In a dramatic turn of events following a two-day trial, a Putnam County man has been handed a life sentence for a violent incident that took place in 2024, as announced by the State Attorney’s Office.
In May 2024, Richard Hagans deliberately crashed his vehicle into his ex-girlfriend’s residence, fully aware that she was inside, the office reported. This calculated act of aggression escalated further when Hagans pursued his ex-girlfriend with a firearm, a moment captured on surveillance footage that revealed his intent to confront her, according to the State Attorney’s Office.
Remarkably, the woman managed to escape the terrifying ordeal by seeking refuge at a neighbor’s house, where she immediately contacted law enforcement for assistance. This swift action likely prevented a more tragic outcome.
Hagans was apprehended by the Palatka Police Department on May 22, just two days after the crime, according to the records from the Putnam County Jail.
During the trial, the jury found Hagans guilty of multiple charges, including armed burglary, using a vehicle to cause damage during a burglary of a dwelling, and resisting an officer without violence. The verdict reflects the severity of his actions and the law’s response to such violent crimes.
The SAO says that a jury found Hagans guilty of burglary while armed, burglary of a dwelling or structure using a vehicle to cause damage and resisting an officer without violence.
“Another career criminal bites the dust,” State Attorney R.J. Larizza said about the case. “Your prosecutors are committed to taking out the trash. You are safer for it.”
