Police arrested a Lantana Florida man who allegedly shot a woman during an argument about a newborn child.
According to law enforcement, the 28-year-old suspect got into an argument with a 26-year-old woman outside their residence. An arrest report indicated that the suspect and the victim are a “couple.”
While the couple argued, the suspect reportedly held a 2-week-old child against his chest. The victim reportedly asked the suspect to hand over the child so that she could take it back inside the house.
When the suspect allegedly told the woman that he was taking the baby with him, she demanded that he give her the child. The suspect then allegedly removed a pistol from his pants and fired the gun at the pavement. The bullet ricocheted off the ground and struck the woman in the right biceps.
After the shooting, the suspect drove the victim to JFK Medical Center in West Palm Beach, FL. Hospital staff members treated the woman for her injuries and then notified police of the shooting. A short time later, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the hospital.
The suspect was placed under arrest by police. During a subsequent search of the suspect, deputies allegedly discovered a spent 9mm cartridge casing in his pocket.
The suspect has been charged with aggravated battery and child neglect. At this time, he has not been charged with any weapons offenses.
If the suspect is convicted of aggravated battery, he faces significant penalties. As set forth by Florida Statutes Section 784.45, aggravated battery is typically classified as a second degree felony and carries a maximum term of 15 years in Florida State Prison.
After being arrested and processed, the suspect was taken to the Palm Beach County Jail in West Palm Beach, Florida. The suspect secured his release from the correctional facility after posting a $10,000 bond.
For further information about this case, read the PalmBeachPost.com article entitled “PBSO: Lantana Man Shot Woman While Holding Newborn Baby.”
