Florence Man Charged With Rape, Sodomy, Human Trafficking

An arrest was made on Wednesday.

Tyreecse M. Merritt. Photo provided. 

(Florence, Ky.) – A Florence man was arrested Wednesday and charged with multiple felony offenses.

Tyreecse M. Merritt, 22, is facing three counts of Human Trafficking (Class B Felony), three counts of Rape 2nd Degree (Class C Felony), five counts of Sodomy 2nd Degree (Class C Felony) and three counts of Unlawful Transaction with a Minor 2nd Degree (Class D Felony).

According to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Merritt was selling marijuana to a 13-year-old in exchange for sexual acts. Investigators say Merritt raped and sodomized the victim multiple times.

While being interviewed, Merritt allegedly admitted that he had a thriving drug operation that targeted teens between the ages of 13 and 16 years old.

Merritt is held at the Boone County Detention Center on $500,000 bond.

More from Local News


Events

Volunteers Needed for Ohio River Sweep in Rising Sun

The litter clean-up event happens October 11.

Street Closures Announced for Lawrenceburg Fall Music Fest

The event runs Sept. 19-20 in Civic Park.

Life Center's Annula Hope 5K Set for October 18

The event supports neighbors facing addiction recovery, job loss, and other challenges

LHS Athletics, Tiger Basketball Seeking Sponsors for Annual Ray Furney Classic

The Ray Furney Classic will be played Jan. 2-3 at LHS and GMS.

Local Sports Report - September 15, 2025

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Pam Tillis - In Between Dances

Charlie Daniels Band Drinkin' My Baby Goodbye 1:48
Tucker Wetmore 3,2,1 1:45
Jason Aldean Let Your Boys Be Country 1:41
Randy Travis Better Class Of Losers 1:38