MARTIN COUNTY — Brian Thomas Leach, accused of attacking his landlord June 24, was taken into custody June 26, after being released from the hospital, according to sheriff’s officials.
Charges: Leach, 69, of the 1000 block of Northeast Oceanview Circle in Jensen Beach, was charged with attempted felony murder, resisting arrest with violence, and criminal mischief $1,000 or more, according to his arrest affidavit.
He is in the Martin County Jail without bond.
Is attempted felony murder the same as attempted murder? Attempted murder is an attempt to cause death, and attempted felony murder is an attempt to commit a felony, during which an injury or death happens. A death may not have been intended. In Florida, attempted felony murder is a second-degree felony, whereas attempted murder is a first-degree felony, according to Florida Statutes.
What happened: Leach is accused of attacking and causing severe injuries to his landlord, a woman, 68, he had dated at one time. Martin County Sheriff’s Maj. Ruben Romero said the attack happened when she entered his apartment for a dinner invite, and he learned she was planning to evict him.
He said Leach also attempted to harm himself with a knife during the encounter, for which he was hospitalized.
What’s next: A prosecutor has not been assigned to the case yet, according to the State Attorney’s Office. Leach does not have an attorney and is representing himself, according to the Martin County Clerk of Courts.
The landlord was hospitalized as of June 27 and is continuing to recover from her injuries. The investigation remains active, sheriff’s officials said.
Olivia Franklin is a breaking news reporter for TCPalm. Follow Olivia on X @Livvvvv_5 or reach her by phone at 317-627-8048. E-mail her at olivia.franklin@tcpalm.com.
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Jensen Beach man jailed without bond; charged with attempted felony murder
Reporting by Olivia Franklin, Treasure Coast Newspapers / Treasure Coast Newspapers
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