A Central Florida man was arrested for threatening utility workers who were restoring power post-hurricane.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a suspect for Aggravated Assault and Criminal Mischief.
On October 15that 3:04pm, power line crews were working to restore power on McIntosh Road and Tomar Drive in Thonotosassa. The road was partially blocked due to the repairs, causing a traffic delay.
According to local law enforcement, the suspect, 57-year-old Kenneth Ray Velasco, became impatient and backed his vehicle into a utility pole and fence, causing $1,000 in damages. He then attempted to flee the scene.
The powerline crew attempted to prevent Velasco from leaving, but he repeatedly threatened to shoot the linemen. Velasco drove toward the linemen, who had to jump out of the way of the vehicle.
Deputies spotted the vehicle in the area and conducted a traffic stop. Velasco was arrested without incident.
“Linemen have been working tirelessly to restore power after the storm. For this person to threaten their lives and deliberately endanger them, all because of a traffic delay, shows a disturbing lack of regard for the safety of others and the critical work being done,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We’re grateful no one was seriously hurt, and this suspect will face the full extent of the law for his egregious crimes.”
Velasco is charged with Aggravated Assault and Felony Criminal Mischief for Vandalism of Property.
