A Hillsborough County traffic stop ended with the arrest of an undocumented immigrant who investigators say attacked a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) trooper.
Attorney General James Uthmeier said 40-year-old Leonardo Gomez Hernandez is facing charges of battery following what was initially a routine traffic stop. A trooper pulled over a driver on State Road 579 for an improper display of a license tag. As the trooper investigated, they learned that Gomez Hernandez, a passenger, did not gain entry into the United States legally.
As the trooper attempted to detain the man, he resisted and choked and punched the trooper, according to a news release from Uthmeier’s Office.
Gomez Hernandez then attempted to run away from the scene of the traffic stop, according to officials. Other law enforcement personnel had arrived on the scene. That’s when the trooper deployed a taser stun gun and subdued the man.
“Florida will not tolerate violent criminals — especially those who shouldn’t even be in our country — attacking our law enforcement officers,” Uthmeier said. “Our troopers risk their lives to keep this state safe, and those who think they can assault a Florida officer will face the full weight of the law.”
The list of charges facing Gomez Hernandez include resisting an officer with violence and battery on a law enforcement officer. Those are second-degree felonies since Gomez Hernandez is an undocumented immigrant. Both are punishable by a maximum of 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
“Every day, Florida’s troopers face dangers serving the residents and visitors of Florida. This incident is a reminder of the courage and dedicated professionalism your troopers display when confronting violent offenders,” said FHP Col. Gary Howze. “I’m proud of this trooper’s actions and commitment to duty. We are grateful for our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners who ensure accountability for those choosing criminality over peace.”
The case will be handled by Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution.
