Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd announced Wednesday that deputies arrested Chad Hogue, a 55‑year‑old convicted felon, after a homeowner reported him trespassing on her property. The incident occurred in a Tampa neighborhood when the resident’s home security system sent an alert to her phone.
Resident’s quick response leads to arrest
The homeowner, who was working in Tampa at the time, checked the live camera feed and saw an unknown man wandering around her backyard and standing on the back porch. She observed the man looking around the patio and examining the back door, apparently searching for a way inside. She immediately called the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for assistance.
Deputies arrived at the residence and found Hogue still in the backyard. When questioned about his presence, Hogue claimed he was “just looking for a spot to fish.” Sheriff Judd responded, “We are fishing for burglars, and we caught one.”
Hogue’s criminal background
Investigators noted that Hogue has an extensive criminal history, including 17 prior arrests and four separate stints in Florida state prison. Records show he was released from his most recent prison sentence in May, only five months before the arrest.
“This guy is dangerous,” Judd said. “If he’s not locked up, he’s breaking into your stuff.” Hogue was taken into custody and booked into the Polk County Jail.
Community safety emphasized
Sheriff Judd praised the homeowner’s vigilance and the rapid response of deputies, emphasizing that proactive community involvement helps keep neighborhoods safe. “When residents use their security systems and report suspicious activity, we can act quickly to protect families,” he said.
The arrest underscores the importance of modern security technology and community cooperation in deterring crime. Polk County officials encourage residents to keep their security systems active and to report any unusual activity to law enforcement without delay.
What’s next for Hogue
Hogue now faces additional charges related to trespassing and potential burglary. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office will continue its investigation into any further criminal conduct and will coordinate with the state Department of Corrections regarding his prior convictions.
Residents with concerns about local safety are urged to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at (863) 555‑1234 or submit tips online through the department’s website.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
