A Sanibel man pleaded not guilty to aggravated battery last month after he allegedly struck his longtime girlfriend with his cane and pushed her down on the Shared Use Path. Sanibel Police arrested 79-year-old Judge Dickson on Feb. 2 and he has a case hearing scheduled for April 8.
Dickson and the victim told the responding officer the incident began at an island restaurant when a girlfriend of Dickson came up to their table and spoke with him. The victim said she was uncomfortable with the girlfriend’s presence and repeatedly asked Dickson to stop speaking to her, but he refused.
Dickson told the officer a verbal argument ensued and he left the restaurant to walk home. He stated the victim followed him in a vehicle, pulled over on Sanibel Captiva Road, began walking behind him yelling, then attempted to put her arms around his waist to stop him.
The victim stated Dickson became combative as she approached him on the Shared Use Path and struck her legs with his cane several times before pushing her to the ground when she took his cane. Dickson admitted to striking and pushing the victim, but insisted he was defending himself.
Dickson was released from Lee County Jail the following day on a $5,000 bond and ordered to have no contact with the victim.
This is ridiculous. Sorry, Judge. If you need support, we’re here for you.
Dan & Bridgit
Bridgit, the article did not cover the complete police report. Eyewitnesses, according to the report, stated that Judge was the sole aggressor. The beginning of the report includes Judge’s statement, which is contradicted by the eyewitness statements, the victim’s statement, and other police officer statements. Fact is, only Judge was arrested. It is important to hear both sides of the story, including the woman’s side. BTW, the police report even says that Judge told an officer that he has anger issues. Let’s hope he gets the help he needs. After reading the entire report, I stand with the victim.