Two Volusia County teenagers are facing felony charges after deputies say they were caught on camera beating another person at a bonfire deep in Tiger Bay State Forest. Cody Stripling, 18, and Sebastian Bowers, 19, were arrested in connection with the attack, and investigators say they are still trying to track down other people who were there, including whoever was holding the camera.
Suspects Identified From Video of the Attack
According to WESH, Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood said Stripling and Bowers were identified as the suspects seen on camera beating another person during the bonfire gathering in the state forest. Both men now face charges of aggravated battery, battery by strangulation, and aggravated abuse of a disabled person, the station reports. As reported by WKMG, the two young men were taken into custody in connection with a beating captured on video at the bonfire, according to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office.
The victim told deputies that medical staff had advised him he suffered a concussion and multiple contusions as a result of the beating, per the same account. Deputies also noted the victim had a bloodied mouth when they encountered him.
Search Continues for Others Involved
Detectives say they would still like to speak with others involved in the incident, including the person who filmed it, the outlet notes. It remains unclear how many additional people were present at the bonfire or whether further arrests are expected.
What the Charges Could Mean Legally
Under Florida Statutes, Section 784.045, aggravated battery covers intentionally or knowingly causing great bodily harm, permanent disability or permanent disfigurement, or using a deadly weapon during an assault. A violation of that statute is a second-degree felony under Florida law. The statute also provides that an aggravated-battery offense committed in furtherance of a riot or aggravated riot is ranked one level above its normal sentencing level.
