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Polk County, FL - A Mulberry man is facing multiple felony charges and an immigration hold after allegedly blocking a CSX train and assaulting a deputy and police K-9.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office reported deputies responded around 10:30 p.m. on Saturday to State Road 37 South and Railroad Avenue following reports of someone interfering with a train.
Officials said the suspect is a Mexican national who is not legally in the United States.
Authorities said the man allegedly drove a truck pulling a homemade trailer onto the tracks, which became stuck and forced the train to stop.
Deputies reported he exited the truck and argued with the conductor before disconnecting the trailer and leaving the scene.
He returned moments later and attempted to enter a train car while allegedly acting aggressively toward the conductor.
When deputies arrived, the man reportedly tried to reverse his truck toward officers.
He eventually exited the vehicle but allegedly refused to answer questions, and deputies detected the smell of alcohol on his breath.
The situation escalated when he allegedly grabbed a deputy’s arm.
A Taser failed to subdue him, and he fled into nearby woods.
A K-9 team located him hiding under heavy brush, where he allegedly struck and kicked the dog while resisting arrest.
Deputies took him into custody.
Authorities noted the man’s driver’s license had been revoked since January 2023, and he is believed to have been deported previously.
He is charged with felony interference with a train, battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, striking a K-9, trespassing, and other offenses. An immigration hold was placed, and all charges were enhanced due to his status.