Deputies say woman hit Monroe County deputy during Big Pine Key arrest

A late-night stop at Pine Channel Park on Big Pine Key turned violent when deputies say Julie Marie Graham hit a Monroe County deputy during a drug-related encounter after refusing orders, trying to walk away and struggling with the officer.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said the deputy was patrolling the park just before 10:30 p.m. Saturday and saw Graham, 43, of Port Charlotte, sitting on a bench after the park had closed for the night. Deputies said drug paraphernalia was in plain view beside her, leading to the contact and a request that she identify herself and follow commands.

According to investigators, Graham refused to provide identification and then resisted as the encounter escalated. During the struggle, deputies say she grabbed and struck the deputy, knocking the deputy’s glasses off. No serious injuries were reported, and Graham was medically cleared at Lower Keys Medical Center on Stock Island before being taken to jail.

She faces battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, tampering with evidence and being in a park after hours. Under Florida Statute 784.07, battery on a law enforcement officer is reclassified, making it more serious than a simple battery charge.

The arrest happened at Pine Channel Nature Park, 29550 Overseas Highway, a public recreation area that includes benches, restrooms, picnic areas, a kayak and canoe hand-launch area and an 11-foot viewing deck. Monroe County says the park is open daily from 7:30 a.m. until a half-hour past sunset, and county parks and beaches generally close at sunset unless otherwise noted. The deputy’s contact just before 10:30 p.m. came well after those posted hours.

The case adds to recent Monroe County Sheriff’s Office arrests drawing attention across the Keys, including other incidents involving alleged violence and disruptive behavior. For residents and visitors who use Pine Channel Park during the day, the arrest underscored how quickly an after-hours stop can become a safety issue for deputies and for anyone still in the park after dark.