A Florida man has been arrested after driving erratically in the area of a parade and hitting a deputy with his vehicle.
On Saturday Citrus County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested a man driving recklessly in the outer perimeter of the Inverness Christmas parade.
While directing traffic, a deputy observed 25-year-old Aaron Williams drive recklessly into the intersection of US Hwy 41 North and Montgomery Avenue.
While attempting to stop Williams’ vehicle, Williams drove directly at and struck a deputy. Luckily, the deputy only sustained minor injuries. Williams then ignored the lawful commands of several other deputies commanding him to stop, while he continued swerving erratically around barricades blocking adjoining roads.
As nearby deputies flooded to Williams’ location, they were able to contain him while in the outer perimeter of the parade area.
The vehicle was stopped and Williams was immediately arrested and charged with one count of Aggravated Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and five counts of Resisting an Officer without Violence.
“What should have been a fun-filled, festive parade was interrupted by a few moments of havoc for those who witnessed the chaos caused by Williams’ careless and reckless actions,” said Sheriff Prendergast. Our deputies quickly recognized a threat to public safety and reacted immediately to Williams’ erratic behavior. Even though Williams had a blatant disregard for public safety, our deputies’ actions exemplified service above self when it comes to the safety of our community.”
“Road barricades and temporary road closures at events are not there to inconvenience you; they serve the purpose of keeping event participants and spectators safe. Be patient, and if possible, avoid event areas altogether,” said Citrus County Sheriff’s Office in a statement.
Williams was transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility, where he is being held with a $15,000 bond per the bond schedule.
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