SEBASTIAN — The Sebastian Police Department has arrested a man staying in a family’s home for molesting a 13-year-old girl, according to police.
Thomas Melton, 23, faces charges of lewd or lascivious battery on a victim between 12 and 16-years-old, according to authorities.
The victim told her mother that Melton had been sexually molesting her for the past few months, according to police. Melton moved in with the family three months ago and the victim had given up her bedroom so he would have a place to sleep while she slept on the couch. In September, the victim was awakened by Melton molesting her.
The 13-year-old victim was reportedly scared and did not know what to do and never said anything to anyone, according to authorities.
After Melton was almost caught by the victim’s father he did not touch her again, said police. When Melton was brought into custody he admitted that he knew why they wanted to speak to him. During the police interview Melton admitted to molesting the victim several times since September. He admitted during the interview that he knew his behavior was inappropriate and that he was aware of her age.
Melton faces charges of lewd or lascivious battery on a victim between 12 and 16-years-old and is still in the Indian River County Jail on a bond of $100,000.