Robert Miranda, a resident of Titusville, celebrated his 42nd birthday in custody at the Polk County Jail after being arrested for multiple felonies related to lewd and lascivious behavior.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Winter Haven Police Department, conducted the investigation that led to Miranda’s arrest.

Reports surfaced in late February about a suspicious individual in the Winter Haven area driving a grey midsized SUV, approaching children on their way to school bus stops.

Incidents occurred on February 23rd, where Miranda, wearing a black surgical-style mask, attempted to lure a 9-year-old child into his vehicle on Avenue H and 15th St NE. The quick-thinking child alerted an adult, thwarting the potential abduction.

Another incident involving a 12-year-old child occurred just twenty minutes later at Avenue J and 4th St SE, where Miranda exposed himself before fleeing the scene. Surveillance footage captured the suspect’s vehicle, leading investigators to Christina Miranda of Haines City, who owned the grey Mitsubishi Outlander used in the crimes. Robert Miranda, her son, had been residing in Lake Alfred and driving the vehicle.

Miranda, a registered sex offender since 2005, faces charges including sex offender failure to register, attempted kidnapping, lewd and lascivious exhibition, and indecent exposure.

Authorities commended the bravery of the children involved and emphasized the importance of community cooperation in ensuring Miranda faces justice for his actions.

Sheriff Grady Judd praised the joint efforts of law enforcement agencies, stating, “The real heroes of this investigation are the very brave children who immediately thwarted this pervert’s efforts to corrupt, assault, kidnap, or molest them.”

Winter Haven Deputy Police Chief Vance Monroe echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the dedication displayed by PCSO and Winter Haven investigators.

Miranda’s extensive criminal history dates back to 1997, with charges ranging from arson to possession of cocaine. Sheriff Judd urged anyone with information about Miranda’s activities to come forward, emphasizing the need to protect innocent children from further harm.