Sheriff: Man Caused Crash, Fled Scene and Punched Sergeant

Christopher Delatorre, 38, was driving north on US 41 around 6:45 p.m. and reportedly weaving in and out of traffic when he crashed into two other vehicles in front of Cramer Honda, according to report.

Delatorre fled on foot and witnesses chased him until he ran into the woods near the bowling alley, the report states.

As deputies set up a perimeter a motorist told them a suspicious looking man had just run into Walgreens and asked him for a ride, the report said. Witnesses at Walgreens said the man went into the bathroom to try on a white shirt, according to the report.

Deputies found Delatorre in the story and ordered him to put his hands behind his back. He complied, but as deputies approached, he spun around, punched the sergeant in the chin and ran out of the store, the report said. Delatorre tried to enter two locked patrol cars and continued running the report stated. Deputies finally captured him in the median at Center Road, according to a report.

Delatorre was charged with Hit and Run, Driving with a Suspended License, Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, two counts of Attempted Vehicle Theft, two counts of Obstruction by Disguise and Petit Theft. An administrative hold has been placed on him for an outstanding warrant for meth in Hardee County.

Delatorre was taken to Sarasota County Jail where he is being held on a $9,360 bond.