Edward W. Pearl Jr. of Glen St. Mary was arrested August 5 at the sheriff's office for alleged sexual abuse of a girl under 16 years old.

The alleged abuse took place four to five weeks prior to the arrest. It was reported by a third party who had contact with the victim.

The victim and two other witnesses were interviewed by officers before Mr. Pearl, 41, was taken into custody. The investigation is ongoing, according to the sheriff's office.

Mr. Pearl was charged with a single count of lewd and lascivious behavior, a second degree felony. The crime carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.

Mr. Pearl's criminal record in Baker County includes a handful of traffic violations, including driving on a suspended license.

See next week's edition for more information.