Florida police arrest high‑speed drivers in Martin and Polk counties

Markell Travon Tillman, 33, led a high‑speed pursuit on State Road 710 in Martin County, exceeding 100 mph and ignoring police signals. After a helicopter‑tracked chase, spike strips were deployed, deflating his 2024 Kia SUV and enabling officers to arrest him. He faces charges including fleeing and eluding, aggravated fleeing with injury or damage, driving over 100 mph and operating a vehicle with a suspended license. The arrest occurred during the state’s Operation Southern Slow Down, a multi‑agency speeding crackdown.

Jhorland Atehortua, 22, a Colombian national, was stopped on Interstate 4 in Polk County after deputies recorded him traveling 101 mph in a 70 mph zone while showing signs of impairment. Officers found marijuana and a smoking pipe in the vehicle. He was charged with DUI, reckless driving and possession of cannabis and paraphernalia. Because he is undocumented, an ICE hold has been placed on him pending further action.