FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 7, 2007

Marianna man convicted in child molestation case

State Attorney Steve Meadows announces the conviction, in Jackson County Circuit Court, of Joseph Allen Harrison, on a charge of Attempted Lewd or Lascivious Molestation.

The four females, two males jury deliberated about two hours before finding Harrison, WM, DOB:12-29-68, 4709 Watson Street, Marianna, guilty of attempting to molest the eight year old relative of a friend.

Notable, at trial, was testimony from the then 5-years old, now 25-years old victim of a similar crime, of which Harrison was convicted in 1987. The detective who worked that case also testified. Florida law allows the admission of uncharged misconduct or evidence of other bad acts under certain circumstances.

An eight-time convicted felon, Harrison was previously convicted of sexual battery and sexual activity with a minor.

Sentencing is set for September 25, 2007. The state will seek habitual offender sanctions and will petition to have Harrison declared to be a sexual predator. He faces up to 30 years in prison.