Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrests two burglary suspects in Lake Wales following Hurricane Milton

Derik Jansen, 34, and Kathryn Cooper, 50Photo byCredit: Polk County Sheriff’s Office

By Ciara Perez, News Reporter | iSkyCreations - News & Media (ISC)

Published October 15th, 2024

Polk County, FL – In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, Polk County Sheriff's deputies arrested two individuals for a residential burglary on Fast Trot Trail in Lake Wales. The incident occurred on October 10, 2024, at approximately 9:40 AM, when deputies responded to a call reporting a burglary in progress.

Upon arrival, deputies found the rear door of the home pried open and discovered two suspects inside the vacant property. The suspects, identified as Derik Jansen, 34, and Kathryn Cooper, 50, initially claimed they had permission to stay in the home. They later admitted to breaking in to "escape Hurricane Milton."

Inside the residence, deputies observed extensive damage, including broken housewares and destroyed drywall—damage the suspects admitted was not caused by the storm but by their own actions. The homeowner confirmed that no one was permitted to be inside.

“In Polk County, we have zero tolerance for criminals who victimize those affected by hurricanes. Hurricane Milton damaged many homes – and Cooper and Jensen added to that damage by vandalizing a home. This is unacceptable behavior, and they will receive enhanced charges for burglary during a state of emergency.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff.

Jansen, with a criminal history including drug charges, assault, and aggravated domestic violence, was charged with burglary and criminal mischief. Cooper, who also has a history of aggravated domestic violence, was charged with burglary, criminal mischief, and resisting arrest. Both suspects face enhanced charges for burglarizing a residence during a declared state of emergency.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has underscored the importance of protecting homes in hurricane-affected areas and warns that any crimes committed during a state of emergency will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Photo byISkyNews