DUNNELLON, FL (352today.com) – A 58-year-old man was arrested on an aggravated assault charge after deputies say he threatened a motel employee with a knife during a disturbance behind a Dunnellon business.
Deputies responded around 10:23 p.m. June 14 to the Comfort Inn & Suites at 20052 Brooks St. after reports of a verbal disturbance involving a homeless man on the property. According to the report, a motel employee confronted the man, later identified as Gary Wayne Briggs, who was reportedly lying behind a trailer on the property and told him he needed to leave.
The employee told dispatchers that Briggs pulled a large folding knife, estimated at about six inches, and made threatening statements while inching closer. The employee then ran to call 911.
Investigators said Briggs left the area on a bicycle prior to deputies arriving but was later located nearby. A deputy reported finding him in possession of a large camouflage folding knife. Briggs allegedly told deputies the employee “came running up” on him and accused him of trespassing. During questioning, he initially denied holding the knife but later acknowledged having it during the encounter.
Deputies noted Briggs appeared to be intoxicated at the time of the incident.
The victim later identified Briggs from a photograph shown by investigators and said he wished to pursue charges.
Briggs was arrested and transported to the Marion County Jail without incident.