Who:
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
Investigative Operations Bureau
- Crimes Against Children Unit

Leesburg Police Department

Brian Winthrop (Arrested)
DOB: 3/31/1980
Address: 1911 Sheffield Court in Oldsmar
Charges: Sexual Battery

Per Florida Statute 119.071, no further information will be released that would tend to identify the victim.

What:
Detectives assigned to the Crimes Against Children Unit have arrested an Oldsmar man for Sexual Battery.

When:
The investigation began on April 1, 2020 and the suspect was arrested at about 8:45 p.m. on April 9, 2020.

Where:
The suspect was arrested at 114 N Lake Avenue in Leesburg, Florida.

Why/How:
Detectives assigned to the Crimes Against Children Unit have arrested a 40-year-old Oldsmar man for Sexual Battery.

The investigation began after detectives learned Brian Winthrop sexually battered a juvenile female several times over the course of one evening. At the time, the juvenile was under the age of 16.

Detectives discovered Brian and the victim consumed several alcoholic beverages and smoked marijuana while celebrating Brian’s 40^th birthday. When the victim became sick and went to bed, Brian climbed in the same bed and sexually battered the victim throughout the night.

During the course of the investigation, detectives reached probable cause for Brian’s arrest and attempted to locate him for questioning. However, Brian fled the area and was unable to be located.

Detectives obtained a warrant for his arrest for Sexual Battery and began to search for him. Through various investigative techniques, Brian was located at 114 N Lake Avenue in Leesburg. The Leesburg Police Department was notified and went to the residence to arrest him.

When officers arrived at the house, Brian attempted to flee but was immediately apprehended by a canine.

Brian is being held in the Lake County jail on Sexual Battery charges.  

The investigation continues.

Booking photo: