Winter Haven business owner accused of recruiting underage employees for prostitution

4:35 PM, Jun 15, 2012   |    comments
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Winter Haven, Florida-- Polk County deputies arrested a local man Thursday for propositioning underage employees to perform sexual favors at his former local business, Treasure's Unlimited.

Treasure's Unlimited no longer operates for business, but the reported victim worked there as a delivery and customer service assistant. 

Winter Haven PD tells us officials began an investigation on March 8, 2012 after the 16-year-old victim reported that Phillip Burkhart, 60, made sexual advancements towards the victim and other employees for close to a year. 

Police say Burkhart called the victim into his office while pornography played on his computer, and ultimately offered money in exchange for sexual favors. 

The victim, according to police, consistently refused Burkhart's advancements, however feared losing employment. Eventually, the victim left the job.

Police arrested Burkhart on the following charges:

  • Procure For Prostitution of Minor Under 18 (F-2) 
  • Knowingly Showing Obscene Material to a Minor (F-3) 

He is currently in the Polk County Jail being held without bond.