Frostproof Man Caught Painting Stolen Jeep, Trailer Recovered!

Frostproof, Florida, USA - In a perplexing tale that underscores ongoing issues with vehicle theft in Florida, Jonathan Brito Bermudez, a 30-year-old man from Frostproof, found himself in hot water after a series of questionable actions related to a stolen Jeep and a utility trailer. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) kicked off the investigation on June 11 when they received a report about a 2012 utility trailer that had mysteriously vanished. Eyewitnesses pointed to a white 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee as the getaway vehicle, prompting a swift response from local deputies.

Just a day later, Sgt. Sanders spotted a Jeep that fit the description parked in a yard on West Frostproof Road. Upon further investigation, deputies discovered Bermudez in the act of painting the Jeep. His initial claims of ownership quickly unraveled; he first said he bought it two weeks prior, then changed the date to June 9. However, the attempts to conceal the vehicle’s VIN were all for naught, as detectives identified the Jeep as having been stolen since March 2024, and as more details emerged, they located the hidden stolen trailer in nearby Highlands County.

A Community Alert

The PCSO encourages community vigilance in light of this recent incident. The trailer, commonly utilized for transporting equipment or providing landscaping services, is a valuable asset to many in the area. After the recovery of the trailer, Bermudez was arrested and now faces multiple serious charges, including Grand Theft of a Motor Vehicle and Possession of a Motor Vehicle with Altered VIN. His actions raise questions about how often these thefts occur and what residents can do to prevent them.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) recently reported that vehicle theft rates have surged, with a focus on particular makes and models for 2023. In a striking shift, Kia and Hyundai vehicles topped the list for the highest theft rates, a trend significantly influenced by social media concocting methods to steal these models. The NICB’s report includes a rather telling list of the most stolen vehicles, revealing the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata among the top ranks.

Staying Ahead of Thieves

Almost 85% of stolen passenger vehicles are eventually recovered, and a sizable portion—34%—are found within a day of the theft. This highlights the importance of quick reporting. NICB President and CEO David J. Glawe has emphasized the ongoing threat of vehicle theft and the necessity for owners to take protective measures. For example, parking in well-lit areas and ensuring all windows and doors are securely locked can make a world of difference.

• Park in well-lit areas.
• Lock all windows and doors.
• Hide valuables out of sight.
• Do not leave keys inside the vehicle.
• Never leave the vehicle running unattended.

If your vehicle is stolen, the NICB recommends reporting it both to law enforcement and your insurance provider right away. Providing crucial details like the make, model, color, license plate number, and VIN can significantly increase the chances of recovery.

As the community reflects on Bermudez’s reckless behavior and the broader implications of vehicle theft, it is clear that staying vigilant and informed can go a long way. Let’s work together to ensure our vehicles—and our community—remain secure amidst these ongoing challenges.