- December 16, 2025
The following was adapted from a release from the Flagler County Sheriff's Office:
Joseph Mastrostefano, 16, of the B-section, was arrested after he head-butted School Resource Deputy Don Apperson Aug. 29.
A Matanzas High School student was charged with felony battery on a law enforcement officer Monday afternoon following a fight inside the school on Old Kings Road.
Joseph Mastrostefano, 16, of the B-section, was arrested after he head-butted School Resource Deputy Don Apperson, who was attempting to break up the fight. Mastrostefano is also facing a misdemeanor battery charge in connection with the disturbance that occurred around 1:14 p.m.
Apperson reported that Mastrostefano struck another student in the face several times. The fight stemmed from a “boy-girl” issue. As the deputy stepped in to separate the two students, the teenager head-butted him, striking him near the left temple. The deputy also suffered a minor laceration on his nose from his eyeglasses, which were impacted when he was struck.
The deputy was treated for injuries at the scene. A Matanzas faculty member who was also attempting to break up the fight suffered a back injury and was transported to Florida Hospital Flagler.
Mastrostefano was transported to Daytona Beach and turned over to the Division of Youth Services.
