Lakeland, Fla. — A 41-year-old man, Christopher William Sodt, was arrested on Wednesday evening after a failed attempt to flee from Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies on a bicycle. The incident occurred at approximately 8:51 p.m. near West Parker Street and Grady Lane in Lakeland.
Sodt was initially stopped by a deputy for a traffic offense, but instead of complying, he fled the scene on his bicycle. Authorities reported that after riding a short distance, Sodt abandoned the bicycle and continued his escape on foot. He was quickly pursued and apprehended by deputies, but not before he kicked one of the officers in an effort to break free.
Sodt was taken into custody and transported to Polk County Jail, where he now faces multiple charges, including fleeing to elude, battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, and resisting arrest without violence. Authorities have indicated that additional charges may be filed as the investigation progresses.
Public records reveal that Sodt has a significant criminal history, with prior convictions spanning multiple offenses. He has served a total of 11.5 years in prison for crimes such as burglary, vehicle theft, trafficking in stolen property, retail theft, counterfeiting, fraud, and narcotics-related offenses.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident.
