Polk County man’s failed escape attempt results in shattered doors, a physical struggle with a deputy, and a long list of serious charges.
POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A 35-year-old Poinciana man, Robert Earl Baldwin, Jr., is facing a litany of felony charges after a shoplifting attempt at a Davenport Best Buy quickly escalated into a chaotic scene. What began as a simple misdemeanor theft of an $85 Bluetooth speaker ended with Baldwin charged with five felonies, thanks to a series of poor decisions.
According to a report from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the incident unfolded on the afternoon of July 21st at the Best Buy located in Posner Park. Baldwin allegedly attempted to steal a Bluetooth speaker by concealing it in his pants. The value of the item, approximately $85, would typically classify the crime as a petit retail theft—a misdemeanor.
However, things took a dramatic turn when Deputy Roldan arrived on the scene and attempted to stop Baldwin. Rather than comply, Baldwin reportedly made a dash for the exit. When the sliding glass doors failed to open in time, Baldwin allegedly slammed into them with force, causing approximately $2,000 in damage as he pushed his way out…