POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A traffic stop in Winter Haven took a sharp turn toward the dramatic Tuesday night after a convicted felon allegedly lunged at deputies before being stared down by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office’s newest four-legged recruit.
The incident began on Spirit Lake Road when deputies pulled over a vehicle because the driver was operating with a suspended license. During the encounter, deputies reported a strong smell of marijuana coming from the car, prompting them to call for backup.
Deputy Sheriff Ramos and his K9 partner, Apollo, arrived on the scene to assist with the investigation.
While deputies were questioning the people inside the car, the passenger, identified as Jayden Daniels, suddenly turned aggressive.
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According to the Sheriff’s Office, Daniels shoved one of the deputies and attempted to flee on foot. His escape attempt was short-lived, however, as he found himself face-to-face with Apollo. Faced with the immediate prospect of a K9 apprehension, Daniels surrendered and was taken into custody without further incident.
A subsequent search of a tote bag in Daniels’ possession uncovered several baggies of marijuana, a black Glock 23 handgun, and two loaded magazines.
Records show that Daniels is a convicted felon, making the possession of the firearm a significant secondary offense.
He now faces a laundry list of charges, including battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office credited the quick response of the K9 team for de-escalating the situation before anyone was seriously injured. Daniels was transported to the Polk County Jail following his arrest.
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