On June 25, 2025, Ocala Police Department Detective Drake arrested John James Sales, 29, on charges of lewd or lascivious molestation and lewd or lascivious conduct involving multiple juvenile victims. Sales, a youth baseball coach and volunteer at local church youth programs in Marion and Citrus counties, is accused of inappropriate behavior with minors over several years.
The investigation began on March 31, 2025, after a teen victim’s mother reported incidents of unwanted physical contact and inappropriate conversations. Further investigation identified additional victims and allegations of sexual misconduct by Sales. Forensic interviews and cooperation from victims and their families led to the collection of evidence supporting the charges.
Sales was taken to the Marion County Jail following his arrest. Due to his community roles, Ocala Police believe there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with information to contact Detective Drake at 352-369-7000.
