Sheriff Grady Judd

The Polk County Sheriff's Office has noticed a recent increase quick-change scams, in which a person will go up to a cashier and, during a transaction, will confuse the cashier into giving them too much change in return.

A recent case occurred on July 18, 2019 at approximately 3:39pm, at the Walgreens store at 6730 US Hwy 98 N. in Lakeland. The suspect set down two energy drinks as if to purchase them, and handed the clerk a $100 bill to pay. The suspect eventually was able to confuse the clerk into giving him $96.00. 

The suspect left the store in a dark blue or black 4 door vehicle...possibly a Toyota Prius. The suspect is described as a black male, wearing his hair on top of his head. 

About five similar cases have been reported in Lakeland, Mulberry, and Davenport since April 2019, but at this time, it is unknown if they are related. 

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Detective Marshall at 863-577-1600, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward leading to an arrest, contact Heartland Crime Stoppers - call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477), online at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on "Submit A Tip," or download the free "P3tips" app on your smartphone or tablet.