Avon Park Burglary Suspect’s Unusual Behavior and Environmental Hazards Lead to Extensive Charges
A series of incidents stemming from a burglary reported earlier this month culminated in the arrest of a Frostproof man facing a slew of charges, including grand theft, burglary, and witness tampering.
The initial incident occurred sometime during the first week of September off US 27 in the Avon Park area. The victim reported on September 7th that someone had cut through a fence and stolen a Kubota ATV (orange in color) and a trail camera.
Trespass Leads to Discovery
The investigation took a sharp turn on September 24th when deputies were called back to the property. Trespassers were reportedly seen on the land, riding a red ATV that bore a striking resemblance to the previously stolen orange Kubota.
The following day, detectives identified a potential suspect: 42-year-old Sergio Miguel Rivas, a Frostproof resident whose previous criminal activities are “well-known to deputies,” according to official reports.
When deputies arrived at Rivas’ residence, they immediately noticed several unusual details. Rivas was wearing an orange shirt, matching the description given by the victim of one of the suspects. Upon seeing the deputies, Rivas quickly removed the garment, an action that later resulted in a charge of Tampering with Evidence.
On the property, deputies located a red ATV. Rivas claimed he knew nothing about it, stating someone had simply “dropped it off.” Authorities quickly determined the vehicle was, in fact, the stolen Kubota ATV.
Charges Pile Up
During the arrest, an Ag-Crimes detective observed multiple environmental hazards on the property, leading to additional charges, including two counts of Failure to Obtain DEP Permit and Create/Maintain Nuisance Injurious to Health.
The situation escalated when deputies attempted to speak with Rivas’ parents, who were also at the residence. Rivas reportedly yelled at his parents in Spanish, ordering them not to speak to the deputies. This action led to the serious charge of Tampering with Witness in 3rd Degree Felony.
Sergio Miguel Rivas was subsequently arrested and booked on a comprehensive list of charges: Grand Theft, Burglary, Break or Injure Fence (x2), Trespass, Dealing in Stolen Property, Tampering with Evidence, Tampering with Witness in 3rd Degree Felony, Failure to Obtain DEP Permit (x2), Unauthorized Possession of a Crate, and Create/Maintain Nuisance Injurious to Health.
The case highlights the collaborative effort between local deputies and Ag-Crimes detectives in addressing property crime and related environmental violations in the area.
READ: Winter Haven Man Arrested After Allegedly Sending “Very Graphic” Threats To Victim
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