Actor Eric Mabius, renowned for his portrayal of Daniel Meade on ABC’s “Ugly Betty,” was arrested early Thursday, February 20, in Nassau County, Florida. The 53-year-old faces two misdemeanor charges: battery and resisting arrest without violence.
The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. at The Goat, a bar on Lofton Square Court. According to the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, Mabius and a 40-year-old female companion were reportedly intoxicated and causing a disturbance. Witnesses stated that after the bartender repeatedly asked the woman to leave due to her disruptive behavior, both she and Mabius began spitting on patrons. The situation escalated when Mabius allegedly pushed a woman to the ground and pulled out “fistfuls” of her hair. A bystander intervened, separating Mabius from the victim. Upon arrival, deputies reported that Mabius became increasingly belligerent and failed to comply with instructions to remain seated during the investigation. At one point, he attempted to walk behind a deputy, prompting officers to escort him back to a bench and place him under arrest for resisting without violence. Although the victim declined to press charges, both Mabius and his companion were arrested for simple battery and resisting without violence. Sheriff Bill Leeper stated, “This type of behavior will not be tolerated in our community, regardless of celebrity status.”
Mabius was booked into the Nassau County Jail and Det … at approximately 5:45 a.m. His mugshot, released by the sheriff’s office, shows the actor with a bruised and cut … , indicating a possible altercation prior to or during his arrest.
Beyond “Ugly Betty,” Mabius has appeared in various television series and films, including “The L Word,” “Cruel Intentions,” “The Crow: Salvation,” and “Resident Evil.” Since 2013, he has starred as Oliver O’Toole in Hallmark Channel’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” series.
As of now, Mabius remains in custody, awaiting his initial court appearance. Representatives for the actor have not yet responded to requests for comment.