Daniel Hilbert : “Stalking Convict Sentenced: 15 Months for R-Section Crime”

A disturbing case involving a convicted violent felon, Daniel Hilbert, has come to a conclusion as he was sentenced to prison for aggravated stalking and felony child abuse. Hilbert, 53, was reported to have been accosting a 15-year-old Matanzas High School student at her bus stop in Palm Coast’s R-Section, leading to a physical assault. The victim provided evidence including pictures and video.

Hilbert, who resides a block away from the bus stop, has a troubling criminal history. In 1986, he was convicted of second-degree murder and served time in prison. Following an escape and subsequent recapture, he was sentenced to additional years. Despite being released in 2011, Hilbert found himself in trouble again in 2016 when he was accused of stalking another 15-year-old girl at her bus stop.

After pleading guilty to the recent charges, Hilbert was sentenced to a year and three months in state prison, with no possibility of early release, followed by nearly four years on probation. The sentencing decision took into account various factors, including Hilbert’s criminal record and the nature of the offenses.

Legal Implications and Sentencing Conditions

During the sentencing hearing, Assistant State Attorney Melissa Clark highlighted the seriousness of Hilbert’s actions, noting the need to consider provisions under the Jimmy Rice Act, which allows for additional restrictions on offenders beyond their sentence. The victim’s mother, present via zoom, expressed satisfaction with the agreed-upon sentence, considering it appropriate given the circumstances.

The victim, who did not attend the court proceedings, recounted a harrowing ordeal of daily encounters with Hilbert at the bus stop and in the neighbourhood. From engaging in small talk to making unwanted physical advances, Hilbert’s behaviour escalated over time, culminating in a forceful assault on the victim just before spring break.

Despite Hilbert’s denial of any wrongdoing, witness testimonies and evidence painted a clear picture of his predatory behaviour. The court imposed strict conditions for his release, including no contact with minors without supervision, restrictions on visiting places where children gather, mandatory sex offender treatment, and regular polygraph tests.

Concerns and Past Incidents

Hilbert’s pattern of stalking and targeting young girls is not new, as evidenced by a similar incident in 2016 involving a neighbour’s daughter. The father of the previous victim had expressed fear for his family’s safety and sought legal protection against Hilbert’s advances.

With the recent sentencing, authorities aim to prevent further harm to vulnerable individuals and hold Hilbert accountable for his actions. The community remains vigilant against such predatory behaviour, emphasizing the importance of reporting suspicious activities and supporting victims of abuse.