Deputies say man, 62, molested four girls

By TIMES STAFF
Published May 17, 2007

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NEW PORT RICHEY

A Sumter County man stands accused of molesting four girls under the age of 12 in New Port Richey this year.

Robert Butler, 62, of 10412 Central Ave. in Coleman was arrested Tuesday and charged with capital sexual battery and lewd or lascivious molestation and exhibition.

According to a report from Detective James Gariepy of the Pasco County Sheriff's Office, Butler touched and exposed himself to the girls at various times between January and May.

Sheriff's spokesman Doug Tobin said Butler was not a stranger to the victims, but his relationship to them was not disclosed. Butler was held without bail at the Land O'Lakes jail.

He has no prior criminal record in Florida. He declined a St. Petersburg Times interview request.