CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. – Paul David Badovinac, 41, of Homosassa, was formally charged Monday with attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer following a violent encounter on August 8th, 2024, that resulted in a deputy from the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) using deadly force.
The incident, which began with a pursuit related to a felony battery charge on an elderly victim, escalated dramatically in a wooded area where Badovinac attempted to disarm the deputy.
Deputies had been investigating Badovinac for his alleged involvement in a felony battery case. When deputies located him at a residence on West Jarovi Court in Homosassa, Badovinac fled on foot.
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The chase led to a remote, heavily wooded area off West Linden Drive, where a physical confrontation ensued. During the struggle, Badovinac attempted to seize the deputy’s firearm and subsequently armed himself with a knife, posing an immediate threat to the officer. The deputy responded by discharging his weapon twice, effectively neutralizing the threat.
Following the incident, Badovinac received first aid on-site before being hospitalized for his injuries. He was later moved to the Pasco County Jail for a probation violation and the initial felony charge.
On Monday, he was relocated to the Citrus County Detention Facility, facing additional charges, including depriving an officer of means of protection or communication and resisting with violence. Badovinac is currently being held without bond.
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Sheriff Michael Prendergast commended the deputy involved, stating, “Deputies put their lives on the line each and every day. This deputy’s training, self-awareness, and grit kept him one step ahead of the suspect’s actions, which led to the use of deadly force.”
The sheriff affirmed the department’s commitment to work with the Fifth Judicial Court to ensure Badovinac remains in custody and away from the public.
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