A Central Florida wanted felon was arrested for a series of outstanding warrants and a brazen confrontation against deputies where he struck a law enforcement vehicle while attempting to escape.
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office detectives learned the subject, 29-year-old Jabari Walden, was wanted for multiple outstanding warrants, including charges for Trafficking in Fentanyl, Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Controlled Substance, as well as Violation of Probation (VOP) charges including Fleeing to Elude from Pinellas County and Grand Theft from Broward.
Just before 8:30am, deputies observed Walden entering a parked vehicle in the Kensington Lakes Circle residences in Brandon, near Tampa. Detectives responded to the parked vehicle with emergency lights activated when, in an attempt to flee, Walden intentionally accelerated and struck a parked car and an unmarked Tahoe that had its emergency lights activated.
Thankfully, the deputy did not sustain any significant injuries.
“It’s an unmitigated tragedy when those sworn to protect and serve face intentional harm while doing their job. The anger, heartbreak, and disappointment run deep, especially when, less than a month ago, we witnessed an unsettling attack on two of our deputies,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This is just another stark reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face daily. Their resilience in the face of such adversity demonstrates their dedication to protecting our communities from those who seek to destroy our peace and safety.”
Despite Walden’s efforts, his vehicle became inoperable due to the intentional collision with law enforcement vehicles.
During the arrest, deputies discovered a substantial quantity of narcotics. Walden was found in possession of 10.7 grams of Trafficking-grade Fentanyl, and an additional 30 grams of Fentanyl were located in the vehicle.
Walden is currently in custody and will face a series of charges related to the outstanding warrants, as well as additional charges stemming from the events of the arrest.
