Laurel Man Convicted Of Sexually Assaulting 11-Year-Old

LAUREL, MD — A 22-year-old Laurel man has been convicted by a jury of two counts of second degree assault, two counts of third degree sex offense and assorted lesser charges. Jonathan Benitez was arrested in 2018 after an 11-year-old victim told her mother that Benitez kissed and licked her lips, squeezed her breast and buttocks, and rubbed her stomach. The incident occurred at a family party at a home located in the 31 block of S. Paula Drive.

The victim's mother shared a photo and video of Benitez from the party with officers. The victim's brother also witnessed what Benitez had done and corroborated the details of the assault.

"The victim coming forward and telling her mother what happened led to a successful conviction in this case and likely stopped any further abuse" said State's Attorney Anne Colt Leitess. "I urge parents to have a continuous dialogue with their children to let them know no one has permission to touch them in a way that they do not like as well as teach them to recognize when someone is taking advantage of them. If it should occur, children should be reminded to tell a trustworthy adult."

Benitez now will be required to register as a lifetime sexual offender. He faces a maximum sentence of 40 years and will be sentenced on Dec. 16.