A Canton man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after being found guilty of molesting a seven-year-old child in a Walmart parking lot, authorities said. 41-year-old Lucas Simon Lucas-Juan was convicted on three counts after a jury trial, following an incident that occurred last year. According to a report by FOX 5 Atlanta, Cherokee County District Attorney Susan K. Treadway, emphasized that the “case is a stark reminder that child sexual abuse can happen even in plain view in public places.”
The investigation was set in motion on July 22, 2024, when an employee of the Walmart Supercenter on Riverstone Parkway observed and took immediate action to report the disturbing behavior. "While collecting grocery carts from the store parking lot, a Walmart employee saw a man commit immoral and indecent acts on a little girl inside a parked vehicle," stated Assistant District Attorney David J. Bailey, as reported by FOX 5 Atlanta. The court was also presented with surveillance video evidence capturing two additional sexual abuse incidents earlier that day inside the store.
A three-day trial included testimony from the victim, parents, Walmart staff, police, and experts, ending with key evidence that helped the jury reach a verdict. Seventeen exhibits were presented. Lucas-Juan must now register as a sex offender and follow strict probation rules after serving 29 years in prison, as reported by the media. Reinforcing the gravity of the situation, District Attorney Treadway was quoted in an article from Atlanta News First, saying, “This case underscores the importance of businesses, citizens, and law enforcement working together to safeguard our children.”
