Largo Man Sexually Assaulted Teen Behind Target Store, Authorities Say

A 17-year-old girl was sexually battered behind the Park Street Target in Seminole Friday at around 8:30 p.m., according to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.

According to detectives, the victim and Raheem Willis Bell, 21, of Largo were walking behind the Target Shopping Center, when he allegedly raped her, authorities report.

After the attack, Bell left the scene, and the victim contacted adults she knew, who then contacted authorities.

The girl reportedly knew Bell, but no further information was released about her to protect her identity.

Members of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office Violent Crimes Task Force located Bell and arrested him early Saturday morning, authorities report.

Bell was arrested on the charges of sexual battery and violation of probation child abuse. Bell was awaiting trial, as of Jan. 12, in Pinellas County Jail, according to the online sheriff's records.

Investigators believe pedestrians or vehicles traveling behind the store may have seen Bell and the victim together Friday night. Anyone with information can contact the Pinellas County Crimes Against Children Unit at 727-582-6200.

The investigation is ongoing.

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