A man identified by authorities as being in the United States illegally is accused of stealing thousands of dollars’ worth of backup batteries from cell tower sites across Central Florida, prompting concerns about potential disruptions to emergency communications.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said the suspect, 44-year-old John Serna of Miami, is a Colombian national who is in the country illegally.

According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, investigators believe Serna worked with at least one accomplice to target cell tower locations in Polk and Highlands counties.

Authorities said the thefts involved breaking into secured sites and removing backup batteries valued at more than $5,000.

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Investigators reported that the suspects used access codes obtained from prior employment to enter the facilities.

Judd said the impact of the thefts extends beyond financial losses, noting that the batteries play a critical role in maintaining communication systems during emergencies.

“That battery charging that site is how you’re able to dial 911 in a life-or-death emergency,” Judd said.

“So this is serious business.”

According to law enforcement officials, the investigation expanded beyond Polk County after similar incidents were reported in other parts of the state.

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The Broward County Sheriff’s Office arrested Serna in connection with related cases and took him into custody.

Polk County detectives later traveled to Broward County to interview Serna at the Broward County Jail.

Judd said that during that interview, Serna admitted to involvement in the thefts.

Authorities said the case involves multiple incidents and that Serna is expected to face several charges tied to the alleged thefts.

Investigators have not disclosed the total number of locations targeted but confirmed that the activity spanned more than one county.

Law enforcement officials said at least one additional suspect is believed to have participated in the thefts.

That individual has not yet been identified publicly and remains at large as the investigation continues.

Judd said the case highlights concerns about how infrastructure crimes can affect public safety.

Officials emphasized that cell tower backup systems are designed to maintain service during outages or emergencies, and removing those components can interrupt access to essential services.

Authorities also confirmed that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has placed a detainer on Serna.

According to officials, the detainer ensures that federal authorities will be notified if Serna is released from local custody at any point during the legal process.

Judd said that once the criminal case is resolved, Serna could face removal proceedings.

“Our goal is to send this thieving rascal back to his home country,” Judd said.

Investigators said the case remains active as detectives continue to gather evidence and search for the second suspect believed to be involved.

Law enforcement agencies across multiple jurisdictions are working together to determine whether additional incidents may be connected to the same individuals.

Officials have not announced a timeline for court proceedings, but they indicated that the charges against Serna will proceed through the appropriate legal channels while the broader investigation continues.

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