A Palm Beach County Fire Rescue firefighter was arrested Saturday, Oct. 24, after a domestic disturbance at the South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beach, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. Christopher D. Pica, 43, is charged with domestic touch or strike, according to court documents.
A deputy responded to the fairgrounds at 9067 Southern Boulevard after a report of a domestic disturbance. The deputy said the victim was upset and sitting on the ground when police arrived. The victim told the deputy that the argument with Pica became physical after the two had been arguing through the evening, and that Pica appeared to be intoxicated. The couple had gathered to celebrate Pica’s birthday, and the victim said they share a child but are not in a relationship.
Accounts differ on what happened next. The victim said Pica grabbed their throat and pinned them against a car, and that they kicked him in the face. A witness told deputies they saw Pica push the victim against the vehicle. Pica told the deputy he pushed the victim but denied placing his hands on the victim’s neck or forehead. Pica had a cut on his lip.
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue said Pica told the department of his legal situation on Monday, Oct. 26, and that he has been placed on administrative leave with pay. The agency declined to discuss the open case.
At a court hearing Sunday, Oct. 25, a judge ordered Pica not to have contact with the victim. Jail records show he was released Sunday afternoon.
