Florida

College of Central Florida Professor Accused of Sexually Battering Student

A 41-year-old assistant professor at the College of Central Florida was arrested Thursday morning on suspicion of sexual battery against a female student.

The man was taken into custody at about 9 a.m. and was being held at the Marion County Jail in lieu of $15,000 bond.

The incident allegedly occurred early Thursday morning, according to an Ocala Police Department report.

The woman, who is in her early 20s and is a former student of the communications and English teacher, told police she contacted the man to meet for coffee and talk about a position she was interested in.

Instead of coffee, she said, the man suggested they meet for beer. She met him at The Crazy Cucumber in Ocala for beers and conversation.

About an hour later, he suggested that they go to O’Malley’s Alley in downtown Ocala, where she had a few more drinks, according to the OPD report. Then she became sick and went to the bathroom to throw up.

He eventually went into the bathroom, the report states. She told police that, while she was vomiting, he smacked her buttocks and fondled her private parts.

The woman said she told the man to stop and to call her boyfriend to come get her. According to the woman’s account, he told her he could take her home so she didn’t have to call.

The woman told police he then took her to his home, where he performed oral sex on her, even though she told him no.

The woman reported the incident, and the man denied any sexual activity.

There are few criminal accusations that carry as much weight in Florida as sexually based offenses. Those accused of sex crimes face jail time if convicted. But, the punishment does not stop there. Upon release, it is required to register as a sex offender, something that will haunt a person forever.

Sexual battery cases often arise from simple misunderstandings or allegations that are exaggerated and even false. To establish the best defense, it is imperative to have someone on your side who will fight for your rights. As former prosecutors, our Florida Sexual Battery Defense Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can point out the flaws in the State’s case against you.

If you are accused of a sex offense in the Marion County area, we can help you through this difficult time. We will fight aggressively to have your charges reduced or dismissed. Call us today at 352-369-5334 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Mon Jul 18, 7:43pm