Florida Woman Arrested After Alleged Attack on Elderly Man Wearing MAGA Hat
A Florida woman is facing multiple charges after allegedly attacking a 72-year-old man wearing a “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) hat during a confrontation over his political views, Fox News reports.
Laura Garrett, 33, was arrested Tuesday by the Largo Police Department and charged with battery on a person over 65, battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting arrest without violence, according to Pinellas County Jail records.
The incident occurred at Northeast Park and Paw Place in Largo, where Garrett reportedly approached the unidentified elderly man to question his support for former President Donald Trump, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by FOX 13 Tampa Bay.
During the encounter, an argument broke out, and Garrett allegedly poured a can of liquid on the man’s head before striking him on the back of his head and shoulder with the can. Garrett denied hitting the man, but police said physical evidence and witness accounts contradicted her version of events.
Following the alleged attack, Garrett reportedly fled the scene by jumping a fence and walking away. Police later located her and attempted to take her into custody. During the arrest, officers say Garrett resisted and became physically combative.
According to the arrest report, Garrett dropped to the ground in an attempt to resist being handcuffed. When officers tried to escort her out of the park, she allegedly wrapped her legs around one officer, causing him to fall and sustain a bruised knee. That injury led to a second battery charge against her.
Officers also reported that Garrett continued to kick and pull away during the arrest process.
Garrett was booked into the Pinellas County Jail on Tuesday evening and was released the following night, according to jail records.
The elderly victim was not publicly identified, and it is unclear whether he required medical treatment.
The case has sparked discussion on social media, with some users citing concerns over political intolerance and violence. Authorities have not indicated whether hate crime enhancements are being considered.
