A Cape Coral man was found guilty of molesting a child several times over nearly a year.
A jury convicted Richie Ernst Dragenis, 21, of lewd or lascivious molestation after a 3-day trial.
An investigation revealed that between March 2023 and January 2024, Dragenis had engaged in sexual activity and molested a girl younger than 16 several times at various locations throughout Fort Myers and Lehigh Acres, according to the Office of the State Attorney.
The victim, who was 14 when the incidents began, shared in an interview with the Child Advocacy Center that on multiple occasions, Dragenis reserved hotel rooms to assault her, court documents state.
Dragenis also “asked the victim to keep the relationship a secret,” documents state.
A relative of the victim noticed that the victim’s behavior change and that the victim had been experiencing recurring gynecological medical issues.
Witnesses noted food was delivered to the victim’s home on multiple occasions, which the victim did not have money to pay for herself, according to the Office of the State Attorney.
The victim’s relative contacted the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, prompting the investigation into Dragenis.
Dragenis is scheduled for sentencing on March 30.
Tayeba Hussein is a breaking news reporter for The News-Press & Naples Daily News. Reach her at thussein@usatodayco.com.
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This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Southwest Florida man guilty of molesting child for nearly a year