A Central Florida man was recently arrested for lewd activity at a public park.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Undercover Vice Unit conducted an operation at Saddle Creek Park in unincorporated Polk County, in response to recent complaints about lewd activity – and one suspect was arrested.
48-year-old Stephen Naegle Jr. of Winter Haven approached an undercover detective and offered to exchange sexual services and use illegal drugs together. As the two began walking towards a nearby trail, detectives identified themselves, at which point Naegle attempted to flee on foot, according to law enforcement.
Following his apprehension, detectives conducted a search of Naegle’s vehicle. Inside a black Adidas bag located in the front passenger seat, they discovered a larger bag containing a crystal-like substance which field-tested positive for methamphetamine, multiple unused syringes, a blue rubber strap, used syringes, and a digital scale. A metal spoon with meth residue was also found in the rear seat. According to PCSO, Naegle admitted to possessing the 23 grams of meth.
He was arrested and charged with offering to engage in lewdness, resisting without violence, trafficking in Methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, maintaining a vehicle for drug trafficking, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Additionally, a trespass warning was issued to Stephen Naegle Jr. for all Polk County parks, effective for a duration of 10 years, according to local law enforcement.
“This arrest is a direct result of our ongoing efforts to keep our parks safe and family-friendly,” said Sheriff Grady Judd. “If you come to our parks to commit crimes, you’ll leave in handcuffs.”
