FL Man Threatened Workers Restoring Power After Hurricane: Sheriff

THONOTOSASSA, FL — A man faces charges for threatening utility workers restoring power after Hurricane Milton, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Kenneth Velasco, 57, became impatient Tuesday around 3 p.m. as power line crews worked to restore power to McIntosh Road and Tomar Drive in Thonotosassa, partially blocking the road and causing a traffic delay.

He backed his vehicle into a utility pole and fence, causing $1,000 in damages, the sheriff’s office said. He then tried to leave the scene.

When the utility workers tried to prevent Velasco from leaving, he repeatedly threatened to shoot the linemen, HCSO said. He drove toward the linemen, who had to jump out of the way.

Deputies spotted Velasco’s vehicle in the area and pulled him over.

He was arrested and charged with aggravated assault and felony criminal mischief for vandalism of property.

"Linemen have been working tirelessly to restore power after the storm. For this person to threaten their lives and deliberately endanger them, all because of a traffic delay, shows a disturbing lack of regard for the safety of others and the critical work being done," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "We're grateful no one was seriously hurt, and this suspect will face the full extent of the law for his egregious crimes."