Ocala youth coach, 62, arrested for sexual offense involving minor, police say
Share and Follow


Police said Richard Hawkins was arrested Sunday regarding a sexual assault involving a minor.

OCALA, Fla. — An Ocala youth athletics coach is facing charges after an underage victim reported being inappropriately touched while staying the night at the suspect’s home, according to the Ocala Police Department.

Police said Richard Hawkins, 62, was arrested Sunday regarding a sexual assault involving a minor.

The 16-year-old victim, who is a family friend of Hawkins, said he woke up in the suspect’s bed with his pants pulled down. The victim also told police Hawkins blocked the front door when he tried to leave.

Police said the victim’s father called Hawkins, and he reportedly admitted the claims were true.

Officers responded to the Saddleworth Green Apartments and found Hawkins outside his apartment building, police said. A responding detective investigated and found probable cause for Hawkins’ arrest.

He was arrested on charges of indecent, lewd or lascivious touching of a minor, false imprisonment and open carry of a firearm.

Police said Hawkins is involved in coaching youth athletes and is a part owner of an Ocala business that focuses on children’s entertainment and sports activities. Police did not reveal the name of the business.

Investigators believe that due to Hawkins’ role and access to children, there could be other victims. Anyone who may have information involving Hawkins is asked to contact law enforcement.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Iran in shutdown as protesters storm governor's office, crowds chant 'Death to Khamenei'

Iran Faces Widespread Shutdown Amid Protests as Demonstrators Occupy Governor’s Office and Chant Against Khamenei

On Wednesday, life in Iran came to a halt as a government-mandated…
Anthony Joshua is discharged from hospital on after Nigeria crash

Boxing Star Anthony Joshua Released from Hospital Following Nigeria Traffic Accident

Anthony Joshua was released from the hospital late on New Year’s Eve…
Bibi, Laura and a pair of Netflix stars top Trump's New Year's Eve

Trump’s New Year’s Eve Celebration Headlined by Bibi, Laura, and Netflix Stars

Since the late 1990s, President Donald Trump has been known for throwing…
Palmdale Street shooting on Jacksonville's Northwest side leaves man dead

New Year Chaos: Fireworks Dispute Sparks One of Two Jacksonville Shootings

Two shootings in Jacksonville on New Year’s Day left two individuals injured,…
Mangione, Robinson, Reiner and more: Major court cases set to dominate 2026

High-Profile Court Cases to Watch in 2026: Mangione, Robinson, Reiner, and More Take Center Stage

The legal docket is not concluding but rather extending into the new…
Bakery chain loved by A-listers abruptly shutters all locations

Celebrity-Favorite Bakery Chain Unexpectedly Closes All Its Stores

A well-loved bakery chain from California, famously adored by celebrities like Drew…
Mysterious Dead Sea Scrolls code cracked revealing biblical writings

Ancient Code of Dead Sea Scrolls Deciphered, Unveiling Hidden Biblical Texts

In a groundbreaking achievement over seven decades in the making, a scientist…
Iranian protesters bring regime to halt as fury soars over cost of living

Iranian Protests Escalate Amid Rising Cost of Living Crisis

In Iran, a wave of protests is challenging the government’s grip as…