FORT MYERS, Fla. (WFLA) — A man was arrested on Wednesday after he was accused of following and attempting to lure a 12-year-old walking home from the bus stop, according to Florida Highway Patrol.

An FHP trooper said that a resident at an apartment complex on Eastwood Acres Road informed them of an incident involving the resident’s daughter.

The resident said his daughter had missed the school bus and was walking home when she was followed by a large male on foot who attempted to engage her in conversation.

The trooper spoke to the 12-year-old who corroborated the story.

FHP identified the suspect as Thomas Christopher Karba, 37, who told them the reason he was walking through the complex was because he was searching for a place to rent.

The trooper said that Karba told them he was unaware that the girl was a minor.

The trooper then spoke to the apartment manager who confirmed that Karba had not entered the apartment leasing officer to inquire about renting an apartment.

After conducting a criminal history check, FHP said, Karba had previous charges in California relating to kidnapping, assault with intent to rape, and assault with a deadly weapon.

FHP arrested Karba and charged him with loitering or prowling, luring, or enticing a child under the age of twelve, and stalking.

According to them, Karba had previously been arrested in Florida for identical charges.