Colombian Criminal Illegal Alien Busted Stealing 911 Backup Batteries: Grady Judd Drops the Hammer
By
A man identified by authorities as being in the United States illegally is accused of stealing thousands of dollars’ worth of backup batteries from cell tower sites across Central Florida, prompting concerns about potential disruptions to emergency communications.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said the suspect, 44-year-old John Serna of Miami, is a Colombian national who is in the country illegally.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, investigators believe Serna worked with at least one accomplice to target cell tower locations in Polk and Highlands counties.
Authorities said the thefts involved breaking into secured sites and removing backup batteries valued at more than $5,000.
Investigators reported that the suspects used access codes obtained from prior employment to enter the facilities.
Judd said the impact of the thefts extends beyond financial losses, noting that the batteries play a critical role in maintaining communication systems during emergencies.
“That battery charging that site is how you’re able to dial 911 in a life-or-death emergency,” Judd said.
“So this is serious business.”
According to law enforcement officials, the investigation expanded beyond Polk County after similar incidents were reported in other parts of the state.