When it comes to evictions in Florida, there’s a legal process – and then there’s whatever 61-year-old Dion Robbins of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, attempted in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Robbins traveled all the way from Massachusetts, intending to take eviction matters into his own hands at a property he owns in Lake Wales. Instead of serving legal papers, he allegedly ended up serving himself with a trip to the Polk County Jail.
The bizarre incident unfolded at approximately 2:18 am when Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputies were dispatched to a residence regarding a burglary in progress. Upon arrival, deputies heard yelling and went behind the home, where they found Mr. Robbins engaged in an altercation with a resident through a window.
Robbins was reportedly shirtless and had blood on his face, indicating the eviction attempt had already gone sideways.
Deputies moved in to secure the out-of-state landlord, but Robbins allegedly resisted, struggled, and even kicked one of the deputies as she was attempting to gain control. His resistance was short-lived, and he was quickly cuffed and secured.
According to the arrest affidavit, Robbins showed up at the residence and began his illegal entry by shoving the window AC unit inward. He then attempted to climb through the window. Fearing for his safety, the resident inside fought back, hitting Robbins in the face to prevent him from getting inside.
Dion Robbins was booked and charged with Burglary with Assault and Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer. He is now learning that the proper way to handle an eviction in Florida involves courts and legal notice, not midnight break-ins and brawling.
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