New College Marketing Director Faces Legal Trouble: Arrest for Indecent Exposure
In a startling turn of events, the former Marketing Director for the New College of Florida, Frederick Joseph Piccolo Jr., was arrested in Manatee County this week. He now faces serious legal consequences, including a charge of third-degree felony indecent exposure, following a prior conviction. At 47, Piccolo remains in custody with a hefty bond of $100,000.
A Rapid Fall from Grace
Piccolo’s Arrest
An arrest warrant was issued for Piccolo on a Tuesday, and by Wednesday, his name was conspicuously absent from the New College staff directory. The college announced his termination shortly thereafter. Before joining New College, Piccolo enjoyed a prominent career in political communications, serving as the Communications Director under Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and previously for former House Speakers Jose Oliva and Richard Corcoran.
Corcoran, who currently presides over New College, was appointed to his role by a board largely filled with trustees selected by DeSantis, reinforcing the intricate connections between Piccolo and Florida’s political landscape.
A Disturbing Incident
The situation escalated on March 28, when a woman at Lakewood Ranch Country Club encountered Piccolo. After briefly asking for directions, she was shocked to see him return in a compromising state, allegedly naked and exposing himself. Identification was confirmed through a photo lineup by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. The incident marks a grave situation for Piccolo, especially considering it is not an isolated occurrence—his record includes multiple offenses over the past year.
History of Allegations
Multiple Offenses
This latest incident is just one in a troubling series. In October 2024, Piccolo was charged with three misdemeanor counts of indecent exposure related to similar incidents in August and September of that same year. Eyewitness accounts in public spaces further paint a picture of alarming behavior, including allegations of him exposing himself from inside a dressing room at the University Town Center Mall.
His attorney has attempted to mitigate his legal woes by attributing these actions to a medical condition. In a statement to WKMG News 6, attorney Eric Reisinger emphasized that Piccolo suffers from Parkinson’s disease, for which prescribed medications have reportedly resulted in side effects that include hypersexuality and compulsive behaviors.
Past Controversies
Piccolo’s troubled past also includes accusations of harassment by former client Jackie Toledo when he worked for SIMWINS. Toledo claimed that Piccolo sent her inappropriate messages during her re-election campaign, prompting legal action that was ultimately dropped after a resolution was reportedly reached.
Family Response
In light of these troubling allegations, Rick Piccolo, Frederick’s father and the CEO of Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, released a statement expressing surprise and concern over his son’s actions. He reaffirmed the family’s commitment to seeking proper medical and mental health treatment for Frederick as they navigate this profoundly challenging situation.
Conclusion
The arrest of Frederick Joseph Piccolo Jr. serves as a poignant reminder of the repercussions that can arise from one’s actions, particularly in the public eye. As this high-profile case unfolds, it spotlights issues affecting both personal health and professional integrity. With serious consequences ahead, this is undoubtedly a pivotal moment for Piccolo, his family, and the community at large.
For more information on the ongoing situation, stay tuned to updates from reputable news sources.
