TAMPA, FL – Alyssa Zinger, a 23-year-old resident of Tampa, Florida, has been denied bond and remains in custody following allegations of posing as a 14-year-old girl on social media and engaging in sexual misconduct with several underage boys she met online. Initial charges were brought against Zinger in November, with additional felony charges related to lewd or lascivious behavior following.
The investigation into Zinger began when she was suspected of having an inappropriate relationship with a minor. As detectives delved deeper into the case over several months, they identified four more victims, aged 13 and 14. Zinger allegedly communicated with these boys on Snapchat and TikTok, while pretending to be a homeschooled student.
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office online records reveal that Zinger was taken into custody again last week. The fresh charges include multiple counts of lewd or lascivious molestation and battery, sexual cyber harassment, possession and transmission of child pornography by electronic device.
Prior to this latest arrest on April 4, Zinger was out on pre-trial release. However, Judge Laura Ward denied her bond on some of the new charges on Monday, expressing concern over Zinger’s apparent lack of comprehension of her actions’ gravity.
Zinger’s defense lawyer argues that her client has struggled with emotional and developmental challenges, as evidenced by an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) from her school years. The defense also noted that Zinger switched schools during high school. Prosecutors, however, argue that Zinger’s school records do not indicate any developmental delays and the investigation continues.
Zinger has been ordered to refrain from using any electronic devices while in custody. Her next court date is set for April 16.