On Tuesday, April 26, 2016, the PCSO Undercover Vice Unit conducted an operation at five parks in unincorporated Polk County, in response to complaints about lewd activity. The parks were: Saddle Creek Park, Gator Creek Preserve, Fort Fraser Trail, Lake Fannie Boat Ramp, and Mosaic Peace River Park. Two suspects were arrested at Saddle Creek Park.
“We will continue to conduct operations like these, in an effort to keep our parks safe for families and children at play. Our parks are not to be used for illegal activities. They are for others to enjoy, without fear of being victimized or witnessing illegal lewd acts.” – Sheriff Grady Judd
35-year-old John Bullock, of Auburndale, performed a lewd act in front of an undercover PCSO detective in the restroom at Saddle Creek Park. Bullock was arrested and charged with one count Offering to Engage in Lewdness, and one count Indecent Exposure. He was also issued a trespass from all parks in the county. He was released from jail on $750.00 bond.
53-year-old Timothy Franks, of Lakeland, solicited an undercover PCSO detective at Saddle Creek Park. Franks was arrested and charged with one count Offering to Engage in Lewdness. He told detectives he owns an animal hospital in Lakeland, and that he was arrested at Saddle Creek Park for the same offense in 1997. He was also issued a trespass from all parks in the county. He was released from jail on $500.00 bond.
