A shocking incident in Polk County, Florida has led to multiple teens being arrested and charged after they viciously beat a 35-year-old man late at night on May 5.
The attack was described by authorities as “animalistic” and “senseless,” with the victim suffering severe injuries. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is calling the case one of the most brutal assaults they’ve seen in recent years.
What Happened in Mulberry?
The attack took place around 11:40 p.m. at a car wash on North Church Avenue in Mulberry, Florida. Juan Ramos, 35, said he was simply having a conversation with someone about their car when he was suddenly ambushed. Ramos told WFLA from his hospital bed, “Next thing I know, I’m getting pounded. I didn’t know what was going on.”
According to investigators, a group of four teens attacked Ramos without warning, repeatedly punching and kicking him in what witnesses described as a violent and merciless beating.
Who Are the Accused?
The teens involved have been identified as:
- Eathan Simmons (18) – Charged as an adult with attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery, rioting, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
- Westlee Davis II (18) – Faces the same charges as Simmons.
- Dalton Creach (19) – Charged with rioting and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
- Unnamed 17-year-old – Authorities are requesting he be charged as an adult for attempted murder, aggravated battery, and other charges.
Police say the teens told them they were defending an autistic friend who was allegedly being bothered by Ramos. However, investigators have not yet identified or located this friend, and there is currently no evidence that supports the claim that Ramos was threatening anyone.
What Injuries Did the Victim Suffer?
Ramos was hospitalized with severe facial injuries, including a broken jaw, a broken nose, large bruises, and several deep cuts. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office released a photo showing Ramos with extensive swelling and bandages. Police also released cellphone footage of the brutal attack, which shows the teens hitting Ramos repeatedly as he tries to protect himself.
Sheriff Grady Judd spoke strongly about the case, saying, “They beat him without mercy. Jumped on him like a bunch of pack animals.” He added, “In a free society, we don’t treat people like that.”
Victim Hesitated to Report the Assault
Ramos initially did not report the attack because he was on probation and had been drinking at the time. It was his wife who eventually called authorities. Police say they understand his fear but urged him to come forward, and he is now cooperating in the investigation.
Legal Actions and Investigation
All suspects are in custody, and police are continuing their investigation, especially into the claim that Ramos was bothering someone with autism. Sheriff Judd emphasized that even if the teens were trying to defend someone, the level of violence used was completely unacceptable and illegal.
Judd also said that the video shows the disturbing nature of the attack and reflects a serious disregard for human life. “It’s horrible,” he said. “You can’t believe in today’s society that people will care so little for another human being.”