LAKELAND, Fla. – An 18-year-old Lakeland man was arrested early Saturday morning after a stolen vehicle chase ended with a crash and a K9 apprehension, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO).
Jhymarri Bennefield was taken into custody after a brief pursuit that began around 4:39 a.m. when a PCSO deputy spotted a brown Kia Optima traveling on Kathleen Road near I-4. The vehicle’s license plate indicated it had been reported stolen.
READ: Stolen Wheels And A ‘Welcome Back’: Polk City Pair Busted In Winter Haven
When two additional deputies joined the pursuit and attempted a traffic stop, Bennefield refused to stop and accelerated away. He then attempted to evade deputies by driving across a residential lawn on Summit Avenue.
The escape attempt was unsuccessful, and Bennefield crashed the stolen Kia into a parked car. He then surrendered to deputies without further incident.
PCSO officials noted that the presence of K9 Duncan may have influenced Bennefield’s decision to surrender.
Bennefield was transported to the Polk County Jail and charged with fleeing to elude, driving without a valid driver’s license, and grand theft motor vehicle.
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.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
