GADSDEN COUNTY, Fla., Dec. 13, 2024—Florida troopers had a run-in with an alleged sovereign citizen on Interstate 10 in Gadsden County Wednesday afternoon.

Angelo Deneal Lloyd, 47, was arrested for driving without a license and failure to obey a lawful order, both misdemeanors, and possessing a counterfeit license plate, which is a third degree felony.

While patrolling the interstate, a Florida Highway Patrol trooper noticed a red pickup truck with what appeared to be an altered license plate which stated “EXEMPT PRIVATE PROPERTY 4187715 NOT FOR COMMERCIAL USE – PRIVATE RIGHT TO TRAVEL,” according to an FHP news release.

Following a traffic stop, and with the assistance of more troopers, the trooper attempted to speak to Lloyd from the passenger side; however, the window was only lowered an inch making hearing impossible. Moving to the driver’s side, also only lowered an inch, the Trooper still could not hear Lloyd, according to the release.

At that point, the trooper realized he was possibly dealing with a “sovereign citizen.” Sovereign citizens are members of a movement within the United States who believe they are exempt from government laws and regulations, including paying taxes.

The trooper ordered Lloyd out of the pickup, but he refused. However, as the trooper attempted to break the window with his baton, Lloyd opened the door and was removed without further incident, according to the release.

Lloyd was booked into the Gadsden County Jail. He was released yesterday on $750 bond.

Florida Highway Patrol news release