Man Arrested for Sexual Battery on a Minor

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man on charges of engaging in a sexual relationship with a minor.

On Tuesday, April 13, 2021, Luis Alberto Encarnacion, 22, was arrested at his home on the 200 block of Pasadena Drive in Tampa.The victim, who is under the age of 12, was located at Encarnacion's residence. 

Encarnacion is facing one count of Concealing the Location of a Minor, one count of Unlawful Use of Two Way Communication Device, two counts of Lewd or Lascivious Battery, and two counts of Sexual Battery (Victim Less Than 12; Defendant 18 or older). Following his arrest, Encarnacion admitted to the offenses while being questioned by HCSO detectives.

"While we are incredibly proud of our deputies, and the teamwork that was displayed by all the agencies involved in the safe recovery of this child, we are deeply concerned for the victim's well-being and the circumstances that led to these criminal acts," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "In this case, an adult knowingly engaged in a sexual relationship with a child. As we continue our investigation, we urge parents, teachers, and friends to please help us prevent this abuse from happening by always monitoring who your children are talking to and never hesitating to call law enforcement if you believe a child is in danger."

Attorney General Ashley Moody's Office of Statewide Prosecution is prosecuting this case.

“I am horrified by the facts of this extremely disturbing case involving the sexual battery of a minor. This arrest should serve as a startling warning to parents, that there are adults living among us who would seek out and prey on our children. I am grateful for the quick actions by Sheriff Chronister and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office to rescue the victim and arrest the monster harming her. As Attorney General, I will do everything within the authority of my office to ensure the defendant in this case faces justice and can never again harm another child," said Attorney General Ashley Moody.