St. Petersburg, FL (December 16, 2018) - A 50-year-old man from Pinellas County faces assault and battery charges after being accused of getting into a fight with a tax driver.
Timothy Francis Cowley is charged with battery on an elderly person following the altercation, which took place on Friday, December 14th. Police were called to the 200 block of 34th Street North in reference to the alleged battery. According to reports, Cowley owed a $40 cab fare but refused to pay at the end of his ride.
The taxi driver then spotted a law enforcement vehicle and pulled in behind it. That is when Cowley allegedly became angry and struck the driver three times. Reports indicate that there were two witnesses to the event.
Cowley was arrested at the scene. At the time of his arrest, he was already on probation for possession of cocaine. The taxi driver sustained minor injuries in the event.
St. Petersburg Violent Crime Laws
A violent crime charge in St. Petersburg must be taken seriously. Battery on an elderly person requires the prosecutor to prove that you intentionally touched a person age 65 or older and the touching was 
done without that person's consent. If these elements are proven in court, you are looking at a third-degree felony conviction which carries up to 5 years in prison.
Elderly victims carry special status under Florida's violent crime laws. A special status victim is one who enjoys protection by virtue of a certain characteristic. Women, children and the elderly are certain types of special status victims under Florida assault and battery laws. When a special status person is the victim of a crime, the punishments are likely to be harsher and prosecutors and judges will take the case very seriously.
In order to protect and secure your future, it is very important that you seek the services of an experienced and aggressive St. Petersburg criminal defense lawyer. At Musca Law, our attorneys have years of experience representing those charged with violent crimes in Florida. We do not back down when you are facing an uncertain future.
Our consultations are always free. To speak with us 24/7, please call (888) 484-5057.