Rehab Employee Accused Of Sexual Battery On Child: Sheriff

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — An employee responsible for watching children overnight at a behavioral health center in St. Petersburg is accused of sexually assaulting a child who is in treatment, the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office said.

Christopher Martin, 45, who works at Operation PAR Academy for Behavioral Change, 6720 54th Ave. N, was arrested Thursday on charges of sexual battery with familial authority on a child over 12 years old, authorities said.

Martin allegedly entered the room where the victim was sleeping on Nov. 26, and inappropriately touched the victim. Martin confessed to authorities that he kissed the victim on the mouth and breast, as well as touched the victim's vagina.

Operation PAR has placed Martin on administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal investigation, according to detectives.

Since Martin was in a position of authority, detectives are asking anyone with information regarding any other potential victims to contact Detective Persuad with the Crimes Against Children Unit at (727) 582-6483.