WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — A man was taken into custody after a violent altercation with a woman early Saturday morning, according to local law enforcement. The incident unfolded around 2:17 a.m. near Avenue K Northeast and Lake Martha Drive, prompting officers to respond to reports of a disturbance.
The Winter Haven Police Department reported that the confrontation began as a heated argument between the suspect, identified as 46-year-old James Kendrick, and the victim. During the dispute, Kendrick allegedly struck the woman in the forehead with a firearm. When she fell to the ground, he reportedly continued the assault, forcing her to flee for safety.
In her attempt to escape, the victim managed to evade Kendrick but was pursued as he took control of her vehicle. After a brief chase, he parked the car while the woman sought refuge from the confrontation.
Officers quickly located Kendrick hiding in a nearby backyard, concealed under a tent and surrounded by a lawn mower and a bicycle. Despite commands to come out, he initially resisted arrest, complicating the officers’ efforts.
After Kendrick was apprehended, authorities recovered a backpack matching the description provided by the victim. Inside, they discovered a black firearm along with more than 88 grams of cannabis divided into multiple bags, raising further concerns about potential drug-related offenses.
Kendrick faces a series of serious charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, grand theft auto, and possession of cannabis over 20 grams. He is also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest without violence.
The victim sustained minor injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment, highlighting the dangers of domestic violence. The incident serves as a reminder of the severe consequences that can arise from such altercations, as authorities continue to emphasize the importance of seeking help in violent situations.