Man charged after entering neighbor's home

Thomas Wesley Burch, 33, faces charges for allegedly forcing his way into a neighbor's home and threatening a man inside. The incident occurred on Sunday, November 1, near the 1800 block of NW 43rd Street in Gainesville.

A female victim told police that Burch approached the house to speak with the male occupant. She instructed a female witness to come inside. While the two women were trying to keep the side door closed, Burch allegedly pushed past them. The female victim suffered an injury to her foot during the struggle.

Once inside, Burch began yelling at the male victim. The man described Burch as assuming a fighting stance, clenching his fists, and yelling aggressively. The female victim attempted to hold Burch back. When she called 911, Burch left the residence.

A police officer arrived at the scene at approximately 10:45 a.m. Burch approached the officer and admitted to entering the home. After receiving his rights, he stated he did not intend to fight and only wanted to talk. He told the officer he was being "very animated" and admitted to calling the male victim a "pussy."

The male victim said he feared for his safety due to Burch's demeanor. The female witness reported that Burch used fighting words and appeared to enter the home with the intent to fight.

Burch has been charged with burglary of an occupied dwelling and assault. He has no prior criminal record. Judge Joy Danne ordered him held without bail pending a hearing on a motion from the State Attorney's Office. The motion seeks to hold him without bail until trial. If the judge denies the motion, bail will be set at that hearing.

The charges are based on arrest reports and court records. They are accusations, and Burch is considered innocent until proven guilty.