SEBASTIAN — A 24-year-old found with hundreds of child pornography images was arrested after he admitted to deputies he molested a 12-year-old last summer, officials said.
Randall Hitchcock
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY INDIAN RIVER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Deputies think the man – identified as Randall Hitchcock – might have molested other victims. Hitchcock worked as a dishwasher at Strike Zone Entertainment Center and spent time at Riverside Church, deputies said.
“We are asking parents to speak with your children to determine if any other inappropriate relationships have occurred,” Indian River County Sheriff Deryl Loar said in a statement. “We are concerned for their safety and well-being.”
Deputies arrested Hitchcock, of the 100 block of Alhambra Avenue, on two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation. Hitchcock was held Wednesday at the Indian River County Jail on $200,000 bond.
Tuesday, deputies executed a search warrant at Hitchcock’s home after receiving a cyber-tip about child pornography being uploaded from the residence. Hitchcock admitted to deputies he had and sent child pornography images, reports show.
Charges are pending for the child pornography, deputies said. While speaking with Hitchcock, deputies learned he molested the minor.
Deputies spoke with the minor, who confirmed Hitchcock’s statements, Indian River County sheriff’s spokesman Maj. Eric Flowers said. The child’s gender was not released because he or she was a victim of a sex crime.
Anyone with more information on the case should contact sheriff’s Detective Aaron Scranton at 772-978-6127 or [email protected]. Callers can remain anonymous and possibly be eligible for a reward by contacting Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers.
Crime Stoppers can be reached at 1-800-273-TIPS or tcwatch.org.
