A North Fort Myers man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for multiple offenses, including unlawful sexual activity and possession of child sexual abuse material.
Baron Keith Barber, 55, was sentenced Tuesday on two counts of Unlawful Sexual Activity, Lewd or Lascivious Battery, Delivery of a Controlled Substance to a Minor, Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child, two counts of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material and two counts of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
According to a press release, the investigation began in late December 2023 when the victim's parents became suspicious after answering a FaceTime call from an adult male asking for their daughter. They blocked him and discovered messages suggesting their daughter was involved with him.
The Lee County Sheriff's Office investigated, and the victim revealed meeting Barber at a store in Fort Myers. He gave her money, contacted her via Instagram, and later met her for sex, often providing drugs like "Molly." Authorities say Barber engaged in sexual activities with the victim at her home and in a van, ensuring her parents were absent. The victim identified Barber in a lineup, leading to his arrest.
Barber is a registered and convicted sex offender.
Assistant State Attorney Francine Donnorummo, Special Victims Chief, and Assistant State Attorney Kathryn Lavelle prosecuted the case. The Pasco County Sheriff's Office assisted in the investigation.
For more information on sexual offenders and predators, visit the FDLE Sexual Offenders and Predators Search.