Florida TikTok Star Arrested for the Third Time While Attempting to Evade Police

A Florida-based TikTok influencer, Marlena Valez, who boasts a following of over 500, 000, is in trouble with the law once again. This time, she was apprehended following an incident where she allegedly attempted to evade police by hiding in an SUV.

Velez, aged 23, has a history of legal issues, having previously been arrested twice in late 2024 for shoplifting at a Target store in Cape Coral. Despite going viral for her video showcasing her stolen merchandise, she reportedly employed counterfeit barcodes to purchase items at a fraction of their price. Her identity was later confirmed by investigators through her social media presence, particularly on her TikTok page.

In March 2025, she was sentenced to a year of probation in connection with these thefts.

On October 12, Cape Coral Police took Velez into custody following weeks of eluding law enforcement. Reports indicate that on that day, she was spotted inside a gray 2022 Kia Sorento. When officers approached the vehicle, she reportedly made a quick attempt to disappear from sight but was subsequently discovered lying on the floor of the backseat.

Marlena Valez arrested — Lee County Sheriff’s Office/Instagram: CapePD

The Sequence of Events: From September Chase to October Arrest

This recent arrest is linked to a previous incident that occurred on September 29, 2025, during which Velez allegedly fled from an officer attempting to conduct a traffic stop. Due to safety concerns, the officer chose to end the pursuit, but this incident resulted in Velez facing a new charge of fleeing.

As it stands, she now faces two counts of violating probation along with one count of fleeing and eluding law enforcement. Currently, she is being held at the Lee County Jail without bond.

Interestingly, Velez is not alone in her recent legal troubles; she is part of a growing trend of influencers facing arrest. Just this month, a 52-year-old WWE enthusiast was also detained for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars in wrestling action figures.

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