Trooper attacked; reward for suspect's arrest

BRANDON - Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is offering a $1000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of 23-year-old Marquist Polite after he violently attacked a trooper during a traffic stop Friday evening.

The Florida Highway Patrol says the trooper stopped a black Nissan on Brandon Town Center Blvd. around 6 p.m. after observing that the front seat passenger was not wearing a seat belt. During the stop, the passenger, later identified as Polite, got out of the vehicle and began to exhibit suspicious behavior.

According to FHP, the trooper, concerned for his own safety, attempted to conduct a pat down of Polite to look for possible weapons. While the pat down was being conducted, Polite spun around and struck the trooper in the upper arm. Polite hit the trooper several more times and managed to flee when his shirt ripped.

Troopers say Polite is a certified gang member and is considered dangerous. Polite has active warrants for violation of probation for a felony, fleeing to elude, and a federal warrant for distribution of cocaine.

Polite is described as a black male, 5'8", 136 lbs, with black hair, brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black tee shirt and denim cargo shorts. Polite's last known address 3412 Lindall Ave. in Tampa.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Marquist Polite is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477); text "CSTB" and the tip to C-R-I-M-E-S (274637); or visit www.crimestopperstb.com . Reports are anonymous and are eligible for a cash reward.