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FHP seeks passenger who struck trooper during traffic stop

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TBO.com

Published: July 4, 2009

Marquist Jermanie Polite

The Florida Highway Patrol is looking for a Tampa man who allegedly struck an FHP officer during a traffic stop Friday in Brandon.

Police say Marquist Jermanie Polite, 23, of 3412 Lindall Ave. was a passenger in a black Nissan stopped just before 6 p.m. on Brandon Town Center Boulevard.

According to police, the FHP officer stopped the vehicle because the passenger was not wearing his seatbelt. A new state law allows police to write tickets for seatbelt violations separate from any other violations.

During the traffic stop, Polite became anxious, according to the FHP, saying he didn't have his identification with him. Polite got out of the vehicle on his own. A trooper started to pat him down, and at one point, Polite he scuffled with the officer, striking him in the arm and the side of the head, the FHP said.

Polite got away from the trooper and escaped on foot.

According to the FHP, Polite is a member of the 34th Street Bloods gang. He is wanted for violating his probation on earlier charges of felony fleeing to elude police and distribution of cocaine. He is 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighs 136 pounds.

Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for anyone with information leading to Polite's arrest. Anyone with information can call 1-800-873-TIPS (8477).

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