BROOKSVILLE — A Spring Hill Fire Rescue firefighter was arrested Thursday on charges he violated a domestic violence injunction by threatening to burn down a woman's house, according to the Hernando County Sheriff's Office.
Michael Vitale, 44, of Spring Hill was charged with violating the order and reported to the Hernando County Jail. He remained behind bars Friday in lieu of $5,000.
According to the arrest report, Vitale was served with the injunction Oct. 23 and was ordered to have no contact with the woman.
But investigators say Vitale called the woman at her job about 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, making several threats and telling her he was going to burn down her house. The woman then handed the phone to another woman, who has known Vitale for five years and recognized his voice.
A deputy later reported to the woman's job and used the *69 function on the telephone. It was then determined that the last incoming call came from a number belonging to Vitale, the report said. The deputy spoke with Vitale, who confirmed it was his personal cell phone.
The alleged violation was reported, and Vitale turned himself in to the jail Thursday. He is set to appear in court Dec. 1.
On Friday, Spring Hill Fire Rescue Chief Mike Rampino said he was holding off on making a decision about Vitale's status until he had seen the arrest report. Rampino said Vitale called him about the allegation earlier in the week.
"His status is the same," Rampino said. "We'll look into the matter to see if any action needs to be taken."
Joel Anderson can be reached at joelanderson@sptimes.com or (352) 754-6120.
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