The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office is looking for more information on a Delray Beach man who's been arrested on a sexual battery charge.
Investigators with PBSO's Special Victims Unit say Stephen Hakim, 27, allegedly met victims through dating apps, and believe there are more victims who have not yet come forward.
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According to a probable cause affidavit, one woman who matched with Hakim on the dating app Hinge met up with him on Jan. 31, 2026. They drove to Hakim's Delray Beach residence where they drank beers and smoked marijuana.
He offered to give her a massage and she dozed off. When she woke up, she told investigators Hakim was sexually assaulting her.
Investigators reviewed text messages from the night, in which the victim said she just wanted to hang out and didn't want any pressure. The victim also told Hakim that she went to the hospital after the assault and was receiving a rape kit exam.
Hakim's DNA was later found from swabs taken during the exam. Investigators made contact with him at his residence in April, but he declined to speak.
A toxicology report found the victim had several medications in her bloodstream that she does not take, including a sleep medication.
Hakim was released on bond with a no-contact order with the victim. He is charged with one count of sexual battery.
Hakim's attorney, Scott Skier, provided the following statement on his behalf:
"Mr. Hakim adamantly denies the allegations that the relations between the parties in this matter were unconsented. A thorough review of the probable cause affidavit raises serious questions regarding the credibility of the accuser. Mr. Hakim wholeheartedly looks forward to his day in court when all facts will be presented, and we have full faith that at that time, Mr. Hakim will be fully exonerated."
Directos and victim advocate Nicole Bishop with Palm Beach County Victim Services says cases like this are often under reported.
"Statistics say that for every person that reports sexual assault, there are 6 more that did not report so there are many reasons why people don't come forward, fear of not being believed," Bishop said.
Bishop says it is important to be cautious when using dating apps.
"If it's not someone you are familiar with, avoid excessive alcohol cause sometimes that can impede your judgement," Bishop said.
Bishop is encouraging anyone who may have had a similar experience to come forward.
"I would encourage people to come forward, and know what your options are," Bishop said.
Sexual assault survivors can reach Palm Beach County Victim Services for confidential support and resources. The office is located at 205 N. Dixie, Suite 5.1100, 5th Floor, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. A 24/7 Crisis & Information Hotline is also available at (561) 833-7273 or (866) 891-7273.
PBSO asks anyone with info on Hakim to contact Special Investigations Detective C. Rojas through PBSO Communications or at 561-688-4148.
