The Polk County Sheriff's Office arrested two suspects on October 10, 2024 for burglarizing a vacant home in Lake Wales in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. 

On October 10, 2024 at approximately 9:40 AM, deputies responded to a call about a residential burglary in progress on Fast Trot Trail in the Lake Wales area. They arrived and found the rear door pried open, and two suspects inside. 

Derik Jansen, 34, and Kathryn Cooper, 50, initially told deputies they were told they “could live there” but then admitted that they broke in to the residence to “escape Hurricane Milton.” The floor of the residence was covered in broken housewares, and the drywall inside was severely damaged. The suspects admitted to causing the damage – it was not caused by the storm.

The owner of the residence was contacted, and he stated that no one had permission to be inside of his home. 

Jansen’s criminal history includes drug charges, assault, and aggravated domestic violence. He was charged with burglary and criminal mischief.

Cooper’s criminal history includes aggravated domestic violence. She was charged with burglary, criminal mischief, and resisting arrest. 

Both suspects received enhanced charges for burglarizing a residence during a state of emergency. 

“In Polk County, we have zero tolerance for criminals who victimize those affected by hurricanes. Hurricane Milton damaged many homes – and Cooper and Jensen added to that damage by vandalizing a home. This is unacceptable behavior, and they will receive enhanced charges for burglary during a state of emergency.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff.