Residents, guests concerned about sexual predator working at popular Osceola motel

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Parents at an Osceola County motel said they’re worried about a convicted sexual predator living and working near their children.

Residents called Eyewitness News after they learned Juan Maldonado works at the front desk at the motel formerly known as Knight’s Inn.

He also lives in one of the rooms at the business, which is now called Inn.

“Imagine all the kids that are in and out,” said one resident, who did not want to be identified.

Records said Maldonado served 15 years in prison for attempted sexual battery on a child under 12, and appears to be off probation now.

A sheriff’s office spokeswoman said he can live and work anywhere as long as it’s 1,000-feet from a school or bus stop.

Some residents had no idea Maldonado was a registered predator.

“Everyone’s pretty low key around here. I wasn’t aware of what was going on,” said Juna Esperance.

Channel 9’s Ryan Hughes spoke to Maldonado on the phone.

Maldonado said he’s been employed by the hotel for four years, and hasn’t had any problems.

The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office checks on predators, including Maldonado, once a month.

WFTV