(Marion County, FL) Yesterday, in the courtroom of Judge Barbara Kissner-Kwatkosky, 40-year-old Jerrell Lamont Smith was found guilty on all charges related to his 2023 arrest. Smith was convicted of three counts of Lewd or Lascivious Molestation of a Victim less than 12 years of age, one count of Lewd or Lascivious Molestation of a Victim 12 years of age or older but less than 16 years of age, and one count of Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition.
“Coming forward as a victim of sexual abuse takes enormous courage,” said Walter Forgie, Chief Assistant State Attorney. “Our office is grateful to the brave victim for stepping up to stop their abuser. We also extend our gratitude to Detective Drake for arresting this defendant and ensuring he faces the fullest extent of the law.”
In March of 2023, a victim came forward to the Ocala Police Department (OPD) about the abuse caused by Smith. The victim indicated from the time they were 10 years old, up until the time they were 15 years of age, Smith would sexually abuse them. The victim recounted numerous instances where the abuse occurred and gave in-depth details of the lascivious acts.
Detective Denise Drake of the OPD’s Major Crimes Unit was assigned the case for further investigation. After reviewing the victim’s testimony, sufficient probable cause was established for Smith’s arrest. Once in custody, Smith declined to speak with law enforcement and requested his attorney.
Assistant State Attorneys Katrina Self and Samantha Wahba successfully prosecuted this case.
Published on 1/23/2025.