by Plantation, FL – A registered sex offender with a prior federal conviction has been arrested again, this time for allegedly recording a 17-year-old boy in a bathroom at Broward Mall, police confirmed.
The incident reportedly occurred on October 22 in the food court area bathroom of the mall located at 8000 W. Broward Blvd. David Paul Rohrig, 46, of Fort Lauderdale, was taken into custody on charges of digital voyeurism following the disturbing event.
The Incident at Broward Mall
According to authorities, the minor was using the restroom when he noticed an arm extending beneath the stall from an adjacent stall, holding a camera pointed towards him. The young victim confronted Rohrig after seeing the phone again while washing his hands.
The boy, described as shaken and fearful, challenged Rohrig, who denied recording and told the boy he was not taking any photos. Despite the confrontation, Rohrig left the bathroom and fled the mall before the boy could note his license plate number.
Investigation and Arrest
- Police gathered evidence after the boy identified Rohrig in a photo lineup on October 31.
- A federal probation officer, monitoring Rohrig due to a 2019 conviction for possessing child sexual abuse material, alerted authorities.
- The probation officer shared a crucial screenshot showing the Broward Mall bathroom floor from Rohrig’s phone with police.
- Rohrig is currently held at Broward Sheriff’s Office Paul Rein Detention Facility in Pompano Beach with a bond set at $50,000 and faces additional federal probation violation charges.
Background and Legal Context
Rohrig’s prior conviction in 2019 underscores the severity of the current allegations. Digital voyeurism laws are designed to protect individuals, especially minors, from invasive and illegal recording.
“This case highlights the ongoing risks posed by repeat offenders and the vital role of vigilant enforcement and reporting,” said a local law enforcement representative.
Read Also: Adoptive Mother Accused of Killing 6-Year-Old Daughter by Locking Her in Box
For more detailed coverage on this case, visit the original report at Local10 News.
Community Impact and Safety Recommendations
The incident has raised community concerns regarding mall security and the safety of public restrooms. Experts recommend:
- Parents and guardians to educate minors about privacy and reporting suspicious behavior immediately.
- Shopping centers to increase surveillance and monitoring of vulnerable areas.
- Law enforcement to maintain strict oversight on registered offenders under probation.
What Happens Next?
Rohrig is expected to appear in court facing charges of digital voyeurism and violating federal probation terms. His case is likely to draw attention to the enforcement of protections for minors in public spaces.
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