Crews Still Assessing Damage Due To Fires At Indian Lake Estates – Report Should Be Available Later Today

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Crews Still Assessing Damage Due To Fires At Indian Lake Estates – Report Should Be Available Later Today

Indian Lake Estates Fire (photo courtesy of the PCFR)
Indian Lake Estates Fire (photo courtesy of the PCFR)

Press Release From Polk County Fire Rescue

The Indian Lake Estates fire is contained, but not extinguished. Polk County Fire Rescue and Florida Forest Service have crews on standby should the fire intensify or break out of its boundaries. Current assessments indicate that damage inside the Indian Lake Estates is limited to sheds and vehicles.

Weather conditions remain a threat.

Property damage did occur along CR 630 and SR 60. Polk County Emergency Management, Polk County Building Division and the American Red Cross are currently carrying out a thorough assessment to determine the actual count of damaged or destroyed properties. Later today we’ll release the latest numbers.

The Florida Forest Service remains on scene and is focusing around SR 60 and CR 630. They are also providing aerial support. There are emergency vehicles and smoky conditions in the area, so motorists are asked to drive carefully.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is assisting by scouting the River Ranch Hunt Club. ​

Emergency Water Line Repairs to Cause Traffic Delays – Winter Haven

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Emergency Water Line Repairs to Cause Traffic Delays – Winter Haven
Emergency Water Line Repairs to Cause Traffic Delays
 110319012541_traffic-alert.jpg
Emergency repairs currently underway to fix an apparent water line leak require closing the southbound lane of Thornhill Road in the vicinity of Byni Ridge Road in unincorporated Winter Haven north of State Road 540 (Winter Lake Road).
This lane closure is anticipated to last until 5:00 pm or later today to complete repairs. Traffic backups and delays are anticipated. Motorists are urged to avoid the area by using alternate routes to bypass work zone.
 

Rock Band Get Scared “Sickened & Saddened” By Child Porn Charges Against Former Vocalist Joel

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Rock Band Get Scared “Sickened & Saddened” By Child Porn Charges Against Former Vocalist Joel

joel

Lakeland, Florida – On January 25, 2017 deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrested 27-year-old Joel Faviere of Lakeland. Faviere was vocalist for the rock band “Get Scared” back in 2011 and 2012. Get Scared is an American rock band from Layton, Utah. Formed in 2008. According to reports detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Faviere’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Buck Run Drive, and during an on-scene preview of his computer equipment they seized, detectives found over 4,500 files containing child pornography, including images of infants and toddlers being sexually abused. Faviere told detectives he has been viewing child pornography for a year and that it “has become an addiction.” Faviere was placed under arrest and charged with:

Three (3) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
Six (6) counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

On Wednesday, February 15, 2017 after it was released about Faviere’s arrest the current lead vocalist for the band , Nick Matthews, put out this statement via the bands facebook page –

First, I would like to say I’ve never met Joel. I’ve only talked to him maybe once or twice for mere minutes, but I am sick and saddened by the news. I am sorry for the victims of this disgusting crime, and I am horrified that he has had access to so many young fans across the country. Although his time in the band was very short, we feel he has tarnished the very name we worked so hard to build up for the past 9 years. We would never condone this kind of disgusting behavior, and we hope you will continue to support us through this tough time. He was not personally a friend of mine, nor did he have any contact with the band in the past 5 years. We are working to do our part in the situation and remove any remaining platform he had through Get Scared, as he does not deserve a platform at all.
If you have any indication that someone you know is looking at or addicted to child pornography, please contact your local police department immediately. Children all over the world are being sexually abused every day and we need to do our part to keep them safe. This should not be about him or us. It should be about finding these children and getting them help. You can report any sexual exploitation of children or suspected exploitation of children to http://www.missingkids.com/. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children not only aids in locating children who have been abducted, but also provides funding and assistance to help link the pieces together in these kinds of crimes as well as seek out and catch sex offenders. The National Center also has a program that helps to identify and locate children being abused in photos and videos. Their donations are used to fund programs that save children’s lives and keep them safe. This is an EXTREMELY important cause to support and we all need to be aware.
You can donate here: (https://secure.missingkids.org/donate)
We are sorry to those of you who have been hurt or affected by this man’s actions. Please reach out to us or comment and discuss. We are still a family and are here to listen to you. Thank you again for all your support.

Faviere is currently in the Polk County Jail with no bail being provided. He has a court date 3/31/2017,

15 Year Old Mulberry Florida Boy Charged With Murder After Allegedly Shooting To Death Mothers Boyfriend

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15 Year Old Mulberry Florida Boy Charged With Murder After Allegedly Shooting To Death Mothers Boyfriend

breaking-news-1-1080x641.jpegPress Release Polk County Sheriff’s Office

Late today, detectives arrested 15-year-old Michael Cole Whidden for the shooting death of 37-year-old Paul Gregg, Jr. that occurred early Wednesday morning at approximately 12:50 a.m. at 305 Gibson St in Mulberry. Whidden has been charged with one count of First Degree Murder.

Deputies investigated the shooting and concluded that Whidden shot Gregg in the back with a shotgun, killing him.

Deputies interviewed 36-year-old Jessica Whidden and her 15-year-old son Michael Cole Whidden in a church parking lot near the Gibson Street home after the shooting. All three lived at the Gibson Street address.

Jessica Whidden has a previous arrest for DWLSR (Driving While License Suspended or Revoked). Paul Gregg has a previous arrest for battery and DUI. Michael Cole Whidden has no previous arrest history.

Michael Cole Whidden was arrested, charged with 1st degree murder, and transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center without incident.

Here are specific details from the arrest affidavit : On 2/15/2017 at approximately 0037 hours a call was received to 911 from Jessica Whidden at 863-205-0407
advising her son had possibly shot her boyfriend after an argument at the residence located at 305 Gibson St,
Mulberry, FL 33860. Deputies and Polk County Fire Rescue responded to the scene. Contact was made with Whidden and her son, Michael Cole Whidden, at the Southside Baptist Church located at 250 Moses Street, Mulberry, FL 33860 who provided a brief description of events.
Deputies cleared the residence, and discovered the victim, identified as Paul Gregg Jr, in the master bedroom closet suffering an apparent gunshot wound to the torso. PCFR responded and declared him deceased at 0112
hours.

Contact was made with Michael who was advised of his Miranda rights and advised he understood each of them.

During interview he advised his mother has not stayed at their home the last few nights due to arguments with Gregg, and that Gregg was already drinking. Upon arriving at home on 2/14/2017 at approximately 1420 hours,
he spoke with Gregg and asked that he not say anything to upset Jessica. 

Later that evening Jessica arrived home, got ready and left to go out to dinner with friends. Gregg began to imply Jessica was not being honest and
Michael left to his aunt’s residence down the street. His aunt then dropped him off at Applebee’s with Jessica.

After making stops in a couple locations Jessica and Michael arrived back at home around midnight or shortly after. Michael advised he entered the residence and observed Gregg asleep sitting up on the couch holding a
beer. He entered his room as his mother smoked a cigarette on the porch. Jessica entered the residence and Michael observed her moving toward the back bathroom. Gregg apparently awoke and walked to Michael’s
bedroom and asked what time it was, to which he replied “around 12:30.” Michael then placed himself between Gregg and the bathroom door Jessica had entered. Gregg approached the bathroom with a steak knife in his
hand from where he had been cutting a steak and began to yell at Jessica, calling her derogatory terms, stating he wished he could kill her, and that he would torment her until she committed suicide. Gregg initially had the
knife to his side and then held it up and waved it and pointed it at Jessica as he spoke emphatically. Gregg then walked into the living room with his steak, before returning to the kitchen and yelling more at Jessica. He then
walked back to the living room. Michael explained at this time he had enough, he was afraid because Gregg had never threatened his mother with a weapon to his knowledge, and he felt that if he did not do something Gregg
would not stop, and that his mother may end up hurt.

Michael went to his room and retrieved his twelve gauge shotgun and loaded a round in the chamber. He explained that at this time he planned to shoot Gregg. He exited the room and pointed the shotgun at Gregg who
was sitting on the couch in the living room. Gregg stood and began to walk to the master bedroom, where Michael knew there were multiple firearms. Michael stated he pulled the trigger to the shotgun while aiming it at
Gregg, however the safety was on and it did not fire. Michael walked to the doorway of the master bedroom and observed Gregg’s back as he approached the west side of the room where a dresser stood and the doorway to the master bedroom closet was nearby. He fired the shotgun at Gregg, and believed he struck him in the back. He then told Jessica to contact 911, that he believed he had shot Gregg. They then exited the residence and walked to the church to await law enforcement. Michael stated he felt he was protecting his mother. Michael provided a sworn and video recorded statement regarding the incident.

Jessica Whidden provided a sworn recorded statement regarding the incident as well. She explained she has been dating and living with Gregg for approximately five years, and had lived in this residence for a little over a year. Michael is her son, and only resides with her. She advised over the last few weeks relations with Gregg have deteriorated, and the last few days she has been unable to stay the night at her home because of their arguing.

She stated he has a history of being violent to her, though she has not reported this to law enforcement. She advised Michael has stepped in to try and protect her before. On 2/15/2017 she arrived back home between midnight and 0030 hours and went to the back bathroom in the residence to change and use the restroom. She heard a commotion and observed the door to the bathroom open, with Michael in the doorway blocking Gregg from entering. She did not see a knife, and did not recall everything that was said. She explained Gregg walked away, and she remained in the area of the bathroom. She advised the next thing she remembered was Michael telling her to call 911, that he thought he had shot Gregg. They exited the residence and went to the church where she contacted 911. She did not see Michael with a weapon, nor did she recall hearing a gunshot.

A search warrant was executed on the residence at 305 Gibson St, Mulberry, FL 33860. Gregg was observed to have apparent gunshot wounds to his back. Multiple pellets, the shotgun believed to have been used was recovered, along with a spent shell were all recovered within the residence. The evidence recovered was consistent with the statements provided by Michael and Jessica.

An autopsy of the decedent was conducted by Dr. Volnikh on 2/15/2017. She recovered two pellets, and wadding from within the decedent. The entry was into the victim’s back, and some exit through the left side of the victim’s chest. She determined the cause of death to be shotgun wound of the torso and the manner of death to be homicide.

Based on the statements and evidence recovered, I have determined sufficient probable cause exists to charge
Michael Cole Whidden with first degree murder. He was arrested and transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center without incident.

Indian Lake Estates Evacuation Order Will Remain In Effect Overnight

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Indian Lake Estates Evacuation Order Will Remain In Effect Overnight
evacuation
UPDATE 8pm – Polk County Fire Rescue advised in a comment that S.R. 60 will not be reopened tonight. It will remain closed due to fire.
The Indian Lake Estates evacuation order will remain in effect overnight and residents are not allowed to return to their homes.
 
At noon Thursday, Feb. 16, an update will be provided on whether the evacuation order will be lifted.
 
Individuals seeking overnight shelter are asked to go to the First Presbyterian Church, located at 16 N 3rd St, Lake Wales, 33853. Residents can also call the Citizens’ Information Line on 863-401-2234 or toll free at (866) 661-0228.
 
The latest update will be posted on the Polk County Fire Rescue Facebook page.  
 
Polk County Fire Rescue crews will begin damage assessment Thursday morning.
 
The brush fire in Indian Lake Estates continues to burn and firefighters and law enforcement will stay on scene overnight to monitor the situation. Rain has helped, but the threat is not over. The fire has the potential to reignite as the day heats up Thursday and humidity lowers.

Breaking News Wild Fire Alert On CR 630 & Blue Jordan Forest Areas

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Breaking News Wild Fire Alert On CR 630 & Blue Jordan Forest Areas

16729441_10158190623645463_8159600425187398979_n

Update 3:54pm – PCFR has placed River Ranch Hunting Grounds under evacuation.

Polk County, Florida – According to Florida Forestry Services crews are headed to two separate brush fires in East Polk County. The they located on CR 630 and Blue Jordan Forest. Crews are just now arriving and more details are not currently available.

The public is advised to avoid the area.

Babson Park Man Among Those Arrest For Child Pornography

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Babson Park Man Among Those Arrest For Child Pornography
Mark Ewald
Mark Ewald

Babson Park, Florida – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office conduct an operation this past two weeks arresting suspects allegedly involved in child pornography. One of those arrested was 28-year-old Mark Ewald of Babson Park, Florida. Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Ewald’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Thornburg Road, where Ewald lives with his parents, and during an on-scene preview of his computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Ewald told detectives he began downloading child pornography six to eight months ago and prefers images with young girls being sexually battered by adult males. He has a BS Degree in Computer Science. Ewald was arrested and charged with:
38 counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
100 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
One count each Possession of Marijuana and Paraphernalia (M-1)

Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

Bartow Man Wanted For Child Pornography Charges

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Bartow Man Wanted For Child Pornography Charges

Bartow, Florida – According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office a warrant for the arrest of 30-year-old Matthew Sutton of Bartow.  Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Sutton’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Kathy Road, where they encountered a woman, Theresa, who refused to cooperate and began resisting arrest. She was arrested. During an on-scene preview of Sutton’s computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared, including images of toddlers being sexually battered by adults. Sutton was not there and deputies issued a warrant for this arrest for:

  • 84 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

UPDATE: 42 Total Arrests Made During Operation Child Guardian

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UPDATE: 42 Total Arrests Made During Operation Child Guardian
42 Total Arrests Made During Operation Child Guardian

operation-child-guardian
PCSO Computer Crimes Detectives Arrest 18 Suspects For Possession of Child Pornography – One Additional Suspect Has A Warrant and Is At Large

PCSO Special Victims Response Team & Vice Unit Detectives Arrest 21 Suspects For Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration and/or VOP

3 Other Non-Child Predator Suspects Were Arrested During The Operation, Related to These Investigations

 

During January and February 2017, PCSO Computer Crimes detectives, PCSO Special Victims Response Team detectives, and PCSO Vice Unit detectives, working with the Florida Department of Corrections Probation and Parole Office and the State Attorney’s Office, made 42 total arrests during an undercover investigation focusing on those who prey on children.

 

Detectives served several search warrants and arrested 18 suspects who engage in the promotion, possession, and distribution of child pornography. They additionally obtained a warrant for a suspect, for possession of child pornography. Detectives also conducted proactive compliance checks on sex offenders, predators, and probationers whose violations stemmed from sex offenses. They arrested 21 suspects for failure to register, and VOP (failure to register).

 

“Our children are this community’s most precious resource. We must do everything we can to protect them. During operations such as this one, we proactively look for suspects who prey upon children, either through the collection and distribution of child pornography, or through their non-compliance with sexual predator and offender registration rules, including their evasive efforts to gain access to children through the Internet and social media. Our detectives have done an outstanding job-they are guardians who protect the innocent.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff 

 

42  Total Arrests Were Made & 1 Warrant Was Issued:

  • 18 Suspects Were Arrested For Possession of Child Pornography
  • One Additional Possession of Child Pornography suspect is wanted and is at large – he has a warrant
  • 21 Suspects (5 Predators and 16 Offenders) Were Arrested For Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration and/or violating their probation
  • 3 Others Were Arrested During The Operation (not child sex crimes)

Of the 42 total people arrested & one warrant issued there are:

  • o   892 current criminal charges
  • o   216 previous felony charges
  • o   145 previous misdemeanor charges
  • o   361 TOTAL previous charges

 

The 18 suspects who were arrested on child pornography charges, in alphabetical order, are as follows:

 

56-year-old Dale Agnew of Lakeland – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Agnew’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Buttonbush Circle, and during an on-scene preview of his computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Agnew is married with children. Agnew and his wife both told detectives that Agnew began downloading child pornography 10 years ago when he was overseas, and he was “caught” by his wife, and it has caused problems in their marriage. Agnew continued to download and view child pornography afterwards. Agnew was arrested and charged with:

  • Eight (8) counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • 100 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

47-year-old Richard Bishop of Lakeland – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Bishop’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Walnut Street, where Bishop lives with Michelle Roberts. During an on-scene preview of the computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Roberts told detectives she views child pornography when engaged in sexual activity with Richard Bishop. Bishop corroborated this. Bishop is also the caregiver to three children in the home. DCF responded to the scene. Bishop was arrested and charged with:

  • 20 counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Two (2) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-3)
  • One (1) count Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor (M-1)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

53-year-old Robert Campbell of Polk City – Detectives received a NCMEC (National Center for Missing and Endangered Children) cybertip information that someone operating a device located in Campbell’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Angus Road, and seized Campbell’s computer equipment. Campbell told detectives he’s been sharing and viewing child pornography since 2009, and estimated he has viewed over 100,000 images and videos of child pornography. Campbell is married. Campbell was placed under arrest and charged with:

  • One (1) count Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

35-year-old Timothy Carmichael of Auburndale – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Carmichael’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Flamingo Circle, where Carmichael lives with his wife and two children, and during an on-scene preview of his computer equipment they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Carmichael told detectives he has been viewing child pornography for most of his life and “it is like a drug.”

  • Three (3) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-3)
  • One (1) count Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

35-year-old Daniel Collins of Lakeland – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Collins’ home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Thomas Road, where Collins lives with his grandmother, and during an on-scene preview of his computer equipment they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Collins told detectives he has been viewing child pornography for months and is addicted to it.

  • Four (4) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-3)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

28-year-old Michael Dietz of Auburndale – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Dietz’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Vauxhall Road, and during an on-scene preview of his computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Dietz told detectives he is addicted to child pornography, some of which are images of babies between three and six months of age. Dietz lives with his parents, both of whom were arrested for Possession of Meth. Michael Dietz was arrested and charged with:

  • One (1) count Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • 102 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • One count each Possession of Marijuana and Paraphernalia (M-1)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

28-year-old Mark Ewald of Babson Park – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Ewald’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Thornburg Road, where Ewald lives with his parents and juvenile sister, and during an on-scene preview of his computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Ewald told detectives he began downloading child pornography six to eight months ago and prefers images with young girls being sexually battered by adult males. He has a BS Degree in Computer Science. Ewald was arrested and charged with:

  • 38 counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • 100 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • One count each Possession of Marijuana and Paraphernalia (M-1)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

27-year-old Joel Faviere of Lakeland – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Faviere’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Buck Run Drive, and during an on-scene preview of his computer equipment they seized, detectives found over 4,500 files containing child pornography, including images of infants and toddlers being sexually abused. Faviere told detectives he has been viewing child pornography for a year and that it “has become an addiction.” Faviere was placed under arrest and charged with:

  • Three (3) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Six (6) counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

31-year-old Erik Gordon of Winter Haven – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Gordon’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Lake Florence Drive South, and during an on-scene preview of his computer equipment they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Gordon told detectives he is a call taker at the Peace River Center for children in crisis. He is married and has a 2-year-old child.

  • 38 counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

20-year-old Nolan Hartsaw of Lakeland – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Hartsaw’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Sugartree Drive West, and during an on-scene preview of his computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Hartsaw told detectives he began downloading child pornography a few months ago and prefers images with girls around the ages of 5 and 10 years old. Hartsaw was arrested and charged with:

  • One (1) count Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • 62 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

73-year-old John Knapp of Lakeland – Detectives received a NCMEC tip that someone operating a device located in Knapp’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Deverly Drive, where during an on-scene preview of Knapp’s computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Knapp was arrested and charged with:

  • One (1) count Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Five (5) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

24-year-old Brian Rivera of Mulberry – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Rivera’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Shepherd Oaks Pass, and during an on-scene preview of his cell phones they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Rivera told detectives he has been sharing, downloading, and viewing child pornography for the past two months.

  • Three (3) counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

29-year-old Michelle Roberts of Lakeland – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Roberts’ home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Walnut Street, where Roberts lives with Richard Bishop. During an on-scene preview of the computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Roberts told detectives she views child pornography when engaged in sexual activity with Richard Bishop. Bishop corroborated this. Roberts is a convicted felon, and detectives found a .45 caliber handgun in her home. Roberts is also the caregiver to three children in the home. DCF responded to the scene. Roberts was arrested and charged with:

  • 20 counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Two (2) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-3)
  • One (1) count Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (F-2)
  • One (1) count Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor (M-1)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

39-year-old Terry Scovel Jr. of Lakeland – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Scovel’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Bonisee Circle, where Scovel lives with his mother, sister, and his sister’s children, and during an on-scene preview of his computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Scovel told detectives he began downloading child pornography six months to a year ago and prefers images with girls around the ages of 10 and 11 years old. He said he receives $1800/month in government assistance. Scovel was arrested and charged with:

  • 18 counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • 100 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

25-year-old Johnnie Shields of Eagle Lake – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Shields’ home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Cabernet Court, where during an on-scene preview of Shields’ computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Shields was arrested and charged with:

  • Three (3) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

31-year-old Jeremiah Torres of Lakeland – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Torres’ home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Timbercrest Place, and during an on-scene preview of his computer equipment they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography including images of toddlers being sexually battered. Torres is married and has a child. Torres was placed under arrest and charged with:

  • Seven (7) counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • One (1) count Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

56-year-old Michael Wolfe of Lakeland – Detectives received a NCMEC tip that someone operating a device located in Wolfe’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on West Beacon Rd, where during an on-scene preview of Wolfe’s computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Wolfe told detectives he is married and is a martial arts instructor at South Side Barbell in Lakeland. Wolfe was arrested and charged with:

  • One (1) count Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)

63-year-old Lawrence Youngman, Jr. of Lake Wales – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Youngman’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Suzanne Drive, where during an on-scene preview of Youngman’s computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared. Youngman told detectives he began downloading child pornography 12 years ago. Knapp was arrested and charged with:

  • One (1) count Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child (F-2)
  • 100 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

 

WANTED for child pornography – warrant issued:

 

30-year-old Matthew Sutton of Bartow – Detectives received information that someone operating a device located in Sutton’s home was sharing files that contain child pornography. Detectives responded to the home on Kathy Road, where they encountered Sutton’s wife, Theresa, who refused to cooperate and began resisting arrest. She was arrested. During an on-scene preview of Sutton’s computers they seized, detectives found files containing child pornography, and file-sharing software with evidence of child pornography being shared, including images of toddlers being sexually battered by adults. Sutton was not there and deputies issued a warrant for this arrest for:

  • 84 counts Possession of Child Pornography (F-2)
  • Detectives will conduct a thorough forensic analysis of all equipment seized, and additional charges are pending.

The 21 suspects who were arrested on failure to comply with sex offender/predator registration and/or VOP charges, in alphabetical order, are as follows:

 

29-year-old Shane Adcock of Lake Wales – Adcock is a registered sexual offender based on a 2009 conviction for 20 counts Possession of Child Pornography and 5 counts Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child. Detectives located a Facebook account belonging to Adcock’s registered email address; the Facebook account was not registered with FDLE. Detectives also found Adcock failed to register a vehicle. Detectives located Adcock and placed him under arrest for:

  • Two (2) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

47-year-old Joseph Allen of Lakeland – Anderson is a registered sexual offender based on prior convictions Promotion of Sexual Performance of a Child and Possession of Child Pornography. Detectives located two vehicles at Allen’s home not registered with FDLE. Detectives located Allen and placed him under arrest for:

  • Two (2) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

42-year-old Jeffrey Anderson of Winter Haven – Anderson is a registered sexual offender based on a 2004 conviction for several counts Possession of Child Pornography. Detectives located a Facebook account, Pinterest account, and a vehicle belonging to Anderson, none of which are registered with FDLE. Detectives located Anderson and placed him under arrest for:

  • Two (2) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

50-year-old James Boley of Lakeland – Boley is a registered sexual PREDATOR based on prior convictions for Sexual Battery, False Imprisonment, and Burglary, and is on probation for those charges. Detectives located pornographic materials in Boley’s bedroom, which are violations of his probation status. Detectives arrested Boley for:

  • One (1) count Violation of Probation (F-3)

42-year-old Christian Clarke – Clarke is a registered sexual offender based on a 2002 conviction for Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Child Between 12-15 Years Old, and prior convictions for Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Murder and Interference With Child Custody. Detectives located a Facebook account, and at least four other social media and chatroom accounts, belonging to Clarke, none of which are registered with FDLE. Detectives located Clarke and placed him under arrest for:

  • Five (5) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

81-year-old Charles Demay of Lake Wales – Demay is a registered sexual offender based on a 2014 conviction for Criminal Sexual Conduct With a Victim 14-16 Years of Age in South Carolina. PCSO received complaints that Demay was talking to school-aged children and teens who passed in front of his trailer. No allegations of inappropriate contact were made. Detectives found that Demay failed to semi-annually complete sexual offender registration, and failed to obtain a Florida driver’s license or identification card displaying his current address and sexual offender designation. Detectives located Demay and placed him under arrest for:

  • Two (2) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

51-year-old Larry Falde of Lakeland – Falde is a registered sexual offender based on prior convictions for Traveling to Meet a Minor for Sex, and Transmission of Material Harmful to a Minor. He was arrested by PCSO during “Operation Cyber Child” in 2012. Detectives located a Facebook account, and cell phone containing pornography belonging to Falde. He is prohibited from owning a cell phone with Internet capabilities, and from accessing the Internet. Detectives located Falde and placed him under arrest for:

  • One (1) count Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)
  • Two (2) counts Violation of Probation

62-year-old Charles Haynes of Lakeland – Haynes is a registered sexual PREDATOR based on a 2002 conviction for Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Victim Under 16. Detectives located a Facebook account and email address belonging to Haynes, both of which are not registered with FDLE. Detectives located Haynes and placed him under arrest for:

  • One (1) count Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

61-year-old Randy Kilpatrick – Kilpatrick is a registered sexual PREDATOR based on a 2000 conviction for Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Child Under 16. Detectives located a Facebook account, and an email address, belonging to Kilpatrick, neither of which are registered with FDLE. Detectives located Kilpatrick and placed him under arrest for:

  • Two (2) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

38-year-old Christopher Kizzire of Bartow – Kizzire is a registered sexual offender based on a 2008 conviction for Rape of a 14-year-old in Alabama. Kizzire failed to notify his change of address to either law enforcement or the Florida Dept of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within 48 hours, complaint with his sexual offender registration. He has prior convictions for Failure to Comply with Sexual Offender Laws. Detectives located Kizzire and placed him under arrest for:

  • Two (2) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

38-year-old Wesley Maffet – Maffet is a registered sexual offender based on prior convictions for Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Child Between 12-15 Years Old, and Burglary. Detectives located two Facebook accounts and an email address belonging to Maffet, none of which are registered with FDLE. Detectives located Maffet and placed him under arrest for:

  • Three (3) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

64-year-old Edward Michalski – Michalski is a registered sexual offender based on a 1982 conviction for Rape of a Child With Force in Massachusetts, and on probation until September 2017. Detectives located a Facebook account belonging to Michalski not registered with FDLE. Detectives located Michalski and placed him under arrest for:

  • One (1) count Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

36-year-old Mark Miller of Lakeland – Miller is a registered sexual offender based on a 2007 conviction for Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Minor Between 12-15 Years Old, and has two prior convictions for Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration. Miller tested positive for Meth, which is in violation of his probation status. Detectives arrested Miller for:

  • Two (2) counts Violation of Probation (F-3)

50-year-old Michael Montgomery of Bartow – Montgomery is a registered sexual offender based on a 1994 conviction for Sexual Battery (of an adult victim), and is currently on probation for Grand Theft. PCSO received information that Montgomery violated his Grand Theft probation, and began researching to see if he was complaint with his sexual offender registration. Detectives located a Facebook account belonging to Montgomery’s registered email address; the Facebook account was not registered with FDLE. Montgomery was already in the Polk County Jail for VOP, and has the following new charge added on:

  • One (1) count Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

35-year-old Macario Ramirez of Lakeland – Anderson is a registered sexual offender based on a prior conviction for several counts Possession of Child Pornography, and is on probation until 2021. Detectives located a vehicle belonging to Ramirez which is not registered with FDLE. They also reviewed his GPS history and found that in December he was at his wife’s house, where their children are, in violation of his condition of probation that he have no contact with minors, including his own children. Detectives located Ramirez and placed him under arrest for:

  • One (1) count Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)
  • Two (2) counts Violation of Probation

40-year-old Demetrious Rose of Lake Wales – Rose is a registered sexual offender based on a 1996 conviction for Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Child Under 16, and has two prior convictions for Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration Laws. Detectives located a Facebook account and email account belonging to Rose, neither of which are registered with FDLE. Detectives located Rose and placed him under arrest for:

  • One (1) count Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

27-year-old Chad Rowell of Frostproof – Rowell is a registered sexual offender based on a 2009 conviction for Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Victim 12-15 Years Old. Rowell failed to notify his change of address to either law enforcement or the Florida Dept of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within 48 hours, complaint with his sexual offender registration. Rowell is also on probation for previously failing to register his address. Detectives located Rowell and arrested him for:

  • Two (2) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)
  • One (1) count Violation of Probation

51-year-old Charles Shadley of Lakeland – Shadley is a registered sexual PREDATOR based on a prior conviction for Sexual Battery of a Juvenile Under 12 Years Old, is on felony probation until 2029. Detectives located a cell phone containing pornography materials in Shadley’s possession, which are violations of his probation status. He is prohibited from possessing or viewing obscene or pornographic images or videos, and from accessing the Internet. Detectives arrested Shadley for:

  • One (1) count Violation of Probation (F-3)

23-year-old Robert Stanley of Lakeland – Stanley is a registered sexual PREDATOR based on a 2005 conviction for Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Victim 12-15 Years Old. He has a prior conviction for Failure to Register. Detectives located a Facebook account, email address, and cell phone containing pornography belonging to Stanley, none of which are registered with FDLE and are also violations of his probation status. Detectives located Stanley and placed him under arrest for:

  • One (1) count Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)
  • Three (3) counts Violation of Probation

44-year-old James Steele of Winter Haven – Steele is a registered sexual offender based on a 1991 conviction for Lewd/Lascivious Battery on a Child Under 16. Steele vacated his residence on January 9, 2017, and failed to notify his change of address to either law enforcement or the Florida Dept of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within 48 hours, complaint with his sexual offender registration. On January 24, 2017, Steele was arrested for VOP and Providing False Info to LEO. Detectives additionally charged inmate Steele with:

  • Two (2) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

29-year-old Kenneth Thomas of Lake Wales – Thomas is a registered sexual offender based on a 2009 conviction for four counts Promotion of Sexual Performance by a Child, and was arrested on January 27, 2017, for Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration Laws when he was caught using an unregistered Facebook account. While in jail, Thomas called his girlfriend and gave her two email addresses that he wanted her to change the passwords for, to evade detection by law enforcement. Detectives located another Facebook account and the two email accounts belonging to Thomas, none of which are registered with FDLE. Detectives added the following charges onto inmate Thomas:

  • Three (3) counts Sex Offender Fail to Comply with Registration Laws (F-3)

OTHER SUSPECTS ARRESTED DURING THE OPERATION, RELATED TO ABOVE-MENTIONED SUSPECTS, ARE:

 

47-year-old Terry Dietz of Auburndale – Dietz and his wife, Vicki, live in the same house with Michael Dietz, who was arrested for child pornography. While detectives were investigating Michael Dietz, they located Meth and paraphernalia belonging to Terry and Vicki. Terry Dietz was arrested for:

  • One count each Possession of Methamphetamines and Paraphernalia

46-year-old Vicki Dietz of Auburndale – Dietz and her husband, Terry, live in the same house with Michael Dietz, who was arrested for child pornography. While detectives were investigating Michael Dietz, they located Meth and paraphernalia belonging to Terry and Vicki. Vicki Dietz was arrested for:

  • One count each Possession of Methamphetamines and Paraphernalia

52-year-old Theresa Sutton of Bartow – Theresa lives in the same house with her son, Matthew (who was not at home when detectives responded to arrest him for child pornography), and refused to cooperate with detectives when they arrived with a search warrant. She became combative with the detectives, and was arrested for:

  • One count Resisting Arrest

THEATRE WINTER HAVEN Announces the Opening of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET

Staff Reporter
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THEATRE WINTER HAVEN Announces the Opening of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET
THEATRE WINTER HAVEN
Announces the Opening of
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET
mdq
Theatre Winter Haven located in the Chain of Lakes Complex at 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, SW – Winter Haven, FL. announces the opening of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET.  This show runs February 16 through March 12, 2017 (Thursdays through Sundays).  Reservations can be made by calling 863-294-SHOW (7469), visiting the Box Office or by going on-line to www.TheatreWinterHaven.com.  Ticket prices are $24 for adults and $19 for students.
Million Dollar Quartet is the smash-hit musical inspired by the famed recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time.  On December 4, 1956, these four young musicians gathered at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee to meet producer Sam Phillips for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever.  This thrilling musical brings you inside the recording studio with four major talents who came together as a red-hot rock ‘n’ roll band for one unforgettable night.
The cast of characters is as follows:
Elvis Presley – Torin Geoffrey
Carl Perkins – Marcus Brixa
Jerry Lee Lewis – Philip King
Johnny Cash – Doug Laver
Sam Phillips – Sean Philibin
Dyanne – Laura Modrall
Brother Jay – Kemp Brinson
Fluke – P.J. Lalka
This show is Co-Produced by Fischer, Schemmer, Silbiger, Moraczewski, MD PA, Ophthalmology Associates and Winter Haven Oral Surgery
Director:  Katrina Ploof
Stage Manager:  Alaina West
Music Director:  Philip King.
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