Port Charlotte Man Accused of Rape and Choking After Meeting Woman at Local Pub
PORT CHARLOTTE, FLORIDA — A 33-year-old Port Charlotte man is facing first-degree sexual battery and battery by strangulation charges after allegedly raping and choking a woman he met at a local pub. Authorities say the man attacked the victim after meeting her at Paddywagon Irish Pub last Friday night.
The suspect, John Reed III, is being held in the Charlotte County Jail without bond, with the court ruling that the crime qualifies as “dangerous” under Florida law. Reed will remain in custody until his trial.
Incident Began After Pub Encounter
According to an arrest affidavit obtained by investigators, Reed met the victim at Paddywagon Irish Pub and later took her back to his residence. Once there, police say the encounter turned violent.
The woman told detectives that Reed choked her to the point of unconsciousness multiple times and sexually assaulted her while she was incapacitated. She recalled sending an “emergency” text message to a friend for help but received no response.
“She remembers him on top of her, choking her to where she could barely breathe,” the report states. “She yelled for him to stop before blacking out again.”
When she regained consciousness, she found herself naked beside Reed, who was also undressed. Her clothing — including her underwear — had been torn and shredded.
Physical Evidence and Injuries
Investigators noted visible bruising on the victim’s neck, chin, and legs, as well as pain and soreness in her vaginal area consistent with assault.
Two days after the incident, the victim reported the attack to authorities. During that time, Reed allegedly sent her multiple messages on Snapchat, apologizing for what had happened and urging her to take Plan B emergency contraception.
When deputies executed a search warrant at Reed’s home, they seized bedsheets and the victim’s torn underwear as evidence.
Suspect’s Statement and Arrest
During questioning, Reed reportedly admitted to choking the woman but claimed he did not understand why he did it, telling detectives that alcohol sometimes makes him violent. He said he was “remorseful” and that his actions were “not his nature.”
Authorities arrested him shortly afterward. At the time of his arrest, investigators say he was carrying a packet of Plan B in his pocket.
Reed later entered a not guilty plea in court.
Court Denies Bond Due to Danger to the Community
The Charlotte County Circuit Court denied Reed’s bond request, citing the violent nature of the alleged attack. Prosecutors argued that the combination of sexual assault and physical strangulation posed a significant threat to public safety.
Under Florida law, strangulation during a sexual assault is considered an aggravating factor that can enhance sentencing if convicted.
Ongoing Investigation by Major Crimes Unit
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate the case. Authorities confirmed that Reed’s electronic devices and digital communications are being examined for additional evidence, including his messages to the victim following the incident.
Officials urge anyone who believes they may have experienced similar encounters to contact the sheriff’s office.
Community Response
The case has stirred outrage in the Port Charlotte community, where residents expressed concern about rising reports of sexual violence in nightlife settings. Local advocacy groups are reminding victims that help is available and urging establishments to promote safer social environments.
The Florida Council Against Sexual Violence offers a 24-hour hotline for victims seeking confidential support or reporting assistance at 1-888-956-7273.
As of Friday, Reed remains in custody awaiting trial.
If you have experienced or witnessed sexual assault, you can find resources and confidential support through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or visit online.rainn.org.
