Staff report
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Anthony Laverne Roberts, 61, was arrested Thursday after police said he allegedly threatened his girlfriend with a switchblade during a dispute.
A Gainesville Police Department officer was called to the 1900 block of NE 2nd Street at about 7:08 a.m. on July 3. According to the victim, she and Roberts were arguing when he pulled out a switchblade, making her fear for her life. She told police she tried to walk away, but Roberts struck her in the mouth with a pizza box. When she attempted to leave again, she said, he punched her in the face.
The responding officer reported seeing blood on the victim’s face.
Roberts was not at the scene when officers first arrived, but police said he later came back to the area and was taken into custody. After being advised of his Miranda rights, Roberts reportedly acknowledged arguing with the victim but denied that the confrontation became physical.
Roberts has been charged with domestic aggravated assault and domestic felony battery with prior battery convictions. Court records list 10 felony convictions, including one violent offense, and eight misdemeanor convictions, including two violent offenses. He has served five state prison sentences and was most recently released in 2020. Judge Jonathan Ramsey set bail at $50,000.
Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
