While in the process of divorce, a determined woman decided to take her estranged husband’s firearms and hand them over to the police. The reaction she received from authorities was unexpected.
As detailed in an arrest affidavit, Joseph Irby from Lakeland followed his estranged wife, Courtney Taylor Irby, out of the courthouse. He then repeatedly rear-ended her car and yelled at her in anger over their divorce. The situation quickly escalated and Courtney contacted the police, terrified for her safety.
Divorces can be messy, and this Florida couple’s situation required legal intervention. Unfortunately, both parties ended up in hot water with the law.
Joseph was arrested, facing charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. During his preliminary hearing, the judge granted him a pretrial release on the condition that he would refrain from having any firearms.
Courtney, not satisfied with the legal process, took matters into her own hands. Claiming fear for her safety, she went to Joseph’s apartment, took his handgun and rifle, and drove them to the Lakeland Police Department. But instead of praise, she found herself in legal trouble.
According to The Washington Post, Courtney was arrested and charged with grand theft of a firearm and armed burglary after admitting that she took her husband’s guns without permission. She spent six days in jail before being granted bond.
“So, you’re saying you committed an armed burglary?” an officer inquired.
“Yes,” Courtney replied. “But he wasn’t going to turn them in, so I am.”
The officers contacted Joseph, who was still in Polk County Jail, and he confirmed that he wanted to press charges against Courtney.
Despite these actions, Courtney’s attorney argues that her charges are unjust. Lawrence Shearer contends that under Florida law, her actions didn’t constitute theft since she wasn’t keeping the guns, but transferring them to the police for safekeeping.
“Theft involves depriving someone of property, which she didn’t do. She was ensuring their safety,” he said.
With the threat of her husband not relinquishing his firearms, Courtney feels more fearful, especially since Joseph has decided to press charges.
Florida State Representative Anna V. Eskamani has spoken out in support of Courtney, emphasizing that her actions were to protect herself and her family from a volatile husband.
“Court records show Irby sought a temporary injunction against her husband amid their divorce. She was protecting herself, yet got arrested for it. We should be outraged by this,” Eskamani expressed.
The police view the situation as complex. On one hand, there’s Courtney’s belief that she was in danger. On the other, it raises the question of whether she had the right to take property from her husband’s home.
Police Chief Ruben Garcia commented to News Channel 8, “We must uphold everyone’s rights. We assess every case thoroughly to reach the fairest conclusion for everyone involved.”
As the divorce proceedings continue, the court aims to find a balanced resolution while ensuring both parties’ safety. Sadly, this case highlights the difficult issues of divorce, domestic violence, and self-justice.
