News and Investigations

On Monday afternoon, September 15, 2025, Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 34-year-old Matthew Wells of Auburndale after discovering two bags of marijuana in his vehicle during a proactive patrol at Westwood Park in Winter Haven.

Deputies observed a white Lincoln sedan parked with all windows down and a man seated alone in the driver’s seat. Upon approaching the vehicle, deputies immediately detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside. They asked Wells for his driver’s license, at which point he presented a Florida ID card only. He then denied driving, although he was the sole occupant of the vehicle, and sitting in the driver’s seat. Wells told deputies that he is a coach at Advance Prep Academy in Auburndale, and admitted to having a prior arrest for marijuana possession.

When asked if there was marijuana in the vehicle, Wells confirmed and handed over a small plastic bag containing a green leafy substance. He also stated he did not possess a medical marijuana card. Deputies then asked if there was more, and Wells produced a larger bag of marijuana from inside a trash bag located in the front passenger seat.

Wells told deputies the marijuana belonged to him and his wife, and explained that he had recently been released from jail after serving a five-month sentence. He stated he “just wanted to smoke.”

Wells was placed under arrest and transported to the Polk County Jail. He was charged with possession of cannabis (M1) and possession of drug paraphernalia (M1).

“This is a perfect example of someone who clearly hasn’t learned from past mistakes. If you’re going to break the law in Polk County, expect to be held accountable—again and again if necessary.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Please direct any questions about his employment to Advance Prep Academy.