WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – A Lakeland man has been arrested on charges of sexually battering a 14-year-old victim multiple times over the Thanksgiving holiday.
25-year-old Stephon Chad Fulse Jr. was taken into custody on Monday, December 9th, after the victim disclosed the abuse to a school employee. The victim had been visiting family in Winter Haven during Thanksgiving break where the alleged assaults took place.
According to the victim, Fulse engaged in sexual intercourse with them on four separate occasions between November 25th and December 8th. The victim provided detailed descriptions of the locations where the incidents occurred.
READ: “Loving” Helper Loots Elderly Winter Haven Woman’s Jewelry
Further corroborating the victim’s account, Fulse admitted to the victim’s father during a phone call that he had engaged in sexual intercourse with the 14-year-old and was aware of their age. He also provided descriptions of the locations that matched the victim’s statements.
Law enforcement officials from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Winter Haven Police Department apprehended Fulse at his Lakeland residence without incident. He was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with four counts of Sexual Battery of a Victim 12-17 years of age, a first-degree felony.
READ: Nevada Truck Driver’s Pit Stop In Polk County Leads To Arrest For Theft
“This absolutely sickens me to hear of the innocence robbed from this young child,” said Winter Haven Police Chief Vance Monroe. “I am so glad this child trusted an adult to tell of these horrific acts and get this guy behind bars.”
Authorities are urging anyone who suspects there may be additional victims to contact the Winter Haven Police Department at 863-401-2256.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.