(Hernando County, FL) Last week, 78-year-old Frank Joseph Michali was sentenced to Life in Prison on three counts of Lewd or Lascivious Molestation of a Child Under 12 and three counts of Lewd or Lascivious Molestation of a Child 12 but less than 16. Michali was found guilty by a jury during his trial earlier this year, on June 17, 2025.

Back in September of 2022, it was reported to Hernando County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) officials that Michali had sexually battered a 14-year-old child over the span of 7 years. Officials received a call from out of state reporting this information, where the caller advised the victim disclosed to them that Michali was abusing them.

The victim was subsequently interviewed and disclosed to law enforcement numerous instances of abuse committed by Michali, starting when the victim was as young as seven years old. The victim further indicated that Michali committed additional similar offenses while visiting another state.

HCSO deputies then questioned Michali regarding the allegations. The defendant denied any inappropriate touching of the child. Based upon the victim’s statement, as well as corroborating statements made by another witness in the case, Michali was arrested and charged.

Thanks to the diligent efforts of the detectives from the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, Assistant State Attorneys Kasey Whitson and Lisa Yeager were able to successfully prosecute this case.

Published on 09/22/2025.