What started as a simple disagreement led to a bar fight for two local men on February 10. A 39-year-old man and the 52-year-old victim got into an argument at Angelo’s Bar and Grill in downtown St. Pete. The two men went outside and the older man was punched. He then fell backwards, hitting his head on the curb. He became unconscious. He was hospitalized at Bayfront and the suspect was arrested and charged with felony battery.
This all changed March 7 when the victim, who was in hospice died. The coroner determined that the blow to the head was the cause of death. While the victim’s family mourned, the suspect got an enormous shock. His charges were upgraded to manslaughter.
Based on the victim’s death, the defendant is now charged with his unintentional killing. Despite the defendant having no intent to kill the man, his punching the victim was an intentional act done with “culpable negligence” and is punishable by up to 15 years in prison in the state of Florida.
While this is an overall tragedy, it is also a powerful reminder- any argument can lead to a fight, any fight can lead to a death. Teenagers fighting is ridiculous, grown men fighting is embarrassing. Now because two men couldn’t settle their differences by walking away, one man is dead and another man is almost assured to go to prison. These two men have left behind children and families…all because they couldn’t walk away.
Have you or a loved one been arrested for a battery? Then call the Saint Petersburg criminal defense lawyers of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today! These former prosecutors are experienced trial lawyers.
Blake & Dorsten, P.A. handles all criminal and personal injury cases along the Gulf Coast including Saint Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa Bay, Largo, Pinellas Park, Seminole, Safety Harbor, Feathersound, Dade City, Oldsmar and Palm Harbor.
To speak directly to your Pinellas criminal defense attorney click on the contact button or call them at 727.286.6141. Blake & Dorsten, P.A…available 24/7/365.