Former New College official now facing felonies after indecent exposure accusations
Fredrick Piccolo Jr.'s charges were upgraded from misdemeanors to felonies this week, according to Sarasota County jail records. He faces three counts of exposure of sexual organs — each of which is considered a third-degree felony due to it being a second or subsequent offense.
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The man who once played a prominent role in Florida politics was arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office in April after deputies said he exposed himself to a woman while asking her for directions.
He's also accused of exposing himself to multiple people at department stores in the University Town Center Mall in Sarasota. Court records show the incidents occurred between Aug. 22 and Sept. 4 of last year.
Piccolo worked as the director of communications for DeSantis' office from August 2020 to December 2021 before he resigned over a controversial social media post. He also held leadership roles with the Florida Speaker of the House and New College in Sarasota.
His father, Rick Piccolo, told News Channel 8 that a worsening medical condition has contributed to his son's 'impulsive and compulsive behaviors,' including 'hypersexual activities.'
The Piccolo family provided a statement this week saying they have sought medical and mental health services to help him recover. The family's full statement is below.
While our family is deeply saddened and surprised by the accusations contained in the arrest reports, our son Fred Jr. was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's disease about ten years ago. As the disease has progressed, he has had various and increasing medications for the affliction. One of the listed side effects of the medications, particularly the dopamine agonists he is taking, is impulsive and compulsive behaviors, including gambling and hypersexuality activities.
We are very sorry that any individuals were subjected to any inappropriate conduct, and we have already started the medical and mental health services necessary to return him to the wonderful and caring individual we knew before this decade of doctor prescribed medication.
Rick Piccolo
Jail records show Piccolo Jr. was booked into jail on the upgraded charges on May 21, but bonded out two days later.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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