The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Florida woman was taken into custody after the authorities investigated a dispute in a store parking lot that allegedly involved a firearm.
According to an arrest report, the incident happened in the afternoon outside a Target store, where officers responded to a call about a possible gun being displayed. When the authorities arrived, they spoke with a driver who said she had just left the area after a confrontation that made her fear for her safety.
The driver reportedly told investigators she had been sitting in her parked vehicle when another car pulled into the space next to her. She said she moved her car slightly to avoid any contact between the vehicles. That action allegedly led to a verbal argument between the two.
During the exchange, the suspect allegedly became aggressive, using profanity and insults. The driver claimed the woman then reached into her purse, showed a firearm, and made a threatening statement while telling her to get out of the vehicle. Instead of complying, the driver left the scene and called 911.
While officers were still gathering information, the suspect exited the store and was identified. According to the report, she allegedly admitted to having a firearm in her purse at the time. The authorities said they recovered the weapon and took it into evidence.
Investigators said the suspect later acknowledged the argument was about how closely the vehicles were parked. She reportedly claimed the other driver had threatened her, though that claim was denied. She also denied pulling out the firearm or making threats.
Court records show the 42-year-old woman was charged with aggravated assault with a firearm. She was later booked into a local jail, where she was reportedly held on a $5,500 bond. A records check allegedly found no registration listed for the weapon.
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.