Sanford Rabbi Accused of Impregnating Teen

ClickonOrlando
June 22, 2017

http://www.clickorlando.com/news/rabbi-accused-of-molesting-impregnating-teen-girl-sanford-police-say

A rabbi accused of molesting and impregnating a 15-year-old girl has been arrested, the Sanford Police Department said.

Investigators arrested Lloyd Haughton for sexual assault on a minor living in the custody of Haughton.

The Sanford Police Department said it was notified March 31 by the 15-year-old girl that Haughton had been molesting her for the past two years.

The victim told police Haughton had inappropriately touched her breast and genital area, police said. Haughton was questioned by investigators and denied all allegations.

Police said investigators were notified April 25 by the girl's mother that the girl was pregnant and Haughton was the father.

Investigators were notified Wednesday by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement that test results concluded that Haughton was the biological father of the fetus, police said.

Haughton was arrested Wednesday. Police said he was charged with sexual battery by a custodian/victim under 18 years of age.

Haughton was a local rabbi and affiliated with the Synagogue Beth Israel at 301 S. Maple Ave., police said.

"Immediately upon hearing the news, Lloyd Haughton was released of his duties and is no longer affiliated with Synagogue Beth Israel. This is very sad and time is needed for us to heal from the entire matter, I'm sure you'll understand," Synagogue Beth Israel said in a statement.

Sanford police Chief Cecil Smith also issued a statement about the arrest.

"It is always disheartening when people in positions of authority violate and abuse the trust that is bestowed upon them," Smith said. "I hope the congregation and community can come together to heal and repair the trust that has been shattered."

Haughton is being held on $35,000 bond.

Police said the investigation has not indicated there are other victims, but anyone who wishes to report information regarding this incident or other possible incidents are asked to contact the Sanford Police Department or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477) or visit crimeline.org. Calls made to Crimeline remain anonymous. Police said tips to Crimeline that lead to solving a felony case are eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.