On Wednesday, November 6, 2024, jurors convicted 36-year-old Melissa Marie Alexander of Burglary of a Dwelling with a Battery while Armed and Battery on a Person 65 Years of Age or Older. The verdict was delivered in the courtroom of Judge Joel D. Fritton, who ordered Alexander into custody for a presentencing investigation. Alexander faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison.
“This conviction underscores the gravity of this case, where she recklessly put lives at risk by attacking an elderly individual while armed,” said Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson. “Such dangerous behavior has no place in our community, and we remain committed to holding those who jeopardize the safety of others accountable.”
The charges stem from an incident on April 14, 2024, when the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) received a call about a threat involving a firearm. Deputies responded to find the victim and a witness at the residence, where the witness had secured the firearm. The victim identified Alexander as the shooter, stating that she had previously been trespassed from the property. According to the victim, Alexander entered the home, leading to a brief physical altercation as he tried to make her leave. During the struggle, a firearm fell from Alexander’s waistline. The victim attempted to secure it, resulting in a struggle that led to the gun discharging, injuring both parties.
The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the hand and facial injuries and was transported for medical treatment. Alexander was also taken to a hospital, where she claimed she had been attacked by the victim. However, surveillance footage from the home corroborated the victim’s account, capturing the confrontation initiated by Alexander.
Assistant State Attorneys Tara Hartman and Kevin Davis prosecuted the case.
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