JACKSONVILLE, Florida – A 15-year-old Jacksonville teen has been arrested on multiple felony charges after investigators linked him to two separate incidents involving attempted sexual battery, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation began April 29 when District 3 patrol officers responded to Touchton Road Park after a woman reported she had been attacked while walking on a trail.
According to police, the suspect, later identified as Antonio Thomas, allegedly grabbed the victim and simulated holding a gun to her back while attempting to force her into a wooded area.
Investigators said the woman fought Thomas off and called police. The suspect fled before officers arrived.
Detectives with the Special Assault Unit immediately launched an investigation, working alongside the Crime Analysis Unit, Real Time Crime Center, Community Problem Response Unit, and Offender Tracking Unit.
Two days later, a witness who had seen the attack at the park spotted Thomas back at the location and contacted law enforcement. The witness positively identified Thomas as the suspect, leading to his detention.
While continuing their investigation at Thomas’ apartment complex, detectives uncovered a second alleged incident involving another woman.
According to investigators, Thomas had previously attempted to sexually batter a woman at the complex swimming pool earlier in the month.
After being interviewed by detectives, Thomas was arrested and charged with:
- Attempted Kidnapping
- Attempted Sexual Battery related to the Touchton Road Park incident
- Attempted Sexual Battery related to the apartment pool incident
All three charges are felonies.
Authorities said the investigation remains focused on securing justice for both victims.