Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) arrested Marcelino Hernandez, a 26-year-old Mexican national in the U.S. illegally, following a series of arson and vandalism incidents in the Wahneta

In February 2026, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) arrested Marcelino Hernandez, a 26-year-old Mexican national in the U.S. illegally, following a series of arson and vandalism incidents in the Wahneta area of Winter Haven.

Details

The investigation began on January 31, 2026, after a homeowner on 11th Street West reported two separate arson attempts at her property. According to the PCSO, Hernandez:

• Attempted Arson: Placed a wooden pallet with tree branches under the victim’s mobile home and set it on fire. The homeowner was able to extinguish the flames with a garden hose.
• Used Accelerant: Deputies found a bottle of citronella torch fuel in the basket of Hernandez’s bicycle, which he admitted to using to start the fires.

Vandalism at Placita Mexico

Following his arrest, Hernandez confessed to targeting a local business, Placita Mexico (located at 3390 Rifle Range Road), on three separate occasions in late January.

• Damage: He used rocks and a hammer to smash windows and doors after being unable to enter due to security bars.
• Motive: Hernandez stated he was “frustrated and irritated” with the store owner and issues in the neighborhood.

Charges and Legal Status

Hernandez faces multiple felony charges, including:

• Arson
• Unoccupied Burglary (3 counts)
• Felony Criminal Mischief (Property damage of $1,000 or more)
• Criminal Mischief (Property damage less than $1,000)

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that an ICE hold has been placed on Hernandez at the Polk County Jail.