These columns list arrests and not convictions, unless otherwise stated. Anyone listed here who is later found not guilty or has had the charges against them dropped is welcome to inform this newspaper. The information will be confirmed and printed.
Smith sentenced to three years probation for attacking health care workers...
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OKEECHOBEE — Dayne Smith was sentenced to three years probation after pleading no contest to two counts battery on emergency care providers. Smith was arrested in September 2020 after attacking hospital employees who were attempting to treat him.
On Sept. 14 at approximately 3:15 p.m., Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Deputy Kenneth Hernandez was dispatched to Raulerson Hospital in regards to a disturbance in progress. According to the arrest report, there were two emergency room employees injured in the fracas. One of the employees, a registered nurse, told the deputy he was assisting with an IV when Smith swung at him. The nurse moved back, and Smith kicked him in the face. When the nurse moved back in, he was kicked again.
The second staff member said she was working with the nurse when Smith suddenly began cursing and started kicking and waving his arms around. As they tried to calm him down, Smith tried to bite her arm. She was able to avoid him the first time, but in his second attempt, he succeeded.
Smith was transferred to another hospital for further treatment but was arrested upon his release. When asked why he attacked the health care workers, he said he was intoxicated that day and did not remember anything about it.
