Putnam County, Florida – Putnam County detectives arrested and charged Corzelle Equain White, 37, of Palatka, on Wednesday night, December 3rd, with multiple offenses, including:
- Sexual assault on a victim 12 to 18 years old by a custodial caregiver
- Cruelty toward a child by directing or promoting sexual performance of a child
- Possession of child pornography
The investigation began after the victim reported that White used grooming behavior to coax the victim into sexual acts, starting with oral sex and escalating to sexual intercourse. The victim told investigators that the abuse occurred for approximately three years and resulted in the victim experiencing anger issues and thoughts of self-harm.
The victim also informed investigators that White recorded and photographed some of the sexual acts. Detectives subsequently located some of these images during a forensic download of White’s cell phone.
Sheriff H.D. ‘Gator’ DeLoach released a statement emphasizing the severity of the case: “What this victim is going through is incomprehensible. A supposed trusted individual groomed this child to think this behavior was normal and acceptable. White’s actions are absolutely repulsive.”
During interviews, the victim mentioned that White had referenced three other potential victims. The Sheriff’s office is urging the public to come forward.
“We have credible reason to believe there are more victims and we need parents and guardians to come forward so we can ensure these kids get the help they need as well as make sure this predator is held accountable for the lives he has tried to ruin,” Sheriff DeLoach stated.
Anyone with information is asked to call 386-329-0800 and ask to speak to Detective Gogan.
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