A Lake Wales man is facing serious felony charges after a large amount of methamphetamine was seized during a recent undercover investigation conducted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest stemmed from a controlled operation that took place on November 5 and 6, 2025, in both Winter Haven and Lake Wales.
According to the affidavit, detectives began looking into the suspect, Elbert Camp, after receiving information in early November that he was attempting to obtain a significant quantity of methamphetamine. Investigators established communication through controlled channels and continued speaking with Camp as arrangements developed. The affidavit explains that Camp told detectives he was trying to gather money for several pounds of methamphetamine and eventually indicated he had eight thousand dollars available.
On November 6, detectives arranged to meet Camp in the parking lot of a Publix in Lake Wales. Camp arrived and made contact with an undercover unit. The affidavit states that detectives confirmed he was in possession of eight thousand dollars. Once that step was completed, investigators directed Camp to another nearby location where the final exchange would take place under controlled circumstances.
When Camp arrived at the second location, detectives instructed him to approach a vehicle. He got inside, and investigators provided him with two packages of methamphetamine as part of the controlled operation. According to the report, the packages together contained approximately 3,648 grams, which is just over eight pounds. Once Camp took possession of the narcotics, detectives moved in and took him into custody without incident.
The affidavit states that Camp was read his Miranda rights and transported to the Southeast District Substation. Detectives documented the seized substances, and field tests confirmed the contents were methamphetamine. The operation was monitored and recorded by law enforcement.
Camp is charged with trafficking in amphetamine greater than 200 grams, a first degree felony, along with a misdemeanor count of possession of drug paraphernalia related to the container used during the exchange. He was later booked into the Polk County Jail.
The investigation remains ongoing.
