News and Investigations

Eleven convenience stores were visited by deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office on Monday, July 19, 2021; it was part of the ongoing Operation Pop Top initiative to ensure that alcohol is not being sold to anyone under 21-years of age, in accordance with state law.

"This is an ongoing effort to make sure that stores and their employees aren't violating state law by selling alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age. Great job by the deputies, and a great job to all of the clerks and stores who were compliant with the law." - Grady Judd, Sheriff

The deputies were assisted by a 18-year-old PCSO Explorer who visited the various stores in the Lake Wales, Winter Haven, and Davenport areas. 

Explorers are high school students who are interested in a career in law enforcement. 

Of the eleven stores visited, only one violated the law. 

33-year-old Celyann Montalvo of Davenport was arrested for selling an alcoholic beverage to the Explorer. Montalvo is employed by the 7-Eleven store at 38409 US 27 in Davenport. The charge is a misdemeanor. 

The other ten stores that were visited were:

Wawa at 23623 US 27 in Lakes Wales;
RaceTrac at 24224 US 27 in Lakes Wales;
Gate at 2950 Ridge Way in Lakes Wales;
7-Eleven at 28200 US 27 in Dundee;
EZ Food at 30105 US 27 in Lake Hamilton;
RaceTrac at 32886 US 27 in Haines City;
Pilot at 35647 US 27 North in Haines City;
RaceTrac at 810 Havendale Ave. in Winter Haven;
Montgomery Citgo at 1250 6th St. NW in Winter Haven; and
Wawa at 1490 3rd St. SW in Winter Haven.