An unlicensed hit-and-run driver was captured in Central Florida after a struggle with a deputy.
After a recent hit-and-run crash was reported to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, local deputies responded to the scene on Cypress Parkway at Solivita Boulevard in Poinciana. Law enforcement found two vehicles, a 2026 Cadillac sedan and a 2015 Dodge Ram truck.
According to a witness, the driver of the Caddy fled on foot, but a deputy quickly caught him nearby, while he was in the process of trying to secure an Uber ride.
The suspect refused to identify himself, saying he did not have to, according to PCSO. According to local law enforcement, he then physically resisted efforts to obtain a fingerprint to identify him, unsuccessfully, by grabbing the deputy, and digging his fingers into the deputy’s arms.
He was identified as 23-year-old Joshua Avant Sims, of Davenport.
Sims denied he was the driver, despite a witness saying otherwise, according to PCSO. Local law enforcement said Sims was also in possession of the truck’s keys, as well as a small amount of marijuana.
But he did not have a valid driver’s license. His license has been suspended numerous times for failing to pay traffic fines – five times. He also had it suspended after he received 12 points on his license within 12 months.
Josh Sims was arrested and charged with: Battery on a LEO, Resisting with Violence, Driving While License Suspended/Revoked, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting without Violence, and Leaving the Scene of a Crash.
