Florida Sheriff Upgrades DUI Charges Based On Immigration Status; ICE Hold Filed

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said a Nicaraguan man in the U.S. illegally was arrested after a DUI hit-and-run that damaged a fence. Deputies reported clear signs of intoxication and BAC readings of 0.13 and 0.124. The DUI with property damage charge was upgraded one degree based on immigration status, and an ICE detainer was placed; the sheriff said the suspect will remain jailed until ICE pickup. The case reflects Florida’s practice of enhancing charges tied to immigration status and coordinating with ICE for custody transfers.