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On Christmas Day 2023, a 13-year old girl disclosed 36-year old Esau Matul Hernandez of Fort Walton Beach had been sexually abusing her since she was 11 years old. An investigation was immediately launched.
A forensic interview with the victim took place December 27th at the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center where Child Protection Team investigators say she disclosed consistent information. During the investigation, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office developed probable cause for a charge against Matul Hernandez of sexual battery on a victim under the age of twelve.
In addition, Matul Hernandez was determined to be in the United States illegally and records show he had been previously deported in September 202 with no record of legal re-entry.
A follow-up was conducted with the Florida Department of Children and Families at the suspect’s residence on December 28th. When Matul Hernandez arrived home, he was taken into custody without incident, however attempted to give investigators a false name to deputies.
He is currently being held without bond in the Okaloosa County Jail in Crestview.
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