(Marion County, FL) Shortly before 1 p.m. today, jurors rendered a guilty verdict in the courtroom of the Honorable Judge Brigham during the trial of 34-year-old Frederick Lamar Hamilton.

After nearly 45 minutes of deliberations, jurors found Hamilton guilty on all eight charges, including multiple counts of Lewd and Lascivious Battery of a Child 12 Years of Age but less than 16 Years of Age.

“Children teach us many things – resiliency being one,” said William “Bill” Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “The victim in this case not only coped with the traumatic challenges of this insidious adult taking advantage of them, but the victim persevered through to make sure Hamilton was held responsible for his repulsive crimes.”  

In October of 2020, Hamilton was arrested by Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies after a thorough investigation alleging sexual misconduct between Hamilton and the victim. Just a month prior, the victim’s mother contacted law enforcement about the sexual abuse after being made aware of the crime.

During an interview, the victim disclosed to officials numerous reports of sexual abuse committed by Hamilton, spanning from the time the victim was 12 years of age until the age of 17 years old.

The victim told investigators that the abuse included numerous instances where Hamilton would sexually batter them at various locations, including an Ocala church that Hamilton presided over.  Additional witness testimony collected supported the victim’s statement of abuse. 

Detective Scala with MCSO made contact with Hamilton to speak with him regarding the allegations. During the interview, Hamilton admitted to having sexual contact with the victim on multiple separate occasions. Hamilton was subsequently arrested and booked into the Marion County Jail.

Hamilton’s sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time.   

This case was successfully prosecuted by the unwavering dedication of Assistant State Attorney Elizabeth White.

Published on 1/24/2024.