TexasCHLforum.com

Rhonda Erskine, Online Content Producer
Created: 1/15/2008 2:19:49 PM
Updated: 1/16/2008 5:11:58 PM

MIRIMAR, FL (NBC) -- A long wait in a supermarket check-out line was too much for one Florida city commissioner to take. Surveillance video showing former Miramar commissioner Fitzroy Salesman pulling out a gun during an argument over the long line was released this week. The confrontation broke out inside a crowded Winn-Dixie on November 21st. The surveillance released by the Broward State Attorney's Office shows Salesman pulling out a gun and pointing it at another customer near the store's front entrance. Other shoppers in the grocery store are seen at a standstill during the confrontation.
The 50-year-old Salesman was standing in line when witnesses said he was irritated by the wait. He reportedly got into an argument with an 18-year-old about being in the express checkout lane. Witnesses said the victim asked if Salesman wanted to take it outside. Instead, Salesman pulled out a .45-caliber handgun.
Salesman's attorney said that his client was defending himself, and because there was no audio on the surveillance released, only one side of the story has been told. Salesman, who has a concealed weapons permit, was charged with aggravated assault with a firearm. Florida Governor Charlie Crist suspended Salesman nearly one month after the incident. The Miramar City Commission approved a special election for March 11 to replace Salesman's seat. If convicted Salesman could face up to five years in prison for the third-degree felony.
NBC