Gainesville Man Flees Scene Following Domestic Incident; Released on Recognizance

James Kennedy, 51, was arrested on January 19 and charged with domestic battery.  

Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Michael Altman met with the victim after arriving on the scene and observed injuries to her face and elbow. 

The victim stated she and Kennedy were returning home and got into an argument when Kennedy pushed her to the ground and began punching her in the abdomen. 

The victim got up and walked to a neighbor's residence to call 911. 

While the victim was contacting police, Kennedy fled the scene in a Ford Ranger pickup truck.

Altman attempted to contact Kennedy by phone, and a man identifying himself as “James” picked up and said he was located in Lake City.  

Altman attempted to determine if the caller was the suspect, and Kennedy said he had the wrong number and hung up. A police database search showed Kennedy uses the phone number that Altman called.

Kennedy was released on recognizance under the orders that he not contact the victim or possess any weapons or drugs.