DeLand Father & Son Facing Charges For Years-Long Sexual Abuse Of 2 Young Girls

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DeLand, FL – According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office (VCSO), a DeLand father and son are facing several charges for the years-long sexual abuse of two young girls. Leslie Ross Sr., 69, and Leslie Ross Jr., 47, have been charged with the sexual battery and lewd or lascivious molestation of two girls, currently ages 11 and 13, since they were 3 and 5 years old. The victims' mother alleged the abuse in Feburary and after an investigation, the two girls’ testimony revealed details about the abuse. In 2006, Ross Sr. was investigated for sexual battery against one of the girls, age 2 at the time, who said he touched her inappropriately. The Department of Children and Families were notified of a similar situation in 2007. Then, VCSO deputies tried to file sexual battery charges but ultimately, the case could not be prosecuted. Ross Jr. was also investigated in 2006 for an alleged relationship with a Taylor-Middle High School student. He taught at the Pierson school since 1997 but resigned the same day that the allegations were made. The Florida Department of Education revoked his teaching certificate and Ross Jr. was banned from working within the Volusia County School District. On Tuesday, August 29, Ross Sr. and Ross Jr. turned themselves in to the Volusia County Jail where they are currently being held.

(Ross Jr. mugshot courtesy of Volusia County Corrections)

(Ross Sr. mugshot courtesy of Volusia County Corrections)

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