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Published on January 24, 2025
St. Johns County Man Charged With Capital Sexual Battery, Accused of Grooming and Assaulting Child on SnapchatSource: X/ St. Johns County Sheriff's Office

In a grave revelation, the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office has announced the arrest of 21-year-old Ali Aldemar Moreno on charges of capital sexual battery, among other offenses. According to a social media post by the sheriff's office, Moreno engaged in predatory behavior, masquerading as a 15-year-old on Snapchat to groom and later assault an 11-year-old child.

The disturbing incident came to light in October 2024 when Moreno reportedly lured the young victim under false pretenses. After establishing contact near her bus stop, he transported her to a different location where the assault occurred. Despite being an inmate at the St. Johns County Jail, the investigation remains active, as authorities have uncovered additional victims and have expressed concern that there may be more out there. Moreno's charges stack up to include capital sexual battery, traveling to meet a minor, online solicitation of a minor, production, and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and unlawful use of a two-way communication device.

As the investigation continues to unfold, the sheriff's office is urgently reaching out to the community, urging parents and guardians to engage in critical conversations about online safety with their children. "Parents and guardians; please have intentional conversations with your children about the dangers of social media and grooming tactics of online predators," they emphasized. 

Apart from the stern warning, resources were provided for the general community to report any new information. St. Johns County Sheriff's Office can be contacted for non-emergencies at 904-824-8304, through email at [email protected], or via Crime Stoppers at 1-888-277-8477.