73.9 F
Winter Haven
Sunday, September 21, 2025
Home Blog Page 10

Armed & Dangerous Homicide Suspect Apprehended By Polk County Sheriff’s Deputies

Carl Fish
-
0
Armed & Dangerous Homicide Suspect Apprehended By Polk County Sheriff’s Deputies

Polk County Sheriff’s Office Press Release

On Thursday, August 14, 2025, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Angel Gonzalez-Morales, DOB 3/15/1996, in the Polo Park area of Davenport on his warrant for second degree murder for the shooting death of Elijah Johnson that occurred on August 12th at the Home Suites located in Davenport near the I-4 & US 27 interchange.

“I could not be more proud of my Homicide team and all the deputies, detectives, investigators, and support staff who together worked around the clock to take this dangerous suspect into custody. If you kill someone in this county, we will hunt you down to the ends of the earth and put you in jail. We do not tolerate violence of any kind here.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

The fugitive was apprehended less than 48 hours after fatally shooting the victim. Upon his arrest, deputies found a clear plastic baggie containing over 16 grams of Fentanyl. As a result, he was also charged with Trafficking in Fentanyl, a first degree felony.

Detectives are still seeking information about the firearm used in this crime. Heartland Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that results in the recovery of the murder weapon: 

  • CALL 1-888-400 TIPS (8477)
  • DIAL **TIPS from your cell phone
  • VISIT the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on “Submit A Tip,”
  • DOWNLOAD the free “P3tips” app on your smartphone or tablet.

previously sent news release:

PCSO Investigating Fatal Shooting in Davenport

On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at approximately 9:40 p.m., deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to reported gunshots in the area of the Home Suites located in Davenport, Florida, near the I-4 & US 27 interchange.

Upon arrival, deputies located Elijah Johnson, who was found lying on the ground with an apparent gunshot wound to the shoulder. Johnson was alert and breathing but unresponsive. Life-saving measures were administered on scene, and he was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Witnesses in the area reported hearing a gunshot and observed a suspect fleeing on foot into a red sedan occupied by another individual. The vehicle was seen leaving the parking lot, and a witness noted that it stopped a short distance away, where the suspect exited and ran into the woods.

Shortly thereafter, deputies located the red sedan at a McDonald’s near US Highway 27 and Sand Mine Road. The driver and registered owner of the vehicle, 39-year-old Angel Efrain-Reillo, was taken into custody without incident.

The passenger, identified as 29-year-old Angel Gonzalez-Morales, is believed to be the shooter and at this time has not been located. The investigation is still ongoing.

“Angel Gonzalez-Morales should be considered armed and dangerous. If anyone knows where he is or sees him, they should call 9-1-1 immediately. He was last seen walking towards the woods behind the hotels located just east of US 27 and North of I-4.”  -Grady Judd, Sheriff

If you have any information about the shooting or Angel Gonzalez-Morales’ whereabouts, you can remain anonymous and receive a cash reward – you may contact Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS (8477).

Man Who Sold 65 Year Old Woman Cocaine That Killed Her Is Charged With 1st Degree Murder

Carl Fish
-
0
Man Who Sold 65 Year Old Woman Cocaine That Killed Her Is Charged With 1st Degree Murder

A Bartow man who has been in the Polk County Jail since last year was indicted by a grand jury for 1stDegree Murder during the Distribution of a Controlled Substance (FC) on Thursday, August 14, 2025. 

On September 7th of last year, 48-year old Troy Cortez Walker sold cocaine to 65-year old Irene Anderson of Bartow, who died after consuming it. An autopsy revealed that Ms. Anderson’s cause of death was acute cocaine toxicity.

Walker was arrested by detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office on October 25, 2024, and charged with: Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell (F2), Possession of a Firearm (F2) and Ammunition (F2) by a Convicted Felon, and Possession of Marijuana (M1) and Drug Paraphernalia (M1).

Four days later, Walker was additionally charged with: Conspiracy to Sell Cocaine (F3, 6-counts), Conspiracy to Sell Oxycodone (F3, 2-counts), and Unlawful Use of 2-Way Communication Device (F3).

“Drug dealers are parasites in our communities who not only distribute illegal narcotics, but they also spread addiction, suffering, and death. I am very pleased with the work on this investigation by my detectives from the Organized Crime Unit, the Tactical Drug Unit, and the Homicide Unit, as well as the State Attorney’s Office. Troy Walker is a danger to society and should be locked away for a very long time.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Haines City Attorney Issues Strong Warning to Commissioners: “Correct the Course or I Will Resign”

Staff Reporter
-
0
Haines City Attorney Issues Strong Warning to Commissioners: “Correct the Course or I Will Resign”
#image_title

By Anita Todd

HAINES CITY – The Aug. 7 City Commission meeting took an unexpected turn when City Attorney Fred Reilly distributed a memorandum addressing his role and concerns about the Commission’s conduct.

In the letter, Reilly referenced Section 3.01 of the City Charter, describing it as the “commission-manager plan.” Under this structure, five commissioners—elected citizens—set policy, and the city manager is responsible for implementing those policies.

Reilly emphasized several points he has repeatedly shared with commissioners:

● Stay in your own lane.

● Act in compliance with the legal and ethical requirements of the City Charter.

● Contact me directly with any questions about my role as City Attorney.

● Govern yourselves rather than forcing me into the role of referee.

● Understand my ethical obligations to the organization as the client (Rule 4-1.13, Florida Bar Rules of Professional Conduct).

During the meeting, Reilly told the Commissioners, “I am willing to tell you things like the answer no … you shouldn’t do that and here’s why. Ethically, I am responsible for telling you at risk of losing my job. And, if I lose my job I’m okay with that because I’ve fulfilled my ethical obligations. I am not going to compromise my ethical obligation in order to keep my job.”

In the memorandum, Reilly wrote, “There have been instances where I have been told that my legal counsel is not necessary or individual City Commissioners have indicated that they were unwilling to meet with me (at my request) to discuss a legal issue.”

Reilly made his position clear during a telephone interview: “They have to correct the course or I will give notice and resign.”

After Reilly distributed the memo and discussed it, Mayor Morris West spoke from the dais about the importance of Counsel. “Basically, counsel is there to keep us out of trouble. That’s his job. If he sees us going a little to the left or a little to the right, he’s supposed to keep the train on the track. Sometimes it appears we get mad at our counsel for doing his job. That’s what he is here for,” West said.

In a telephone interview after the meeting, Commissioner Omar Arroyo expressed support for Reilly and his concerns. “I fully support the points our City Attorney, Fred Reilly, made in his memorandum. His role is to keep our City within the law and protect our taxpayers from unnecessary risks, and I believe it’s important we listen to that advice,” Arroyo said.

Arroyo added that he hopes tensions can be resolved. “I always try to follow his guidance, and while there may be times I have to be reminded or adjust my approach, I respect his expertise. My hope is that we can all take his concerns seriously, work together, and keep our focus on moving the City forward in the best interests of our residents,” Arroyo continued.

Reilly echoed that sentiment, stating, “I hope that we can correct the course … and move forward for the citizens of Haines City.”

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Expands Youth Turkey Hunting Opportunities on Public Lands

Carl Fish
-
0
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Expands Youth Turkey Hunting Opportunities on Public Lands

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has approved changes to expand youth turkey hunting opportunities on public lands, giving young hunters more time in the field.

During its August meeting, the FWC voted to extend the youth turkey hunting season on 104 wildlife management areas (WMAs) from two consecutive days — traditionally Saturday and Sunday — to four days, running Friday through Monday.

This expanded schedule was already in place on lands outside of the WMA system for the 2026 youth turkey season. The change brings WMAs in line with that adjustment and provides additional opportunities without increasing the number of youth quota permits issued or affecting WMAs that do not currently offer youth turkey hunts.

Access will be limited to only youth hunters and supervising adults on 21 WMAs during their designated youth hunting days, creating a safer and more focused environment.

Florida’s Two Youth Spring Turkey Hunts

The 2026 Youth Spring Turkey Hunts are scheduled as follows:

Feb. 27 – March 2, 2026 – South of State Road 70 March 13-16, 2026 – North of State Road 70

These hunts are open to youth 15 years old and younger and take place on many WMAs as well as on lands outside of the WMA system.

Regulations for Youth Spring Turkey Hunts

During these hunts, only youth may harvest a gobbler or bearded turkey, which counts toward their spring season bag limit of two. All youth hunters must be supervised by an adult aged 18 or older. No license or permit is required for the youth or the supervising adult. However, if the adult wishes to call a turkey or otherwise participate in the hunt, they must have a hunting license and turkey permit. On WMAs, the adult participant must also have a management area permit.

Quota and Non-Quota Hunts

Most WMAs offering a Youth Spring Turkey Hunt require a quota permit, which can be applied for at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or in person through any license agent or tax collector’s office. Hunters should review the specific WMA regulations brochure before heading into the field.

Some areas offer public hunting opportunities without a quota permit during youth spring hunts, though daily quota permits issued at check stations may be required. Rules such as season dates, bag limits, and shooting hours may vary between WMAs, so hunters are advised to check each area’s open/closed status before traveling.

Public Support for Expansion

In June, the FWC surveyed the public and received more than 2,000 responses. Over 80% supported the expanded hunting days and access rules.

For more information about youth turkey hunting weekends, visit MyFWC.com/Turkey and click on “Youth Turkey Hunt Weekends.”

45 Year Old Man Killed In Crash On Interstate 4

Carl Fish
-
0
45 Year Old Man Killed In Crash On Interstate 4

The PCSO Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating a single vehicle crash resulting in the death of the driver. The crash occurred at 2:35a.m on August 12, 2025 on Interstate 4 (I-4) at Memorial Boulevard, Lakeland, FL.

A Ford F-150 pick-up truck was heading eastbound on I-4 in the inside (left) lane of travel. At the time, it was dark with minimal illumination. The driver, 45 year-old Nathan Michael Quinn of Port Charlotte, was observed changing lanes several times when he lost control of the vehicle. He began to fishtail, entered the right shoulder, and began to rotate until the tires dug into the grass; the vehicle then began to flip and entered back into the eastbound lanes of travel. The driver and truck came to a final rest in the outside lane of eastbound I-4.

Quinn was not wearing his seatbelt, causing him to be ejected from the vehicle, and the truck was not equipped with airbags. He was determined to be deceased on scene. No other vehicles were involved.

The truck was registered to Local Plumbing LLC out of Port Charlotte and the bed was loaded with a large amount of equipment and miscellaneous items. All the debris was spread across all three eastbound lanes of I-4. As a result, the eastbound lanes were shut down for several hours.

Fictitious Name Notification

Staff Reporter
-
0
Fictitious Name Notification

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned pursuant to the fictitious name statutes 865.09 Florida statues will register with the division of corporations of the state of Florida upon receipt of proof of publication of this notice the fictitious name to wit LAV CREATIVE SOLUTIONS under which we are or intend to do business as in Polk County Florida that parties interested in said business enterprises are as follows Names or officers Leslie Arroyo-Velez.

Armed And Dangerous Murder Suspect Sought By Polk County Sheriffs Office

Carl Fish
-
0
Armed And Dangerous Murder Suspect Sought By Polk County Sheriffs Office

Polk County Sheriff’s Office Press Release

On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at approximately 9:40 p.m., deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to reported gunshots in the area of the Home Suites located in Davenport, Florida, near the I-4 & US 27 interchange.

Upon arrival, deputies located Elijah Johnson, who was found lying on the ground with an apparent gunshot wound to the shoulder. Johnson was alert and breathing but unresponsive. Life-saving measures were administered on scene, and he was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Witnesses in the area reported hearing a gunshot and observed a suspect fleeing on foot into a red sedan occupied by another individual. The vehicle was seen leaving the parking lot, and a witness noted that it stopped a short distance away, where the suspect exited and ran into the woods.

Shortly thereafter, deputies located the red sedan at a McDonald’s near US Highway 27 and Sand Mine Road. The driver and registered owner of the vehicle, 39-year-old Angel Efrain-Reillo, was taken into custody without incident.

The passenger, identified as 29-year-old Angel Gonzalez-Morales, is believed to be the shooter and at this time has not been located. The investigation is still ongoing.

“Angel Gonzalez-Morales should be considered armed and dangerous. If anyone knows where he is or sees him, they should call 9-1-1 immediately. He was last seen walking towards the woods behind the hotels located just east of US 27 and North of I-4.”  -Grady Judd, Sheriff

If you have any information about the shooting or Angel Gonzalez-Morales’ whereabouts, you can remain anonymous and receive a cash reward – you may contact Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS (8477).

Haines City Approves $860K Johnson Avenue Land Purchase for Recreation Expansion and Utilities

Staff Reporter
-
0
Haines City Approves $860K Johnson Avenue Land Purchase for Recreation Expansion and Utilities
Johnson Avenue Land Purchase

By Anita Todd

HAINES CITY – On Aug. 7, the Haines City Commission voted 3-1 to approve the purchase of an 11-acre property on Johnson Avenue.

Terrell Griffin, Director of Parks and Recreation, presented the proposal, noting that the $860,000 purchase will be funded through recreation impact fees. The property will provide much-needed additional parking for the Larry Parrish Baseball Complex and the planned 32-acre sports complex expansion. It will also serve as the site for a new lift station.

Griffin explained, “The parcel can serve as a future location for additional parking capacity to support both existing and future recreation facilities. In addition, the site provides a suitable area to address utility infrastructure needs, including the installation of a lift station which is necessary for the expansion project and broader utility planning in that specific area.”

Mayor Morris West, Vice Mayor Vernel Smith, and Commissioner Omar Arroyo voiced strong support for the acquisition. “This is dual purpose,” West said. “We need that parcel of land.”

Arroyo agreed, adding, “I’m glad this parcel came up as available. Parking (at Larry Parrish Baseball Complex) is crazy. This is more of a necessity. We are killing two birds with one stone.”

Commissioner Kim Downing cast the lone opposing vote, expressing concerns about the concentration of recreation investments in one area. “I just see us spending a lot of recreation money just in one particular area,” Downing said. “The majority of the impact fees is coming from the homes sold in the northside of Haines City. We have yet to go to canvas that particular area to give the people who live in the northside of Haines City any type of recreation. We are putting all recreation in one two-mile radius.”

Vice Mayor Smith supported the purchase but acknowledged the need for future projects in other parts of the city. “After this, we need to look at the north end of the city near the hospital,” he said.

West, Arroyo, and Smith voted in favor of the purchase. Commissioner Anne Huffman was absent from the meeting.

In Loving Memory of Jose Alonso Juarez

Carl Fish
-
0
In Loving Memory of Jose Alonso Juarez

Jose Alonso Juarez, 51, of Bradenton, FL, passed away on August 7, 2025. He was born on March 12, 1974, in Piedras Negras, Mexico to Margarita Rodriguez and Jose Ines Juarez. He moved to Bradenton in 2003 from Haines City and built a life filled with love, hard work, and creativity.

Jose worked as the Culinary Director for American House, where his passion for cooking shined through every dish he created. A strong family man, he found joy in bringing people together through his food. His curiosity, creativity, and dedication led him to master thousands of recipes, and in recent years, he rekindled a love for woodworking—always ensuring his talents were used to touch the hearts of others.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Juarez; his son, Benito Alonso Juarez; daughters, Yesenia Margarita Salinas and Vanessa Margarita Juarez; granddaughter, Harper Juarez; father, Jose Ines Juarez; brothers, Rogelio Juarez and Luis Juarez; and sisters, Alejandra Juarez and Eunice Juarez. He is now reunited in heaven with his beloved mother, Margarita Rodriguez.

Jose’s legacy of love, creativity, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who knew him.

“To all my friends and family- I will see you when I see you” — Jose Alonso Juarez

Family and friends will gather to honor his life on Saturday, August 16, 2025, beginning with visitation at 11:00 a.m. and a funeral service at 12:00 p.m., all at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Haines City. Following the service, military honors will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery.

José Alonso Juárez, de 51 años, de Bradenton, FL, falleció el 7 de agosto de 2025. Nació el 12 de marzo de 1974 en Piedras Negras, México, hijo de Margarita Rodríguez y José Inés Juárez. En 2003 se mudó de Haines City a Bradenton, donde construyó una vida llena de amor, trabajo arduo y creatividad.

José trabajó como Director Culinario en American House, donde su pasión por la cocina se reflejaba en cada platillo que preparaba. Hombre de gran amor por su familia, encontraba alegría en reunir a las personas a través de su comida. Su curiosidad, creatividad y dedicación lo llevaron a dominar miles de recetas y, en los últimos años, a retomar su amor por la carpintería, siempre procurando que sus talentos sirvieran para tocar el corazón de los demás.

Le sobreviven su amada esposa, Elizabeth Juárez; su hijo, Benito Alonso Juárez; sus hijas, Yesenia Margarita Salinas y Vanessa Margarita Juárez; su nieta, Harper Juárez; su padre, José Inés Juárez; sus hermanos, Rogelio Juárez y Luis Juárez; y sus hermanas, Alejandra Juárez y Eunice Juárez. Ahora se encuentra reunido en el cielo con su querida madre, Margarita Rodríguez.

El legado de amor, creatividad y devoción a la familia de José seguirá inspirando a todos los que lo conocieron.

“A todos mis amigos y familiares: nos veremos cuando nos veamos” — José Alonso Juárez

La familia y los amigos se reunirán para honrar su vida el sábado 16 de agosto de 2025, comenzando con una visita a las 11:00 a.m., seguida de un servicio fúnebre a las 12:00 p.m., todo en Oak Ridge Funeral Care en Haines City. Después del servicio, se llevarán a cabo honores militares en el Forest Hill Cemetery.

In Loving Memory of Frank ‘Bubba’ Smith Jr. – A Bartow & Polk County Icon

Carl Fish
-
0
In Loving Memory of Frank ‘Bubba’ Smith Jr. – A Bartow & Polk County Icon

Frank ‘Bubba’ Smith Jr., age 90, passed away peacefully at his home in Bartow, FL on Sunday, August 10, 2025. He was surrounded by his family. Bubba loved being a husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He enjoyed the outdoors, most importantly, hunting and fishing with all the boys in his family and his friends. He never let a day go by without his family knowing how much he loved them.

Bubba was born June 2, 1935 in Bartow, FL to Frank B. Smith & Irene ‘Shirley’ Smith. He grew up in Bartow and graduated from Summerlin Institute in 1953. In high school, he played football and was in the Key Club along with many other clubs and activities. He briefly attended the University of Florida before joining the Army in 1954. He later went on to continue his education and graduated from Florida Southern College in 1960 with a degree in business administration and a minor in citrus. When he was at Florida Southern, he was a founding member of the FSC chapter and served as president of Kappa Alpha fraternity, vice president of the Inter-Fraternity Council and was a member of the Citrus Club. During college, Bubba worked at his parents’ clothing store, at the Alturas Packing House, and for American Cyanamid.

He was the president of the United States Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycee’s) from 1963-1964. He was president of the County Finance Officers Association from 1968-1969. He was a long time member of the Bartow Lions Club and the President from 1977-1978. He was on the Board of Directors of Peace Valley Nursing Council as treasurer, member of the Polk County Scholarship and Loan Association, Polk Alcoholism Program, and Ridge Council of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Disease Association. Bubba was a Bartow Volunteer Fire Fighter for many years.

After graduating from college, Bubba was a clerk and auditor for the Board of County Commissioners. He was elected county commissioner in 1970. He served 3 terms as county commissioner. In 1982, he was appointed the Polk County Manager until he retired in 1988 at the age of 53. In 1994, he was asked to fill an unexpired term as city commissioner and was then elected for a 3 year term in which he also served as mayor from 1997-1998. In 2017, Bubba was inducted into the Bartow Senior High School B.E.S.T.T. Hall of Fame. He was also a Boy Scout for many years and in 2019 was presented with the Soaring Eagle award. He was also a proud member of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church of Bartow since 1996.

Bubba is survived by his wife of 66 years: Anne Smith of Bartow, four children: Justin Smith & wife Sherry, of Bartow, Frank Smith III, of Bartow, Elizabeth Turner & husband Jeff, of Charlotte, NC, and Lance Smith & wife Joan, of Orlando, FL, and eight grandchildren: Kim Miller & husband Jason, Kara Uhinck & husband Mark, Brad Smith & wife Andrea, Rachel Upthegrove & husband Colby, Chad Smith, Audrey Turner, Connor Smith, and Carly Smith, and ten great grandchildren: Reagan, Allie Grace, Cole, Eli, Sici, Kesler, Luke, Ben, Case, and Jake, and nephew Murphy Phillips and wife Sheryl, of Bartow, FL.

The Smith Family is eternally grateful for the exceptional support and love from our caregivers: Annette, Raymond, Maxine, Toni, and Ari.

A visitation will be held at the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church of Bartow on Saturday, August 16th at 1:00pm followed by a memorial service at 2:00pm. A celebration of life, with refreshments, will immediately follow the service in Fellowship Hall. His family will meet at the Wildwood Cemetery following refreshments.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church or the Salvation Army.

1...91011...783Page 10 of 783

Advertise

Links

Stay connected

© 2021 WinterHavenDaily.com | All rights reserved.