Robert Michael Lawson (PCSO)

Davenport Man Loses Bumper, License Plate, And Freedom In Lakeland Crash: Polk County Sheriff

Robert Michael Lawson (PCSO)
Robert Michael Lawson (PCSO)

POLK COUNTY, Fla. – Robert Michael Lawson, a 34-year-old from Davenport, had a rough Saturday night in Lakeland. Not only did he allegedly cause a crash and flee the scene, but he also managed to leave behind a crucial piece of evidence – his license plate.

The incident unfolded around 9:05 pm on Gibson Galloway Road. Lawson, driving a red Pontiac, reportedly struck another vehicle and then made a hasty retreat. The victim’s car flipped over, but thankfully, the driver escaped unharmed.

Read: Lakeland Duo’s Early Morning Hide-And-Seek Ends In Arrest, Courtesy Of Polk County Sheriff K9

However, the victim wasn’t about to let Lawson get away scot-free. The crash had knocked Lawson’s bumper clean off, and attached to it was his license plate – talk about a parting gift.

Deputies soon tracked down Lawson’s car in a post office parking lot, but he wasn’t ready to give up just yet. He attempted a foot chase, resisting arrest until deputies finally wrestled him into handcuffs.

A search revealed Lawson was carrying methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. To top it all off, he didn’t even have a valid driver’s license.

Read: Polk County Deputy Bags His First ‘Gator’ Suspect In Lakeland

Lawson was taken to the Polk County Jail, facing a laundry list of charges, including leaving the scene of an accident, drug possession, resisting arrest, and driving without a license.

It seems Lawson learned the hard way that sometimes, leaving the scene of a crime is easier said than done – especially when you leave your ID behind.

Editors note: To the person and/or ‘newspaper’ who scrapes our articles and reposts them as their work, we would appreciate it if you don’t. Just do the work or maybe a different occupation.

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.

Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.

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.

Login To Facebook To Comment