South Florida Man Denied Bond in Sexual Assault Case

A South Florida man accused of sexually assaulting a German tourist in Miami Beach appeared before a judge on Friday, where he was denied bond.

Thomas Joseph Fortman was arrested and charged with sexual battery and petit theft. According to police, the victim initially met Fortman, bought him gifts, and later went looking for him after returning to her hostel. She later woke up at Mount Sinai Hospital with no memory of how she got there.

Authorities informed the victim that she had been found naked near a dumpster, appearing disoriented. Surveillance footage showed Fortman leaving a liquor store with her, and a store employee recorded cellphone video of the alleged assault.

During the investigation, an officer recognized Fortman from his time as a homeless resource officer. Police also found the victim’s purse in Fortman’s possession.