In Hawthorne, Florida, authorities arrested Andrew William Martone, 36, on charges of indecent exposure and resisting an officer without violence. The incident unfolded at the Ranch Motel, where Martone allegedly approached a utility worker in an inappropriate manner.
As reported by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the events took place around 9:30 a.m. on December 5. A utility worker, driving a clearly marked commercial vehicle, arrived at the motel located at 8010 SE U.S. Hwy 301. The worker noticed a man gesturing for his attention from one of the motel rooms.
Upon approaching the room, the worker was confronted by Martone, who emerged onto the sidewalk in front of the room completely naked. Martone then reportedly began shouting at the utility worker in a disturbing manner.
According to the worker, Martone’s behavior escalated as he allegedly grabbed his own genitals and mimicked sexual movements. This alarming encounter prompted the worker to remain on scene until law enforcement arrived.
Upon arrival, a deputy attempted to make contact with Martone. However, Martone reportedly refused to respond to the deputy’s knocks and calls, leading to further complications in the situation.
The victim watched the room until a deputy arrived and said the man was still inside. The deputy tried to speak to Martone, but Martone allegedly refused to answer the door.
The deputy viewed surveillance video that reportedly showed Martone coming out of his room, completely naked, and making “vulgar” gestures before going back into his room.
Multiple deputies tried to make contact with Martone, and a family member offered to help, talking to Martone through the door; Martone, however, continued to refuse to open the door. After some time, the family member convinced Martone to come out, and he was told to put his hands behind his back, but Martone allegedly tried to go back into his room.
Two deputies reportedly grabbed Martone, who allegedly tensed up and resisted being placed in handcuffs.
Post Miranda, Martone reportedly said he had been outside “playing his guitar,” but when he was told the incident had been captured on video, he reportedly admitted to exposing himself and said he was “in a silly mood.”
Martone allegedly resisted being placed into a patrol vehicle until additional deputies went to the other side of the vehicle to physically pull him inside.
Martone has been charged with indecent exposure and three counts of resisting an officer without violence. He has four non-violent misdemeanor convictions. Judge David Kreider set bail at $9,500.
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.
