Polk County Sheriff’s Office Press Release
Around 1:45 a.m. on Saturday, Nov 11th, PCSO was contacted by Wauchula P.D. in reference to their pursuit of a fleeing vehicle – a 2015 Kia – with unknown suspects inside who had charges of grand theft and fleeing to elude. The fleeing car headed north on US 17 into Bartow with Wauchula P.D. in pursuit when PCSO joined to assist with stop sticks. PCSO deputies successfully deployed stop sticks twice, causing the driver side front & back tires to deflate. The car decreased speed to about 30 MPH after hitting the stop sticks but continued to flee. Deputy Sheriff Zeigler deployed a PIT (precision immobilization technique) maneuver at the intersection of US Hwy 98 and SR 60/Van Fleet Drive, but the suspect vehicle started up again after a brief stop, and headed west on Van Fleet Drive. Sergeant Warren deployed another PIT maneuver on Van Fleet Drive just west of the intersection with US 98, which was successful. The car then intentionally went into reverse and rammed Deputy Zimmerman’s patrol car which was being used to block it in, before deputies were able to take both suspects into custody.
During a search of the suspect vehicle, deputies found a floor jack, drill, airless paint sprayer, air compressor, saws, electric tire pump and multiple car radios, stolen from a burglary committed within the City of Wauchula. On the passenger side of the car was a small baggie that contained methamphetamine residue and an digital scale.
Suspects are:
Simon Ramos, DOB 6/12/1986
Charges by WPD: Aggravated fleeing to elude, burglary, grand theft
Charges by PCSO: Aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer
Sonia Hernandez, DOB 10/29/1988
Charges by WPD: Burglary, grand theft
Charges by PCSO: Possession of meth and paraphernalia
They’re both in the Polk County Jail.
