Palm Coast, FL - A 19-year-old Palm Coast man, who was a victim and suspect in a recent shooting, has been arrested and charged with sexual battery on a child.
Flagler County Sheriff's detectives who were investigating the shooting at 28 Seamanship Trl., which took place in November of 2017, seized a cell phone belonging to 19-year-old Tristan George, a victim and suspect in the case. George and 21-year-old Michael McRoberts suffered gunshot wounds in the shooting.
A forensic analysis of George's cell phone revealed several references to the 19-year-old having sexual relations with girls 14-years-old and younger. FCSO says that text messages, video clips, photos, and social media posts revealed inappropriate relationships with at least two minors. Officials say George also gave marijuana and other narcotics to his victims.
Deputies made contact with George at his high school on Thursday afternoon and brought him to the Sheriff's Operations Center in Bunnell where he was arrested. He's facing charges of lewd and lascivious battery on a child and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Officials say George is being interviewed at the Sheriff's Office and will then be booked into the Flagler County Detention Facility, where he'll be held on $40,000 bond.
“He preyed on vulnerable children and it is our job to protect them,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “I’m sure it was difficult for the victim to come forward and tell the truth but I’m glad that she did in order to get this offender off the streets before he can hurt more children. Our detectives did an outstanding job on this case and I know they will continue to as the investigation carries on. This is also a reminder to parents to get involved with their children and know what is occurring on their cell phones and computers,” said Sheriff Staly.
FCSO says this is an ongoing investigation and additional charges are pending. The shooting from November is also still under investigation.
(George's mugshot, from a March 2017 booking, courtesy FCSO)
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