Staff report
Updated at 8:45 p.m. with criminal history and bail information.
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Jose Miguel Torres-Melendez, 27, was arrested early this morning after authorities said he threatened in July to shoot a former co-worker at Bellamy Grand apartments.
According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy was called to Bellamy Grand, 2625 SW 75th Street, at about 3:10 p.m. on July 5. The victim reported that Torres-Melendez, a former co-worker who also lived at the apartment complex, had told him during a phone call that anyone “bringing gossip” to his girlfriend would be shot. The victim said he told Torres-Melendez he interpreted the statement as a threat, and the two men reportedly agreed to meet in the parking lot.
The confrontation allegedly continued outside, where Torres-Melendez went to his vehicle, removed a handgun, racked the slide, and walked toward the victim while holding the gun near his leg. Torres-Melendez allegedly threatened to shoot him, prompting the victim to back away because he feared for his life. Before the victim could leave, Torres-Melendez allegedly “chest-bumped” him and pushed him several times.
The victim told the deputy he then called Torres-Melendez’s mother and asked her to speak with him “to avoid further problems.” A few minutes later, Torres-Melendez allegedly called the victim and said he would shoot him the next time he saw him.
The deputy was unable to find Torres-Melendez at the time and submitted a sworn complaint.
Torres-Melendez has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and battery. He has one misdemeanor conviction, and Judge Meshon Rawls set bail at $60,000.
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.
