MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Jurors in the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office sentenced an Ocala man to seven consecutive life sentences for charges including Capital Sexual Battery on a Person Under 12 Years of Age.

Daniel Martinez, Jr., age 40, was found guilty on seven charges, including three counts of Capital Sexual Battery on a Person Under 12 Years of Age and four counts of Lewd or Lascivious Molestation.

Original Arrest

Authorities arrested Martinez in March of 2024 following an investigation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). The investigation began after the Department of Children and Families (DCF) contacted a school resource officer regarding allegations of sexual abuse involving two juvenile victims.

The complainant reported to DCF officials that Martinez had abused the two victims over a period of three and a half years.

Forensic interviews with the victims were conducted, documenting multiple incidents of sexual abuse committed by Martinez.

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Based on the evidence collected, authorities obtained an arrest warrant and arrested Martinez.

After more than a year in custody, Martinez received his sentence last week. Judge Timothy McCourt ordered the Ocala resident to seven consecutive life sentences in the Florida Department of Corrections.

Bill Bladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney, commented on the case’s resolution.

“This defendant committed horrific crimes against two innocent children. The depravity of his actions is beyond measure, and this sentence reflects the severity of his crimes. He will spend the rest of his life behind bars,” said Bladson. “We hope this provides some closure for the victims and their family, helping them find the strength to heal.”

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