MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Sunday school teacher has been arrested for sexually assaulting victims under 12, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
David Saint Louis, 27, was arrested on two counts of sexual battery on a victim younger than 12 years old and two counts of lewd or lascivious molestation on a victim younger than 12 years old.
The sheriff’s office back in November received a report that Saint Louis had engaged in sexual activity with two children while he was a Sunday school teacher at a small Marion Oaks-area church, the sheriff’s office said.
One victim said Saint Louis had molested her on multiple occasions in 2013 during Sunday school.
READ: Orlando police chief, Volusia sheriff discuss search for accused serial rapist
While investigating, detectives learned of another child Saint Louis may have sexually abused. The second victim told authorities Saint Louis sexually battered and molested her numerous times from 2015 to 2017, both at the church and at his home.
Saint Louis was previously confronted by church members about the allegations, which he admitted to, and was forced to leave the church, the sheriff’s office said.
On Wednesday, Saint Louis responded to the Criminal Investigations Division at the sheriff’s office for an interview. He told authorities he did not speak English well and the interview was unable to proceed.
READ: Nursing assistant accused of sexually abusing patient with dementia
As a result of the investigation and testimony of the victims, Saint Louis was arrested and taken to Marion County Jail without bond.
Authorities are not releasing the name of the church.
Detectives said there may be other victims. Anyone with information is asked to call 352-368-3586.
In June 2020, Saint Louis was charged with lewd or lascivious battery on a child 12 years of age or older but less than 16 years of age. He is next due to appear in court for that case in January.
READ: Police investigating after shots fired into Orlando home
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
