Mount Dora Pastor Accused of Elbowing Man in Face During Tavares Confrontation, Charged with Battery on Elderly Person

In a recent incident in Tavares, a Mount Dora pastor, Richard Pughe, 60, has been charged with battery on a person aged 65 or older. The confrontation occurred at Wooton Park, where police were called to address a verbal dispute among family members about parenting. According to the probable cause affidavit, Pughe allegedly approached the family and, during the altercation, struck the alleged victim in the face with his elbow.

The alleged victim recounted that the argument escalated when Pughe began to intimidate him, culminating in the physical strike. However, the victim’s sister suggested that the incident was provoked by the victim’s behavior, implying that he deserved the outcome. Police reviewed camera footage from the park’s gazebo, which reportedly shows Pughe approaching the victim, engaging in conversation, and then striking him with his elbow.

Pughe provided his account of the event to the police, stating that he intervened in the commotion to inquire about the situation. He claimed that the alleged victim called him a derogatory name and that the physical contact occurred when the victim allegedly came up aggressively from behind, leading Pughe to instinctively raise his elbow. According to Pughe, the contact was unintentional, and he later expressed regret for placing himself in the situation, noting that the family had thanked him for intervening.

Following his arrest, Pughe posted a $2,500 bond and was released. As co-founder and pastor of HopeCity Church Mount Dora, Pughe’s involvement in this incident raises questions about accountability and the responsibilities of spiritual leaders. As the community seeks justice and truth, it is essential to remember the biblical call to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God” (Micah 6:8), emphasizing the importance of accountability, repentance, and care for all involved.

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