A multi-layered
sex crime involving an 18-year-old Pinal man and over a dozen teenage girls has
been termed “extraordinary,” by one child abuse expert.
The sheriff’s office has described the man a as a serial sex offender
who charmed his way into manipulating girls between the ages of 12 and
17 to have sex with him. The girls who were allegedly involved knew the
man and trusted him. But some of the victims claimed they had to move
to get out of his grasp and that he had threatened them with death if
they told anyone about their sexual activity.
Although the 18-year-old man has allegedly been carrying out the
sexual assaults since age 13, no evidence from the school he attended was uncovered. While
some of the female students admitted to dating the young man and claimed
to have consensual sex with him, others said they were forced to do it.
One 15-year-old-girl told police about her relationship with the man. After
repeated texting, he gave her the impression he was a law enforcement
official. The girl admitted to having enjoyable sex with the man several
times in various locations. After he was arrested, the teen posted messages
on a social media site indicating she wanted to be with him and had posted
suicidal intentions on the site.
Police officers investigating the case for Pinal County assert the 18-year-old
man became a shrewd manipulator, threatening girls at the age of 13.
Charges against him include several counts of sexual conduct and sexual
abuse, all with underage victims. He was indicted by a grand jury on 17
counts of sexual assault and one count of
child molestation with a minor.
The big picture leaves experts baffled. One sex-crime specialist claims
the young man demonstrated a charismatic persona that lured girls to him.
While concluding his actions were predatory, employing stalking and threats,
he pleaded not guilty to all charges against him. He was absent from court
when his defense attorney entered his plea.
Sex crimes are serious. If you have been charged with a sex offense, you
need to speak urgently with a person who can provide input on how to best
defend yourself. An expert can speak on your behalf to provide information
regarding possible psychological treatment so you might be able to avoid
jail time.
Source: Arizona Republic, “Pinal sexual assault suspect pleads not guilty” Sean Holstege, May. 24, 2014
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