MULBERRY, Fla. – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has apprehended four teenagers in connection with the severe beating of a 35-year-old man in Mulberry. Sheriff Grady Judd provided an update on the disturbing incident, detailing the violent attack that left the victim with significant injuries.
The incident unfolded on Monday, May 5, 2025, when the victim was walking northbound on Highway 37. According to Sheriff Judd, the victim had not provoked any altercation. However, he was approached by a group of four young men who had arrived in a vehicle.
The individuals involved have been identified as:
- Wesley Davis II, 18, of Mulberry
- Robert Frerichs, 17, of Mulberry
- Ethan Simmons, 18, of Mulberry
- Dalton Creech, 19, of Lakeland
Sheriff Judd stated that Simmons removed his shirt and shoes upon arrival, “And for those that may not understand that in Polk County world, that means we’re fixing to fight.”
The group then allegedly confronted the victim, identified as 35-year-old Juan Ramos Sr., who they claimed was intoxicated and stated he was 13 years old. An interaction about a chain worn by one of the suspects preceded violence.
According to Judd, Frerichs, 17, then struck the victim, rendering him unconscious. While on the ground, the victim was allegedly subjected to further beating, kicking, and stomping by the group. The assault was captured on video by Creech’s girlfriend, Caitlin, who was present at the scene.
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Caitlin’s mother saw the video and insisted on reporting the incident to the Sheriff’s Office, making Caitlin a witness in the case.
Meanwhile, the severely injured victim managed to return home but was initially hesitant to cooperate with authorities due to being on probation and having been drinking. He eventually agreed to cooperate the following morning after speaking with his wife.
Judd outlined the extent of the victim’s injuries, which included a broken jaw, loose teeth, lacerations to his orbital sockets, swelling on his torso, and a broken nose. He emphasized the brutal nature of the attack, stating the suspects acted like “a bunch of pack animals.”
While Creech did not physically strike the victim, he allegedly incited and encouraged the beating. Sheriff Judd also noted that racist speech was used by Creech during the incident.
All four suspects were apprehended on Thursday, May 8, 2025. They all face felony charges:
- Eathan Ryne Simmons and Westlee Austin Davis II are charged with attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery with bodily harm, rioting, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
- Robert Frerichs is charged with attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery with bodily harm, and rioting.
- Dalton Ivory Creach is charged with rioting and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
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Judd added that none of the individuals had prior criminal records, highlighting how quickly individuals can transition to serious violent offenders.
The two 18-year-olds and the 19-year-old are currently in the county jail awaiting their first appearance. The 17-year-old has been moved to adult custody, and the State Attorney’s Office will be requested to file adult charges against him due to the severity of the charges.
Judd stated that the investigation into whether the incident constitutes a hate crime is ongoing.
“That conduct’s not acceptable in Polk County,” Sheriff Judd asserted, condemning the suspects’ actions. He reported that the victim remains in intensive care at a local hospital.
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