Ocala man found guilty, sentenced to life, for repeated, brutal sexual battery of a child
William M. Gladson, State Attorney
State Attorney's Office (SAO), Fifth Judicial Circuit of Florida
Serving Marion, Lake, Citrus, Sumter, Hernando Counties
Marion County, Florida - On January 10, 2024, jurors rendered a guilty verdict in the courtroom of the Honorable Judge Willard Pope during the trial of 47 year-old Christopher Lee Holding, of Ocala. Holding was found guilty on all seven charges, which included sexual battery of a victim between the ages of 12 and 18 years old.
After jurors delivered their verdict to the court, Judge Pope sentenced Holding to serve life in the Florida Department of Corrections. This case was prosecuted by Assistant State Attorney Katrina Self.
"I cannot even begin to fathom the pain and suffering this victim endured from Holding," said William "Bill" Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. "The weight of the trauma they will have to carry the rest of their life is despairing and incomparable. I am extremely pleased with this sentencing after considering all the evidence and the surrounding circumstances."
In June of 2023, Holding was arrested by Marion County Sheriff's Office deputies after allegations of sexual misconduct between Holding and the victim were reported. During a forensic interview, the victim disclosed numerous reports of sexual abuse committed by Holding, spanning from 2017 to 2021.
The victim told investigators that the abuse started when the victim was only 13 years-old, and on numerous occasions, Holding tied or chained up the victim while sexually battering the victim. Evidence supported the statement made by the victim of repeated abuse.