Punta Gorda man charged with domestic battery and cocaine trafficking

A Punta Gorda man was arrested Tuesday on domestic battery and cocaine trafficking charges.

According to the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office, officers arrived at Murdock Circle in Port Charlotte to arrest 29-year-old Thomas Christopher Barnicle.

Barnicle was arrested for domestic battery following an incident Sunday in Punta Gorda.

Law enforcement says they approached Barincle, who was sitting in his parked car, and confirmed his identity.

His car was searched after he was handcuffed.

Liberation Deputies found a clear plastic bag filled with 42.3 grams of cocaine in the front passenger seat.

A black safe was found with more than $10,000 and two pills.

A rifle, handgun and ammunition were located in the glove compartment.

Barnicle was arrested and taken to the Charlotte County Jail.

He was accused of:

• Cocaine – trafficking of more than 28 grams and less than 150 kg.
• Possession of a harmful new legendary drug without a prescription.
• Drug paraphernalia – possession or use of.
• Aggravated assault – the offender knew the victim was pregnant.

Barnicle has since bonded.