MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, State Attorney Bill Gladson of the Fifth Judicial Circuit announced the filing of two death penalty notices in the case against 32-year-old Jeroen Jarrel Coombs of Citra, FL.
Coombs, who was arrested in February 2026 and indicted last month for the murder of 3-year-old Paisley Brown in addition to charges of child abuse, has now been charged with capital sexual battery. The state will seek the death penalty for both the first-degree murder and capital sexual battery charges, according to an announcement by the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office.
“The decision underscores the seriousness of the alleged offenses and their profound impact on the victims and their families,” read the announcement. “The State Attorney’s Office recognizes the sensitivity surrounding this matter and its broader implications for the community.
“As legal proceedings unfold, our office asks for respect for the legal process as we work diligently to bring this case to a just resolution, holding the offender accountable for their actions.”
Coombs remains held at the Marion County jail without bond.