UPDATE: The plea deal that allowed Tyler Feight, a 26-year-old man accused of attempting to rape a jogger in College Park, to avoid a formal conviction is now under intense scrutiny. The Orange-Osceola State Attorney’s Office confirmed on November 20, 2023 that the decision is under review, following public outcry over Feight’s release.
Feight was arrested on April 10 for allegedly attacking a woman as she jogged around 4 a.m. near the 1800 block of Northumberland Avenue. He received credit for 255 days already served in jail and was released on probation after pleading no contest to felony battery. This plea deal mandates he undergo “psychosexual evaluation and treatment,” prohibits contact with the victim, and restricts him from a three-block area around the attack site.
The decision to withhold adjudication, which means Feight avoids a formal conviction, has sparked outrage within the College Park community. Residents expressed their concerns in a Facebook group, questioning how he could be released given his troubling history, including previous arrests for similar charges. “How is he out?!?!” one resident exclaimed, while another warned, “Literally avoid him at all costs!!!”
In a statement, the State Attorney’s Office acknowledged that the decision made by Assistant State Attorney Zachary Cole is being reviewed for potential oversight. “The prosecutor’s supervisors have been notified and will review the matter and take appropriate personnel action,” the statement read. However, unless Feight violates his probation, the decision cannot be reversed.
Feight’s criminal history includes a 2022 conviction for armed trespassing and aggravated assault, following an incident at Orlando International Airport. He also faced charges in connection with unwanted touching incidents at a local store and multiple domestic battery cases. His pattern of behavior has many in the neighborhood worried for their safety.
Officials urge anyone observing violations of Feight’s probation to report them by contacting the probation office at 407-245-0701. As the review unfolds, the community remains on high alert, grappling with the implications of this controversial plea deal.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
