Staff Report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A 43-year-old man, Diverous Karon Hayes, was taken into custody last night following allegations that he brandished a firearm at another individual. According to reports, a second man accompanying Hayes fired a shot at the intended victim, though the bullet struck the ground instead.

The incident occurred at approximately 9:05 p.m. on October 19, when officers from the Gainesville Police Department responded to a call in the 900 block of SE 23rd Street. Investigations revealed that Hayes, along with an unidentified accomplice, arrived in the area with the latter reportedly intent on assaulting the victim. Hayes allegedly exited their vehicle wielding a small black handgun and directed it at the victim. The accompanying man then took possession of the weapon from Hayes and discharged it, with the shot hitting the ground.

During a police interview after being advised of his rights, Hayes reportedly confessed to seizing the firearm from the second man, acknowledging that the second man had fired towards the ground in the victim’s direction.

Hayes faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and illegal firearm possession due to his status as a convicted felon. His criminal record includes 20 non-violent felony convictions and 10 non-violent misdemeanor convictions. He has served five prison terms, with the latest release occurring in July 2023. Senior Judge Bo Bayer has ordered Hayes to be held without bail pending a hearing. This hearing will address a motion by the State Attorney’s office to keep him in custody without bail until his trial. Should the motion be denied, bail will be determined at that time.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.