Florida man arrested for allegedly engaging in sexual acts with 12-year-old, deputies say
MARION COUNTY, Fla. - Deputies said they have arrested a Florida man for lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim younger than 12 years of age.
The Marion County Sheriff's Office reported they arrested 33-year-old Dontay Prophet Tuesday, Jan. 14, in Ocala.
Officers report Prophet has been transported to the Marion County Jail and currently is being held without bond.
Deputies said they arrested 33-year-old Dontay Prophet on Tuesday, Jan. 14. (Credit: Marion County Sheriff's Office)
How did we get here?
The Backstory: Detectives said on Oct. 12, 2024, they began investigating a report of a sexual assault that occurred sometime between December 2012 and December 2014.
An official arrest affidavit shows the victim, who was 8 years old at the time, said Prophet molested him while staying at his home.
Preventing future incidents
What They're Saying: Officials stated the child provided a detailed recollection of the molestation and also gave additional information that was verified throughout the investigation.
Prophet molested the child for an extended period during the encounter and told the child not to tell anyone, because Prophet would get in trouble, the report said.
Deputies said similar allegations were made against Prophet in 2017. Records show that since then, he has been employed in fields allowing him access to children.
More recently, the investigation into Prophet’s arrest for child abuse revealed he had engaged in grooming behaviors, the official affidavit states.
The child told officials he was "relieved" when he learned of Prophet’s prior arrest, because he believed it would prevent another child from being victimized.
Behind bars
What Comes Next: At the conclusion of the investigation, deputies said they gained a warrant for Prophet’s arrest.
During a court appearance for child abuse charges that occurred at a local private school where Prophet worked, he was arrested on the warrant, officials stated.
Sheriffs reported Prophet was transported to the Marion County Jail and currently is being held without bond.
What You Can Do: Due to the prior allegations and the nature of the case, detectives believe additional victims may exist.
Those who have any information about additional victims should call (352) 369-6805.
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