News and Investigations

On Friday, May 9, 2025, at around 12:29 am, a PCSO deputy witnessed a truck strike the curb on Wabash Avenue in Lakeland, and then failed to maintain a lane of travel.

The deputy attempted a traffic stop on the truck at Wabash Avenue and West Highlands Street, but the vehicle continued on and pulled into a driveway. 

The driver was identified as 40-year old Cornelio Bamaca-Lopez from Guatemala. He had no license, and appeared intoxicated.

Bamaca-Lopez was arrested and taken to the Polk County Jail where he was charged with: Driving without a Valid License, Fleeing to Elude, and DUI. His breath alcohol content was reported to be 0.0195 and 0.198.

Cornelio Bamaca-Lopez is also in the United States illegally, having entered the country illegally through Arizona two years ago. An ICE Hold has been placed on him.