Contributed by Sanford Police Department
Sanford Police Investigators have arrested John Walter Jennings Jr. (D.O.B. 03/06/2002), on the charge of Lewd Lascivious Behavior - Lewd Lascivious Battery Victim Age 12 Less than 16, following allegations that he sexually assaulted a 12 year old girl he met on Instagram.
On August 06, 2025, Sanford Police Officers met with a parent of the victim who alleged that Jennings traveled to the victim’s home on multiple occasions, where sexual activity likely occurred between Jennings and the victim.
Based on the investigation, Sanford Police Investigators determined that on multiple occasions Jennings arranged with the victim to travel to the victim’s home, where he entered in through the victim’s window while the parents were asleep. While in the room, Jennings did engage in sexual acts with the victim.
On August 21, 2025, a warrant was issued for Jennings’s arrest on the charge of Lewd Lascivious Behavior Lewd Lascivious Battery Victim Age 12 to less than 16.
On August 21, 2025, Polk County Sheriff’s Office Deputies arrested Jennings and booked him into the Polk County Jail where he awaits transportation to Seminole County.
Regarding this arrest, Chief Cecil Smith stated, “Social media has the power to connect communities for good, but it can also be a tool for those who seek to prey on others. With this in mind, it is clear that parents must be watchful of their children’s online activities, educate them on online safety, and monitor their ever evolving online social life.”
Investigators are asking anyone with information about this crime to please contact the Sanford Police Department or Crimeline at 800 423-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimeline.org
