Florida Couple Faces Felony Charges After Pickleball Dispute Turns Violent
A Florida couple was arrested after a seemingly friendly pickleball game escalated into a massive brawl involving nearly two dozen country club members, leading to multiple injuries and felony charges. The incident occurred at the Spruce Creek Country Club in Port Orange, Florida, and has drawn significant attention due to the violent nature of the altercation.
Details of the Incident
According to an online arrest affidavit filed by the Volusia Sheriff's Office and reported by People magazine, Anthony Sapienza, 63, and his wife, Julianne Sapienza, 51, were involved in the altercation. The dispute began during a pickleball game when Anthony accused the opposing players of stepping into the kitchen, which is the restricted area on the court designed to prevent aggressive net play.
The situation quickly deteriorated as verbal insults were exchanged between the parties. After the match concluded, Anthony reportedly yelled an offensive remark at the other couple as they were walking away. This prompted the husband to confront Anthony, leading to a physical confrontation.
Violence Escalates
Anthony allegedly approached the husband and punched him on the left side of the face before striking him with a pickleball paddle, causing significant bleeding that required hospital treatment for a laceration above the victim's left eye. When the victim's wife attempted to intervene and help her husband, Anthony is accused of forcefully pushing her to the ground.
A 70-year-old bystander tried to break up the fight but was reportedly punched in the face by Anthony, causing his nose to bleed profusely. Another witness told police she called 911 after witnessing Anthony punch the other husband and hit him with the pickleball paddle as both men fell to the ground.
Emergency Response and Arrests
Deputies responded to the scene at approximately 11 a.m. on February 8 after receiving reports of a physical fight in progress on the pickleball court involving over 20 individuals. Fire and rescue personnel were also called to the scene to attend to physical injuries sustained during the brawl.
The Sapienzas fled the scene but were later arrested based on charges brought by the 70-year-old who had attempted to intervene. Julianne faces a charge of felony battery on a person 65 years of age or older, while Anthony was arrested on two counts of felony battery as well as aggravated battery causing bodily harm.
Legal Proceedings
In charging documents, assistant state attorney Danielle Fields accused Anthony of intentionally causing bodily harm to the victim and using the pickleball paddle as a deadly weapon. A hearing has been scheduled for March 3 to address the charges against both individuals.
This incident highlights how recreational sports disputes can quickly escalate into serious violent confrontations, resulting in criminal charges and significant legal consequences for those involved.
