MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – A quick run for an 18-pack took a violent turn Tuesday night when a 41-year-old Naples man was arrested after allegedly punching a store clerk and squaring off with responding deputies.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a disturbance at the Tom Thumb convenience store near Mile Marker 88.5 around 10:10 p.m. When authorities arrived, they found the victim outside holding his face. Johnny Lee Powers was standing nearby, reportedly attempting to stash a stolen 18-pack of beer into a backpack.
According to police reports, the confrontation began when the clerk tried to stop Powers from leaving the store with the alcohol without paying. During the struggle, Powers allegedly struck the employee in the face. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported by the victim or the store staff.
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The arrest itself proved difficult. Deputies noted that Powers had a knife visible in his pocket and refused to follow verbal commands. Instead of complying, Powers reportedly clenched his fists and tensed his body before advancing toward a deputy in an aggressive manner.
After he continued to ignore orders to stand down, a deputy deployed a Taser to bring him under control.
Even after being shocked, Powers continued to pull away and fight against being handcuffed. He was eventually restrained and transported to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier for medical clearance—a standard procedure following Taser use. Once cleared by medical staff, he was booked into the local jail.
Powers now faces multiple charges, including battery, theft, and resisting arrest. He remains in custody as of Wednesday morning.
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