Man Jailed for Attempted Vehicle Break In

WALDO ‒ A 46-year-old Bradenton man was arrested on Saturday, Feb. 17, following a call at 5:48 a.m. in response to a burglary of a vehicle at Waldo Motorsports Park, 17000 N.E. U.S. Highway 301. Upon arrival, Alachua County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) Deputies spoke with security officers on the scene who stated that a disturbance occurred between the defendant, Robert Wayne Powell, the victim and the victim’s boyfriend.

The couple indicated they were sleeping in the back of their vehicle when Powell approached and attempted to enter the vehicle. Powell allegedly opened the vehicle door and repeatedly stated that he wanted to have sex with the victim.

The victim’s boyfriend then exited the vehicle and began having a scuffle outside of the vehicle. Multiple other people staying at the motor park ran over and began holding the defendant back. The victim’s boyfriend then returned inside his vehicle with the victim.

The defendant allegedly later returned to the victim’s vehicle and ripped off the passenger side view mirror and scratched the passenger side window. Shortly after that security arrived on scene and detained the defendant.

According to the ACSO, security officers stated that Powell continually mentioned wanting to have sex with the victim and even offered the Security Officers money to facilitate it.

ACSO Deputies estimated the damages to the vehicle at approximately $800.

Post Miranda, Powell stated that he did open the vehicle’s door and broke the mirror. Later, after being asked more specific questions, he denied both allegations.

Powell has been charged with attempted burglary of an occupied conveyance and criminal mischief for damage to the vehicle of more than $200, but less than $1,000.

Powell has no local court history but was convicted of disorderly intoxication and resisting an officer in 2023 in Manatee County.

Bail was set by Judge Sean D. Brewer at $55,000.

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