Charges Upgraded Due to Illegal Status Following Crash in Winter Haven

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – A Nicaraguan man in the country illegally was arrested by Polk County Sheriff’s deputies after a hit-and-run and DUI incident on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

Roberto Sandobal-Lopez, 34, crashed his vehicle into a fenced yard and then fled the scene, only to be found by deputies nearby. His charges were upgraded by one degree due to his immigration status, as per Florida law.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 7:00 p.m. on Spirit Lake Road near Coleman Road. Witnesses reported seeing a white Honda crash into a fence before the driver, the sole occupant, walked away from the vehicle. Deputies quickly located Sandobal-Lopez walking in the area.

Upon contact, deputies observ

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