A 22-year-old Kissimmee man was arrested Tuesday after a 9-year-old girl told her father that a man had exposed himself inside a Ross store near Kissimmee, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. The girl ran to her father crying, and he and another shopper detained the suspect until deputies arrived. Authorities identified the man as Anthony Santana, who was booked on a charge of exposure of sexual organs (second offense).
Details From The Sheriff’s Release
In a news release reported by WESH, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office said the girl’s father told deputies his daughter pointed out the man to him inside the store. According to the release, "Mr. Santana was wearing pajama pants that appeared to be ripped in the groin area and was wearing no underwear." The release also stated that Santana told deputies he believed the act was likely sexual in nature and that he had two prior convictions for exposure of sexual organs.
What The Charge Means
Under Florida law, a second or subsequent conviction for exposure of sexual organs is a third-degree felony, which can carry up to five years in prison along with other potential penalties. Section 800.03 of the Florida Statutes defines the exposure offense and the enhanced penalty for repeat violations. Because the alleged victim is under 16, prosecutors could also pursue lewd or lascivious exhibition charges under Section 800.04, a separate statute that carries steeper sentences and can require sex-offender registration.
Detectives Ask For Witnesses
The sheriff’s release, as reported by WESH, said detectives are asking anyone who may have had unwanted sexual interactions with Santana to come forward. Investigators said the suspect drives a red 2003 Mustang that was reportedly used in earlier incidents and urged potential witnesses to contact the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. The release did not include booking or bond details.
Shoppers Urged To Stay Alert
Incidents like this can rattle shoppers in an instant, and local law enforcement encourages parents to remind children to seek out a trusted adult if they feel unsafe. Osceola County detectives are handling the investigation and will determine final charges after interviewing witnesses and reviewing any available surveillance footage. This story will be updated if officials release additional information.
