Ocala, FL man, found guilty of crime spree 3 days after prison release, faces possible life sentence

State Atorney's Office, Fifth Judicial Circuit of Florida
Serving Marion, Lake, Citrus, Sumter, Hernando Counties
January 18, 2024

Marion County, Florida - Last week, Assistant State Attorney Tucker O'Neill secured a guilty verdict for 45 year-old Rocco Dominic Gelonese, of Ocala, Florida for a series of crimes he committed on Augusrt 7, 2022, just three days after he was released from prison. The sentencing for Gelonese is scheduled for January 31, 2024.

Gelonese's crime spree occurred at the JC Penney store located in the Paddock Mall in Ocala. Gelonese was observed attempting to leave the store without paying for a significant quantity of children's clothing and a pair of shoes. Gelonese fled from store employees and attempted to forcefully enter a van while threatening the occupants with harm if they did not comply with his demands. Gelonese then approached a second vehicle, a car, attempting to forcibly enter it and demanding money from another victim before once again fleeing.

Law enforcement officers were assisted by witnesses and victims to identify Gelonese as the suspect through a photo lineup, and he was arrested, a few days later, on August 11, 2022. He was incarcerated at the Marion County Jail in Ocala.

Gelonese, who has a previous criminal record, was charged with burglary of a conveyance with assault, burglary of an occupied conveyance, and petit theft. Due to his status as a prison releasee reoffender ("PRR"), Gelonese faces substantial minimum mandatory sentences which could include a life sentence.

"Gelonese's case demonstrates the importance of a collaborative effort between law enforcement and the community in maintaining public safety," said William "Bill" Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. "Our office remains committed to pursuing justice and ensuring the safety of our citizens."