PONCE DE LEON, FL – A Florida man will serve prison time after pleading guilty to an assault on a sheriff’s deputy during a chaotic scene at a spring music festival.
James Michael Anderson, 37, was charged with aggravated battery following an incident at Sol Fest, an electronic dance music and arts festival held in Ponce de Leon in May 2024. Accusations stated Anderson bit an unnamed Holmes County deputy on the head, severely wounding him, and attempted to seize the officer’s firearm.
Holmes County Chief Prosecutor Jacob Cook described the injury as the most extreme bite wound he had encountered in his career. Despite the severity, the deputy has since recovered from his injuries and returned to duty, though he bears significant scarring from the attack.
During the festival, Anderson and 67 others were apprehended on various charges, predominantly drug-related, involving substances such as marijuana and MDMA. The event drew over 10,000 attendees, but the disorder led to a crackdown, resulting in legal ramifications for the festival promoter and new regulations relating to outdoor events.
A judge sentenced Anderson to six years in prison and an additional decade on felony probation following his guilty plea. Prosecutors were prepared to present the deputy’s testimony at trial, but Anderson’s admission preempted the need for such proceedings.
The repercussions of Sol Fest’s chaotic circumstances have echoed through Holmes County, prompting revisions in local policies to govern future large-scale gatherings. These developments aim to enhance safety and prevent incidents, according to State Attorney Larry Basford.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the festival, questions remain about the responsibilities of event organizers and the enforcement of safety protocols. The events at Sol Fest have stirred conversations about public safety at large events, the conduct of attendees, and the complexity of managing massive gatherings amid unpredictable behavior.
While Anderson faces his sentence, authorities continue to assess and adapt strategies to better secure similar events in the future, aiming to balance cultural celebrations with public safety concerns.
His conviction marks a significant chapter in the ongoing efforts to ensure safer environments for both participants and law enforcement during large public events.