The incident occurred on February 16th, 2023 in Sarasota, Florida.
Sarasota, FL – A woman was assaulted outside the Quick Stop Food Stores on February 13, 2023, after denying entry to a suspect who was loitering in the parking lot. The suspect, later identified as Melissa Vandyke, was issued a Notice to Appear for simple battery after an altercation with the victim, who was attempting to begin her work shift.
Incident Overview
According to the victim, she arrived at work at 322 N Orange Ave and found Vandyke lying in the parking lot wrapped in a purple comforter. She asked Vandyke to leave, but the suspect instead moved to the sidewalk near the store’s entrance and lay down again. After repeated requests to leave, Vandyke stated that she wanted something to drink but had no money. When the victim refused her entry, Vandyke forcefully pushed past her, striking her hard enough that she almost fell.
After the victim threatened to call the police, Vandyke left the store premises. The victim later confirmed that she wanted to pursue charges for the assault.
Investigation and Arrest
When officers arrived on the scene, they interviewed the involved parties and reviewed security footage, which corroborated the victim’s account of the incident. The footage was uploaded for evidence, and Vandyke, who had returned to the parking lot after officers arrived, was issued a Notice to Appear for simple battery under Florida Statute 784.03(1)(a)(1). Officers informed her that signing the notice was not an admission of guilt but a legal agreement to appear in court on March 7, 2023.
Although the victim did not require medical attention, she was provided with a Victim’s Rights Brochure, a Marsy’s Law pamphlet, and a Victim Notification Card. Due to Vandyke’s prior arrest history and the nature of the crime, she did not qualify for a diversion program and was required to attend court.
Case Disposition
Vandyke left the area on foot without further incident. Law enforcement officials closed and inactivated the case following the issuance of the Notice to Appear. Authorities continue to monitor such incidents and urge businesses to report any disturbances or safety concerns in public areas.
