The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Florida charter boat captain is facing multiple charges after he allegedly climbed on someone else’s boat and threatened to physically harm him.
On April 1, a 40-year-old military veteran who is now a charter boat captain for his Punta Gorda business “Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters.” The man was on the water and encountered another boater with whom he had a previous tense engagement, and things reportedly heated up between the pair again. The 22-year-old in the other boat accused the charter boat captain of going through a nearby tunnel too quickly and without headlights, and the criticism was not well received. The older man reportedly positioned his boat next to the other and climbed on board without permission. The authorities believe he issued verbal threats in addition to grabbing the alleged victim.
On April 4, the suspect was taken into custody and booked into the Charlotte County Jail. He is facing a preliminary charge of felony burglary with assault or battery and was released the following morning after posting a $20,000 bond. It was reported that the US Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission could also add charges.
The man’s business has taken a hit since the incident, and his attorney released a statement explaining that his client was sorry about what happened. He added, “It’s important to remember we are not the sum of our worst day.” The suspect was also noted as having suffered a traumatic brain injury while he was in combat in Afghanistan and the VA has him listed as 100% disabled. According to reports, the public has not taken kindly to the situation, and the Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters’ social media accounts are no longer active.
If you or someone you love is suspected of an assault or battery offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.