By Staff Reporter
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities have arrested 45-year-old Matthew James Osgood from Citra, following accusations that he threatened a utility worker with a crowbar.
The incident unfolded around 1:15 p.m. on April 28, when officers from the Gainesville Police Department responded to a call near NW 6th Street and NW 3rd Avenue. According to the victim, he and his colleagues were engaged in utility work and had secured the area to ensure their safety.
Osgood allegedly breached the designated safety zone and approached the workers. Upon being asked to vacate the area, he reportedly began shouting at them. He is said to have left the scene only to return wielding a crowbar, continuing his aggressive behavior by threatening to strike the victim while brandishing the tool. The victim expressed that he feared for his safety during the encounter.
Witnesses, comprising all of the victim’s co-workers, confirmed the account of events.
After being read his Miranda rights, Osgood reportedly chose not to provide any statements to the police.
Osgood has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He lives in Citra and told Court Services he works for a lawn care company and was only in Gainesville for the day. He has one felony conviction (non-violent), two misdemeanor convictions (non-violent), and two criminal traffic convictions. Judge Meshon Rawls set bail at $10,000.
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
