Man arrested for battery

A 49-year-old Marathon man was arrested Monday afternoon after he punched a landscaper in the throat.

David Lee Hayes was charged with battery.

Sgt. Christian Kellenberger responded to reports of a fight at Jesse Hobbs Park at 41st Street and U.S. 1 at 3:21 p.m. Capt. Don Hiller and Lt. Derek Paul were already on scene looking for Hayes, known to both, who they saw previously in the area. There were four landscaping employees also at the scene, one of them being the victim and others being witnesses. They were soon met by the owner of the landscaping business who is bilingual in Spanish and English and he translated for the crew.

The victim stated that the suspect, late identified as Hayes, approached him earlier in the day at a nearby gas station and asked for money. The victim declined and told Hayes to get a job. The victim stated he and the crew then re-located to the park where they were contracted to work by the City of Marathon. Hayes was at the park. Squabbling ensued which led to a scuffle in which the victim was punched in the throat by Hayes. Hayes then left the park.

Witnesses stated Hayes instigated the discord by swearing at the victim and asking him if he wanted to fight.

Sgt. Kellenberger noticed the victim kept grabbing his throat and was trying to clear it. His voice was hoarse. His throat appeared swollen. Hayes was taken to Fishermen’s Hospital.

Hayes was located on the 1600 block of the Overseas Highway by Detective Sgt. Trevor Wirth. A show up was conducted by Detective Amanda Coleman and the victim identified Hayes as the suspect.

Hayes was taken to jail.

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