The victim’s family reportedly knew the suspect, 26-year-old Michael Phillips.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A St. Petersburg man is behind bars after police say he sexually abused a young child.
According to St. Pete police, the victim told her parents about the abuse earlier this month. The suspect was known to the family.
On Aug. 5, police began an investigation and identified 26-year-old Michael Phillips as the suspect.
Officers say the incident was reported in Pasco County but took place in St. Petersburg, where Phillips lives.
He was arrested Thursday and charged with sexual battery on a child under the age of 12.
Court records show Phillips was denied bond and given a no contact order against the victim and all minors, and ordered to stay away from the victim’s home and school.