POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A confrontation with deputies following a minor traffic infraction led to the arrest of a man in Lake Gibson on Sunday.
On February 2nd, at approximately 10:48 a.m., a Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputy observed James Marley, IV, narrowly avoiding being struck by vehicles as he ran across the roadway in front of the Lake Gibson Shopping Center.
READ: Traffic Stop In Polk City Leads To Recovery Of 2 Missing St. Petersburg Children
The deputy instructed Marley to use the sidewalk, but Marley ignored the warning. When the deputy repeated the instruction, Marley turned towards the deputy and yelled, “Call the Department of Defense.”
According to deputies, he repeated this phrase several times and then added, “Don’t make me break your jaw,” while assuming a fighting stance.
READ: Lakeland Man Arrested After Late-Night Encounter With Polk County Deputy
Three deputies then moved in and arrested Marley. He was transported to the Polk County Jail and charged with corruption by threat against a law enforcement officer, assault on a law enforcement officer, and two counts of resisting without violence.
He also received a traffic citation for the initial infraction.
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.