GAINESVILLE, Fla.—The Gainesville Police Department (GPD), in collaboration with the University of Florida Public Safety (UPD), has arrested Riley Washington, 36, in connection with a series of incidents involving inappropriate and sexually explicit behavior reported by University of Florida students.
The investigation began when students reported disturbing encounters with an individual whose behavior was sexual in nature and made them feel unsafe. Detectives from both GPD and UPD identified a pattern in the reports and believed there might be additional victims.
Following a surveillance plan, Washington was taken into custody near the UF campus after attempting to flee. Authorities stated that his behavior had been escalating in both frequency and severity, and they believe there may be more victims.
“Washington’s actions were escalating in severity and we took swift action to prevent further victims,” said GPD Chief Nelson Moya. “I commend the cooperative work of both our agency and UPD in bringing this case to a swift and safe resolution.”
UPD Chief Bart Knowles added, “Public safety is a shared responsibility. This is a perfect example of a student using the Gator Safe app to report suspicious activity.”
Washington is currently being held in the Alachua County Jail on charges of Sexual Battery, Loitering and Prowling, and Stalking. Law enforcement urges anyone who may have had a similar encounter with Washington or has information related to the case to come forward.
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