PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A man was arrested and charged on Thursday after officials said he touched a child inappropriately.
Detectives said 31-year-old Zachary Hoyt was arrested for capital sexual battery on a child less than 12 years old.
PINELLAS NEWS | The latest headlines from Pinellas County
Pinellas County detectives began their investigation on May 13 after they were contacted by a family member of the victim.
The family member suspected sexual abuse after witnessing Hoyt touching the victim inappropriately and acting suspicious after being seen.
Detectives said Hoyt placed his hand under the victim's clothing and touched her inappropriately. The victim described to the investigators that Hoyt touched her and told her to be quiet.
During an interview with Hoyt, he admitted to having his hand under the victim's clothing. He said it was possible his DNA would be found on the victim.
At about 4:48 p.m., detectives arrested Hoyt and charged him with one count of capital sexual battery on a child less than 12 years old.
He was transported to the Pinellas County Jail without incident.
This is still an ongoing investigation.
