POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A minor traffic accident in Lakeland escalated into a tense confrontation involving a firearm, ultimately leading to the arrest of one of the drivers.
The incident unfolded on December 29, 2024, in Lakeland at the intersection of 1st Street NW and Dove Meadow Trail.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd detailed the incident in a statement, highlighting the dangers of letting “testosterone get in the way of good sense.”
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According to Sheriff Judd, a deputy responded to the scene of a reported hit-and-run accident. Upon arrival, the deputy found two vehicles with minor damage and began taking a report.
While the deputy was completing the paperwork, one of the drivers, identified as Justin, began arguing with the other driver, accusing him of hitting his vehicle and attempting to flee the scene. The argument escalated, and Justin pulled out a gun and pointed it at the other driver.
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The deputy, witnessing the threat, immediately drew his own weapon and ordered Justin to drop his gun. Justin complied, and the deputy arrested him.
Sheriff Judd emphasized that the situation could have been resolved peacefully with a simple exchange of information or traffic citations due to the minimal damage involved. However, the confrontation and brandishing of a firearm led to an unnecessary arrest.
“Don’t pull guns at people. It’s a bad idea,” Sheriff Judd warned.
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