Florida

North Florida Man Molested Young Child at Hurricane Shelter: Sheriff

What to Know

  • 60-year-old John Stapleton was arrested Thursday on charges including lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim under 12.
  • Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office deputies say the attack happened at a Crestview middle school that was turned into temporary housing.

Authorities in Florida say a man molested a 6-year-old girl at an emergency hurricane shelter.

News outlets report 60-year-old John Stapleton was arrested Thursday on charges including lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim under 12. Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office deputies say the attack happened at a Crestview middle school that was turned into temporary housing for shelter from Hurricane Michael.

Deputies say a witness reported seeing a video of the homeless man touching a child in inappropriately underneath her clothing. They say authorities found the video and Stapleton admitted to touching the girl, though says it was "not in a lewd manner."

It's unclear if Stapleton has a lawyer.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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