POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A routine traffic stop on Friday escalated into a series of felony charges for an Auburndale man with a history of driving offenses. Esai Rafael Smith, 36, was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office after deputies discovered he was driving with a suspended license, provided a false identity, and was in possession of a handgun and cocaine.
The incident unfolded at approximately 11:34 AM on eastbound I-4, near Mile Marker 50, in the vicinity of Polk City. A PCSO deputy initiated a traffic stop on a white 2018 Dodge Durango driven by Smith.
When deputies asked for his driver’s license, Smith allegedly provided a false name. When confronted by the deputy, he admitted to the deception, stating, “I lied, ’cause I was nervous, and my license is no good.”
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Further investigation revealed Smith’s true identity and a lengthy record of driving infractions.
His driver’s license has been suspended since January, and he has a prior conviction as a habitual traffic offender. Authorities also noted that Smith has a past DUI conviction and five prior charges for Driving While License Suspended/Revoked (DWLSR).
The situation worsened for Smith when deputies discovered a 9mm handgun and cocaine in his possession. Smith reportedly attempted to conceal the cocaine, though he claimed he was unaware it was in the vehicle.
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Esai Smith was subsequently arrested and faces multiple charges, including:
- Possession of Cocaine
- Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- False ID to Law Enforcement Officer
- Tampering with Physical Evidence
- DWLSR – 3rd subsequent offense
Smith is currently being held at the Polk County Jail.
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