Investigators uncovered thousands of images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children and toddlers from Dr. Daniel Donofrio’s home.
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — A patient of Dr. Daniel Donofrio expresses intense distress following the arrest of the 75-year-old on Thursday. Authorities executed a search warrant at his residence and reportedly discovered thousands of images and videos depicting sexual abuse involving children and toddlers.
Donofrio, a doctor in the St. Augustine region, has been charged with 26 counts related to possessing child sexual abuse material. However, as the investigation progresses, more charges are anticipated.
Lacie Kelley, along with her family, has been seeking medical care from Crescent Beach Care for several years. She shares that her encounters with Donofrio always left her feeling uncomfortable from the outset.
“He just made my skin crawl,” Kelley remarked. “You know when you pick up certain vibes from someone, even if they haven’t spoken? That was the impression I got from him. I just felt the urge to leave the room immediately.”
Kelley characterized Donofrio’s behavior as notably abrasive and harsh, which sharply contrasted with the other staff members who were known for their kindness and patience with patients.
“He kind of stood out like a sore thumb because everyone else is so patient and welcoming, and they treat you like you’re part of the family,” she noted.
The news of Donofrio’s arrest hit Kelley and her family hard, especially as a mother.
“I just instantly felt sick to my stomach,” she said.
Kelley said she never expected something like this to happen in her home town.
“These people walk around us all day long every day,” she said. “It’s very unfortunate, it’s very sad, but it happens.”
The physician’s office where Donofrio practiced is popular and has received positive reviews. A request for comment was made after hours, but no response has been received.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office asks anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
