(Marion County, FL) On Wednesday, July 17, 2024, 53-year-old Thomas Gibson III was found guilty of one Felony count of Aggravated Abuse of an Elderly Person or Disabled Adult.  

After Gibson was adjudicated guilty, the Honorable Judge Timothy T. McCourt sentenced Gibson to 30 Years in the Florida Department of Corrections.  

“Brutally attacking a disabled adult is one of the lowest acts of violence you can commit,” said Bill Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “The victim in this case was fortunate to escape with their life and I thank the jury for their service in this case.”

On July 30, 2022, Dunnellon Police Department officers responded to the Rainbow Garden Apartments regarding a battery. Upon arrival, responding officers noticed obvious injuries to the victim, who had a large laceration to their upper lip and a bruised, swollen eye. There were also large blood stains on the victim’s shirt and throughout the residence.

The victim, who was clearly upset and afraid, told law enforcement that they had been in a verbal argument with Gibson. During the argument, Gibson became angry and pushed the victim.  At that time, the victim told Gibson to leave but he refused. Both individuals separated and went to bed, waking up that following morning when the dispute continued.

It was during this verbal exchange that Gibson then began striking the victim repeatedly. The victim attempted to call 9-1-1 but was restrained by Gibson who then threatened to kill them. Eventually, after the altercation, the victim was able to get away from Gibson and contact the authorities. 

Gibson fled the scene prior to law enforcement’s arrival, but he was apprehended three days later and booked into the Marion County Jail.

This case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorney Peter Sziklai.

Published on 07/19/2024.