Man forces woman to drive around for hours before attacking her, deputies say

Anton Gardner faces several charges in Volusia attack

DeLAND, Fla. – A Volusia County man is facing several charges after investigators say he broke into a woman's car and forced her to drive around for hours before attacking her.

Deputies said the woman was stopped Sunday at the intersection of South Adelle and Beresford avenues in DeLand.

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Investigators said Anton Gardner forced the woman to drive around the city for two hours before stealing her wallet, car keys and cellphone.

Deputies said Gardner also told the woman to perform a sexual act on him and when she refused, he punched her.

The victim was eventually able to get away and call deputies.

Gardner was later arrested.


About the Author:

Cathleigh is a newscast producer and has been with News 6 since 2014. She graduated from the University of North Florida with a degree in communications, with a focus in broadcast journalism. Cathleigh produces the 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. newscasts.

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