Robert Kevin DeWeese Arrested for Child Sexual Ass@ult Just 3 Days After Prison Release

Robert Kevin DeWeese, a 37-year-old man from Ohio classified as a sexually violent predator, has been re-arrested just days after his release from prison. He is accused of a horrific assault on a six-year-old girl inside a Five Below store restroom in Warren County.

Prosecutors claim he employed a disturbing tactic to access the child, imitating the unique knock her mother had recently instructed her on. This alarming event, which took place on February 6, 2026, has provoked widespread outrage and raised significant concerns regarding the justice system.

How Did Robert Kevin DeWeese Gain Access to the Bathroom?

Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell states that the young victim experienced an accident while at the South Lebanon store, which led her mother to go get a change of clothes. Before leaving, the mother locked her daughter in the family restroom and crafted a specific knock for her to recognize when it was safe to open the door.

Prosecutors allege that Kevin DeWeese was nearby, listening to these private instructions. He then approached the door and imitated the peculiar knock, deceiving the unsuspecting child into unlocking and opening the door for him.

Brave 6-Year-Old’s Lion Roar Stops Alleged Attacker

Once inside, authorities say DeWeese tried to restrain and sexually assault the child. However, the astute six-year-old fought back remarkably. Utilizing a technique she learned in Scouts, the girl emitted a loud, fierce roar, resembling that of a lion.

The unforeseen and powerful sound startled her alleged attacker, prompting him to flee the scene instantly. Her brave action not only halted the assault but also allowed her to be safely located by her mother, who then made an urgent 911 call.

 

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DeWeese’s Long Criminal History of Sex Offenses

This was not DeWeese’s first offense. Court documents indicate a troubling history of predatory actions spanning almost twenty years. His criminal record includes a conviction for gross sexual imposition in Clermont County in 2007 and another in 2021 for sexually assaulting a child under 13 in Fairfield County.

Due to his repeated offenses and the nature of the current allegations involving a minor, a grand jury has officially labeled him a “sexually violent predator.”

Why Was DeWeese Released from Prison Just 3 Days Before?

The alleged assault on February 6 occurred merely 72 hours after DeWeese was released from prison, having just completed a three-year sentence for a parole violation connected to a prior child sex crime.

Prosecutor Fornshell expressed his discontent, asserting that the system is failing to protect citizens from repeat offenders like DeWeese. This swift reoffense has amplified calls for stricter penalties, with Fornshell pledging to pursue a life sentence to guarantee that he is “permanently removed from society.”

$1 Million Bond Set in Warren County Rape Case

Robert Kevin DeWeese is currently detained at the Warren County Jail. During his arraignment, Magistrate Carolyn Besl established his bond at a significant $1 million, cash only. Prosecutor Fornshell commended the high bond amount, highlighting that it reflects both the severity of the offenses and the threat the defendant poses.

Given his lack of a permanent address or steady job, the prosecutor believes this will help ensure that DeWeese remains incarcerated as he faces multiple felony charges, including two counts of rape and kidnapping.