A Clearwater man is facing serious charges after allegedly luring young girls to his home under the pretense of allowing them to pet his pet ferrets. Robert Alan Rouse, 36, has been charged with two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim under the age of 12, according to court records from Pinellas County.
The investigation began when a young girl reported to authorities that Rouse had invited her into his home, where he then inappropriately touched her. The incident reportedly occurred after she accepted his invitation to interact with his ferrets. According to an arrest affidavit, once inside his residence, Rouse allegedly grabbed the girl, picked her up, and threw her onto his bed.
During questioning by police, Rouse admitted to having touched another child inappropriately the day before while she was petting his ferret outside in his driveway. This admission led investigators to further scrutinize his actions, which included messaging an undercover federal agent online. In these communications, Rouse allegedly outlined a plan to lure children into his home to discuss sexual activities.
Rouse is currently being held on a $300,000 bond as the Clearwater Police continue their investigation into the allegations against him. The case raises significant concerns about child safety and the tactics some individuals may use to exploit young victims. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
The Clearwater Police Department has not yet commented on the ongoing investigation. As the case unfolds, community members are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement.