Staff Report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities took Diverous Karon Hayes, 43, into custody last night following allegations that he brandished a firearm at another individual. Meanwhile, an unidentified accomplice reportedly discharged a weapon, with the bullet striking the ground.

At approximately 9:05 p.m. on October 19, a Gainesville Police Department officer arrived at the 900 block of SE 23rd Street. The officer’s investigation revealed that Hayes and his unnamed accomplice had traveled to the area with the intent of causing harm to the victim. Upon arrival, Hayes allegedly exited the vehicle with a small black handgun, which he pointed at the victim. The second man then allegedly seized the gun from Hayes and fired it, with the shot hitting the ground.

Following a Miranda warning, Hayes reportedly confessed to taking the firearm from the second man and acknowledged that the second man fired the shot towards the victim, albeit into the ground.

Hayes faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. His criminal history includes 20 felony and 10 misdemeanor convictions, all non-violent. Hayes has served five terms in state prison, with his most recent release occurring in July 2023. Senior Judge Bo Bayer has ordered Hayes to be held without bail, pending a hearing on a motion filed by the State Attorney’s Office to detain him until trial. Should the motion be denied, bail will be determined at that hearing.

Articles covering arrests are based on information from law enforcement agencies. The charges mentioned are drawn from arrest reports and court records and are strictly accusations. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.