Grappler Device Ends Plant City Chase After Firearm And Narcotics Thrown From Vehicle

Two people were arrested on multiple felony charges after a traffic stop attempt escalated into a pursuit in Plant City on May 28, 2026.

At approximately 6 p.m., deputies attempted to stop a vehicle near the intersection of Short Road and Pless Road.

During the incident, the driver allegedly turned the vehicle toward a deputy’s patrol vehicle, forcing the deputy to brake to avoid a collision.

The driver then continued fleeing through the area while disregarding traffic signals.

As deputies followed the vehicle, a backpack was thrown from the passenger-side window. Deputies immediately recovered the bag, which contained narcotics and a firearm.

Near Quail Meadow Road and Anacapa Lane, deputies deployed a Grappler Immobilization Device, safely bringing the fleeing vehicle to a stop.

The driver, 33-year-old Katheryne Tellez, and passenger Charles Grace, 40, were taken into custody.

Both were arrested on multiple felony charges.