Protester Accused of Striking Woman with Flagpole at Trump Golf Club

Paul Messer arrested for battery after alleged incident outside West Palm Beach course

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A protester named Paul Messer was arrested outside Trump International Golf Course in West Palm Beach, Florida, after allegedly striking a woman in the neck with a metal flagpole during an argument with another protester. Messer was booked into Palm Beach County jail on a count of battery, and his bond was set at $1,000.

Why it matters

Protests and clashes between opposing groups have become increasingly common at high-profile political and business locations, raising concerns about public safety and the ability of security and law enforcement to maintain order. This incident highlights the potential for violence to escalate from verbal disputes at these types of events.

The details

According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, Messer was protesting outside Trump International Golf Course on Sunday, February 15th, when he became involved in an argument with another protester. Deputies claim they witnessed Messer strike the woman in the upper chest and neck area with the metal flagpole, causing her to stumble backward with visible redness on her neck.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Paul Messer

A protester who was arrested and charged with battery for allegedly striking a woman with a flagpole outside Trump International Golf Course.

Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that arrested Messer and charged him with battery.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

Messer's bond was set at $1,000, and the judge will decide whether to allow him out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for improved security measures and de-escalation tactics at political protests to prevent outbreaks of violence, as well as the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the safety of all participants, regardless of their political views.