GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Josiah D-ante Lee Smith, 26, was arrested yesterday after authorities said he entered a Gainesville apartment without permission while carrying a sword and threatened one of the occupants.
Click here to watch video of Smith’s apprehension.
According to Alachua County Sheriff’s deputies, Smith was still holding the sword and standing in what they described as an aggressive posture when they arrived at Santa Fe Trace Apartments, located at 3410 SW 91st Street. Deputies ordered him to drop the weapon, but authorities said he refused. They ultimately took him into custody using less-lethal tactics, though he allegedly continued struggling with deputies after being detained.
The alleged victim told investigators that Smith entered the apartment after the resident unlocked the door and forced his way inside. Smith allegedly pointed the sword at him and demanded to speak with his brother. Fearing for his safety, the victim said he was driven from the apartment by Smith, who continued wielding the weapon.
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Smith faces charges of armed burglary, armed kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and resisting an officer without violence. He has no prior criminal convictions. Judge Adam Lee ordered Smith held without bail while the court considers a motion by the State Attorney’s Office seeking to keep him jailed without bail through trial. If that request is denied, the judge will determine bail at the hearing.