A 39-year-old Marathon man was arrested Thursday for punching another man in the face and knocking out two front teeth.
Ronald Bryan Barton was charged with aggravated battery causing bodily harm or disability.
Middle Keys Deputy Matthew Corey was flagged down about 9:30 a.m. on July 4 by two men at 15th Street and U.S. 1. One of the men had swollen lips and dried blood around his mouth. He explained that on July 3 about 10 p.m., he was sitting on a crate at the same location drinking a beer. A man known to him as Ron approached him carrying a bottle of rum in one hand and a beer in the other. The man said the attacker mumbled something and then suddenly punched him in the face. The punch was described as an undercut and caused two of the victim’s two front teeth to fall out. The victim said there was no reason for the punch and that he wished to press charges.
Deputy Cory investigated and found Barton. The Deputy called Barton and he agreed to meet. Barton admitting to punching the man.
Warrants were issued for Barton. He was charged on Thursday.