Lauren DeBenedetta, 40, was found guilty as charged for four counts of Lewd or Lascivious Molestation, one count of Lewd or Lascivious Conduct and one count of Lewd or Lascivious Battery following a trial in Charlotte County.
DeBenedetta was a dance teacher who was found to be having inappropriate relations with one of her students who was a minor. The defendant bought the victim a pre-paid cellphone so that they would be able to communicate without anyone knowing. In one instance DeBenedetta came over to the victims’ home and committed lewd and lascivious acts. Due to the location of the crimes, charges were filed in Charlotte County and Sarasota County. An agreement was made to combine the charges so the victim would only have to testify one time.
DeBenedetta’s sentencing is set for August 23rd. She faces up to 90 years in prison.
Assistant State Attorney Kyle Stublen and Special Appointed Sarasota Assistant State Attorney Brooke Kernan handled the case.
Samantha Syoen
Communications Director
State Attorney’s Office
ssyoen@sao20.org
239-533-1125