Frederick Newton was born in 1951 in the Caribbean nation of Dominica, during a time when the country was still under British colonial rule. Not much is publicly documented about his early life or education, but he eventually joined the military and underwent formal training with the Guyana Defence Force. His military education likely played a central role in shaping his leadership style, strategic thinking, and political worldview.

When Dominica gained full independence from the United Kingdom on November 3, 1978, Newton was appointed as the Commander of the Dominica Defence Force (DDF), effectively becoming the highest-ranking military official in the country. His role placed him in a position of significant authority and responsibility during the nation's fragile post-independence transition period.

However, his time as head of the DDF was marked by political tensions. In a newly independent state, the military’s role was still evolving, and conflicts between civilian leadership and armed forces were not uncommon in post-colonial Caribbean nations.

In March 1981, Frederick Newton orchestrated a failed coup d'état aimed at overthrowing the democratic government of Prime Minister Eugenia Charles. Along with five loyal soldiers from the Dominica Defence Force, Newton tried to seize control of key government installations. The coup attempt was a separate event from the more widely publicized Operation Red Dog, which was an external mercenary plot organized by former Prime Minister Patrick John.

During Newton’s coup attempt, one police officer was killed, reportedly during the confrontation between the rebel soldiers and government loyalists. This death formed the legal basis for Newton's murder charge.

The coup was swiftly crushed, and Newton, along with the five soldiers, was arrested and charged. In January 1983, following a highly publicized trial, all six were convicted and sentenced to death for their roles in the attempted coup and the associated killing.

Over time, the death sentences of the five soldiers were commuted to life imprisonment, likely due to international pressure and appeals for clemency. However, Newton was not granted the same leniency.

On August 8, 1986, Frederick Newton was hanged in Roseau, the capital of Dominica.