusations were true. He allegedly told deputies that the first occurrence happened in December, and the second one happened May 25.

The man was arrested and taken to the Citrus County Detention Facility with bail set at $50,000.

Allegations of sexual battery can lead to very serious sex crimes charges. Even if you do not think that the charges you are facing are substantial, you should be reminded that the state prosecutor in Citrus County is using every shred of evidence available to mount a convincing case. If you are convicted of a sex crime, especially one involving a young child, you can face serious prison time, large fines and be labeled a sexual offender for the rest of your life. With the stakes this high, it is absolutely vital to pursue every means possible in order to achieve a successful outcome for your situation.

The state of Florida takes sexual battery charges quite seriously, and prosecutors will explore all avenues to make sure a conviction is achieved. Florida law makes it a capital offense for any person 18 years or older to sexually batter a victim under the age of 12. A person convicted of sexual battery on a person less than 12 years old faces potential consequences of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

If you have been charged with sexual battery in Homosassa, Inverness, Crystal River, Lecanto, Beverly Hills, or a nearby area, it is extremely important to consider all of your legal options immediately. It is also in your best interest to act as soon after your arrest as possible. A Citrus County Capital Sexual Battery Defense Attorney at Whittel & Melton can make sure your rights and best interests are protected during investigations. Moreover, we can gather any evidence and other important details that can be used in your favor. To discuss your charges in a free initial consultation, contact us online or call us in Citrus County at 352-726-0078, or reach us statewide and toll-free by dialing 866-­608­-5529.