PFLAG of Vero Beach has received questions and comments regarding the controvery involving the two young ladies in Sebastian.
We have been watching the developments in this case since it was brought to our attention. PFLAG of Vero Beach cannot enter into the controversy for the following reason. We have not been able to find where the charges brought against this unfortunate young lady are inspired by homophobia, or are in any way anti-LGBTQ.
The problem is that there is a law, and it appears the law was broken. This law (adult and “child” involved in a sexual relationship) had to be applied when the parents of the minor issued a formal complaint against the adult. The arrest and subsequent penalties are based on a statute that is current.
The cry of discrimination, unless more facts come out, does not seem to apply here. Some very simple research yields cases where heterosexual kids have been arrested and prosecuted under the same law.
Is that law unfair? That is something each of us must determine for ourselves, and if we feel that it is, then our State Legislators are the people to contact in order to try to have the law changed.
To those who asked the questions, to those who are interested, please maintain that interest and keep a watchful eye turned toward this case.
David McKinnon,
President
PFLAG of Vero Beach, Inc.
