In a troubling story coming out of Ybor City, Florida, the owner of a nightclub called Southern Nights, Richard Kowalczyk, and his partner Eric Patrick have found themselves in serious legal trouble. They are facing multiple charges related to child pornography and conspiracy to entice a minor into sexual activities.
According to court documents, the alleged crimes date back to 2020. Between November 2019 and March 2021, Kowalczyk and Patrick reportedly exchanged text messages where they expressed their disturbing desires to engage in sexual relations with teenage boys. They even planned a trip to Key West, Florida, aiming to meet these young boys at a resort.
The situation escalated when Patrick allegedly sent Kowalczyk explicit images of minors on several occasions between July 2020 and February 2021.
One of the minors involved was just 15 years old. The texts between the two men revealed their intentions to meet with this victim for sexual purposes.
In February 2023, investigators took action and seized a number of phones and a computer from Kowalczyk’s possession. This led to the serious charges they are now facing.
Both men are charged with conspiracy and attempted coercion of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Additionally, Patrick faces charges for distributing child pornography, while Kowalczyk is charged with receiving and possessing child pornography.
In light of these alarming allegations, Southern Nights Tampa released a statement confirming that Kowalczyk is no longer affiliated with the nightclub.
This situation has raised significant concerns in the community, highlighting the importance of protecting minors and ensuring justice is served.
