The Flagler County Sheriff's Office arrested a Palm Coast man earlier this week for alleged human trafficking, sexual battery against a minor and fentanyl trafficking.
According to FCSO, they had been investigating 32-year-old David William Chenowith of Palm Coast since June for several felony offenses following a tip from a concerned citizen. The investigation involved multiple juvenile victims of human trafficking, with the children ranging in ages from 14 to 16. Detectives believe Chenowith had been having sex with them for drugs, money, clothes and food.
An arrest warrant for Chenowith was obtained on July 18, alongside a search warrant for his cellphone.
Chenowith was arrested later in the day on July 18, during a traffic stop. FCSO said deputies found marijuana, THC gummies and cartridges, cocaine and fentanyl in Chenowith's car.
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said, “Thanks to the tip from the citizen, we were able to catch this pervert. He is now behind bars in the Green Roof Inn where he belongs before he could take the innocence away of more children. I pray the victims will receive the support and counseling they need from an attack like this. Let this be a reminder that if you hurt a child, we will come after you.”
Chenowith is facing charges of lewd and lascivious battery on a victim between 12 and 16, human trafficking of a minor, unlawful sexual activity with a minor, fentanyl trafficking, controlled substance - sale and hashish possession. He has a $102,500 bond.