Warren man accused of touching young girl inside Home Depot bathroom

(WWJ) — A Warren man is behind bars for allegedly sexually assaulting a young girl in the bathroom at a Metro Detroit Home Depot.

Elijah Lawrence, 22, was arraigned Wednesday on multiple charges, including second-degree criminal sexual conduct.

The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office says Lawrence was inside the women’s bathroom at a Home Depot store in Warren on Sunday, April 14, when two young girls walked in.

He allegedly touched one of them then fled the scene.

The prosecutor’s office did not release any other details about the alleged incident, including the girls’ ages.

"There is no greater betrayal than preying on the innocence of a child. We must remain vigilant in our commitment to protect our children from predators looking to do harm," Macomb County Prosecutor Pete Lucido said, per a press release.

In addition to CSC, Lawrence was charged with possession of child sexually abusive material and two counts of misdemeanor larceny less than $200. He is also being charged as a habitual second offender.

Authorities did not elaborate on either charge. It was unclear what he allegedly stole from the Home Depot. It was also not clear if he recorded or took pictures of the girls in the bathroom.

If convicted of criminal sexual conduct, he could face up to 15 years in prison. The child sexually abusive material carries a penalty of up to four years in prison.

Lawrence’s bond was set at $250,000 cash/surety. If released, Lawrence must wear a GPS tether and he will be ordered to have no contact with any of the victims, children under 18 or Home Depot.

Lawrence’s next court date is scheduled for April 30.