Acid Attacker Receives 35 Years For Crime
By Space Coast Daily // August 28, 2012
Victims Permanently Disfigured
BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA – Almost two years after an acid attack that left a Palm Bay woman and her then 14-year-old son permanently disfigured, the man responsible, Fredrick Rogers, 52, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for the crime.
Brevard County Circuit Court Judge Robert A. Wohn, Jr. sentenced Rogers to 15 years for each of two counts of aggravated battery and another five years for one count of aggravated stalking. The sentences are to be served consecutively totaling 35 years.
For the victim, Cindy Cook, who is still dealing with her injuries and the emotional impact of the crime, the sentencing brings some closure.
“The last two years have been hell for me and my children,” Cook told the court during testimony prior to the sentencing. “This crime has not only impacted me and my family, it’s impacted his family.”
On Sept. 9, 2010, Rogers attacked Cook and her son with industrial strength drain cleaner. It’s believed the attack was related to a recent break-up between Cook and Rogers.
Cook suffered serious chemical burns to more than 30 percent of her body. Over the last two years, she endured multiple reconstructive surgeries and will undergo additional treatments. Her son suffered less serious burns and also is undergoing treatment.
The Victim Services Unit continues to work with Cook and her family to assist in the recovery.
“This has been a long and difficult process for the family and the conclusion of the criminal proceedings gives them some closure,” said Dana Packard, community services manager for the Palm Bay Police Department who has worked with the family since the beginning.
“Now they can move beyond the criminal aspects of what happened and focus on their emotional recovery and their future.”
