Suspect Arrested in Davenport with Weapons and Radioactive Container in Vehicle
Suspect Arrested in Davenport with Weapons and Radioactive Container
DAVENPORT, Fla. – A late-night traffic stop in Polk County led to the arrest of a 43-year-old man, Benjamin Johnson, who was found with multiple firearms and a suspicious container marked with a radioactive warning label.
The Haines City Police Department initiated the stop on Johnson’s Chevrolet Silverado near a Publix grocery store on Highway 27, suspecting the vehicle was involved in a crash. Upon arrival, officers encountered resistance as Johnson refused to exit the vehicle. After forcibly removing him, police discovered several guns inside the truck.
While being detained, Johnson reportedly mentioned the presence of a “dirty bomb” in his vehicle, prompting officers to investigate further. They uncovered a yellow plastic container secured with chains and locks, which was confirmed to be emitting radioactivity by a Florida State Fire investigator.
Authorities quickly established a safe perimeter, shutting down nearby roads and calling in the Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives. The bomb squad later identified the device inside the container as a “Moisture Density Gauge,” a tool commonly used for soil testing, which contained significantly less radioactivity than a medical x-ray.
A thorough search of Johnson’s truck revealed an arsenal of weapons, including multiple guns, ammunition, thermal scopes, knives, a battering ram, night vision goggles, as well as cannabis and THC gummies.
Johnson now faces multiple charges, including hoax weapon of mass destruction, false report concerning a bomb or explosive, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, and resisting officers without violence. He has a prior arrest for marijuana possession in Tennessee.
During the incident, Johnson claimed he was living out of his vehicle with his dog, which has since been taken into custody by animal control.
The investigation remains ongoing, with the yellow container being sent to the Florida Bureau of Radioactive Material for further analysis. Roads in the area have since reopened, but police continue to urge caution as they finalize their investigation.
This alarming incident has raised concerns in the community, highlighting the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
For more updates, stay tuned as this story develops.