Coral Springs woman accused of striking elderly woman and blocking her from calling 911 during vehicle altercation
Coral Springs, Florida – A Maryland woman visiting Coral Springs is facing serious criminal charges after allegedly assaulting an elderly woman and preventing her from calling 911 during a September confrontation, according to police records. The incident occurred on the night of September 18 near 1000 North University Drive and involved multiple parties, including the victim, her daughter, and others in the vehicle.
Authorities report that 30-year-old Kayla Triplett became verbally aggressive and erratic while riding in the car with the victim and others. During the altercation, Triplett allegedly struck the 65-year-old woman multiple times in the head, back, and shoulder. When the victim attempted to call 911 for help, Triplett reportedly seized her daughter’s cellphone, saying, “You’re not calling 911.” Despite this, the victim was able to use a phone she had hidden in her pocket to contact law enforcement after exiting the vehicle.
Broward Sheriff’s deputies responding to the call observed redness on the top of the victim’s head, consistent with the reported assault. The victim declined medical treatment but provided a sworn statement detailing the incident and confirmed her desire to prosecute Triplett.
The daughter, who witnessed the attack while driving the vehicle, told police that she saw Triplett lunge from the back seat in an attempt to hit her mother during the heated argument. According to reports, the situation escalated quickly, creating a tense and frightening environment for both the victim and witnesses.
Triplett was taken into custody by Broward Sheriff’s deputies and, while she waived her Miranda rights, denied the allegations. She maintained that the encounter was only a verbal dispute and that no physical assault occurred. Despite her denial, she was formally charged with two counts of battery on a person 65 years of age or older and tampering with a witness by hindering communication with law enforcement.
Authorities emphasized the seriousness of the charges, noting that battery against an elderly person is treated with heightened concern under Florida law. Tampering with a witness, particularly by preventing communication with emergency services, further complicates the case and can carry additional penalties if convicted.
Triplett is currently being held on bond as the investigation continues. Police encourage anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward to assist in the ongoing case. The victim and her family are cooperating fully with law enforcement as the judicial process unfolds.
This case highlights the dangers of violent confrontations and the critical importance of access to emergency services, particularly for older adults who may be at greater risk during attacks. Law enforcement officials stressed that community members should remain vigilant and report any similar incidents to authorities promptly.
The Coral Springs community remains attentive to the legal proceedings and the impact of this incident, underscoring the ongoing effort to ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable residents in the area.
