Staff report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities have arrested 36-year-old Benjamin Franklin Cunningham following an incident at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital, where he is accused of attacking two nurses, spitting at another individual, and causing damage to hospital property.

The events unfolded around noon on December 9, when officers from the Gainesville Police Department were dispatched to HCA Florida North Florida Hospital, located at 6500 W. Newberry Road. Cunningham reportedly became agitated during his discharge from a secure area within the hospital.

Cunningham allegedly kicked a door leading to the nursing station, inflicting over $1,000 worth of damage to the door and its lock. He then reportedly attempted to strangle a nurse, who managed to fend him off but sustained neck injuries in the process.

In response, another nurse, along with several staff members, rushed to assist. Cunningham was eventually restrained, but not before the second nurse suffered a wrist injury during the struggle.

Even after being handcuffed by police, Cunningham reportedly continued to shout and threaten hospital staff. At one point, he allegedly spat a chewed-up piece of plastic medical equipment at a third individual.

Cunningham, who is described as homeless on the arrest report, has been charged with felony property damage and three counts of battery on medical personnel. He has six felony convictions (two violent) and 17 misdemeanor convictions (four violent); Judge Susan Miller-Jones set bail at $200,000 and ordered a mental health evaluation.

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.