OCALA, Fla. – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Alexander Thomas Daugherty, 24, of Ocala, to 10 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Daugherty had previously pleaded guilty to the charge on December 20, 2024.
According to court documents, on September 20, 2024, a special agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) was operating undercover as a 13-year-old girl on an online social media platform. Daugherty contacted the undercover agent’s account and, after confirming the child’s age, discussed engaging in sexual activity.
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Daugherty arranged to meet the minor for sex at a designated location in Marion County. He traveled to that location and was subsequently arrested by law enforcement. Following his arrest, Daugherty provided a written statement in which he apologized for his “disgusting intentions” towards “the underage female.”
“This sentencing sends a strong message that any attempts to exploit and harm minors will not be tolerated,” said Homeland Security Investigation Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “HSI, alongside our partners at the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, are dedicated to protecting our children and ensuring that those who seek to endanger them face severe consequences for their actions.”
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The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg prosecuted the case.
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