13-year-old arrested at Hamlin Starbucks

A 13-year-old boy is being charged with battery on a law enforcement officer and trespassing after a warning following an incident that took place Friday, March 8, at the Starbucks in Hamlin. 

The young boy, who the Orange Observer is choosing not to identify because he is a minor, was arrested after he allegedly battered a deputy during a protest by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Office. 

A video from PETA officials shows the boy appearing to throw an unknown liquid at an officer before being pushed up against a table, handcuffed and taken into custody.

Deputies said the incident took place at around 1 p.m. at the coffee shop located at 16065 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden.

The arrests took place during a protest inside the store involving about 15 people over what PETA said was the 70-cent upcharge for ordering vegan milk substitutes. 

Posts from those who observed the incident on social media said protesters  were handing out pamphlets and chanting inside the store.

Officers said Starbucks management wanted the protesters to be trespassed after refusing to leave the store, and they wanted to press charges. The arrests took place while deputies said they were attempting to "peacefully remove" the protestors.

The OCSO reported the boy's mother, Shannon Blair, and her boyfriend, Wesley Hucker, also refused to leave. Hucker committed a trespass after warning and was arrested before being transported to the Orange County Jail.

Hucker is scheduled to appear in court March 27.

This is a developing story. Please check back soon for more updates.