Man arrested for brandishing gun

A 40-year-old Big Pine Key man was arrested Sunday night for threatening a man at the Winn✓Dixie® grocery store with a Glock 19® handgun.

James R. Severson was charged with improper exhibition of a firearm, battery and aggravated assault with a weapon without intent to kill.

Lower Keys Deputy Anthony Buscemi responded to the Big Pine Key grocery store about 5:30 p.m. regarding a man who displayed a gun to a worker. A store manager pointed Deputy Buscemi to Severson who was still on scene as the suspect. Deputy Buscemi approached Severson and found a 9mm Glock 19® handgun in his waistband. Deputy Buscemi took possession of the gun.

Severson stated he was shopping and wanted to continue down an aisle when he was blocked by a worker stocking merchandise. Severson stated he bumped the worker with his cart to let him know he wished to get by and a squabble ensued. Severson admitted to lifting the front of his shirt and displaying the gun out of fear for his safety.

The victim, a Coca-Cola® employee, told Deputy Buscemi he as stocking merchandise when he was bumped by Severson, spurring a verbal spat between the two. The victim stated Severson lifted his shirt, displaying the handgun, and stated he was going to shoot the worker in the head. The victim further stated that Severson grabbed the firearm and lifted it several inches out of the holster, but still left the tip of the barrel in the holster.

Severson does have a conceal carry permit, however his threatening display of the gun was determined to be unlawful.

Severson was taken to jail.

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