The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is seeking qualified men and women in Polk County who desire to work as substitute crossing guards this year.
Substitute school crossing guards are needed in the Davenport and Four Corners areas of Polk County.
Anyone interested in applying should contact Supervisor Courtney Branch at (863) 534-7300 ext. 109.
Applicants should be available to work for one hour in the morning and for 30 minutes in the afternoon when scheduled to work a crossing.
School Crossing Guard services are provided by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office through funds provided by the Polk County Board of County Commissioners. This vital program provides adult crossing guards at selected hazardous school crossings to ensure the safety of our elementary school children walking to and from school.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office on July 4th arrested a Lakeland man, Rodney Ramer, charging him with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Ramer, DOB: 3/21/58, was involved in an incident in the parking lot of Miller’s Ale House. The incident occurred on July 3, 2024.
The following is a long exerpt from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrest affidavit (It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. These facts are up for question and everyone is entitled to question the validity of facts by law enforcement in a court of law. The Daily Ridge does not rewrite these facts as some meanings or interpretations could be in error and change context. We hope readers appreciate being able to read the information and come to their own understanding and conclusions) :
“On July 3, 2024 at approximately 1400 hours, I responded to Miller’s Ale House restaurant located at, 5650 South Florida Avenue in Lakeland, in reference to a disturbance with a weapon that occurred. Upon arrival, I made contact with REDACTED, REDACTED and REDACTED, who were victims of this incident. During this investigation, I learned that REDACTED, REDACTED and REDACTED had just exited the restaurant and were talking in the parking lot next to their vehicles.REDACTED had taken a seat in the passenger’s side of REDACTED ‘s truck while they talked.
The suspect, Rodney Ramer, was leaving the parking lot in his vehicle. As the suspect pulled straight ahead between both REDACTED and REDACTED his large extended side mirrors brushed up to REDACTED. REDACTED, stated that this was not on purpose and just an accident by the suspect. REDACTED pushed the mirror closed (they fold) as to not damage the mirror. The suspect, hearing the mirror close started a verbal argument with the victims as he drove by. The suspect stopped his truck and backed slightly so as to better position his vehicle as he brandished a firearm, pointed it directly at the victims and threatened to kill REDACTED, REDACTED and REDACTED. The suspect began to pull away but again stopped and threatened the victims as he held a pistol in his hand.
The suspect, Rodney, was identified through his vehicle tag number and a credit/debit transaction receipt provided by the Miller’s Ale House staff.
Contact was made with the staff at Sushi Masa and surveillance was observed, which captured the incident that took place, where Rodney was observed brandishing a firearm and pointing it towards the victims.
A CIC check was conducted on Rodney Ramer, which showed clear of any prior assault charges.
Probable cause exists that Rodney Ramer did commit the crime of Aggravated Assault. Rodney Ramer did actually and intentionally assaulted REDACTED, REDACTED and REDACTED with a deadly weapon. The suspect brandished a firearm and threatened the victims’ lives, placing them in fear. The suspect did not act with intent to kill but did intend to commit a felony towards REDACTED, REDACTED and REDACTED.
On July 4, 2024 at approximately 0951 hours, I responded to the residence located at REDACTED Lakeland FL, 33813 and contact was made with Rodney Ramer. Pre-Miranda, Rodney spontaneously uttered he knew why law enforcement was there and stated “They started it” and “People were just acting stupid.” Rodney was then placed under arrest, read his post Miranda rights and advised he did not wish to speak to law enforcement without his legal consul present. Rodney was transported to The Sheriff’s Processing Center (SPC) without incident.”
The Senior Team of the Haines City Little League will be heading to the Southeast Regionals in two weeks after winning the state championships this weekend.
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The Haines City Little League’s senior team experienced victory last weekend at the Florida League Championship after defeating North Springs Little League from Cape Coral.
Before the state championship, they had competed in the district tournament representing the local area of Plant City, Haines City, and Lake Wales.
They then moved on to the sectional tournament, where they played against teams from Dr. Phillips and DeLaney. The recent state tournament this weekend had them compete and win against the top 8 little league teams in the state of Florida.
Their senior team consists of 14 players ages 14 to 16 from Haines City and surrounding cities. Their motto this year, according to their League President Joshua Haranda, is, “We Didn’t Get This Far to Get This Far!”
“We really didn’t have any expectations because the biggest thing is we never thought we would make it as far as we did,” Haranda said. “That is our biggest thing: we continue to strive and move onto the following game. Nobody expected us to be where we are at. The first time in our league history that we made it to the regional tournament.”
Haranda owes their success to their pitching and defense, which has led them to victory at each of their tournaments. As for their expectations, since they never made it this far, being able to tackle the upcoming championships will prove to be a new challenge. But they hope to meet them with their best, Haranda said.
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“The biggest obstacle is our team not being put in that situation before,” he said. “That will be our biggest obstacle. The only way to overcome it is to continue doing what we have done. Not change anything. Do not get big-headed. Even with the best that we have had this year, they will be the biggest thing this year.”
On July 3, 2024, Detectives with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation into a domestic violence battery case involving deputy sheriff Anthony Martinez and two women he had previously dated. One of the victims contacted the Polk County Sheriff’s Office on July 3, 2024 and reported several incidents. As the investigation developed, detectives determined there was another female victim.
Incident Summary:
– June 8, 2023: Victim reported that Martinez slammed a drawer on her hand during an altercation at their residence, causing a minor injury. (Victim 1)
– August 29, 2023: Martinez allegedly pushed victim into a wall during an argument, making threatening remarks. (Victim 1)
– November 2023: Victim reported that Martinez prevented her from leaving their apartment during an argument, physically restraining her for approximately 20 minutes. (Victim 2)
– March 26, 2024: Martinez attempted to forcefully take control of the vehicle victim was driving, creating a dangerous situation on Interstate 4. (Victim 2)
– May 20, 2024: Martinez grabbed victim’s backpack to prevent her from leaving for work. (Victim 2)
– June 21, 2024: During a confrontation over Martinez’s behavior, he brandished two firearms and made threats. (Victim 2)
Martinez was interviewed and admitted to several of the allegations, including grabbing the victim’s arm and leg to “protect her” and possessing firearms during the June 21 incident. He denied other accusations.
Based on the investigation, Martinez was arrested and transported to the Sheriff’s Processing Center. Martinez resigned upon arrival at the processing center. Martinez has been a deputy sheriff for less than a year (7/24/2023). He was hired by the PCSO in February of 2023 and entered the training program to become a deputy.
A Risk Protection Order was issued and served. A check of Martinez’s record showed no prior convictions of battery.
“Real men should protect women, not harm them. Mr. Martinez obviously has some anger management issues. We have arrested him and he has resigned. Had he not resigned, he would have been fired. He has lost his ability to be a law enforcement officer.” Grady Judd, Sheriff.
Martinez has been charged with 6 counts of DV Simple Battery, 2 counts of DV False Imprisonment, 1 count of Culpable Negligence, 3 counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and 2 counts of Improper Exhibition of a Firearm.
PIRTLE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, THE CONSTRUCTION MANAGER TEAM FOR THE PROJECT, IS SOLICITING BIDS FROM QUALIFIED SUBCONTRACTORS AND VENDORS FOR THE CITY OF HAINES CITY EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER, LOCATED ON PARK PLACE BLVD, DAVENPORT, FL 33837. THE PROJECT IS THE OF CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER AND FIRE STATION 2-STORY BUILDING OF APPROXIMATELY 26,000 TOTAL SF. TRADES INCLUDE TILT UP CONCRETE, STRUCTURAL STEEL & MISC METALS, MILLWORK & CABINETS, METAL WALL PANELS, METAL ROOFING, CAULKING & SEALANTS, METAL DOORS & FRAMES, OVERHEAD DOORS, WINDOWS GLAZING & STOREFRONT, FRAMING, DRYWALL & PLASTER, CERAMIC & QUARRY TILE, ACOUSTIC CEILINGS, RESILIENT FLOORING & CARPET, PAINTING, RESINOUS EPOXY FLOORING, SPECIALTIES, SIGNAGE, OPERABLE PARTITIONS, ALUMINUM WALKWAY COVERS, FIRE SUPPRESSION, PLUMBING, HVAC, ELECTRICAL, EARTHWORK & PAVING, FENCE & GATES, AND LANDSCAPING. THE PROJECTED START OF THE PROJECT IS SEPTEMBER 2024. A NON-MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING/SITE VISIT AT THE PROJECT SITE WILL BE SCHEDULED AT A LATER DATE. TOPICS OF THE MEETING INCLUDE SPECIFIC SCOPE DISCUSSIONS, PROJECT SCHEDULE AND ANY OTHER BIDDING REQUIREMENTS. BIDS ARE REQUIRED VIA EMAIL BY JULY 30, 2024, AT 5:00 PM. BID CONTACT: SCOTT LARSON, [email protected] 954-343-5945
A three-vehicle crash near Haines City Wednesday afternoon, July 3, 2024 resulted in the death of one person, and injuries to two others.
The crash occurred on US 27 at Morrison Ranch Road, at about 3:47 pm.
Upon the arrival of Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies and the Haines City Fire Department, 64-year old Katrina Moore of Haines City was found deceased. Ms. Moore was the driver of a yellow 2009 Chevy Cobalt.
Two occupants of a black 2023 Dodge Durango were identified as 63-year old James Chadwick of Winter Haven (the driver) and 59-year old Shari Bissell of Orlando. Both were transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
The driver of a 1997 Kenworth truck and trailer, 54-year old Carlos Perez of Orlando, was not injured.
According to the preliminary investigation, Ms. Moore lost control of her Chevy while traveling south on US 27, crossed the median, entered the northbound lanes, and struck the Dodge head-on. After impact, both vehicles collided with the Kenworth.
Ms. Moore was not wearing a seat belt, and was ejected from the Chevy.
The three others involved had been wearing their seat belts.
Two lanes of southbound US 27 were closed for approximately 4 hours while the northbound lanes were closed for approximately 4.5 hours.
Operation Dry Water (ODW) weekend will take place July 4 through July 6. The national weekend of Boating Under the Influence (BUI) detection and enforcement is aimed at reducing the number of alcohol and drug related boating incidents and fatalities. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and other participating law enforcement agencies will work together to make Florida waterbodies safer by identifying and removing dangerous or impaired vessel operators.
Every year, heightened awareness and enforcement efforts occur over the three-day weekend around Independence Day, a busy boating holiday often plagued by drinking while boating and deadly incidents. During that weekend and throughout the year, FWC law enforcement officers play a vital role in protecting lives by promoting safe boating practices, fostering a culture of responsible behavior on the water and ensuring compliance with the law.
“The safety of people enjoying our beautiful waterways here in Florida is a year-round priority for our officers” said Maj.Bill Holcomb, FWC’s Boating and Waterways Section Leader. “Expect saturation patrols statewide during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday and throughout the weekend. We will be looking for any signs of boater impairment and removing unsafe boaters from the water.”
During the ODW weekend, law enforcement officers will increase their presence on waterways, engaging with boaters to educate them about the risks of impaired boating. The goal is to combine education and enforcement to significantly reduce alcohol- and drug-related boating incidents.
Operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal on all bodies of water and can lead to series injuries and consequences. In Florida, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher, the same as in a vehicle.
In collaboration with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the U.S. Coast Guard, the FWC will kick off the 2024 ODW weekend with a national launch event in Destin, Florida, on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.
The FWC reminds boaters to remain sober to ensure the safety of everyone with and around them and encourages boaters to wear a life jacket and take a boating education course. For more information, visit MyFWC.com/Boating and OperationDryWater.org.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Haines City Fire Department responded to a severe crash on US 27 at Morrison Ranch Road in Haines City at about 3:47PM.
One of the vehicles involved caught fire, but was quickly extinguished.
The PCSO can confirm that there is one fatality.
The northbound lanes of US 27 will likely be closed or at the very least will have reduced traffic flow until at least 6pm.
JLL tapped by Summit Real Estate Group to lease new industrial park in Polk County, Florida
The 318,000-square-foot speculative development broke ground this month, with plans of completion slated for Q4 of this year.
Lakeland, FL, July 3, 2024 –JLL announces today that Summit Real Estate Group has selected the firm to manage leasing for Hamilton Logistics Center, a new 318,000-square-foot facility located at 4141 Hamilton Road in Lakeland, Polk County, Florida, the country’s fifth fastest-growing metro. Construction is currently underway at the industrial park, which will feature two state-of-the-art buildings ranging in size from 135,000 to 183,000 square feet.
The JLL brokerage team of Executive Managing Director John Dunphy, and Associate, Olivia Brock, will spearhead leasing efforts on behalf of the building’s ownership group, Summit Real Estate Group. Summit is an independent, industrial investment real estate company focused on opportunities within select U.S. markets. With over 25 years of experience, Summit has extensive expertise in land sourcing and entitlement, design and construction, equity and debt financing, leasing, and asset and property management.
“As demand for new, quality industrial product throughout the area continues to remain robust, Polk County has emerged as a top choice for occupiers and investors in manufacturing, distribution and logistics,” said JLL’s John Dunphy. “Thanks to its strategic location along one of the state’s major thoroughfares and the top-of-the line amenities, we feel confident a project like Hamilton Logistics Center will be well received and appeal to a variety of users across all sectors.”
Rendition Of New Logistics Center In Lakeland
To accommodate small to mid-size tenants, Building 100 at Hamilton Logistics Center will be 134,970 square feet with 36 dock high doors, a truck court depth of 135’, and 124 parking spaces. Directly south, Building 200 will span 182,985 square feet with 42 dock high doors, a truck depth of 190’ including 55’ trailer parks with 60 spaces, and 148 parking spaces. Both buildings will feature a clear height of 32’ with two drive-in ramps. Additional amenities at the park include rear-load configurations, tilt-wall construction, spec and build-to-suit office space, and 60’ speed bays.
Located in the heart of Polk County in the “I-4” corridor, Hamilton Logistics Center is situated in a well-known distribution hub, surrounded by nationally recognized companies. The property is 30 miles west of Tampa and 60 miles east of Orlando, providing future tenants the opportunity to benefit from an abundant labor pool. Data from the Central Florida Development Council recognizes Polk County as Florida’s Best Place for Business, with advanced manufacturing being a high-growth industry. Additionally, according to JLL’s Q1 Industrial Insights Report for Polk County, demand in the area remains robust with asking rates posting 10.6% growth year-over-year.
Rendition Of New Logistics Center In Lakeland
About JLL For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. A Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $20.8 billion and operations in over 80 countries around the world, our more than 108,000 employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise. Driven by our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world, we help our clients, people and communities SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com.
J.C. Reviews: In Which I Review Thelma the Unicorn in Rhyme
by James Coulter
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Sometimes, you watch a movie that’s so bland, so generic, and so boring that talking about it would only make you sound equally bland, generic, and boring. I don’t want to write such a review. And you don’t want to read it.
So, in an attempt to write an interesting review of a movie that’s anything but, I will be reviewing Thelma the Unicorn in limerick form. (Apologies to Yahtzee Croshaw from Zero Punctuation for blatantly ripping off this idea.)
