MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – A Marion County man is facing multiple felony charges following a violent outburst at a weekend birthday party.
Blake Brannon Lay, 35, was arrested on June 14 after deputies say he assaulted several people during the incident, including a child. According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), a woman told deputies that Lay grabbed her by the throat, slammed her to the ground, and choked her. When her husband tried to intervene, Lay allegedly punched him in the face repeatedly.
Another woman at the party told deputies she walked into a bedroom after hearing screaming and saw Lay grab an infant, swing the child through the air, and toss him into a bassinet before turning on her.
Deputies say a third woman reported being punched in the mouth by Lay. When she tried to call 911, he reportedly smashed her phone and began throwing food – pizza, watermelon – and party decorations at the wall.
Deputies say they found Lay outside the home wearing only underwear, drenched in sweat and appearing intoxicated. He denied all allegations, claiming he was the one who had been attacked.
Lay faces charges including battery by strangulation, child abuse without great bodily harm, criminal mischief, and battery. His next court date is set for July 15, 2025.