Article By David Lindfield
A Democrat candidate for governor in Florida was arrested after authorities say he violently attacked his elderly parents inside their home, according to law enforcement officials.
Kevin Cichowski, who is running to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), faces a series of serious charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery, battery on a person over 65, witness tampering, and robbery by sudden snatching.
The charges were revealed in a press release from the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
Violent Incident Inside Family Home
The incident occurred on April 10 at the family’s residence in Palm Coast, Florida.
Deputies arrived at the residence in response to a reported disturbance.
According to a charging affidavit, Cichowski’s mother, Christine Cichowski, who is bedridden, called 911.
She reported that her son had assaulted both her and her husband, Stanley Cichowski.
The mother told dispatchers that Cichowski struck his father with a cane and threw a phone at her head.
The assaults left both victims bleeding.
Investigators said the confrontation began the night before when the younger Cichowski unplugged the television because he wanted to go to bed.
When his father attempted to reconnect it, Cichowski allegedly struck him with the cane.
When his mother attempted to call 911, Cichowski allegedly took her phone and hit her in the head with it, causing a laceration and later a contusion.
Authorities say the situation escalated further when Cichowski threw a remote control at his mother and slapped her.
Alleged Threats with Firearm
At one point, Stanley Cichowski retrieved a revolver for protection, according to the affidavit.
However, deputies say Kevin Cichowski took the firearm from his father, struck him with it, pointed it at him, and threatened to kill both of his parents.
He also allegedly threatened to shoot responding law enforcement officers in the legs.
After Cichowski left the room, his father locked the door, allowing Christine to successfully call 911.
Deputies later found the couple hiding in a bedroom and ordered Cichowski to surrender.
Arrest and Statements
During his arrest, Cichowski denied wrongdoing, telling officers:
“I haven’t done anything wrong. This is insane.”
While being transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, deputies said Cichowski made suicidal statements.
He was placed into protective custody under Florida’s Baker Act, which provides emergency mental health services.
Prior Arrest Raises Questions
Court documents show that Cichowski had a prior arrest in 2024 for kidnapping and domestic battery by strangulation involving his wife.
He was not convicted in that case.
Cichowski previously ran for mayor of Palm Coast in 2021 before launching his current gubernatorial campaign.
What Comes Next
Cichowski is scheduled to appear for arraignment on May 5, according to court records.
The case adds to growing scrutiny surrounding the candidate as he faces multiple felony charges tied to allegations of violence against family members.
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