Man arrested for battery near Fleming Key

A 50-year-old Key West man was arrested Thursday night for attacking a man who was renting his houseboat.

Glenn Brantely Willis was charged with battery.

Deputy Brandon White was called to Coast Guard Station Key West at approximately 9 p.m. regarding a disturbance on the water near Fleming Key. The Coast Guard informed Deputy White a male caller stated he was attacked on a houseboat by another man who then fled the scene. Deputy White was able to find the 44-year-old victim and his girlfriend on a 40-foot houseboat. They stated they found the houseboat rental on Facebook. Willis took them out to the boat to view it.

The victim stated they agreed on the rental, but added he needed a lift back to shore to get his clothes and toiletries for the night. The victim said Willis became upset for “wasting his time.” At one point, Willis bear-hugged the victim and pulled him to the ground. The victim fought off Willis. Willis then dove into the water and yelled, “I will get you,” before swimming away.

The victim suffered a 12- to 18-inch cut on his buttocks in the scuffle.

Willis was found sleeping in another boat nearby.

Willis was taken to jail.

Willis has three prior convictions for battery: one in 1994, 2001 and 2013.

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