KEY LARGO, FL – Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward announced that Yasiel Reyes, 30, has been sentenced to seven years in Florida State Prison without the possibility of early release and designation as a ‘Sexual Predator after pleading guilty to sexual battery, a second-degree felony, for assaulting a coworker in January 2020. The sentence was handed down by Judge James Morgan on May 14, 2025, in the Monroe County Circuit Court.

Reyes, while working at a Dairy Queen in Tavernier, assaulted a coworker at his residence while waiting between shifts at the restaurant. Although the victim did not report the crime at the time, she courageously came forward in July 2024, prompting an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit.

As part of the investigation, detectives conducted a controlled phone call between the victim and Reyes, during which he admitted to the assault and acknowledged that the victim was not willing to engage in sexual activity. This key evidence, along with corroborating witness testimony, led to Reyes’ arrest and conviction.

“This young woman is nothing short of heroic,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward. “To come forward after years of silence, to relive her trauma, and to stand firmly in her truth—it takes extraordinary strength. Her voice led to justice, and I am deeply proud of her. I also want to thank Detective Hradecky, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, and Assistant State Attorney Trey Evans for their outstanding work and commitment to this case.”

“Survivors of sexual assault deserve to be heard, believed, and protected,” said Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield. “This young woman didn’t just persist—she demonstrated exceptional clarity and courage. Her testimony, combined with the thorough investigation and ASA Trey Evans’ skilled prosecution, brought a dangerous offender to justice. In addition to the prison sentence, Reyes has been designated a sexual predator under Florida law—a classification reserved for the most serious sex offenders. This designation requires lifetime registration, strict monitoring, and community notification, all of which are critical measures to help protect the public and prevent future harm.”

This case serves as a reminder that justice is possible—even when delayed—and that the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office remains committed to standing with survivors, pursuing accountability, and keeping our community safe.

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