Gainesville, FL – A man accused of sexually assaulting a University of Florida (UF) student has been released from jail after prosecutors decided not to file formal charges, citing a lack of sufficient evidence.
Case Overview
Brandon Mulling, 31, was arrested in February 2025 by the University of Florida Police Department (UFPD) following allegations made by an 18-year-old UF student. The student claimed that Mulling, whom she met through a dating app, sexually assaulted her in a parking lot near the university’s O’Connell Center.
According to police reports, the victim stated that she initially consented to meet Mulling but later felt pressured into engaging in non-consensual sexual activity. Mulling was taken into custody and booked into Alachua County Jail on charges of sexual battery.
Prosecutors Drop Charges
After reviewing the case, the State Attorney’s Office announced that there was not enough evidence to proceed with prosecution. As a result, Mulling was released from custody on March 20, 2025. Under Florida law, suspects must be released if formal charges are not filed within a specific timeframe.
Prosecutors emphasized that their decision does not necessarily indicate innocence but rather an inability to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt, a standard required for criminal convictions.
Community Reactions and Campus Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked discussions about student safety, particularly regarding online dating and interactions with strangers. University of Florida officials have reiterated the importance of safety measures when meeting new people, including:
- Meeting in public, well-lit places
- Informing friends or family about meeting plans
- Trusting one’s instincts and leaving if a situation feels unsafe
Students have expressed mixed reactions to the decision, with some voicing frustration over the difficulty of prosecuting sexual assault cases and others acknowledging the legal challenges involved in proving such allegations.
Legal Complexities in Sexual Assault Cases
Sexual assault cases often hinge on physical evidence, witness statements, and the credibility of testimonies. When key evidence is lacking, prosecutors may struggle to meet the legal burden of proof required to secure a conviction.
Advocacy groups continue to push for better awareness, resources for survivors, and legal reforms to ensure that sexual assault cases are thoroughly investigated and fairly prosecuted.
What’s Next?
While Mulling has been released without charges, the case has ignited broader conversations about safety, consent, and legal justice. The University of Florida encourages students who experience sexual violence to seek help through campus support services and law enforcement.
The situation remains a reminder of the challenges in prosecuting sexual assault cases and the ongoing need for education and prevention efforts to ensure campus safety.