A 44-year-old Jamaican man residing illegally in the United States was apprehended in Florida's panhandle region last week on charges related to sex crimes involving a minor. The Bay County Sheriff's Office identified the suspect as Damian Gulgar, who faces charges of unlawful sexual activity with a minor and engaging in sexual intercourse without disclosing a positive HIV diagnosis.

Sheriff Tommy Ford reported that Gulgar, arrested on January 29th, confessed to his HIV status and his sexual involvement with the teenager during an interview with law enforcement. The Sheriff's Office initiated the investigation after receiving a report concerning child sexual abuse earlier in January. Subsequent interviews with the victim at the Gulf Coast Children's Advocacy Center revealed the encounter with Gulgar.

The victim reportedly encountered Gulgar through a social media application and was not previously acquainted with him. Bay County authorities successfully identified Gulgar using investigative techniques, crime analysts, and search warrants. Further investigation revealed that Gulgar was in the U.S. illegally, having overstayed his visa.

Sheriff Ford expressed deep concern over the case, highlighting the convergence of child sexual abuse, online interactions between children and adults, and illegal immigration. He emphasized the Sheriff's Office's zero-tolerance policy towards child sexual abuse and urged parents to actively monitor their children's social media activity and educate them about the potential dangers of online interactions.

Following his arrest, Gulgar was placed on an ICE hold. He will be transferred to ICE custody upon the resolution of the state charges against him. Sheriff Ford criticized the previous administration's handling of illegal immigration, asserting that their inaction contributed to the current situation. He expressed support for the current administration's efforts to address the issue, emphasizing the potential risks posed by individuals residing in the country illegally.

Sheriff Ford also disclosed that Bay County authorities apprehended nine other individuals for criminal acts towards the end of January, all of whom were illegally present in the country. These individuals were subsequently transported to ICE detention facilities.