A Lakeland, Florida, man is facing serious criminal charges after allegedly crashing his vehicle with two children inside and then fleeing on foot into a swamp, where he reportedly submerged a baby in water while trying to evade police. Isaac Kinsey, 27, was arrested early on Sept. 9 after officers located him in the hazardous terrain using drone technology, according to the Lakeland Police Department.
Background
The incident began on Highway 33 near North Combee Road, where Kinsey allegedly drove through a road closure sign and sandbags before his car overturned in a construction site, slamming into tree roots. When officers arrived at the scene, the vehicle was empty, but two child safety seats were visible inside. Approximately 30 minutes later, police deployed a drone and spotted Kinsey stumbling through a nearby swamp area while carrying two children, ages 2 and 10 months. Body camera and drone footage showed Kinsey falling and submerging the children in the water during his escape attempt.
The Charges
Kinsey is charged with two counts of child neglect with great bodily harm, alongside several DUI-related offenses. Police stated that Kinsey showed signs of impairment and admitted to being intoxicated at the time of the incident. He also reportedly acknowledged that his driver's license had been suspended. Following his arrest, Kinsey was quoted by officers as saying, "I did not know there was a swamp right here," when ordered to hand over the children. Police have not specified the biological relationship between Kinsey and the minors.
Key Takeaways
- Isaac Kinsey, 27, faces two counts of child neglect with great bodily harm and DUI charges.
- The incident occurred on Sept. 9 in Lakeland, Florida, after a car crash into a construction zone.
- Police used drones to locate Kinsey and the children, ages 2 and 10 months, in a swamp.
- All three individuals were transported to a hospital for treatment; their current conditions were not detailed.
- Kinsey remains in Polk County Jail without bond.
- Police described the children as "lucky to be alive" and credited drone technology for the rescue.
What's Next
Kinsey is being held without bond at the Polk County Jail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 13. The Lakeland Police Department emphasized in a press release that the rapid deployment of aerial technology and officer teamwork prevented a potential tragedy, noting that the incident "could have ended with the loss of two innocent lives."