PCPD seized a 9mm handgun as well as cocaine.
In the early hours of January 21, the Plant City Police Department (PCPD) swiftly arrested 43-year-old Elijah Whittaker of Plant City, following an assault that occurred at a residence on Pearl Street.
At approximately 3:30 a.m., officers responded to the scene of a reported domestic assault. Through a detailed on-scene investigation, it was determined that an argument escalated when Whittaker physically struck the victim, pointed a firearm at the individual, and threated the person’s life. Whittaker fled the area before officers arrived but thanks to a detailed description provided by PCPD’s Communications Center, officers quickly coordinated their efforts and located Whittaker nearby.
Upon apprehension, officers discovered Whittaker in possession of a loaded, illegally possessed, 9mm handgun and one gram of cocaine. Further investigation revealed that Whittaker has a prior felony conviction.
The PCPD charged Whittaker with felon in possession of a firearm (1st degree felony), aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (3rd degree felony), possession of cocaine (3rd degree felony), and simple battery (2nd degree misdemeanor).
Whittaker was remanded to the Hillsborough County Jail.
This arrest highlights the exceptional teamwork between responding officers and the department’s dispatchers. The Communications Center obtained a detailed description of Whittaker from the caller and promptly relayed the information to officers, enabling them to quickly locate and apprehended the suspect. Also, the incident underscores the importance of citizens providing detailed information to dispatchers when requesting police assistance. The coordinated effort of all involved ensured a swift resolution to a potentially dangerous situation, prioritizing the safety of the victim and the community.
