Hedric took note of Thomas’ previously clean criminal and his supportive family, but said he deeply hurt the victims, including the Beach Bound Tanning Salon, which has been adversely impacted financially through no fault of its own.
“Your sister indicated these were immature acts,” Hedric said. “Yes, they were. But at some point in time immature acts become not funny, or not just immature acts. They become crimes. Unfortunately for you, you stepped off the deep end real quick. Your immature acts have caused a lot of pain for a lot of people.”
While police were investigating allegations that Thomas took secret snapshots of women in various stages of undress at Beach Bound Tanning Salon, they found a nude picture of a 17-year-old girl on his phone. He was charged with 14 misdemeanor counts of voyeurism, disseminating matter harmful to juveniles and a fifth-degree felony count of illegal use of a minor in a nudity-oriented material or performance.
Thomas’ sister spoke on his behalf — saying her brother is remorseful — as did his attorney Frank Schiavone Jr. Schiavone said Thomas needs treatment rather than more punishment. Thomas also apologized for his actions.
“I’m ashamed and I’ve embarrassed myself,” he said. “I want to apologize to the people I have offended and also my family and friends. … I’m not perfect, but I’m better today than I was yesterday.”
Assistant Prosecutor Jennifer McElfresh said the 17-year-old girl and Thomas exchanged more than 160 texts in about a week’s time and sent nude pictures of themselves to each other. They also met in person a couple of times, she said.
Thomas will have to report as a sex offender once a year for 15 years. Schiavone said he plans to appeal the case to the 12th District Court of Appeals.
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