On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Undercover Vice Unit conducted an operation at Saddle Creek Park in unincorporated Polk County following complaints of lewd activity. Stephen Naegle Jr., a 48-year-old resident of Winter Haven, was arrested during the operation.
Naegle approached an undercover detective, offering to exchange sexual services and use illegal drugs. As they walked toward a nearby trail, detectives identified themselves, and Naegle attempted to flee on foot. He was apprehended shortly after.
A search of Naegle’s vehicle revealed a black Adidas bag on the front passenger seat containing 23 grams of a crystal-like substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamine, multiple unused syringes, a blue rubber strap, used syringes, and a digital scale. A metal spoon with methamphetamine residue was found in the rear seat. Naegle admitted to possessing the methamphetamine.
He was charged with offering to engage in lewdness, resisting without violence, trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, maintaining a vehicle for drug trafficking, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Naegle was also issued a 10-year trespass warning for all Polk County parks.
Sheriff Grady Judd stated, “This arrest is a direct result of our ongoing efforts to keep our parks safe and family-friendly. If you come to our parks to commit crimes, you’ll leave in handcuffs.”
Nothing further at this time.
Source: Polk County Sheriff’s Office
