Bobby Jones, Cocoa police's deputy chief, faces a misdemeanor charge of battery stemming from a December altercation with his former girlfriend.
The State Attorney's Office announced the charge Thursday, issuing a summons that read, in part, Jones "did unlawfully commit battery by actually and intentionally touching or striking said person against said person's will."
An arrest will not be made as arrests are not common in misdemeanor cases. Misdemeanors are typically charged by the summons that was issued Thursday. Jones will have to appear in court once an arraignment date is set. He faces a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine if found guilty.
Cocoa Police spokeswoman Barbara Matthews said Jones remains on paid administrative leave, but said his status is being reviewed.
The altercation occurred Dec. 18 around 4 a.m. near Mainstreet Pub in Melbourne. Police arrived on the scene after being flagged down by a witness. Photographic evidence was obtained.
Court records show a judge granted Jones' former girlfriend, Cara Allain, a restraining order shortly after the incident.
Jones, a 20-year veteran with the department, became deputy chief in 2009. His annual salary is about $72,000, according to city records.
Jones' attorney, Jordan Kramer, did not return a call seeking comment.
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