An "anonymous tip" led undercover detectives to a Bartow home, where they found a working moonshine still according to the Polk County Sheriff's Office.
Detectives searched the house on Thomas Jefferson Circle East in Bartow, where they found the fully-operational still. They seized the still, along with seven jars of moonshine.
The two men who live at the home, 54-year-old Kenneth Wayne Wilkerson and 36-year-old Rockie D. Smith, said they used the still to make moonshine for their own use.
"I knew it was illegal but I wasn't going to sell it. I didn't see no harm in it," Wilkerson said. "The moonshine we made - it was good and like I said, I wish you could have tasted some of it."
Detectives said they also admitted to selling moonshine to their friends and coworkers.
Both men were arrested and charged with one (1) count each of Possession of a Moonshine Still, Possession of Moonshine and Conspiracy to violate Florida's beverage law. All three (3) of these charges are third-degree felonies (each punishable by up to five (5) years in prison).
The Clearwater-based SLAVIN LAW FIRM is still looking for its first moonshine case. Until then, criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Slavin, Esq. remains available to assist those being investigated for and/or charged with Felony offenses throughout the State of Florida.
If your criminal case requires an aggressive and experienced representation, the SLAVIN LAW FIRM will be there for you. 365/24/7.
To speak directly with attorney Aaron J. Slavin, please call 727.474.3785 or 1.877.HIRE.SLF. Inquiries can also be made via email at: aaron@slavinlawfirm.com
Aaron J. Slavin, Esq.
SLAVIN LAW FIRM, LLC
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