Staff Report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities have detained Deontre Davone Washington, aged 35, following accusations of assaulting a pedestrian on West University Avenue.

On April 4, around 2:05 p.m., an officer from the Gainesville Police Department was called to the 800 block of West University Avenue. The victim recounted that as he was heading west, Washington emerged from a narrow path on the road’s north side and began striking him without any provocation.

The officer observed that the victim sustained injuries to his face, elbows, and knees.

After being read his rights, Washington allegedly confessed to the attack, claiming the victim had threatened his life. The officer noted Washington appeared paranoid, frequently glancing over his shoulder and insisting he was being followed.

Washington is registered as residing at St. Francis House and now faces charges of felony battery. His criminal history includes nine felony convictions (with two involving violence) and 27 misdemeanor convictions (two violent), alongside two terms in state prison, the latest ending in February 2025. He also recently completed a 45-day stint in the Alachua County Jail after pleading no contest to prowling at Infinity Hall in November 2025. Judge William Davis has set his bail at $20,000.

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