Jeffrey Kimmel, a 38-year-old New York man, was detained in Florida after an alleged violent outburst at a booze store. He is accused of various offenses, including “spitting blood” at Florida deputies.
According to a news release from the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO), the incident took place on Wednesday, September 3. FCSO deputies arrived at Sharps Discount Liquors in Palm Coast at around 2 p.m. after receiving a verbal disturbance report.
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As deputies were driving to the liquor store, they received word that a customer, later identified as Kimmel, was spitting and throwing glass bottles. He was standing on top of the store’s counter, according to the announcement.
Upon arrival, deputies allegedly discovered Kimmel on top of the counter. They “physically removed” him from the counter and escorted him outside, according to the release. Outside, Kimmel, who had bleeding hands, reportedly resisted the officers by screaming, kicking, and spitting.
According to the FCSO, Kimmel was “actively spitting blood at deputies,” so they decided to put a spit mask on him. That way, deputies would be safe from his bodily secretions.
Man Arrested, Charges Filed
One store employee told deputies that Kimmel entered the business, bought four liquor shots, and then left. However, he later returned to buy more liquor, according to the announcement. When the cashier refused to sell Kimmel more booze, he allegedly began yelling at her, resulting in the counter tantrum.
To avoid him, store personnel and customers retreated to a rear room, shutting themselves inside for safety.
As a result, Jeffrey Kimmel was charged with breach of peace, burglary with assault or battery, eight counts of battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer with violence, and criminal mischief over $1,000.
Kimmel, according to the FCSO, has a criminal record that includes charges for burglary, DUI, and possession of stolen items.
“This guy must have really wanted another drink, but he found out he’s not in New York, and we won’t tolerate behavior like this in Florida,” Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said. “Thanks to the actions of our deputies, he was taken into custody before anyone was seriously hurt.”
“He also found out that Florida is not a catch and release state, and if you attack a Deputy Sheriff, we will subdue you and take you to the Green Roof Inn.”
