Florida man accused in plot to rape 3-year-old girl, deputies say

Deputies said Ormond Beach resident Lafe Best, 37, was arrested Tuesday evening on charges of "conspiracy to commit sexual battery on a child."

This arrest stems from another case involving Best's friend Benjamin Worster, 39, who was arrested in January on charges of molestation and possession of child pornography, deputies said.

Investigators said text messages were discovered on Worster’s phone detailing a plan to groom a 3-year-old girl for sexual abuse and then rape her.

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The text messages were discovered by the mother after the child accused Worster of touching her in December and his phone was left out after he suffered an apparent overdose, deputies said.

Deputies released a portion of the alleged text messages, which they believe demonstrate how predators work to groom young children for sexual abuse.

The disturbing messages claimed the mother is “not a very good mom and she ignored her daughter constantly,” deputies said. The messages also discussed anonymously searching online for “things that will safely make kids pass out for a couple hours,” deputies said.

>> On WFTV.com: Read the text messages released by deputies (WARNING: Graphic and disturbing content. Viewer discretion advised.)

Deputies were notified of the alleged text messages on Friday and Best was arrested at his home on Tuesday, officials said.

Investigators said Best had what appeared to be child porn on his cellphone in addition to the text messages he allegedly exchanged with Worster.

Best was living at a home with two other people who have a 20-month-old child. Deputies do not believe that child is a victim of abuse, but their investigation continues.

Deputies ask anyone who knows of a child who may be at risk to call the Child Exploitation Unit at 386-323-3574.