Bradenton man charged with sexually assaulting girl for years, cops say

A 56-year-old Bradenton man is charged with sexually assaulting a child under the age of 16 over the course of several years, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The victim had blocked out the childhood abuse but began, “to remember things,” as she approached her graduation and told family members she didn’t want William Vincent Huddleston to attend due to emerging memories of the molestation.

Her story began to unfold from there as she recounted to deputies numerous events where Huddleston would touch her inappropriately, show her pornography, try to get her in the shower with him and continuously expose himself, according to the arrest report.

Deputies say Huddleston admitted to the abuse as far back as November of 2018 when he sent a text to family members, after the victim began to make the allegations.

According to the report, the text said, “Several years ago I was in a period of my life where I guess I didn’t want to get older and lost my way. I lost my moral compass and my life’s purpose. At that time I was very close with (the victim) ... At that time I got too close with (the victim) and touched her inappropriately.”

The text went on to say, “I am sorry for this action that has forever changed my life along with all my family members.”

Huddleston was arrested Jan. 10 and charged with sexually assaulting a child under the age of 18 and intent to touch a minor in a lewd manner. Huddleston remains in custody on bonds totaling $200,000.

This story was originally published January 14, 2020 at 7:34 AM.