Ohio Man Accused of Child Assault Days After Prison Release, Grand Jury Designates Him Sexually Violent Predator

A 37-year-old man faces multiple charges, including rape and kidnapping, after allegedly sexually assaulting a 6-year-old girl in a Five Below store restroom in Warren County, Ohio. Robert Kevin DeWeese reportedly entered the bathroom on February 6 by mimicking a special knock the child's mother used to communicate with her daughter. The incident occurred while the mother was nearby, retrieving a change of clothes for the child. DeWeese fled the scene after the child reportedly scared him off by roaring, a technique she learned from Scouts.

Authorities arrested DeWeese approximately one mile from the store at a relative's residence following the mother's 911 call. A Warren County grand jury has indicted DeWeese on two counts of gross sexual imposition, two counts of rape, abduction, and kidnapping, further designating him a sexually violent predator due to the victim's age and his extensive criminal history. Prosecutors note that DeWeese was released from prison just three days before the alleged assault and currently lacks a permanent address or employment.

DeWeese's criminal record spans two decades, beginning with a gross sexual imposition conviction at age 18. Court records indicate additional sex crime convictions across three other Ohio counties. Given the severity of the charges and his history, DeWeese's bond has been set at $1 million.