MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) arrested a 19-year-old man for allegedly having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl.
According to the sheriff’s office, the teenage girl was walking with Steven Matychak near the intersection of West Highway 40 and Highway 41. While the two were walking, the girl was hit by a vehicle and transported to a hospital for surgery, according to MCSO.
While she was waiting for surgery, she reportedly told hospital staff that she and Matychak had sexual relations. The medical staff then reported this to law enforcement.
Detectives began to investigate and discovered that the victim was a runaway from another county in Florida. They say Matychak picked her up and brought her back to his home in Ocala. Matychak and the victim allegedly engaged in sexual intercourse at his home. Detectives say the Matychak and victim met online.
The suspect was interviewed and initially denied engaging in sexual activity with the teen. Detectives say he later admitted to having sexual intercourse with her and that he knew she was a minor. They say he also told them that he knew it was a crime and didn’t want to go to jail.
Deputies say Matychak also shared with authorities that he previously had a 13-year-old girlfriend. He was arrested and charged with lewd/lascivious battery on a victim over 12, but under the age of 16, and for interference with child custody. He was taken to the Marion County Jail where he is being held on a $15,000 bond.
Detectives believe that due to the nature of the crimes that there are possibly more victims. If you or someone you know are a victim of Matychak, contact detectives at 352-368-3548. If you’d like to remain anonymous you can contact Marion County Crime Stoppers at 352-368-7867.