Sarasota, Florida – A routine response to a domestic battery call took a dangerous turn for Sarasota Police officers. The incident, which unfolded in the 2800 block of Goodrich Avenue around 5:20 pm, involved a suspect identified as Darryl Williams, 36, of Sarasota, and a victim who was five weeks pregnant at the time.
According to the victim’s account, Williams had allegedly subjected her to physical abuse, including grabbing, pulling, and tossing her around her own home. By the time officers arrived, Williams had fled the scene, prompting the issuance of a warrant for aggravated battery against a pregnant woman.
The following day, on Sunday, January 22, 2023, Sarasota Police officers spotted Williams entering the Express Grocery located at 1400 block of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, Sarasota, just before 2:30 pm. Attempting to execute the warrant, officers confronted Williams inside the store. However, Williams resisted arrest and attempted to flee, leading to a struggle that spilled out into the parking lot.
During the altercation, Williams bit one of the Sarasota Police officers, causing severe injuries. Despite efforts by the officer to free herself, Williams refused to release his grip. In response, officers resorted to striking Williams multiple times to force him to relinquish his hold. Eventually, Williams relented, allowing officers to handcuff him.
However, even in custody, Williams continued to resist. He clung to the frame of a patrol car as officers attempted to place him inside. Ignoring commands to desist, Williams further escalated the situation by spitting on another responding officer.
The identities of the officers involved have been withheld under Marsy’s Law, which protects the privacy of crime victims, including law enforcement personnel. The injured officer, an adult woman, suffered significant harm due to the depth of the bite inflicted by Williams.
Williams faces multiple charges, including aggravated battery against a pregnant woman, resisting arrest with violence, and assaulting a law enforcement officer.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily while upholding public safety and enforcing the law.
