The first of three teens tied to a shocking 2023 triple homicide in Ocklawaha has been sentenced to 40 years in prison.
Christopher Atkins, who was just 12 when arrested, appeared in court Tuesday and received his sentence on a first-degree murder charge in the death of Camille Quaroles. Now 15, Atkins will serve concurrent sentences for armed robbery, battery, and tampering with evidence. He’ll be eligible for sentence review after 25 years.
Circuit Judge Robert Hodges, who presided over the hearing, acknowledged the irreversible nature of the crimes.
Atkins, prosecutors, victim family members, and character witnesses all addressed the court during the emotional sentencing. The courtroom heard raw pain from grieving relatives, including Layla Silvernail’s grandmother.
Judge Hodges noted that Atkins’ sentencing was based on his role in Quaroles’ murder and the events surrounding it. The judge clarified that while Layla Silvernail’s murder was part of the larger case, it was not part of Atkins’ formal sentencing due to how charges were filed.
Investigators say the three teenagers—Atkins, Tahj Brewton, and Robert Robinson—were responsible for killing Quaroles, Silvernail, and Michael Hodo Jr., then dumping the bodies in three different Marion County locations in March 2023.
Atkins agreed to testify against Brewton and Robinson, who were 16 and 17 at the time. They are set to be sentenced Wednesday. All three entered open plea deals and face a maximum sentence of life in prison, with a 40-year minimum.
