‘I’ve shot people for less:’ Florida man threatens crew when furniture delivered late, police say

A Florida man, unhappy when his furniture was delivered later than promised, is accused of pulling a gun on the crew, telling them, "You know, I've shot people for less," according to authorities.

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Mitchell Helton, 55, was charged with two counts of aggravated assault after the Saturday incident, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said in a probable cause affidavit.

According to the affidavit, Furniture Warehouse delivery men Jason Adamson and Jose Marrero called Helton to let him know the furniture he ordered was en route, the Bradenton Herald reported.

When the men arrived, Helton's front door was ajar and Adamson "leaned his head through the threshold" to announce their arrival, according to the affidavit. Helton came outside and said he was angry the furniture had been so late. When Adamson asked if Helton wanted the delivery, he reportedly said "Do whatever you want" and went back into his house, according to the affidavit.

As the men began to unload the furniture, Helton reemerged with a gun and pointed it at both men, reportedly saying, "You know, I've shot people for less," the affidavit said.

The men explained to Helton he could file a complaint and gave him a company information card. They continued to unpack and deliver the furniture, the Herald reported, but called authorities afterward.

Helton told deputies he was startled by someone trying to enter his home and retrieved his weapon to defend himself, according to the affidavit. Helton admitted he took the gun outside to confront the delivery men but could not explain why he did not call 911 if he feared for his safety, the newspaper reported.

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