A Marion County couple was arrested Monday after investigators accused them of engaging in sexual activity with a teenage girl and exposing her to drugs and sexually explicit material during a stay at their home.
Carilla June Clark, 39, and James Matthew Bussell, 47, were taken into custody July 20 following an investigation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Division. Both were transported to the Marion County Jail without incident, according to arrest affidavits.
Clark faces two felony counts of unlawful sexual activity with certain minors, along with charges of committing an unnatural and lascivious act, exposing sexual organs and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The affidavit lists Clark as being held without bond.
The investigation began June 9 after allegations were reported to the Florida Department of Children and Families. Investigators said the teenage victim had stayed with Clark and Bussell for approximately three weeks in May.
During a forensic interview, the girl alleged that Clark and Bussell performed sexual acts involving her on multiple occasions. She also accused the couple of exposing her to pornography and providing her with marijuana products and chocolate containing psilocybin mushrooms.
The affidavit alleges Clark gave the teen a bag containing numerous adult items and sent text messages asking the girl to shower with her and provide a “cute picture.” Investigators later recovered the photograph and deleted text conversation during a forensic examination of the girl’s cellphone.
Clark acknowledged providing the bag of adult items but denied engaging in sexual activity with the teen. She also told detectives she had showered with the girl to teach her proper hygiene but claimed she remained clothed.
Bussell denied having a sexual relationship with the teen and requested an attorney during questioning, according to the report.
Detectives said the victim provided specific information about the suspects that was later corroborated during interviews. Based on the interviews, digital evidence and items collected during the investigation, deputies determined there was probable cause to arrest both Clark and Bussell.
