LAKELAND, Fla. – Authorities in Polk County are asking for the public’s help to identify a man who walked out of a Lakeland business without paying for his haul earlier this week. The incident took place on Tuesday, February 17, at the Everest Liquor & Smoke Hub located at 5044 Lunn Road.
According to investigators from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the man entered the shop around 7:45 p.m. While inside, he allegedly grabbed approximately $72 worth of merchandise before making a quick exit. Store employees reported that the man didn’t stick around for a getaway car, instead fleeing the premises on foot in an unknown direction.
Deputies have described the suspect as a white male, likely in his 20s or early 30s. Surveillance images from the shop show the individual during the commission of the theft, and detectives are hoping someone in the community might recognize his face or his clothing.
Case number 26-7013 has been assigned to the investigation. Detective Creekmore is leading the search and asks that anyone with information call 863-499-2400 or send an email to LCreekmore@polksheriff.org.
For those who want to help but prefer to stay out of the spotlight, Heartland Crime Stoppers is offering a potential cash reward for tips that lead to an arrest. You can submit information anonymously by calling 1-888-400-TIPS, dialing **TIPS from a mobile phone, or using the “P3tips” smartphone app. Tips can also be submitted through the Heartland Crime Stoppers website.
READ: Fatal Rollover Crash Claims Life Of 23-Year-Old Lakeland Man In Mulberry
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox
