Staff Report
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, 74-year-old Paul Philip Foco was taken into custody yesterday, facing seven charges of sexual battery involving a child under 12. The charges came to light after the young victim bravely confided in a school official, revealing a harrowing history of abuse spanning approximately seven years.
The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation following the victim’s disclosure to school staff, which triggered a report to both the Department of Children and Families and the Child Protection Team. This collaboration aimed to ensure that the allegations were thoroughly examined and that the victim received the necessary support.
In a heart-wrenching interview with the Child Protection Team, the victim detailed the repeated abuse, recounting how Foco had “sexually assaulted” her over several years. She also revealed that Foco had instructed her to keep the abuse a secret, adding another layer of trauma to her experience.
After being read his Miranda rights, Foco reportedly chose not to engage with law enforcement officers regarding the allegations.
The charges against Foco are severe, with each of the seven counts of sexual battery representing a year during which the victim suffered abuse. Although Foco does not have a prior criminal record in the area, the gravity of the charges led Judge George Wright to order him held without bail. The State Attorney’s Office has filed a motion to keep Foco detained until trial; should this motion be denied, a bail amount will be determined at a forthcoming hearing.
Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
