Sarasota Keith Hill was convicted after jury trial of Capital Sexual Battery, Lewd or Lascivious Molestation, Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition and Possession of Child Pornography 

The Defendant has been sentenced to life in prison on all counts shortly after the verdict was returned. Counts one, two and three carried mandatory life in prison sentences.

Concerned citizens in this community were responsible for bringing the abuse of two young children to the attention of law enforcement. Without their dedication to do the right thing, this investigation may not have been initiated. Luckily, as soon as Detective Megan Buck was assigned this case, she hit the ground running. After reviewing concerning videos taken from the defendant’s phone, she hit the ground running. The children were forensically interviewed and the defendant’s phone was taken as evidence. Digital evidence located on the defendant’s phone showed the extent of the sexual abuse of these children. Through the presentation of digital evidence, the State was able to prove the crimes charged without further traumatizing the children, who did not testify at the trial.

The lead prosecutor in the case, Assistant State Attorney Kate Metz commented, “Members of our community continue to amaze me with their steadfast commitment to protect children. Two women who barely knew the victims in this case knew that what was happening in this home was unacceptable and decided that they would take the initiative to contact law enforcement. Detective Megan Buck’s swift response ensured these children were safe from the defendant and free from any further abuse. Through the collection of evidence, both physical and digital, we were able to hold this defendant responsible for the crimes he committed against two children in our community.”

If you have any questions or would like further information please contact Assistant State Attorney Kate Metz in the Sarasota County office at 941-861-4400.