INDIANTOWN, Fla. (CBS12) — A routine patrol by a Martin County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputy led to the arrest of a Russian man accused of sexually battering a minor, after a suspicious vehicle was discovered in an Indiantown neighborhood.
The Martin County Sheriff’s Office said it happened along SW Seminole Drive, where a deputy noticed a parked vehicle that appeared out of place. Upon investigation, the deputy found 40-year-old Igor Ravinskiy in the back seat with a 13-year-old girl from Martin County.
Detectives quickly launched an investigation and determined that Ravinskiy had contacted the victim through Snapchat. MCSO said he then traveled to Martin County to meet her in person. Ravinskiy, who identified himself as an undocumented immigrant from Russia, was taken into custody for sexual battery on a minor.
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“This case serves as a powerful reminder of how important it is for parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s social-media use and online interactions,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “Predators often use these platforms to gain trust and make contact.”
As Halloween festivities kick off tonight, authorities are urging parents and guardians to remain vigilant.
We ask all parents to be especially vigilant—make sure your child’s focus remains on having fun, not becoming a victim.”
The sheriff’s office commended the deputy’s proactive patrol and swift action, which led to the arrest and likely prevented further harm.
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