Woman arrested for burning boyfriend  

A 42-year-old Marathon woman was arrested Thursday for lighting bed sheets on fire while her boyfriend was sleeping.

The 24-year-old victim suffered a burn to his foot but had no life-threatening injuries.

Melody Sunshine McCarter was charged with attempted arson resulting in injury to another and battery.

Deputies were called to the 1300 block of Ocean Breeze Avenue in Marathon at approximately 10 p.m. regarding a domestic issue.

The victim and McCarter were outside the residence when the Sheriff’s Office arrived. McCarter appeared to be intoxicated.

The victim stated he and McCarter had an argument. He then went to bed and awoke to find the sheets on fire and McCarter stating she was calling law enforcement.

McCarter admitted to setting the sheets on fire.

McCarter was taken to jail.

Upper Keys-Alcohol Coalition Checks

On July 21, 2022, The Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Division along with the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco conducted an operation checking businesses that sell alcohol in the Upper Keys. Eight businesses were checked. Four of the businesses sold alcohol to a minor during our investigation. The clerks who sold the alcohol were issued a Notice to Appear citation before a Monroe County Judge.

The following businesses sold the alcohol:

  • Circle K gas station, 106501 Overseas Highway, Key Largo
  • Marathon Gas Station, 106200 Overseas Highway, Key Largo
  • Valero Gas Station, 99675 Overseas Highway, Key Largo
  • Denny’s Liquors 99600, Overseas Highway, Key Largo

The store clerks at each location were issued a notice to appear citation for the sale of alcohol to a minor.

The maximum penalties for these violations are up to 60 days in jail, a $500 fine, $235 in court costs, $75 in cost of prosecution, and $40 in cost of investigation against the sales clerk.

The licensee violations are:

1st Offense: $1000 fine and 7-day suspension.

2nd Offense: $3000 fine and 30-day suspension.

3rd Offense: Revocation of license.

The remaining businesses checked were in compliance with the law. This operation was conducted in cooperation with the Monroe County Coalition for a Safe and Drug-Free Community.

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