LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – A Lake County jury delivered a guilty verdict on Tuesday against 55-year-old Darin Kirkpatrick Starks. Starks was charged with two counts of Battery on a Person 65 Years of Age or Older, involving two victims aged 70 and 72.
Following the verdict, Starks was ordered to be remanded into custody to await his sentencing hearing.
The case stemmed from an incident in April of 2024 when one of the elderly victims contacted the Clermont Police Department to report an attack by a friend, later identified as Starks.
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According to the victim’s statement to authorities, Starks, who was homeless, had been allowed to stay at their residence during periods of inclement weather.
The victim further recounted that they began to notice items missing from their home after Starks’ visits. When confronted about the alleged thefts, an argument ensued, which escalated into a physical altercation. The victim stated that Starks pushed them. A roommate of the victim, the second elderly individual involved, attempted to intervene, at which point Starks allegedly began to attack them as well.
The physical confrontation continued into the backyard, where Starks reportedly continued to strike and kick both victims. The first victim managed to escape and contact law enforcement. Starks fled the scene but was apprehended by officers a short time later down the road.
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During questioning by law enforcement, Starks admitted to the battery of both victims. He stated that he became upset after being accused of stealing and felt that the two victims were “getting in his face.” He confessed to pushing, punching, and kicking the elderly individuals.
Assistant State Attorneys La Toya Jackson and Chelsey Omega prosecuted the case. The sentencing hearing for Starks will be scheduled at a later date.
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