JACKSONVILLE, FL – The past actions of Demario Grant, a man with a history of violent offenses, have come under scrutiny following a recent incident that resulted in the fatal shooting of a Jacksonville correctional officer. Grant, whose criminal record stretches back to 2015, has faced numerous charges, including kidnapping, assault by strangulation, and assault on a law enforcement officer, both in Florida and North Carolina.
In 2021, an argument over an extra charge for barbecue sauce at a Jacksonville fast-food restaurant escalated into a violent confrontation. Margaret Gilbert, a former employee at the establishment, recounted the harrowing encounter with Grant. According to Gilbert, Grant became aggressive after being told there was an additional fee for the sauce. This disagreement quickly turned physical, with Grant pushing a manager to the ground and brandishing what appeared to be a firearm.
The incident led to Grant being charged with aggravated assault, battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and providing a false name to law enforcement. However, prosecutors later dropped the firearm charge, determining the gun was not real. Grant subsequently pleaded guilty to the assault charges and served a year in jail in Florida before being extradited to North Carolina to face further charges.
Gilbert, reflecting on the 2021 incident, described Grant as having a short temper and expressed concern that his previous actions should have warranted stricter custody measures. “He definitely had anger issues,” she said, emphasizing the fear she felt during the confrontation.
The recent shooting of the correctional officer has reignited discussions about Grant’s criminal history and the justice system’s handling of his previous offenses. Many are questioning whether earlier intervention could have prevented the tragic outcome.
Grant appeared before a judge in Gaston County, North Carolina, where he remains held without bond, facing serious charges related to the recent shooting. The case continues to unfold, drawing attention to the complexities of managing repeat offenders within the legal system.
As the community grapples with the repercussions of this latest incident, the spotlight remains on Grant’s past and the circumstances that led to his continued freedom despite a history of violent behavior.