POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsWFLA News TampaAugust 5, 2026Hillsborough

Lakeland man arrested in DeLand after firing weapon at minor's home

A 27-year-old Lakeland man was arrested by the Volusia Sheriff's Office after he traveled to a minor's home, attempted to gain entry, and fired a gun into the ground when he was denied access. The suspect had reportedly visited the 16-year-old's residence uninvited twice during the previous week.

crimepublic safetylaw enforcement
Read the full story at WFLA News Tampa

Why It Matters

This incident highlights a criminal investigation involving an adult traveling to meet a minor, resulting in charges related to the discharge of a firearm and attempted contact with a minor.

Key Facts

  • Joseph Woodward, 27, was arrested by the Volusia Sheriff's Office.
  • The suspect traveled from Lakeland to a home in DeLand to meet a 16-year-old minor.
  • The suspect and the minor reportedly met via the social media platform Snapchat.
  • The suspect visited the minor's home uninvited twice during the week prior to the arrest.
  • The suspect fired a gun into the ground after the minor refused to let him inside the home.
  • The incident occurred on Friday while the minor was sleeping.

Who's Mentioned

other27“Age of the suspect.”organizationVolusia Sheriff's Office“The law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and made the arrest.”locationDeLand“The city where the incident occurred.”personJoseph Woodward“The suspect arrested by the Volusia Sheriff's Office.”otherSnapchat“Platform where the suspect and minor met”locationLakeland“The city where the suspect resides.”other16“Age of the victim.”