News Summary
Sascha and Alyssa Engel, a former firefighter and his wife, have pleaded guilty to attempted sexual activity with a minor, stemming from an incident involving a 16-year-old boy. The couple will serve five years of probation and must register as sex offenders. The plea deal included dropped charges amid community concerns over their actions, given Sascha’s former role. Both must comply with strict conditions during their probation period.
Tampa, Florida – Sascha Engel, a 39-year-old former Hillsborough County firefighter lieutenant, and his 37-year-old wife, Alyssa Engel, have entered a plea agreement in connection with serious charges regarding unlawful sexual activity with a minor. The couple’s charges stem from an incident involving a 16-year-old boy in March 2024, culminating in their arrest in August 2024.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation after the victim’s family reported the incident. Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed deep disappointment over the couple’s actions, highlighting the breach of trust particularly given Sascha Engel’s prominent position within the community.
On Monday, during a hearing in Criminal Court, both Sascha and Alyssa Engel agreed to plead guilty to a lesser charge of attempted sexual activity with a minor. Initially, the couple had been charged with three counts; however, the second and third charges were dropped under “nolle prosequi,” signifying those charges would not be pursued any further.
As part of the plea deal, both Engel spouses are set to serve five years of probation. They will also have to register as sex offenders and comply with specific conditions associated with their probationary status. Judge Lawrence Lefler, who presided over the hearing, underscored the agreement’s terms to both Engel’s defense attorneys.
Alyssa Engel has been granted a decision of “withheld adjudication,” allowing her to avoid a felony conviction if she successfully completes her probation, while Sascha Engel was adjudicated guilty and will have a felony record.
Probation Terms
The conditions of their probation include prohibitions against any contact with the victim or his family. They are also restricted from using the internet and social media, must adhere to a curfew, and follow specific guidelines related to online gaming.
Additionally, both Engel spouses must register as sex offenders within 48 hours of the court ruling, along with fulfilling other obligations such as paying restitution according to the Crimes Compensation Act. They are also required to undergo psychological evaluations, including a psycho-sexual evaluation, and complete any recommended treatment within three years.
Victim’s Presence and Family Support
During the court proceedings, the victim was present but opted not to speak, while his mother represented his interests throughout the hearing.
Background of the Case
The legal troubles for the Engel couple began following allegations made against them in March 2024, which took several months to culminate in their arrests. Originally, their bond was set at $50,000 for each of the three counts during their first court appearance. However, the decision to drop additional charges has likely influenced their sentence and the terms of their plea agreement.
In light of Alyssa Engel’s previous employment with the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office, the case was transferred to Polk County for prosecution. This move aimed to ensure a thorough and unbiased legal process given her past roles within the local judicial system.
The serious nature of the charges against Sascha and Alyssa Engel raises significant concerns about trust and safety in the community, particularly given Sascha’s former role as a firefighter lieutenant. As the couple embarks on their probation period, they will be under strict scrutiny that reflects the gravity of their actions.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 News: Former Firefighter and Wife Get Probation in Sex Minor Case
- Wikipedia: Sexual Offense
- WTSP: Hillsborough Fire Rescue Lieutenant Arrested
- Google Search: Hillsborough County firefighter sex crime
- WFLA: Hillsborough Firefighter Arrested on Child Sex Crime Charges
- Google Scholar: Sexual Offense Law
- My News 4: Deputies Arrest Florida Couple for Forcing Minor
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Assault
- Hoodline: Hillsborough County Lieutenant Charged
- Google News: Child Sex Crime Florida
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
