SANFORD, Fla. \u2013 A man was arrested on Thursday after sneaking into a 12-year-old\u2019s window before performing \u201csexual acts\u201d with her, according to the Sanford Police Department.<\/p>\n
In a release, Sanford police said that the man \u2014 identified as 23-year-old John Jennings, Jr. \u2014 had initially met the young girl on Instagram.<\/p>\n
\u201cOn Aug. 6, 2025, Sanford Police Officers met with the parent of the victim, who alleged that Jennings traveled to the victim\u2019s home on multiple occasions, where sexual activity likely occurred between Jennings and the victim,\u201d the release reads.<\/p>\n
Investigators said they determined that Jennings had arranged with the 12-year-old to travel to her home several times, where he entered through the girl\u2019s window while the parents were asleep.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile in the room, Jennings did engage in sexual acts with the victim,\u201d the release continues. <\/p>\n
On Aug. 21, a warrant was issued for Jennings\u2019 arrest, and he was ultimately caught by Polk County deputies, police announced. As of Friday evening, jail records listed him as awaiting transport to Seminole County.<\/p>\n
Now, Jennings faces a charge of lewd and lascivious battery.<\/p>\n
\u201cSocial media has the power to connect communities for good, but it can also be a tool for those who seek to prey on others,\u201d said Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith. \u201cWith this in mind, it is clear that parents must be watchful of their children\u2019s online activities, educate them on online safety, and monitor their ever-evolving online social life.\u201d<\/p>\n
Anyone with information on this incident is urged to contact Sanford police or Crimeline at (800) 423-8477.<\/p>\n
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