MULBERRY, Fla. — Four teenagers are facing felony charges following a violent attack that left a 35-year-old man hospitalized with serious injuries. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office described the incident as brutal, detailing the victim’s extensive injuries.
The attack occurred shortly before midnight Monday at a car wash on Church Avenue. Initial reports indicated that the victim, Juan Ramos Sr., was reluctant to cooperate with investigators due to concerns about his probation status and having been drinking. According to Sheriff Grady Judd, Ramos had left home after a dispute with his wife, looking to cool off when he encountered the teens.
Ramos recounted that he was engaged in conversation right before the group confronted him, leading to a vicious assault. He was subsequently discovered by deputies walking home after regaining consciousness. He later required intensive care treatment for a broken jaw, a broken nose, and other significant injuries.
Sheriff Judd painted a vivid picture of the severity of the beating, stating, “He was beaten so badly, you might ask how badly was he beaten? How about a broken jaw for starters? His teeth are all loose, and he has lacerations to his orbital sockets and swelling on his torso — all because they jumped on him and beat him without mercy.”
Authorities quickly identified the suspects, who indicated that they attacked Ramos because he had allegedly been bothering a friend who has autism before the incident. Further investigation revealed that a video of the assault was recorded by the girlfriend of one of the suspects. After noticing the footage upon her return home, her mother urged her to report the incident to law enforcement.
The arrested individuals include 18-year-olds Eathan Simmons and Westlee Davis II and 17-year-old Robert Frerichs. Charges against them include attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery with bodily harm, and rioting. Additionally, 19-year-old Dalton Creach faces charges of rioting and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
As the investigation continues, concerns about rising youth violence and the impact of peer influences remain pressing issues for the Mulberry community and beyond. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked aggression and the importance of accountability among young individuals.