The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Florida man was arrested after the authorities said he became involved in a confrontation with a wedding officiant at a beach park and allegedly struck the older man during an argument over ceremony pricing.
According to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a reported assault at a park in Port Orange shortly after 2:30 p.m. on May 16. Investigators said the victim, a 69-year-old wedding officiant, had just finished a ceremony and was loading equipment into a vehicle with an employee when the dispute began.
The authorities said the suspect approached the officiant to ask about the cost of beach wedding services. During the conversation, he allegedly became upset after hearing the quoted price and started yelling at the victim. Deputies said the suspect called the officiant rude and began insulting him as the disagreement escalated.
According to an arrest affidavit, the officiant pulled out a cellphone and attempted to contact 911 while also recording the interaction. The suspect allegedly started swatting toward the phone before striking the victim in the stomach. Investigators said the blow temporarily knocked the wind out of the officiant.
The authorities said the suspect also allegedly threatened to contact other people who would arrive before deputies and “get” the victim. After the confrontation, he reportedly left the area in a blue Kia.
Deputies later located the vehicle and stopped the driver. During questioning, the man admitted he argued with the officiant and swatted at the phone but denied punching the victim, according to investigators. Deputies also noted in the report that they had to tell him to calm down because he appeared increasingly agitated during the interaction.
The officiant declined medical treatment and told deputies he wanted to pursue charges.
The 35-year-old suspect was arrested on a charge of battery on a person 65 years old or older. He was booked into the Volusia County Jail and later posted a $5,000 bond.
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.