Only in St. Pete: Man Arrested for Committing Aggravated Assault with a Firearm Against the Newspaper Delivery Man

In another one-of-a-kind story that makes us all wonder why we continue to live in the Tampa Bay area, Eddie Lee Burney, 60, of St. Petersburg, was arrested for Aggravated Assault with a Firearm after he jumped out from behind a tree, at 5:25 a.m., and a pointed a loaded, chrome .38 special at his St. Petersburg Times delivery man.

Apparently Burney was known to make frequent complaints that his morning newspaper was being stolen. Taking matters into his own hands, Burney yelled “come get this newspaper” while placing his hand on the weapon and taking an “aggressive stance” towards the victim.

For his part, Burney is being charged with Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, a third degree felony in the State of Florida that is punishable by up to five years in prison. Burney will also have to deal with the three (3) year minimum/mandatory prison sentence that is required under Florida’s 10/20/LIFE law.

The Blake & Dorsten, P.A. in Clearwater handles Crimes of Violence throughout the State of Florida. If you’ve been charged with a Firearm or Weapons Offense, Florida’s 10/20/LIFE law provides for some of the toughest penalties in the country.

Allow us to use our training and experience to help you on your case. If your criminal case requires an experienced and aggressive, yet affordable, representation – the Blake & Dorsten, P.A. in Clearwater will be there for you. 365/24/7. Contact us at 727.286.6141.

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