Winter Garden man arrested in knife threat incident, faces felony assault charge

A 49-year-old man was arrested on Sunday, May 18, in connection with a landlord-tenant dispute that escalated into an alleged knife threat at a residence on Bethune Avenue.

Cedric Duval, was taken into custody by the Winter Garden Police Department and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a third-degree felony. Officers responded to the scene at 788 Bethune Avenue shortly before noon after receiving reports of a disturbance involving multiple individuals.

According to the arrest report, Officer Jacob Lester arrived around 11:30 a.m. and spoke with landlord Winfred Duval, who said he was called to the property by tenant Eddie Windom. Windom claimed that Cedric Duval had entered his room without permission earlier that morning and later confronted him outside while allegedly holding a knife wrapped in a shirt.

Windom, who said he was sitting down at the time, told police he feared for his life as Cedric Duval stood over him and made a threatening remark. Windom retreated inside, changed clothes and contacted his landlord. When he returned outside, he found Cedric Duval and Winfred Duval in a verbal confrontation. Both Windom and Winfred Duval gave sworn written statements to officers at the scene.

Lester attempted to question Cedric Duval, who refused to cooperate and was ultimately placed under arrest. A criminal background check revealed Cedric Duval had a prior conviction for simple assault dating back to 1995.

The incident was captured on Lester’s body-worn camera.

Cedric Duval was booked into the Orange County Jail at 12:14 p.m. Sunday. His bond initially was set at $5,000 but later reduced to $2,500. As a condition of release, Cedric Duval must have no contact with the victim, co-defendants or witnesses; must not possess or consume alcohol or illegal substances; and is prohibited from possessing any weapons or ammunition.

Judge Steve Jewett has been assigned to the case. Cedric Duval is being represented by a public defender and a hearing took place Monday, May 19, at the Orange County Jail.