MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – A 46-year-old Big Pine Key man is behind bars this week after a brief encounter at a local tavern turned violent, leaving another patron with multiple broken ribs.
William Arthur Deseve was arrested on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, and faces a charge of aggravated battery following an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. According to authorities, the incident occurred a few days earlier on May 23 at Coconuts Bar & Liquor Store.
The adult male victim told deputies he was sitting at the establishment when Deseve walked in alongside a female companion. Hoping to be polite, the victim offered to move seats so the woman could sit next to Deseve.
Instead of a thank you, the situation escalated instantly. Deputies report that Deseve struck the man in the chest, the force of which launched him to the ground and fractured several of his ribs.
Following the altercation, law enforcement officials secured a warrant for Deseve’s arrest. He was tracked down and booked into the local jail on Wednesday. Officials noted that while the victim suffered painful fractures, his injuries were not considered life-threatening.
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