Authorities in Florida are searching for a man who assaulted an elderly individual leaving a Walmart in early October, according to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. In a separate incident, a former “Officer of the Month” in central Florida is now facing felony charges after allegedly breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s apartment and strangling her. The accused officer, Christopher Bivins, unexpectedly encountered his 25-year-old ex-girlfriend at a nightclub in Gainesville, Florida on October 27 while off duty. The couple shares a child together, according to the arrest affidavit obtained by FOX 35 Orlando.
The evening started off on a positive note, with Bivins reportedly paying for a section of the club for his ex-girlfriend and her friends. However, the situation took a turn when an argument ensued between Bivins and the woman. They eventually left the club in separate vehicles. On the way to her apartment, the victim received multiple calls about someone attempting to gain access to her apartment complex.
Upon arriving at her apartment, the woman noticed Bivins’ black pickup truck parked across the street and found her apartment in disarray. The door frame was visibly damaged, and the front door was left open. Inside, Bivins was waiting for her. The victim recounted to the police that Bivins forcefully grabbed her neck, threw her to the floor, and strangled her until she almost lost consciousness. She managed to escape to her mother’s home after Bivins released his grip.
Bivins was subsequently apprehended by responding officers. He claimed to have been intoxicated and only remembered parking his truck near the victim’s apartment complex. He now faces charges of battery by strangulation, burglary, grand theft, and property damage.
Just months prior to this incident, Bivins had been voted as “Officer of the Month” in August. He was also recently recognized for his outstanding work, dedication, and commitment at the City of Gainesville T.E.A.M. Awards Ceremony.
The Gainesville Police Department has not yet responded to requests for comment. Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, a breaking news writer for Digital and Fox Business, contributed to this article.
