Marion man, once treasurer of kids-focused charitable group, accused of child sex abuse
Law enforcement officials have arrested a former volunteer with a Marion County children's organization on charges that he molested a child.
James Andrew Davis was taken into custody by Whitfield County (Georgia) Sheriff's Office deputies in Dalton, Georgia, on May 25. The 71-year-old Weirsdale man was wanted in Marion County on a charge of sexual battery on a child younger than 12.
Days before Davis was detained, Georgia authorities said they had received information that he was hiding at a Dalton residence. Davis is presently at the Whitfield County Jail, where he is being held without bail pending transfer to Marion County.
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Detective's report
According to Marion County Sheriff's Detective Jordyn Batts' report, the agency received a report on May 16 that Davis had sexually abused a boy. An investigation then started.
Batts went to Kimberly's Center for Child Protection on May 18 to listen to an interview provided by the victim. The boy told an official at the center that Davis had been sexually abusing him for about a year and provided details about their interactions.
The boy said the abuse started when Davis touched his bottom and private area, according to the report. The juvenile said Davis would perform sexual acts on him in exchange for gifts such as toys, cash and art supplies.
The child gave graphic details about the encounters, which he said occurred late at night, according to the interview. The victim said Davis told him if he told anyone about what he did, then he (Davis) would kill himself.
The boy also said Davis told him that he had similar experiences with other children, according to the arrest report. The boy said he reported the incidents to a relative.
Deputies were unable to find Davis. Then they were contacted by Georgia officials, who eventually found Davis in their state.
A warrant for Davis' arrest was signed by a judge on May 20, according to official documents.
Founder's response to the allegation
Sheriff's deputies said Davis served as treasurer for Florida Kids Helping Kids, which is based in Belleview. Deputies said Davis' duties included taking children on field trips and assisting with fairs and festivals for children.
The group's website states it's a "nonprofit organization ran by your donations, supplies, and by our wonderful volunteers."
Gerri Gerthe, founder of Florida Kids Helping Kids, said she's aware of the allegation against Davis. Gerthe said Davis is no longer on the board. She said he passed a Level 2 background check that checks fingerprints and any arrest warrants or outstanding court cases.
Gerthe said Davis has never shown any behavior similar to what he's accused of in the criminal case. She said she is unaware of any other allegations made against him.
She said the news is devastating, and her group always advocates for children.
Gerthe said no adult is left alone with a child; there are always two adults with a child. She said the adults and the children are always in the open and everything is done outdoors, as her group does not have a building.
Detectives said because of Davis' close association with children, and him reportedly telling the victim that he had abused other children, they think there may be more victims.
Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Batts at 352-368-3847.
Contact Austin L. Miller at austin.miller@starbanner.com
This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Marion County, Florida man accused of child sex abuse
