On July 21, 2020, PCSO Undercover Narcotics detectives received a tip about illegal drug activity at a hotel in Lakeland and responded to investigate.

During the investigation, detectives arranged for the purchase of $1,000 worth of methamphetamine between an informant and 23 year-old suspect Jeremie Cunningham. When Cunningham arrived to conduct the transaction, detectives attempted the arrest, but Cunningham actively resisted, striking one of the detectives several times. Cunningham was placed under arrest. During a search, detectives discovered a plastic bag containing a substance that tested positive for methamphetamine. The detective did not require medical attention.

“With only three months out of state prison and arrested again, you would think Cunningham would do everything possible to stay free. Instead, he chose to immediately return to his criminal enterprise, and that’s just not acceptable in Polk County.” - Grady Judd, Sheriff 

Cunningham was charged with Trafficking Methamphetamine over 14 grams (F1), Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Sell (F2), Maintain Vehicle for Trafficking Narcotics (F2), Unlawful Use of Two Way Communication Device (F3), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (M1), Knowingly DWLSR (M2), No Motorcycle Endorsement (M2), Resisting Officer with Violence (F3), Battery on LEO (F3). Cunningham has 11 prior felonies and 8 prior misdemeanors, including Possession of Methamphetamine and Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer.