Sex Offender Arrested for Failing to Report Vehicle Ownership Changes

A registered sex offender was arrested in Hernando County on January 21, 2025, after failing to report changes in vehicle ownership as required by state law. James Nicolaus Rousakis, 55, was taken into custody and charged with one count of Failure to Report Change in Vehicle Ownership and one count of Knowingly Providing False Registration Information.

Rousakis, who was convicted in 2012 in Connecticut for Risk or Injury to a Minor involving inappropriate contact with a child, is a registered sex offender in Florida. As part of his registration requirements, he is obligated to report any changes in his personal information, including vehicle ownership.

Rousakis had initially reported a vehicle purchased by a family member on January 7, 2025, stating it had been bought 30 days earlier. However, an investigation by Detective Marcacci revealed the vehicle was actually purchased in August 2024. Further investigation showed that Rousakis had failed to report two other vehicles owned by a family member living with him.

On January 21, Rousakis told authorities that he was unaware he was required to report the vehicles within 48 hours. He was arrested and is being held without bond at the Hernando County Detention Center.

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information about this case or other crimes to contact Hernando County Crime Stoppers at 1-866-990-TIPS (8477). Tips can be submitted anonymously online at www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com with the possibility of receiving a cash reward.