Steven Devon Mason Rivers, a 30-year-old man recently released from the Florida Department of Corrections, has been arrested in connection with a sexual battery case at Florida Memorial University (FMU). Authorities report that Rivers allegedly followed a Colombian student on campus, spoke to her, and then sexually assaulted her after she declined to give him her cellphone, according to Local 10.
While being transported following his arrest, Rivers allegedly attempted to assault a female detective, as reported by NBC Miami. Police reported that he reached toward the detective inappropriately. When restrained, Rivers reportedly made dismissive remarks regarding the incident.
The Miami Gardens Police Department, led by Police Executive Officer to the Chief Emmanuel Jeanty and investigator Stephanie Saint-Fleur, held a press conference to provide an update on the investigation. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Rivers jumping a fence prior to the assault. A DNA test, conducted with assistance from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office crime laboratory, produced a positive match confirming Rivers’ involvement in less than 24 hours.
Court records obtained by Local 10 indicate that Rivers has a prior criminal history, including convictions for sudden snatching without a weapon, aggravated stalking with a credible threat, and carrying a concealed firearm. Following the recent incident, Florida Memorial University has increased safety measures on campus, including additional security cameras and improved lighting, as observed by school staff.
Rivers is facing one count each of sexual battery and robbery by sudden snatching related to the FMU incident, as well as additional charges for the alleged actions during transport. He was held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center as of yesterday, awaiting bond. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, noting the possibility of additional victims and encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
