Bradenton suspect said he shoved 70-year-old man because he's 'country'

MANATEE -- A Bradenton man was charged with pushing a 70-year-old man onto a concrete walkway at 5:35 p.m. Christmas Eve, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Joshua A. Cox, 18, was arrested near his apartment in the 4500 block of Third Street Circle West. Deputies said Cox and the victim, who are neighbors, argued about trash being left out.

A witness told deputies Cox was yelling at the victim, who did not yell back. When the victim turned to go inside, the witness said Cox pushed him from behind and he fell down.

Deputies said the victim received abrasions on his arm and leg.

After his arrest, Cox told deputies he was following the victim, who then turned around and pushed Cox. Cox said he had to take two steps back after being pushed and then followed the victim up the stairs and pushed him "because I'm country. I was raised that when someone puts their hands on you, you put your hands on them," according to the report.

Cox was charged with battery on a person 65 years of age or older, according to the sheriff's office website. He was released the same day from Manatee County jail on $1,500 bond.

This story was originally published December 25, 2015 at 5:46 PM with the headline "Bradenton suspect said he shoved 70-year-old man because he's 'country' ."