Winter Haven Couple Arrested After 4-Hour Armed Standoff Over Neighbor’s Dog: PCSO

Winter Haven, FL – On Thursday, October 2, 2025, an armed standoff involving Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies occurred at a residence on Red Fox Drive, stemming from a dispute over a neighbor’s dog. The incident began at approximately 4:49 p.m., when deputies responded to reports of an armed disturbance.

The victim reported that Marla Stroble, 59, confronted him regarding his dog entering her property. During the confrontation, Christian Sarata, 57, provided Stroble with a kitchen knife. Stroble then threatened to kill the victim and his dog. When deputies arrived, Sarata and Stroble retreated into their residence and refused to exit or allow entry. Sarata referenced possessing a pistol and rifle, threatening to shoot anyone entering the home.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team was deployed to resolve the situation peacefully. Deputies introduced a chemical agent into the residence, prompting Stroble to surrender at approximately 8:45 p.m. Sarata was taken into custody roughly 30 minutes later. No shots were fired, and no deputies were injured.

A search of the residence revealed one firearm, drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamine.

Charges for Christian Sarata:

• Aggravated Assault on Law Enforcement Officer (5 counts, Second-Degree Felony)
• Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon (Second-Degree Felony)
• Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill (2 counts, Third-Degree Felony)
• False Imprisonment (Third-Degree Felony)
• Possession of Methamphetamine (Third-Degree Felony)
• Misuse of 911 (14 counts, First-Degree Misdemeanor)
• Resisting without Violence (4 counts, First-Degree Misdemeanor)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor)

Charges for Marla Stroble:

• Aggravated Assault on Law Enforcement Officer (4 counts, Second-Degree Felony)
• Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill (2 counts, Third-Degree Felony)
• Resisting with Violence (2 counts, Third-Degree Felony)
• Misuse of 911 (14 counts, First-Degree Misdemeanor)
• Resisting without Violence (3 counts, First-Degree Misdemeanor)

Nothing further at this time.

Source: Polk County Sheriff’s Office