George Zimmerman released on bond after arrest for throwing a wine bottle at his girlfriend
SANFORD Florida authorities say George Zimmerman, whose acquittal of murdering an unarmed black teen sparked a national debate on race and self-defense laws, has been arrested for allegedly throwing a wine bottle at his girlfriend.
The Seminole County Sheriff's Office says the 31-year-old Zimmerman was arrested for aggravated assault in Lake Mary about 10 p.m. Friday and was held at the John E. Polk Correctional Facility before his release Saturday afternoon on a $5,000 bond.
During a court appearance Saturday morning, Zimmerman's bond was set and he was ordered to avoid contact with the woman who was not identified.
Judge John Galluzzo gave few details of the incident, but said a wine bottle was involved and that the alleged assault happened at Zimmerman's home. Prosecutors questioned whether substance abuse treatment was needed, but the judge said that didn't seem to be a factor.
After the brief hearing, Zimmerman's attorney, Don West, told the Orlando Sentinel his client was arrested after allegedly throwing a wine bottle at his girlfriend several days ago.
Zimmerman was also told by the judge to stay out of Volusia County, where the woman lives.
The judge ordered Zimmerman to pack up any personal belongings his girlfriend may have left at Zimmerman's home and give them to his lawyer.
Zimmerman, who wore blue scrubs and handcuffs, appeared calm during the brief hearing. At one point, he laughed and joked with an officer as he signed paperwork.
Although the incident didn't involve a firearm, the judge ordered Zimmerman to surrender any weapons out of an abundance of caution.
Zimmerman is scheduled to appear back in court on Feb. 17.
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George Zimmerman released on bond after arrest for throwing a wine bottle at his girlfriend