DeLand, FL – A 36-year-old man from Florida is back behind bars, just days after being released from jail, after allegedly choking a 13-year-old boy at a school bus stop in DeLand. The suspect is now facing aggravated child abuse and aggravated assault charges following the disturbing incident that occurred on January 20, 2026.

Reports indicate that the man approached the young victim as he waited for his school bus, grabbed him by the throat, and began to punch him repeatedly. In a terrifying escalation, the suspect allegedly threatened other bystanders with a knife before intervening Good Samaritans stepped in to stop the attack. One brave bystander used a toolbox to restrain the suspect until police arrived at the scene.

The victim, who suffered cuts and scrapes, is expected to recover physically, but the emotional impact of the violent assault remains uncertain. Authorities commended the actions of the bystanders who prevented a worse outcome, calling their quick thinking and bravery critical in bringing the situation to a safe conclusion.

What makes this case even more concerning is that the suspect had been released from jail just a week earlier, after unrelated charges against him were dropped. Authorities are now questioning how such a violent individual was allowed to walk free so soon, especially given his history of aggression.