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(Lake County, FL) Last week, a Lake County jury found 60-year-old Hezekiah Benjamin Jr. guilty on one count of Sexual Battery of a Victim under 18, and two counts of Lewd or Lascivious Molestation of a Child Under 16. While this case is his first conviction in Florida, Benjamin’s prior out-of-state history details other instances of child exploitation.

“Benjamin has a notable history of preying upon young, innocent children,” said Bill Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “Our office is thankful that we were able to obtain justice for the victim in this case, and in some manner, closure for Benjamin’s other victims.”  

Back in May of 2021, it was reported to the Clermont Police Department (CPD) officials that Benjamin had sexually battered a 13-year-old child. Officials received a call reporting this information, where the caller advised the victim texted them, stating Benjamin was abusing them.

The victim was subsequently interviewed at the Child Advocacy Center in Leesburg for further investigation. At the center, the victim confirmed sending the text messages and informed investigators of the abuse committed by Benjamin, relaying vital details of the incidents. The victim further indicated they feared Benjamin.

CPD deputies then attempted to contact Benjamin regarding the allegations. After several unsuccessful attempts, an arrest warrant was issued. Benjamin was then arrested on the warrant and booked into the Lake County Jail.

Benjamin’s sentencing hearing will be scheduled for a later time.

Thanks to the hard work of Detective Wray from the Clermont Police Department during the investigation of this case, Assistant State Attorneys Kati Cosden and Gennady Gusak were able to secure a successful prosecution.  

Published 02/28/2024.

(Citrus County, FL) After a thorough judicial process this week, 50-year-old Robert Joe Maracek has been found guilty on all charges related to a lengthy pursuit by law enforcement back in 2021. The verdict follows extensive investigation and prosecution efforts by law enforcement and the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office.

Maracek faced a litany of charges, including Aggravated Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer, Aggravated Assault of a Law Officer, Fleeing or Attempting to Elude, two counts of Throwing a Deadly Object at a Vehicle, Resisting Law Enforcement with Violence, Possessing Amphetamine, Battery of a LEO K-9, Providing a False Identity to Law Enforcement, Driving without a License, and Driving with No Vehicle Registration.

“This verdict reiterates the commitment of law enforcement and the judicial system to uphold public safety and hold individuals accountable for criminal behavior,” said Bill Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “Maracek will face the consequences of his actions as determined by the court.”

The case against Maracek stems from the events of February 1, 2021, when he struck a Citrus County Sheriff’s Office deputy with his vehicle while attempting to evade a traffic stop in Hernando. Additionally, Maracek threw tire spikes from his vehicle’s window to thwart pursuing deputies.

Despite attempts to evade capture, Maracek was apprehended by a K-9 unit after fleeing his disabled Ford Expedition on South Washington Street in Beverly Hills. During the apprehension, Maracek extensively resisted arrest, striking and kicking deputies and their K9.

Maracek’s criminal history dates back to August 27, 2001, when he became a fugitive from Osceola County authorities for failing to appear at his trial for charges of law enforcement battery, resisting law enforcement, and leaving a crash scene. Additionally, Maracek was wanted for absconding from probation following his sentencing in May 2000 for armed burglary and theft charges originating from Broward County in January 1994.

Maracek sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 3, 2024.

This case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Kaitlyn Mannis and Kevin Davis.

Published on 02/23/2024.

(MARION COUNTY, Fla.) In a landmark collaboration aimed at combating animal cruelty and enhancing animal welfare, the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office announces the Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office is joining its Animal Cruelty Task Force. This strategic alliance represents a significant step forward in ensuring the protection and advocacy of animals within our communities.

By consolidating resources, expertise, and jurisdictional reach, the newly expanded task force will possess greater capabilities to investigate, prosecute and prevent instances of animal abuse and neglect. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to upholding justice and compassion for all sentient beings.

“Animal cruelty is a serious offense that demands a concerted effort to address effectively,” Bill Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “Through this collaboration, we are pooling our strengths and resources to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable, while also promoting education and awareness to prevent future incidents.”

The Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office formed its task force in 2022 to ensure that animals are protected from harm and that their welfare is upheld. The task force is comprised of prosecutors, law enforcement officers, veterinarians and animal welfare experts. The Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office established an animal cruelty unit within its office for the same purpose back in 2016.

Andrew Bain, State Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit, echoed these sentiments, stating, “We advocate for and seek justice for all victims and that includes innocent animals. While the Ninth Circuit’s existing animal cruelty unit has done great work prosecuting offenders since it started in 2016, this new partnership will allow us to expand our access to more resources and specialized knowledge to help us build even stronger animal cruelty cases which are often complex. We also want to deter future instances of cruelty, fostering a society built on empathy and respect for all living beings.”

The expanded task force will harness a multidisciplinary approach, leveraging the expertise of law enforcement agencies, animal welfare organizations, veterinary professionals, and legal experts. By fostering collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders, the initiative aims to maximize impact and effectiveness in addressing the complex issues surrounding animal cruelty.

In addition to investigating and prosecuting cases of animal cruelty, the task force is working to prioritize outreach and education initiatives to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership, humane treatment practices and the legal consequences of animal abuse. Engaging with communities, schools and advocacy groups, will allow the task force to foster a culture of empathy and respect toward all living beings.

As the expanded task force begins its operations, both offices invite collaboration and support from stakeholders across the region. Together, we can strive towards a future where every animal is treated with the dignity, compassion and respect they deserve.

Published 02/22/2024.

(Lake County, FL) Yesterday, February 13, 2024, in a Lake County courtroom, jurors found 35-year-old Johnny Lee Kennedy guilty of two counts of Sexual Battery upon a Person under Twelve Years of Age and one count of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation of a Child.

Kennedy was sentenced to Life in the Florida Department of Corrections and designated as a Sexual Predator in accordance with Florida statutes.

“This life sentence serves as another overwhelming testament that our office will vigorously pursue and prosecute those who harm our children,” said Bill Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to protect and advocate for the youth in our community.”  

Back in August of 2017, it was reported to Lake County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) officials that Kennedy had sexually battered an 8-year-old victim. During the course of the investigation, the victim revealed to detectives that Kennedy had sexually abused them for the past two years, with the most recent incident occurring just a week prior.

The victim was transported to the local child advocacy center for further investigation. At the center, the victim recounted to authorities numerous instances of Kennedy sexually battering them, disclosing crucial details.  LCSO deputies then attempted to contact Kennedy regarding the allegations. Several attempts were made to locate him without success.

An arrest warrant was issued and Kennedy was eventually arrested on September 10, 2017, in West Virginia where he was later transported back to Lake County

This case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Shannon Schlarf and Gennady Gusak. A sincere thank you to Master Deputy John Caston of the LCSO for his phenomenal job collecting evidence in this case and then recounting those exhibits while testifying, despite the nearly six-year time difference between the two.

Published on 02/14/2024.

(Marion County, FL) The Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office announces a significant development in the case involving the shooting incident at a local store on March 25, 2022.

Following a trial of significant evidence involving the tragic death of 23-year-old Jacorie Deaunte McCullough, jurors delivered their verdict yesterday in a Marion County courtroom.

Twenty-year-old Leandre Rashad Cox was found guilty of Second-degree Murder. The verdict comes after diligent efforts by officers with the Ocala Police Department, who collected evidence, interviewed witnesses, and pieced together the events leading up to the fatal shooting.

“The verdict serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of law enforcement to pursue justice and uphold the safety of our communities. Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of Jacorie,” said Bill Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “While nothing can undo the pain of their loss, we hope that this verdict brings some measure of closure and peace.”

According to the investigation, then-18-year-old Cox, along with two other individuals, engaged in a confrontation with the victim. Surveillance footage revealed Cox’s armed confrontation with the victim, which led to the fatal shooting.

Cox was promptly arrested just five days after the incident and has since been incarcerated at the Marion County Jail.

The Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office extends its gratitude to Ocala Police Department Chief Balkin and the lead detective, Detective Kyle Kern for their diligent work in this case. We also thank the community for their cooperation throughout this investigation and subsequent court proceedings.

Assistant State Attorney Michael ‘Adam’ Smith Jr. ensured the successful prosecution of this case.  

Published 02/08/2024.

(Citrus County, FL) In a recent case handled by the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office, 32-year-old Eric William Johnson was sentenced to 20 years in the Florida Department of Corrections after pleading guilty for his involvement in a series of alarming and criminal actions that transpired, including kidnapping, burglary of a dwelling with a deadly weapon, and impersonating a law enforcement officer.

Today, Johnson’s father, 71-year-old Maynard David Selvog, was found guilty on all charges as a principal to kidnapping while armed and burglary of a dwelling while armed.  

“The sentence of twenty years and life serves as a beacon of deterrence and a testament of our commitment to protecting our citizens,” said William “Bill” Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “Posing as law enforcement and forcibly entering someone’s home is not only a breach of trust but a perilous assault on civil liberties. The acts of both Johnson and Selvog undermine the very fabric of justice and endanger the safety and security of our community.”

On July 19, 2023, Johnson, accompanied by Selvog as a getaway driver, traveled to an acquaintance’s residence in Homosassa. Upon arrival, Johnson walked up to the door of the camper with an AR-15-style air-powered gun, knocking while announcing “Citrus County Sheriff’s Department.” He then proceeded to enter the camper, point the weapon at the occupants inside, and demanded they exit the camper.

Believing Johnson was an armed law enforcement officer, both victims complied with the demands. Once outside, they realized that Johnson was not an actual officer and attempted to call 9-1-1. Johnson immediately attempted to take the phone away which resulted in a struggle. During the struggle, the second victim was able to run to the parent’s home on the same property for help.

Johnson then chased after the victim, kicking in the door of the home. The victim, along with the homeowner, was able to successfully disarm Johnson. After a lengthy struggle, Johnson then retreated and fled the scene with Selvog. Shortly after, Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies were able to locate Selvog, who eventually informed officials that Johnson was hiding in a nearby shed.

CCSO Deputies then found Johnson, armed with another firearm, engaged them in a standoff. After failing to comply with law enforcement’s orders, a K-9 was deployed. Johnson made a shocking attempt to harm the law enforcement K-9 during this confrontation, before deputies were able to move in and apprehend him. Both Johnson and Selvog were arrested as a result of this investigation. 

The successful prosecution of this case was a result of the meticulous work of Assistant State Attorneys Nicholas Caporicci and Kaitlyn Mannis.

Published 02/07/2024.

(Hernando County, FL) Yesterday, a jury found 42-year-old Christian Bert Fischer guilty of Traveling to Meet a Minor.

“Not only was it disturbing that Fischer willingly agreed to meet up with a minor for sexual gratification, but he brought items with him that would have enabled him to carry out his deranged fantasies,” said William “Bill” Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “If you come across someone online who is attempting to entice a juvenile, don’t wait – contact law enforcement immediately. Your tip can help ensure a safer digital community for our children.”

On January 20, 2022, a citizen who had created a fictitious profile account posing as a minor child on social media to communicate with and identify people who seduce, solicit, lure, or entice children to engage in unlawful sexual conduct was contacted by Fischer online.

Fischer messaged who he thought was a 13-year-old boy. During the message exchange with the citizen, Fischer not only acknowledged the age of the child but went on to ask if they had ever been with anyone sexually.

After continuing to communicate with the child through increasingly explicit messages, Fischer planned to meet up with the minor at a local store.  Once at the store, the citizen confronted Fischer on his purpose there and his intentions to meet with the juvenile for sexual gratification. The citizen then called law enforcement to respond. The interaction was recorded and eventually turned over to local officials at the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).

Authorities with the HCSO responded to the location and were informed by the citizen of the nature of the meeting with Fischer, who had fled prior to their arrival.  However, the citizen stated to deputies that Fischer had discarded a bag into the trash bin before fleeing. Deputies retrieved the bag which contained a box of chocolates, a bottle of chocolate syrup, and one bag of gummy rings.

Officials located Fischer shortly after, who was in possession of another bag that contained a hairbrush, condoms, and an enema. During an interview, Fischer admitted to knowing the person he was talking to was only 13 years of age. Additionally, he confessed to sending sexually charged messages to the minor and attempting to meet up with the child.  

Investigators had enough evidence and subsequently arrested Fischer for traveling to meet a minor, use of a computer to seduce, solicit, or lure a child, unlawful use of a two-way communications device, and possession of marijuana.

This case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorney Angelina Rodeo and Ben Larison.

Published on 02/07/2024.

(Lake County, FL)- Joseph Andrew Giampa was sentenced to life in prison in a Lake County courtroom earlier today.   

Giampa, through his defense attorney, conveyed an offer to serve the rest of his natural life in prison.  At the request of the victim’s family, and with the interests of the child victim in mind, the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office agreed to this resolution. Under this agreement, Giampa will spend the remainder of his life in prison, without the possibility of parole.

“Resolution in less than 100 days is proof that Florida’s capital punishment statute for sexual battery of children is effective,” commented Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson.   “By passing this law, the Florida Legislature and the Governor have sent a message that Florida has zero tolerance for those who prey upon our most vulnerable and that the punishment will be certain, swift and severe.”

Giampa, was indicted by a grand jury in December 2023 for six counts of Sexual Battery Upon a Person Under Twelve Years of Age and three counts of Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child.   Shortly after Giampa was indicted, State Attorney Bill Gladson filed a Notice of Intent to Seek the Death Penalty in the case, pursuant to Florida Statutes 794.011(2)(a) and 921.1425.  The decision to pursue the highest penalty reflected the gravity of the charges.  The Notice was the first such notice filed in Florida, pursuant to new legislation, which allows predators who commit sexual battery on young children to be punished by death.

Our office will continue to hold those who violate our laws accountable for their actions and ensure that victims of crime have a voice in the criminal justice system.

Assistant State Attorney Nicholas Camuccio and Katie Cosden successfully prosecuted the case.

Published 02/02/2024.

(Marion County, FL)- State Attorney Bill Gladson, announces the filing of a death penalty notice in the case against 39-year-old Albert J. Shell Jr.  

Last week, Shell was indicted by a grand jury in a significant development related to the Paddock Mall Homicide case. The charges include premeditated First-Degree Murder with a Firearm, two counts of Attempted Second-Degree Murder with a Firearm, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

Given the severity of the crime and its impact on the community, the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office has filed a notice that it intends to seek the death penalty pursuant to Florida Statutes 921.141 (6)(b), 921.141 (6)(c), 921.141 (6)(h), and 921.141 (6)(i).

The decision is reflective of the gravity of the alleged offenses and the impact on the victims and their families. The State Attorney’s Office acknowledges the sensitivity of this matter and the impact it has on the community. Our commitment to ensuring justice and holding criminals accountable for their actions remains unwavering.

As legal proceedings unfold, our office asks for respect for the legal process and the privacy of those involved. We will continue to work diligently to bring this case to a just resolution.

Published 02/02/2024.

(Marion County, FL) This morning, the Honorable Judge Pope sentenced 45-year-old Rocco Dominic Gelonese to Life in the Florida Department of Corrections for his crimes.  

“This sentencing of a repeat offender to life is a firm declaration that habitual lawlessness will not be tolerated in our community,” stated William “Bill” Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “Our commitment to justice and public safety remains unwavering.”

Earlier this month, jurors rendered a guilty verdict in the case involving Gelonese, who had just been released from prison less than a month before his crime spree. He faced serious charges related to the August 7, 2022, incident that occurred at the JC Penney store located in the Paddock Mall.

While in the store, Gelonese was observed attempting to leave without paying for a significant quantity of children’s clothing and a pair of shoes. Upon fleeing from store employees, he attempted to forcefully enter a van while threatening the occupants with harm if they did not comply with his demands.

Subsequently, Gelonese continued his crime spree by approaching another victim in their car, attempting to forcibly enter and demand money before fleeing. Law enforcement, with the assistance of witnesses and victims, was able to positively identify Gelonese through a photo lineup and arrest him a few days later.

Gelonese, with a prior criminal record, was charged with Burglary of a Conveyance with Assault, Burglary of an Occupied Conveyance, and Petit Theft. Due to his Prison Releasee Reoffender (PRR) status, he faces substantial minimum mandatory sentences, including a Life sentence.

Assistant State Attorney Tucker O’Neill successfully prosecuted this case.

Published on 01/31/2024.