Lithia-Mann is accused of attacking two women after a political dispute

LITHIA, Fla. – A 71-year-old man is behind bars after officials said he attacked two women following a political argument Tuesday afternoon in Lithia.

At approximately 12:30 p.m. on November 5, authorities arrived at the corner of Fishhawk Crossing Boulevard and Dorman Road after receiving a report of a fight. The location is also down the street south of the Palmetto Club at the Fishhawk Ranch polling place.

After an investigation, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) said Stuart McMillan and two women had a disagreement about political candidates. The discussion then escalated and McMillan began attacking the two women.

HCSO said the 71-year-old man pulled one of the women's flags to the ground and then grabbed her by her hair and neck. The other women intervened after trying to help, but McMillan rushed at them and grabbed her by the throat as well.

Officers said they were able to arrest McMillan and charged him with two counts of assault.

“Our community is based on respect and understanding, even when opinions differ.“ Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “Violence has no place in our community and we will hold accountable anyone who disrupts the safety and civility of our neighborhoods here in Hillsborough County.”