Palm Beach Police Complete Investigation, Refer Case to State Attorney
After approximately 13 months of investigation, Palm Beach Police Department completes its case and refers the matter to State Attorney Barry Krischer's office. The investigation documented approximately 40 victims — all teenage girls — and built a case strong enough to support multiple charges. Detective Recarey recommends investigation for multiple counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor, lewd and lascivious molestation, and sexual battery.
People Involved
The Investigation
Detective Joseph Recarey and the Palm Beach Police Department conducted a comprehensive investigation:
- Interviewed approximately 40 identified victims
- Gathered physical evidence from the mansion
- Documented the recruitment pyramid structure
- Built a case for multiple felony charges
Referral to State Attorney
The case was referred to Barry Krischer’s office (State Attorney for Palm Beach County) for prosecution.
What Was Expected
Based on the evidence, investigators expected multiple felony charges resulting in significant prison time. What followed instead — over the next two years — was the negotiated NPA that led to minimal consequences and profound institutional failure.
Significance
The referral to Krischer was the critical handoff. The quality of Recarey’s investigation meant the evidence was there; what happened next was pure prosecutorial failure.