A Marion County man was arrested earlier this month on multiple charges related to the sexual abuse of minors, following an investigation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO).
Jose Luis Godinez-Rodriguez, 50, was taken into custody on March 3 by MCSO Major Crimes Detective Caitlin Hartigan. He faces charges of capital sexual battery, sexual battery by a person in custodial authority, lewd or lascivious conduct, simple battery, and four counts of lewd or lascivious molestation.
The investigation began on January 17 when Detective Hartigan received information alleging that Godinez-Rodriguez had sexually abused a juvenile victim. The victim disclosed details of multiple instances of molestation and unwanted touching. As authorities attempted to locate Godinez-Rodriguez, another victim came forward with allegations of sexual abuse that she said took place during her childhood. She described a pattern of escalating abuse over several years, which began with inappropriate touching before advancing to sexual battery and molestation.
After multiple unsuccessful attempts to contact him, Detective Hartigan obtained a warrant for Godinez-Rodriguez’s arrest. On February 25, MCSO’s Warrants Division was notified that he had been apprehended at Orlando International Airport while attempting to board a flight to Mexico. He was transported to the Marion County Jail, where he remains in custody.
Detectives believe there may be additional victims and urge anyone with information to contact Detective Hartigan at (352) 368-3535.
