A Florida gubernatorial candidate is facing serious legal issues following an incident involving alleged assaults on his elderly parents. Kevin Cichowski, aged 46, was arrested after authorities responded to a distress call made from his parent’s residence in Palm Coast on 10 April. According to police reports, the elderly couple claimed that Cichowski had physically attacked them, prompting their decision to call emergency services.
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The couple, who were reportedly hiding in a bedroom during the ordeal, alleged that Cichowski struck one parent with a cane and hurled a cellphone at the other. In addition to these violent acts, they disclosed that he had threatened them with a firearm and had made multiple threats on their lives. Authorities noted that Cichowski had also threatened to kill law enforcement should they be called to the scene.
Upon the arrival of deputies, the elderly individuals expressed their fear and inability to leave the premises due to one parent being bedridden. In a coordinated effort, the deputies managed to escort the couple out of harm’s way before detaining Cichowski outside the residence. Bodycam footage from the arrest reveals him expressing disbelief over the situation, stating, “I can’t believe this is happening. Just don’t let me die,” and claiming that his father had attempted to harm him earlier that day.
As he was led away in handcuffs, Cichowski maintained his innocence, exclaiming, “I haven’t done anything wrong. This is insane.” Notably, he mentioned his political aspirations by saying, “Well, I was running for governor.” These statements provide a glimpse into his mindset during the confrontation with law enforcement.
During the transport to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, Cichowski made alarming comments regarding self-harm. As a precaution, he was placed into protective custody under Florida’s Baker Act, which allows for the involuntary commitment of individuals deemed to be a danger to themselves or others.
Cichowski now faces multiple charges, including two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, two counts of battery against a person over the age of 65, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, tampering with a witness, and two counts of robbery by sudden snatching. Additionally, the police report indicates that Cichowski has a prior arrest record dating back to 2024, which includes charges of domestic battery, domestic battery by strangulation, and false imprisonment.
Sheriff Rick Staly of Flagler County expressed relief following the arrests, highlighting the importance of ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals. He commended the efforts of law enforcement personnel in effectively de-escalating what could have been a potentially lethal situation.
Cichowski is currently being held at the Sheriff’s facility, and as of the latest reports, it remains unclear if he has engaged legal representation to advocate on his behalf. His political career has seen ups and downs; prior to his current campaign for governor, he made an unsuccessful bid for the mayoralty in Palm Coast in 2021.
This incident raises not only questions about his personal conduct but also about the implications for his political aspirations as he continues to run for an influential position. With the allegations against him and the serious nature of the charges, Cichowski’s future—both legally and politically—remains uncertain. As investigations continue, many will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds.