Downtown Winter Haven has a new sound thanks to the new Oldt Carillon Bell Tower. With a $360,000 donation from community member, Mr. Tom Oldt, South Central Park now has a new 24 foot tower with 23 bronze bells.
Mr. Oldt provided this gift to the city after being inspired by a similar tower located in Holland. According to Project Lead, Katie White, “The bell tower was intended to honor his family who have been in the area since the 1920s.”
Now it resides in the heart of Winter Haven at South Central Park playing chimes and songs throughout the day hourly. There is an official ribbon cutting ceremony anticipated for the fall of 2026. This ceremony will play the various bells and include an outdoor concert that is open to the public.
Questions are being raised inside the Haines City Police Department as current and former officers point to declining morale, multiple recent departures, and concerns over the leadership of Police Chief Isaac Jackson. While employee turnover is not uncommon in law enforcement, several officers who spoke with Daily Ridge say a perceived double standard in accountability has become a growing source of frustration within the department.
Police Chief Isaac Jackson
According to multiple sources familiar with the agency, more than half a dozen employees have left the department over the past year. Several current and former officers told Daily Ridge they believe Jackson’s promotion to chief, despite the findings of a 2022-2023 internal affairs investigation, has contributed to declining confidence in department leadership.
Those concerns have led some officers to revisit Administrative Investigation, which involved Jackson while he was serving as a lieutenant.
The investigation was initiated after a public records request led investigators to examine the contents of Jackson’s city-issued cellphone. Investigators determined the device contained numerous sexually explicit conversations, explicit photographs, and communications that occurred during regular working hours. The investigation ultimately sustained allegations of Improper Conduct involving Abuse of Department Equipment and Personal Bearing.
The report documents sexually explicit communications involving numerous individuals, including more than eight female contacts identified by name, across Facebook Messenger and Snapchat over a period of several months. After reviewing the investigative file, Daily Ridge has elected not to republish the entire graphic language contained within the report. The conversations and images described by investigators are extremely explicit in nature. The full 12 page report is here WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT : HCPD Internal Affairs – Click Here – Report 2022-0174.
Investigators concluded Jackson used his city-issued cellphone to receive, access, store, and exchange sexually explicit communications and images in violation of department policy. The investigation also determined some of those communications and images were received or accessed during scheduled duty hours.
Former Haines City City Manager James Elensky told Daily Ridge he was advised only that two explicit photographs had been discovered on Jackson’s city-issued cellphone and that Jackson received a two-week unpaid suspension.
Elensky said he was never informed that the investigative file documented extensive sexually explicit communications involving numerous individuals, that investigators determined some of the activity occurred during regular working hours, or the overall scope of the sustained policy violations.
“Had I known the full scope of the investigation, I would have considered termination,” Elensky told Daily Ridge.
Elensky, a former PCSO Captain over the Bureau of Criminal Investigations, also advised at the reference to the $250 transaction he would have suspended the internal investigation and began conducting a criminal investigation.
Because the administrative investigation did not explain the purpose of the transaction, Daily Ridge asked current Interim City Manager Loyd Stewart whether that aspect of the investigation had been examined and whether the payment represented a personal loan, gift, payment for sexual activity, or another purpose.
Stewart responded that the original administrative investigation did not include the $250 transaction. He stated Jackson has since advised the City the money was a personal loan and that the City has “no evidence to the contrary.”
Here is the specific details in the internal affairs report regarding the $250.
Between July 14, 2022, and September 5, 2022, Lieutenant Isaac Jackson had a conversation through Facebook Messenger showing on his City issued cellphone with a contact named “Bettina Haye.”
After a review of Lieutenant Jackson’s time card, it was determined the following conversations occurred during regular duty hours.
Was it 250? I can’t remember, I erased the messages (June 3, 2022 @ 8:13 AM)
Baby does this leave a paper trail? I just don’t want any problems on either side…. (June 3, 2022 @ 8:14 AM)
After a review of Lieutenant Jackson’s time card, it was determined the following conversations on Jackson City issued device occurred during off-duty hours or while Jackson used Holiday or Vacation time.
• Get u some rest bae…. send me some pics bae
What bank do u have…. I don’t wanna send a cash app to keep away from the paper trail
Can u send me a teaser pic? Maybe 2……
Hey my beautiful baby!!!!! I love u more. I literally just watched the video and was thinking about and wanting u
I wanna make love to u so bad bae
Baby I was super horny for u
I’m always wanting to hold u and make love to u
Baby I miss u so much….. I can’t wait to make love to u again
Stewart also defended the disciplinary outcome, stating Jackson accepted responsibility for his actions and served an unpaid 80-hour suspension. Stewart said the City believes the discipline imposed was appropriate.
Stewart’s assessment differs from Elensky’s. While Stewart maintains the discipline was appropriate, Elensky said the outcome may have been substantially different had he been fully informed of the investigation’s findings.
Questions surrounding Jackson’s promotion resurfaced after Daily Ridge reviewed records showing former City Manager Elensky sought to keep the Chief of Police position vacant following the retirement of former Chief Jay Hopwood. According to Elensky, his intent was to allow newly hired Public Safety Director Joe Halman time to evaluate the department, assess leadership, and mentor Jackson for 6 months prior to appointing Jackson as permanent chief.
However, emails reviewed by Daily Ridge show then-Vice Mayor Vernell Smith opposed freezing the position. Smith wrote that he did not agree with delaying the appointment and believed Jackson should continue moving toward assuming the role of chief rather than postponing the decision.
Jackson was ultimately promoted to Chief of Police.
For many current and former officers, the issue is not Jackson’s private relationships. Rather, they question whether the department’s highest-ranking officer was held to the same standards expected of everyone else. They point to the sustained internal affairs findings, the relatively limited discipline imposed, and Jackson’s eventual promotion to chief as factors that continue to affect confidence in leadership and contribute to ongoing morale concerns within the department.
The City of Haines City maintains the matter was thoroughly investigated, that Jackson accepted responsibility for his actions, and that the discipline imposed was appropriate. Current and former officers who spoke with Daily Ridge disagree, saying the investigation and its outcome continue to shape perceptions of accountability and leadership within the department today.
*** Editors Note – The Daily Ridge took into account if these were racially motivated complaints. As we investigated we determined white officers, Hispanic officers and black officers have resigned since Jackson became chief or a couple months prior to his official start. Each had issues and concerns.
An ambulance transporting a patient was involved in a crash Tuesday, June 30, 2026 and the other driver involved drove away from the scene.
The crash occurred at around 9:00 am on Harden Boulevard in Lakeland, near the intersection of Ariana Street.
The ambulance was traveling north on Harden Boulevard (not in emergency mode) when a southbound white VW Jetta conducted a U-turn in front of the ambulance. After completing the U-turn, the Jetta entered the lane occupied by the ambulance and the vehicles collided.
The Jetta did not stop following the crash, and it left the scene.
A paramedic who was riding in the back of the ambulance was transported to the hospital with a minor neck injury.
Deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office went to the residence where the VW Jetta is registered. The owner of the car said that her nephew had been driving the car.
41-year old Gregory McManus was asleep on the couch.
When deputies awakened him, he admitted that he had been involved in the crash, but claimed it was the ambulance driver’s fault.
Video from the ambulance clearly showed that McManus had caused the crash. He was arrested and taken to the Sheriff’s Processing Center.
“Gregory McManus not only caused the crash, he fled from the scene without checking on anybody, and then had the audacity to claim the other driver was at fault. He was vulgar and rude to the deputy and had to be removed from the patrol car after he refused to get out of it. I doubt there is a responsible bone in his body.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff. Gregory McManus was charged with Leaving the Scene of a Crash with Injury (F3) and Resisting without Violence (M1).
Gwenette “Peggy” Joyce Deese went home to be with the Lord on June 15, 2026, at the age of 92.
Peggy was predeceased by her husband, Calvin Monroe Deese, whom she married in 1954; her parents, Jerry and Sadie James; a brother, Foster James and 3 sisters; Dorothy Hughes, Geneva Brannen and Judy Hinder.
Born in Waycross, GA, Peggy moved to Winter Haven, FL shortly after her birth and remained there until moving to Brandon, FL in 2009. From her vibrant youth to her supportive, active role as a parent, grandmother and great-grandmother, she was always engaged in the lives of those she loved. She was active in her church and community, involved in school and scout activities with her children and had a deep affection for spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was happiest when she was with family and friends – laughing, celebrating milestones and creating memories. She lived her life with a joyful spirit – one that showed up in the way she loved her family, the way she gave her time and talents to others, and the way she found happiness in everyday moments.
Peggy had a long career with GTE but always put her family first. She was a woman of strong faith, and she instilled in us the importance of God, family, hard work and doing what is right. As a wife, she was a faithful partner and best friend. As a mother, she gave endless love and steadfast support. As a grandmother and great grandmother, she brought joy, warmth, and memories that will live on for generations. She was always ready to lend a hand, offer comfort, or simply show up for someone who needed her.
Peggy leaves to cherish her loving memory her children and their spouses, Ricky and Lori Deese, Candy and Jerry Caldwell and Sheila and Sean Wiles; her grandchildren, David Caldwell, Rachel Cook, Emma Wiles, Aaron Deese, Alysa Deese, Anicka Deese and Adana Mendoza and her great-grandchildren, Ruby Gwenette Cook, Ezra Deese and Camilla, Texas and Rio Mendoza.
A graveside service was held on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Rolling Hills Cemetery in Winter Haven.
“I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” II Timothy 4:7 – 8
On Monday, June 22, 2026, undercover detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Vice Unit conducted an on-going operation focused on identifying possible human trafficking victims and possible illegal conduct in a massage parlor.
During a check at the New Oriental Massage located at 2934 Lakeland Highlands Road in Lakeland, 52-year-old Qiaoli Zhang of Lakeland was arrested for Committing Lewd Acts (M2) after she grabbed the detective’s groin. Detectives then learned that Zhang was not a licensed massage therapist and further charged her with unlicensed massage (M1) and violation of massage practices (M1). She was transported to the Polk County Jail. Contact was made with ICE as Zhang is currently pending asylum status.
As the investigation continued, detectives discovered that the massage therapy establishment license was issued to 36-year-old Zhike Chai, the owner of the parlor. Chai was charged with maintaining a place for prostitution (M2), deriving proceeds (F2), and employing an unlicensed massage therapist (M1).
“Our detectives will continue to check these types of businesses to identify and help the victims of human trafficking. We are also committed to ensuring any businesses within Polk County are operating within full compliance of Florida Statutes.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
At this time, there is no evidence or information that Ms. Zhang is a victim of human trafficking.
City of Winter Haven Releases Proclamation Commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary
by James Coulter
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the City of Winter Haven has issued an official proclamation recognizing both the nation’s founding and Florida’s contributions to the fight for independence.
At the city commission’s regular meeting on Mon. June 8, 2026, Mayor Brian Yates offered an official proclamation commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.
“The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead to the future generations who will carry forward the ideals of democracy and individual liberty that make the United States a unique nation in the world community,” the proclamation read.
The proclamation also recognized the role Florida played during the American War of Independence, with the state being the location of four battles: the Battle at Thomas Creek, the Battle at Alligator Creek Bridge, the Siege of Pensacola, and the Last Naval Battle of the American Revolution off the coast of Cape Canaveral.
Presenting this proclamation was the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), a non -political women’s service organization consisting of members descended from patriots in the American War for Independence.
To commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary, DAR will be spending the next three years with nationwide projects and special events “honoring all men and women who achieved American independence.”
A local chapter will host an event at Central Park in Downtown Winter Haven on July 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.The event will be part of a worldwide collaboration featuring simultaneous public readings of the Declaration of Independence to commemorate the 250th anniversary of its first public reading.
Laura Stokes, a member of the Ponce de Leon chapter, expressed her gratitude for being able to participate with her organization in commemorating the upcoming historic milestone of America’s founding.
“We are proud to join Florida and the City of Winter Haven in commemorating the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding,” she said. “We appreciate the opportunity to reflect on America’s history, recognize Florida’s unique part in that history, and unite our community in the spirit of patriotism.”
The City also released two proclamations that evening, recognizing Juneteenth and Waste and Recycle Workers Week.
Winter Haven will be hosting its annual Independence Day celebration, Rockin’ Freedom Fest, on Fri. July 3, 2026, at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park on Lake Silver. Festivities start at 6 PM and will include a performance by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski team and a fireworks show later that evening. Learn more at: mywinterhaven.com
Haines City Code Compliance has become the first code enforcement agency in Florida to earn accreditation through the Florida Association of Code Enforcement (FACE). The division is also the third agency in Florida to receive accreditation through the American Association of Code Enforcement (AACE) and is among only ten accredited code enforcement agencies in the United States.
This accomplishment reflects the division’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, transparency, and excellence in service to the residents of Haines City.
The busy summer season can take you almost anywhere – baseball fields, backyard cookouts, long workdays or road trips across the country. Regardless of where you are, summer is a reminder that emergencies like cardiac arrest can happen anywhere.
More than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States each year, and 90% of people will not survive, according to the American Heart Association, a nonprofit organization devoted to changing the future for a world of healthier lives for all. Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anytime, anywhere. People often hesitate to step in. In fact, nearly 2 out of 3 adults believe CPR can only be performed by medical professionals. This mistaken belief can cost lives and contributes to the low survival rate.
Ordinary people have extraordinary power. You don’t need to wear scrubs or have a medical background to save a life – you just need the courage to act.
Take the safety of those around you into your own hands this summer with this checklist.
Plan Ahead
Summer is often a time for welcome disruptions, including vacations, camps, sports and parties. Before traveling or attending events, check if your destination has a cardiac emergency response plan, which establishes specific steps to reduce death from cardiac arrest in any setting, from schools and community organizations to workplaces and sports facilities.
Learn CPR
Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere: at home, at work, in schools, at a soccer game or on vacation. When it happens, the first chance for survival often rests with the people nearby.
Anyone can be the difference before professional help arrives. The power to save a life is in your hands. CPR is a human responsibility, not just a medical skill. When friends, family or even strangers step in during cardiac emergencies, survival rates can double or even triple.
Hands-Only CPR for adults consists of two easy steps:
• Call 9-1-1 or shout for someone else to call. • Push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of a familiar song that’s 100-120 beats per minute, such as “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees.
Share Resources with Your Family and Community
Once you’ve learned simple, two-step Hands-Only CPR, share resources with your community to help expand the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers. Raising awareness with family, neighbors and colleagues can help people feel confident in the face of an emergency.
Families can watch short instructional videos that demonstrate the life-saving steps for adults as well as techniques for infants and children.
Travelers can also get trained in about 5 minutes with a Hands-Only CPR Kiosk, located in many airports and public spaces across the country.
To find more information about learning CPR, visit Heart.org/Nation.
Summer Safety Tips
In addition to learning CPR and sharing valuable resources with your family and community, consider these ways to keep yourself and loved ones safe throughout the summer months.
• Stay Hydrated: High temperatures can quickly lead to dehydration and heat-related illness. Drink water regularly throughout the day, especially during outdoor activities, and pack extra water when away from home.
• Protect Your Skin: Hats, sunglasses and lightweight clothing can protect skin from sun exposure, but it’s important to use broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours.
• Swim with a Buddy: Hopping in a pool, lake or ocean is a hallmark of summer but can be dangerous without precautions. Never swim alone and ensure children are always supervised by an adult near water.
• Identify the Locations of Safety Equipment: When attending camps, heading to a sporting event or enjoying the pool or beach, identify where lifeguards, AEDs and emergency exits are located. Knowing where to find help can save valuable time when every second counts.
• Practice Grill Safety: Some of your most memorable summer moments may happen during a backyard barbecue or cookout, and it’s important to keep those gatherings safe. Use grills away from homes, decks and dry grass. Never leave them unattended while cooking, and be sure kids and pets stay at a safe distance from hot surfaces.
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – One person was hospitalized Monday after a shooting in a Winter Haven neighborhood, according to the Winter Haven Police Department.
Police responded to the area of 9th Court NE and Ware Avenue NE after receiving reports of a shooting. When officers arrived, they determined that two individuals had been involved in an altercation that escalated, resulting in one person being shot.
The victim suffered injuries that police described as non-life-threatening and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Authorities emphasized that the shooting appears to be an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing danger to the public.
The investigation remains active, and investigators are continuing to gather information about what led to the altercation.
Winter Haven Police Public Information Officer Jamie Brown said additional details will be released as they become available.
Daily Ridge will provide updates as more information is released by authorities.
