The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of a man following an altercation stemming from an argument over political candidates. HCSO reports that deputies responded to the corner of Fishhawk Crossing Boulevard and Dorman Road in Lithia around 12:30 p.m. on November 5, 2024.

Police claim an altercation had taken place between the suspect, 71-year-old Stuart James McMillan, and two women. Deputies say that there was a disagreement over political candidates.

The disagreement reportedly escalated and led to McMillan becoming physical with both women. HCSO alleges that McMillan pulled one of the victim’s flags to the ground and grabbed her hair and throat.

The second victim attempted to help. HCSO alleges McMillan proceeded to charge at her and also grabbed her by the throat. HCSO says the incident occurred down the street south of the Palmetto Club at the Fishhawk Ranch polling location where the victims and suspect were expressing their freedom of speech.

McMillan is charged with Battery x2.