LAKELAND, Fla. – An 18-year-old man is facing multiple charges after a single-vehicle crash late Saturday night in Lakeland. Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputies responded to the intersection of Main Street East and Colorado Avenue at approximately 11:48 p.m. on April 12th, following reports of a collision.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered a blue Ford Mustang that had veered off the roadway, striking a fence and a tree. The driver was identified as Diego Hamed Ortega-Perez, 18.
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Ortega-Perez sustained a minor cut to his head during the crash. However, the vehicle suffered significant front-end damage and required towing.
Further investigation by PCSO deputies revealed that Ortega-Perez did not possess a valid driver’s license. Additionally, evidence indicated that he had been driving recklessly prior to the crash.
Following treatment for his minor injury, Ortega-Perez was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and transported to the Polk County Jail. He was booked on charges of Reckless Driving and Driving without a Valid License.
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Adding to the severity of the situation, authorities determined that Ortega-Perez is in the United States illegally from Mexico. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was notified, and a hold has been placed on him.
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