BUNNELL, Fla. — A 45-year-old Palm Coast man is in custody and being held without bond at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility after confessing to sexually abusing a child multiple times a week over a span of nearly three years, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

Gregory Smith was arrested on June 27 by deputies from the agency’s Fugitive Unit at his place of employment in Bunnell following a swift investigation sparked by a report from the child’s mother earlier in the month.

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly, known for his blunt candor when speaking about crimes against children, described the case in a statement Monday as “absolutely heartbreaking.”

“This case is one of the most disturbing we’ve encountered in recent memory,” Sheriff Staly said. “This pervert destroyed a child’s innocence for years. It took incredible bravery for the young victim to come forward. Now it’s our job to ensure Gregory Smith never harms another child again. He deserves to spend the rest of his life behind bars.”

Mother’s Report Sparks Immediate Investigation

According to a report from the sheriff’s office, the victim’s mother came forward with concerns on June 19, alleging that her child had been repeatedly sexually assaulted by Smith. Detectives from the Special Victims Unit began an intensive investigation immediately, interviewing the child in a controlled, trauma-informed setting and collecting evidence to support the allegations.

During questioning, Smith allegedly confessed to engaging in repeated sex acts with the child, reportedly happening several times a week for nearly three years, authorities said. His confession was critical in securing multiple felony charges.

Criminal Charges and History

Smith now faces seven felony charges, including:

Five counts of sexual battery on a minor
Two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation

These are first-degree felonies under Florida law and carry life sentences, especially when committed against children under 12. Prosecutors with the Seventh Judicial Circuit are expected to pursue maximum penalties.

Smith has a lengthy criminal history, including prior arrests and convictions for burglary, drug possession, and fraud, though none until now involved sexual offenses. His criminal record, deputies say, paints a picture of escalating disregard for the law, culminating in the most serious charges of his life.

Arrest and Detention

Smith was taken into custody without incident at his Bunnell job site by deputies from the Flagler County Sheriff’s Fugitive Unit, who had been tracking his movements following the initial report. He was transported directly to the county jail, where he remains without bond, according to jail records.

He will appear before a judge for arraignment later this month. Given the nature of the charges and his confession, legal experts say it is unlikely he will be granted release at any point before trial.

A Community Shaken, but Supportive

The news has stunned residents in Palm Coast and Bunnell, two tight-knit communities in Flagler County where families often know their neighbors. Advocates and mental health professionals say this case highlights the critical importance of encouraging victims to speak out.

“This child’s courage is remarkable,” said Kelly DeVore, a counselor with the Flagler Children’s Advocacy Center. “It takes immense strength to report abuse, especially when it’s been ongoing for so long. The community must surround this child with support, protection, and validation.”

Sheriff's Office: Zero Tolerance

Sheriff Staly, whose agency has made child protection a cornerstone of its mission, reaffirmed that his office will continue to pursue child predators aggressively.

“If you abuse a child in Flagler County, we will find you, arrest you, and seek justice to the fullest extent of the law,” he said. “There is no tolerance for this kind of evil here.”

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office is urging any other potential victims or witnesses to come forward, even anonymously, through Crimestoppers or the department’s direct tip lines.

What Comes Next

Smith is currently awaiting a formal indictment, and prosecutors are expected to present the case before a grand jury within the next two weeks. If convicted on even one of the charges, he faces a mandatory life sentence without parole under Florida statutes governing sexual battery on minors.

Meanwhile, the victim is receiving ongoing counseling and support services coordinated by child welfare advocates in the area.

Resources for Victims

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, there are resources available:

Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873)
Flagler Children’s Advocacy Center: (386) 437-7747
National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE

As the case unfolds, Flagler County residents are being reminded once again that child abuse thrives in silence—but justice begins with one brave voice.

“This arrest is just the start,” said Sheriff Staly. “Now, we will fight for that child’s justice—and make sure this predator never hurts another soul again.”

Palm Coast Man Confesses to Years of Child Sexual Abuse, Held Without Bond in Flagler County Jail

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