Naples Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Child Abuse

Michael Pelton convicted of slapping child's tooth out and kicking him in the stomach

Mar. 3, 2026 at 5:07am

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A 37-year-old Naples man, Michael William Pelton, has been sentenced to 60 months in prison for child abuse. Pelton was found guilty by a Collier County jury of slapping a 9-year-old child, knocking out one of his teeth, and kicking him in the stomach in an incident witnessed by deputies.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious consequences for those convicted of child abuse, with Pelton facing significant jail time. It also raises concerns about the safety and well-being of children in the community and the need for strong law enforcement and judicial action to protect vulnerable youth.

The details

According to the arrest affidavit, on March 13, 2024, Pelton yelled at the 9-year-old child, who then ran away saying Pelton was trying to kill him. Collier County deputies responded and witnessed Pelton screaming at the child's grandmother with the two children in the car. The deputies said Pelton had slapped the child multiple times, knocking out one of his teeth, and also kicked him in the stomach. The child then fled to a nearby gate guard house for safety.

  • On March 13, 2024, the incident occurred.
  • On February 28, 2026, Pelton was sentenced to 60 months in prison.

The players

Michael William Pelton

A 37-year-old Naples resident who was convicted of child abuse and sentenced to 60 months in prison.

Collier County Deputies

Law enforcement officers who responded to the incident and witnessed Pelton's abuse of the child.

9-year-old Child

The victim of Pelton's abuse, who had his tooth knocked out and was kicked in the stomach.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the serious consequences for those convicted of child abuse, with Pelton facing significant jail time.”

— Lawrence Raab, Assistant State Attorney

“It also raises concerns about the safety and well-being of children in the community and the need for strong law enforcement and judicial action to protect vulnerable youth.”

— Jennifer Brown, Assistant State Attorney

What’s next

The judge's decision on Pelton's sentencing will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how the courts handle similar cases of child abuse in the future.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of holding those who commit acts of violence against children accountable, and the need for the community to remain vigilant in protecting its most vulnerable members.