A Gainesville man with an extensive criminal record was arrested last week after allegedly chasing and threatening to stab another man with a butcher knife at Campus Walk Apartments. The suspect, 44-year-old Christopher Joseph King, has an alarming history with 23 prior felony convictions, according to local authorities.
The terrifying incident unfolded on April 15, when Gainesville Police responded to a 911 call from a distressed man at the apartment complex. The victim claimed he was being pursued by a man known as “Wolf” who was wielding a large knife and threatening to stab him.
When officers arrived at the scene, they immediately recognized the suspect’s alias. “Wolf” was identified as King, a figure well-known to law enforcement due to his extensive criminal background.
Dispute Turns Violent
According to the police report, the victim and King had a verbal exchange over a financial matter earlier that day. King allegedly grew angry and left, only to return later — now masked, armed, and hostile. Witnesses and surveillance footage confirmed the victim’s account that King was chasing him through the apartment complex while brandishing a butcher knife.
“He was yelling and chasing me. I thought I was going to die,” the victim told officers.
The situation escalated quickly, prompting the victim to flee and seek safety until police arrived. Security video footage showed King aggressively confronting the man before returning later in a ski mask, concealing his identity while carrying a large knife. He was also seen getting into a red vehicle, which was traced back to a previous traffic stop where King was identified as the driver.
Arrest and Identification
During the investigation, officers used surveillance footage and a prior traffic stop video to positively identify King. The victim also confirmed King’s identity in a photo lineup conducted by investigators.
King was arrested on May 29 and booked into the Alachua County Jail. He is now facing felony charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and wearing a mask while committing a criminal offense. At the time of the arrest, authorities noted that King was already on felony probation.
The case adds to King’s long list of previous offenses, making this his 24th serious criminal charge.
Legal Implications and Public Safety Concerns
Due to King’s extensive record and the violent nature of the threat, prosecutors may seek enhanced penalties. Repeat offenders often face harsher sentences under Florida’s habitual offender laws. In this case, public safety advocates are urging swift legal action, especially considering King’s probation status at the time of the incident.
Local residents expressed concern over the repeated presence of violent offenders in the neighborhood. Campus Walk Apartments, located near the University of Florida, houses many students and families, making the threat even more alarming to the community.
“This could have ended tragically,” said a neighbor who asked not to be named. “We need better protection and more accountability for those who repeatedly break the law.”
Law Enforcement Response
Gainesville Police emphasized the importance of community cooperation in helping bring suspects like King to justice. They praised the victim for acting quickly and providing crucial details that helped officers apprehend the suspect without further incident.
“This arrest shows how dangerous situations can escalate and how important community vigilance and law enforcement coordination are in preventing violence,” a GPD spokesperson said.
Resources and Victim Support
Victims of violent crime in Florida can access assistance through the Florida Office of the Attorney General’s Victim Services division, which offers support for those affected by threats, assault, and trauma. Additional local aid is available through Alachua County’s Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center, which provides crisis counseling, legal assistance, and safety planning.
