SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. – A registered sex offender was found guilty on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, of felony battery on a person aged 65 or older. The conviction stems from a violent altercation that occurred in September 2023.
Donald Bass, 70, was convicted after a trial in which evidence revealed he had attacked an elderly woman during a confrontation. Despite Bass denying the incident and the victim being unable to testify in court, prosecutors successfully secured a guilty verdict.
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The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) responded to a 911 call at approximately 5 a.m. on September 3, 2023. The victim reported being physically assaulted by Bass, who was later identified as the perpetrator.
According to the victim’s account, Bass kicked her and, after being told to stop, became irate and choked her. Deputies observed visible marks on the victim that corroborated her account.
When questioned by law enforcement, Bass denied any physical altercation had occurred.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Elizabeth Hart and Scott Ragan. Despite the absence of the victim’s testimony during the trial, the prosecution presented compelling evidence that led to the conviction.
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“Battering anyone is a senseless act of violence,” said Walter Forgie, Chief Assistant State Attorney for the Fifth Judicial Circuit. “I am grateful for our law enforcement partners and prosecuting attorneys who sought justice for this victim.”
Bass now faces sentencing for the felony conviction, a charge that carries severe penalties under Florida law.
Law enforcement and prosecutors reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the community from violence and ensuring justice for victims, regardless of the challenges presented during trials.
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