On September 27, 2023 Lake Wales Police responded to a disturbance in the area of Highway 60 and 4th Street in Lake Wales. When Officers arrived they met with an adult victim who reported he was approached by a male subject who was armed with a handgun. The male reportedly opened the victim’s car door, pointing the handgun at him. The victim attempted to flee at which time he crashed his vehicle into a small concrete pole. The suspect fled the area in a silver Kia Soul as the victim called 911.
Within minutes of the call, Officers located the Kia in the alley between Polk and Townsend Avenues near Polk Avenue Elementary school. Initially, Officers believed one subject may have fled on foot at which time the school was placed in a state of heightened security. A short time later it was determined Officers had located and detained all the subjects involved and the school was notified to release students as normal.
During the investigation two 18 year old males were arrested and charged with the following: Joemil Olivers, of Lake Wales, was charged with armed burglary with an assault. Also charged was Alberto Cervantes, also of Lake Wales, who was charged with possession of a firearm by a delinquent person.
This does not appear to be a random act, as the victim was an acquaintance of the suspects.
If you have information regarding this case please contact the Lake Wales Police Department at 863-678-4223. Or, if you would like to stay anonymous and be eligible for a CASH REWARD through Heartland Crime Stoppers:
• Call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477)
• From your cell phone, dial **TIPS
• Visit the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on “Submit A Tip,”
• Or download the free “P3tips” app on your smartphone or tablet.
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