A horrifying incident at a Florida movie theater has resulted in a lengthy prison sentence for a security guard who sexually assaulted a teenage girl. The case has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about security screening practices at entertainment venues.

According to the Miami Herald, Augusta Williams, 34, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of lewd and lascivious battery on a child aged 12-16. The incident occurred at a Regal Cinemas location in Ocala, where Williams was employed as an armed security guard.

The assault took place on January 14, 2023, when the 15-year-old victim found herself stranded at the theater after her friend's grandfather declined to give her a ride home. Unable to reach her mother by phone, the teenager accepted Williams' offer to watch over her until someone could pick her up, a decision that would lead to devastating consequences.

Security Guard's Predatory Actions Revealed

Williams deliberately led the vulnerable teenager to an empty theater under the pretense of helping her find another exit. The security guard then took advantage of his position of authority, pulling the girl behind a curtain near the movie screen, where he sexually assaulted her.

Following the assault, Williams employed intimidation tactics to silence his victim. He threatened physical violence and deliberately drew attention to his firearm to ensure the teenager's compliance, demonstrating a calculated abuse of his authority as an armed security guard.

The victim's mother, who had been experiencing phone troubles, grew concerned about her daughter's delayed return and drove to the theater to find her. The following day, the teenager disclosed the traumatic assault to her mother, leading to immediate police involvement.

Investigation Uncovers Damning Evidence

When questioned by law enforcement, Williams attempted to fabricate a story about helping the girl search for her phone. His explanation quickly unraveled when investigators noted inconsistencies in his account, particularly regarding the location of the assault.

The Ocala Police Department conducted a thorough investigation, utilizing ultraviolet light to collect evidence from behind the theater curtain where the assault occurred. The victim also underwent a medical examination to document the attack.

The case has resulted in additional legal consequences for Williams, who pleaded no contest to charges of false impersonation of a law enforcement officer and engaging in activities requiring proper licensing. These charges further demonstrate his pattern of deceptive behavior and abuse of authority.

Legal Action Against Theater and Security Company

The victim's family has initiated civil legal proceedings against both Regal Cinemas and Knights Security of Gainesville, Williams' former employer. The lawsuit, filed by South Florida law firm Anidjar & Levine, seeks accountability from these companies for their role in the incident.

Attorney Glen Levine emphasized the breach of public trust, highlighting how businesses that provide uniformed security personnel implicitly promise safety to their customers. The lawsuit aims to address the systematic failures that allowed a predator to occupy a position of authority.

The case has sparked discussions about security protocols in public entertainment venues, particularly regarding the protection of minors. Legal experts suggest this incident could lead to industry-wide changes in security staff screening and supervision.