Suspect Discards Gun While Fleeing Shoplifting Investigation

NEWBERRY – A 23-year-old Newberry man was arrested Friday after deputies said he fled on foot while being investigated in connection with a shoplifting report and was later found to have discarded a firearm during the pursuit.

Kobe Deon Delima was taken into custody at approximately 11:29 a.m. on March 13, 2026, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies were initially dispatched to the Family Dollar store at 24240 W. Newberry Road after an employee reported that a man who had previously stolen from the store had again taken merchandise and left the business. The employee described the suspect as having an “OG” tattoo on his neck.

A responding deputy soon located a man matching that description walking westbound along Northwest Fifth Avenue. Another deputy advised that Delima, identified as a convicted felon, was known to frequently carry a firearm. The deputy also recognized Delima from prior interactions.

According to the arrest report, Delima stopped and looked toward the patrol vehicle as the deputy approached. When the deputy exited his vehicle, Delima began walking in his direction. The deputy reported observing a large bulge in the front of Delima’s pants and noted that one of Delima’s hands was inside his waistband.

When asked about the object, Delima allegedly turned and began walking away, then fled on foot. Deputies pursued him through a retention pond and into the Oak Park neighborhood.

By the time Delima was apprehended, the bulge was no longer visible, deputies reported.

A search incident to arrest reportedly uncovered multiple pairs of socks, loose change and a small baggie containing marijuana. Deputies later located a white ankle sock near the area where Delima was taken into custody. While searching nearby, a deputy observed additional socks and a handgun in the backyard of a residence. After obtaining the property owner’s consent, deputies recovered the items.

The firearm was reported to contain nine hollow-point rounds in the magazine.

Authorities said the stolen merchandise from the store was valued at $19.35.

Following his arrest and after being advised of his rights, Delima declined to make a statement, according to the report.

Delima faces multiple charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, tampering with evidence, possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana, resisting an officer without violence and retail petit theft.

According to court records, Delima has three prior felony convictions, including one classified as violent, as well as three misdemeanor convictions, one of which was also violent.

Judge Susan Miller-Jones set bail at $154,000.

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