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Ocala
Thursday, March 28, 2024

Man charged with sexually assaulting 16-year-old girl in Ocala

A 46-year-old man was arrested by the Ocala Police Department after a mother accused him of sexually assaulting her 16-year-old daughter.

On May 15, an OPD officer spoke with a mother who reported that her 16-year-old daughter may be involved in illegal sexual activity with Randy Adam Owens, according to the police department.

Randy Adam Owens
Randy Adam Owens

OPD stated in a press release that the mother’s testimony provided “reasonable suspicion” that Owens may have committed a sexual crime against the juvenile victim. In addition, the victim’s mother had learned of Owens’ prior arrest in April 2023 for contributing to a delinquency of a minor.

Detectives conducted a comprehensive forensic interview of the victim at Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection. According to OPD, the combination of the victim’s pre-interview statements, the forensic interview, and Owens’ previous arrest history led investigators to determine that there was sufficient probable cause to arrest Owens.

On Wednesday, May 24, Owens was located, arrested, and transported to Marion County Jail where he is currently being held without bond. He is facing felony charges for sexual assault of a minor (five counts).

A court date has been scheduled at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 27, according to jail records.

The Ocala Police Department released the following statement after Owens’ arrest: “Reporting sexual abuse is incredibly difficult and takes immense courage to come forward and share one’s experiences with the police. The victim in this case demonstrated remarkable bravery by speaking out and helping to bring their abuser to justice. We encourage anyone who has experienced sexual abuse, to please report it to law enforcement.”

If anyone in the community has information about Owens’ contact with children, the Ocala Police Department asks that you call detectives at 352-369-7000.