A 49-year-old North Carolina man was arrested earlier this month after he allegedly tangled with everyone in sight at the normally tranquil Tradewinds Lounge on Charlotte Street, according to an arrest report.
The St. Augustine Police Department said officers were dispatched around 10:30 p.m. on Feb 6 to a reported verbal altercation that was escalating fast.
A complainant told officers that the suspect was harassing patrons and threatening others inside the bar.
When officers arrived, they saw the man strike and push a bouncer who had attempted to remove him from the venue due.
As police approached, the suspect aggressively advanced toward an officer, prompting an attempt to place him in handcuffs, the arrest report stated.
The suspect swatted at the officer’s hands, compelling them to push him against a door and take him to the ground.
Despite warnings, the suspect continued to resist, leading to a “diversionary strike” to his eye.
Once handcuffed, the suspect reportedly kicked a firefighter without provocation.
Additional officers then attempted to place the man in a patrol vehicle, where he continued resisting, requiring his legs to be hobbled before transport, papers state.
Officers said the suspect appeared heavily intoxicated throughout the incident.
While en route to the St. Johns County Jail for booking, he insulted officers and then expressed regret for his actions.
No serious injuries were reported.
The case remains ongoing.
