Arrest linked to nude photo circulated at Island party
A Bradenton man faces two felony charges in connection with the circulation of a nude photo of an ex-girlfriend.
The photograph, according to Manatee County court records, was circulated on the Internet and in print, including on fliers distributed at an Anna Maria Island house party last year.
Anthony Daniel Rich Jr., 19, of Bradenton, was arrested in mid-February on a charge of sexual performance by a child, a second-degree felony, and a charge of computer porn, a third-degree felony.
Rich, according to court documents, had dated the subject for about two years.
Authorities allege that after the break-up, Rich circulated a nude picture of the ex-girlfriend. The picture was allegedly taken with Rich’s cell phone when the two were still dating, and when Rich was 18 and the girl under 18.
Rich allegedly posted the photograph to the girl’s page on MySpace.com, then sent an e-mail bulletin to about 500 friends inviting them to view the picture.
Rich is also accused of printing the picture on 200 fliers that were handed out at an Island party.
Court records indicate that authorities have recorded conversations in which Rich admitted to taking the picture and distributing the image. Authorities also seized a computer in the investigation.
Rich, released from jail on his own recognizance, is scheduled to appear in court March 23. |
