A woman in Florida has been arrested and charged after a shocking video surfaced showing her attacking a staff member at a Planet Fitness gym. The incident, which took place on December 12, has sparked outrage and calls for more serious charges.
The Shocking Altercation Caught on Camera
According to an arrest report obtained by the Daily Mail, Miami police were initially called to the Planet Fitness location regarding a woman "running without clothing." Upon arrival, officers found Kiara Bryant, 35, causing a significant disturbance in the car park, yelling profanities at bystanders.
An employee told police that Bryant had been inside the gym "for a while," being disorderly and yelling in the locker room. When she exited, the worker informed her she needed to lower her voice or leave the premises, or he would contact the police. This request allegedly triggered Bryant's violent outburst.
A Violent Escalation and Hospitalised Victim
The police report states that Bryant became irate and got in the employee's face, leading him to push her away in self-defence. The situation rapidly deteriorated. Video footage appears to show Bryant climbing over the front desk counter into a staff-only area, taunting the worker before allegedly punching him "repeatedly" in the nose with a closed fist.
After the assault, Bryant reportedly left the building and attempted to flee in her car. She was confronted by bystanders, at which point she got out of the vehicle and attempted to "fight everyone." Police later arrested Bryant without incident. She was released from jail after posting a $150 bond.
The victim's lawyer, Alecsander Kohn, told CBS News Miami that his client was hospitalised with a broken nose and severe emotional distress. Kohn argues the current misdemeanor charges of battery and disorderly conduct are insufficient. "This would be a case of felony battery," he stated, expressing hope for modified charges that reflect the severity of the injuries.
Gym Chain Responds and Broader Implications
In a statement, Planet Fitness confirmed they have cooperated fully with law enforcement. "The safety of our employees and members is our top priority, and we have zero tolerance for violence of any kind in our clubs," the statement read. The franchise group involved has cancelled Bryant's membership.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about violence against service workers and the challenges of maintaining safe environments in public spaces. The case continues as the victim's legal team pushes for upgraded charges against Kiara Bryant.
