Home Blog Page 204

Eleven suspects arrested during undercover investigation focusing on those who travel to have sex with minors

Carl Fish
-
0
Eleven suspects arrested during undercover investigation focusing on those who travel to have sex with minors

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office conducted a joint-agency investigation focusing on those who prey upon and travel to meet children for unlawful sexual activity from May 2nd through 10th, 2025, during which 11 men were arrested for multiple felonies. PCSO detectives were joined by detectives from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, Hardee County Sheriff’s Office, Auburndale Police, Davenport Police, Pinellas Park Police, Tampa Police, and St. Petersburg Police detectives assigned to a Homeland Security Investigations task force.

The suspects communicated with and solicited who they thought were children or guardians of children online. Nine suspects showed up to an undercover location in Polk County at separate times to sexually batter children.Detectives went to one local suspect’s house during the operation and arrested him; and obtained an arrest warrant for another registered sex offender suspect (from Tampa) who committed crimes against who he thought was a child online – the Tampa Police Department took him into custody.

In all, detectives filed 50 felony charges against these 11 suspects.

“It is extremely disturbing when we encounter nasty child predators like these who are very eager to have sex with children. This is why we conduct these types of undercover operations. Keeping children safe is our number one priority, and we appreciate our partnering agencies, without whom we would not be as successful in apprehending these dangerous offenders.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

SUSPECTS ARRESTED:

1. 46-year-old Nicholas Capehart, DOB 3/15/1979, of Riverview, FL. Capehart sent social media messages to an undercover detective who was posing as a 14-year-old girl. He told the girl he was looking for a “sex friend.” He asked her if she was home alone and said he wanted to come “teach her sex” and told her that he was falling for her and wanted to make her his permanent girlfriend. He told detectives that he is married, currently a salesman, and previously served 10 years in the Marines. 

Capehart was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Traveling to meet a minor (F2)

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F3)

·        Use of computer to seduce a child (F3)

·        Attempted lewd/lascivious battery on a minor (F3)

·        Resisting arrest (M1)

2. 59-year-old Gregory Ludee Cooper, DOB 9/2/1965, of Wesley Chapel, FL. Cooper sent social media messages to an undercover detective posing as a 14-year-old boy. Cooper’s online dating profile says he is a “daddy looking for a younger boy.” He sent explicit sexual messages describing what he wanted to do with the boy, and said that he would be patient. He brought an orange soda and gummy snacks to the undercover location. 

Cooper was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Attempted lewd/lascivious conduct by person over 18 (F2)

·        Traveling to meet a minor (F2)

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F3)

·        Use of computer to seduce a child (F2)

3. 50-year-old Eric Corliss, DOB 6/3/1974, of Lakeland, FL. Corliss sent social media messages to an undercover detective posing as a family member who was selling the sexual services of a 15-year-old female (human trafficking). At the same time, Corliss was soliciting undercover detectives who were posing online as prostitutes. He asked the detective “are you with law enforcement” and then asked for the address of where the girl would be offered to him in exchange for money. While Corliss told the detective he was en route, he diverted to another undisclosed location to meet with who he thought was a prostitute, and was taken into custody during that part of the investigation. He told detectives he is a regional executive at Red Cross, and he is married.

Corliss was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Use of a computer to solicit parent/guardian (F3)

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F3)

·        Solicit prostitute (M1) – 3 counts

4. 26-year-old Vernen Cunningham, DOB 5/24/1998, of Orlando, FL. Cunningham sent social media messages to an undercover detective posing as a family member who was selling the sexual services of a 15-year-old female (human trafficking). He repeatedly asked for photos of the girl and asked “you’re not the law, right?” He took an Uber to the undisclosed location, where he was taken into custody. He brought cookies. He told detectives he is from the Bahamas. Detectives confirmed he is in the country illegally. As such, his charges are enhanced, and ICE was notified.

Cunningham was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Human trafficking (FL)

·        Traveling to meet a minor (F1)

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F2)

·        Use of computer to solicit parent/guardian (F2)

5. 54-year-old Arthur Lee Dennard, DOB 8/15/1970), a registered sex offender from Tampa, FL. Dennard sent social media messages to an undercover detective who was posing as a 15-year-old girl. Among his very sexually charged messages, he told her he was going to “make love” to her and that he was going to put a baby in her. Detectives positively identified the suspect and checked his criminal history, which revealed he is a six time convicted felon in Florida, is a designated sexual offender, and has been to state prison twice. His prior arrests are:

·        2007 – Tampa PD arrest – Unlawful sexual activity with a minor (served 6 years in prison)

·        2008 – HCSO arrest – failure to comply with sex offender registration laws

·        2013 – HCSO arrest – failure to comply with sex offender registration laws

·        2014 – HCSO arrest – failure to comply with sex offender registration laws

Detectives obtained a warrant for his arrest and he was taken into custody by Tampa PD on May 12, 2025. He is charged with: 

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F3)

·        Use of computer to seduce a child (F3)

6. 37-year-old Shaun Russel Hamel, DOB 8/28/1987, of Winter Haven, FL. Hamel sent social media messages to an undercover detective posing as a 14-year-old girl. He sent her very explicit sexual messages and several photos of his private parts. He repeatedly referred to himself as “daddy.” Detectives responded to his home in Winter Haven and took him into custody without incident. He is charged with:

·        Transmission of material harmful to a minor (F3) – 8 counts

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F3)

·        Use of computer to seduce a child (F3)

7. 57-year-old Joseph Lee Jones, Jr., DOB 4/24/1968, of Dover, FL. Jones sent social media messages to an undercover detective posing as a family member who was selling the sexual services of a 15-year-old female (human trafficking). He stopped to get cash on the way to the undercover location, and brought condoms. He told detectives he is unemployed and receives $1,600 a month in disability benefits. 

Jones was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Human trafficking (FL)

·        Traveling to meet a minor (F1)

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F2)

·        Use of computer to solicit parent/guardian (F2)

8. 43-year-old Matthew Klein, DOB 10/11/1981, of Lakeland, FL. Klein sent social media messages to two difference undercover detectives on two different dating apps, who were both posing as 14-year-old boys. He told the “boys” that he was 40 years old, and described in detail the sex acts he wanted to perform with them. He told detectives that he has met up with a young male under the age of 18 in the past (this is now an ongoing investigation). He also told detectives that he is HIV positive.

Klein was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Traveling to meet a minor (F1) 

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F2) – 2 counts

·        Use of computer to solicit parent/guardian (F2) – 2 counts

·        Attempted lewd/lascivious conduct by person over 18 (F2) 

·        Misrepresenting age using computer to seduce a child (F2) 

·        Attempted sexual contact by HIV infected person without informing partner (F3) 

9. 35-year-old Aston William Mack, DOB 10/6/1989, of Deltona, FL. Mack sent social media messages to an undercover detective posing as a family member who was selling the sexual services of a 15-year-old female (human trafficking). He repeatedly asked for photos of the girl and was worried this was a law enforcement operation. 

Mack was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Human trafficking (FL)

·        Traveling to meet a minor (F1)

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F2)

·        Use of computer to solicit parent/guardian (F2)

·        Resisting arrest (M1)

10. 38-year-old V Jay Matos III, DOB 11/24/1986, of Lakeland, FL. Matos sent social media messages to an undercover detective posing as a family member who was selling the sexual services of a 15-year-old female (human trafficking). He brought cash and condoms to the location. 

Matos was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Human trafficking (FL)

·        Traveling to meet a minor (F1)

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F2)

·        Use of computer to solicit parent/guardian (F2)

11. 40-year-old Domingo Fransisco Miguel,DOB 3/13/1985, of Lakeland, FL. Miguel sent social media messages to an undercover detective posing as a family member who was selling the sexual services of a 15-year-old female (human trafficking). He repeatedly asked for photos of the girl and made statements that he thought this was a setup by law enforcement. He brought cash and condoms to the location. 

Miguel was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:

·        Human trafficking (FL)

·        Traveling to meet a minor (F1)

·        Use of two-way communication device to commit a felony (F2)

·        Use of computer to solicit parent/guardian (F2)

Dundee Teen Charged with Street Racing After Driving Over 100mph with Minor in Car

Staff Reporter
-
0
Dundee Teen Charged with Street Racing After Driving Over 100mph with Minor in Car

Wednesday night, May 14th…at around 8:56 pm…

A PCSO deputy was conducting traffic enforcement on US 27 near the Peace Creek RV Resort, east of Winter Haven, when he noticed a pair of vehicles coming in his direction at a very high rate of speed.

The speed limit in that location is 60 mph, but both vehicles were going over 100 mph.

A red sedan and a black sedan were side-by-side, obviously trying to outdo one another.

The deputy activated his red & blues and pulled over a red 2020 Toyota Corolla.

The driver of the Corolla was identified as 19-year old Mariah Bateman of Dundee. And next to Mariah was a 14-year old passenger.

Officially, Mariah’s speed topped-out at 108 mph.

Mariah Bateman was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and taken to Grady Judd’s Bed & Breakfast. She was charged with Street Racing and Negligent Child Abuse without Bodily Harm.

Friday Night Lights – Blue Devils Spring Game!

Staff Reporter
-
0
Friday Night Lights – Blue Devils Spring Game!

Friday Night Lights – Blue Devils Spring Game!

You are invited to the Winter Haven High School Spring Football Game this Friday night as the Blue Devils face off against Davenport at Denison Stadium! Kickoff is at 7:00 PM sharp.

This is a fantastic opportunity to support the local athletes as they showcase the hard work and dedication they’ve put in during the offseason. Let’s fill the stands, bring the energy, and help set the tone for an exciting season ahead!

Event Details:
Who: Winter Haven vs. Davenport
When: Friday, May 16 at 7:00 PM
Where: Denison Stadium
Admission: $2 for students | $5 for adults

Wear your Blue Devils gear, bring your school spirit, and join in for a great night of football!

Go Blue Devils!

Photo source WHHS

255 Arrested in Polk County Sting Operation “Fool Around and Find Out” — Suspect Allegedly Offered $800 for Sex Act – Press Conference Tomorrow

Carl Fish
-
0
255 Arrested in Polk County Sting Operation “Fool Around and Find Out” — Suspect Allegedly Offered $800 for Sex Act – Press Conference Tomorrow

Winter Haven, Florida – Sheriff Grady Judd will hold a press conference at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center, located at 1891 Jim Keene Blvd in Winter Haven. He will release full details from a major nine-day undercover operation titled “Fool Around and Find Out”, which led to the arrest of 255 individuals involved in crimes ranging from human trafficking and child exploitation to illegal immigration.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office conducted the operation in partnership with multiple local police departments, fellow sheriff’s offices, Homeland Security, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The results are alarming:

141 people arrested for soliciting prostitutes 93 charged with offering to commit prostitution Four of those were identified as human trafficking victims and were referred to One More Child and Heartland for Children 10 individuals arrested for aiding, abetting, or transporting prostitutes 11 arrested for traveling to meet minors for sex or other child-related sex offenses 36 of those arrested are in the U.S. illegally

Among those arrested is Anthony Cobo, who was charged after arriving at an undercover location and allegedly offering $800 for sex acts. According to the affidavit, Cobo made contact with an undercover detective posing as a sex worker on the website “listcrawler.eu.” He agreed to meet for sex in exchange for cash and communicated with the detective via a phone number registered in the Tampa area.

On the night of the operation, Cobo arrived at the arranged location around 11:17 p.m. The detective confirmed the deal, accepted the $800 in cash, and deputies then took Cobo into custody without incident. He was read his Miranda Rights and reportedly declined to make a statement.

Cobo was charged with offering to commit prostitution and transported to the Sheriff’s Processing Center. His case is one of dozens involving individuals who used escort websites to seek paid sex. Some arrived with drugs, weapons, or children in tow. Several, like Cobo, offered unusually high amounts of money.

“This isn’t just about prostitution,” said one PCSO official. “It’s about the dark web of crime that supports it—human trafficking, exploitation, and predators looking for children. We’re shining a light into that darkness.”

Other suspects included Elizabeth Mendez, who allegedly agreed to a $450 encounter, and Michaela Mchugh, who brought methamphetamine and marijuana along with her to a meeting with an undercover detective. Eric Corliss was arrested after attempting to solicit sex from what he thought was a 15-year-old girl—he now faces multiple felonies.

Sheriff Judd’s office has confirmed that two press releases and all 255 mugshots will be made available shortly after the media briefing begins. The public is encouraged to attend the conference or follow the PCSO’s official channels for more updates.

Daily Ridge will continue to follow this developing story and provide full coverage as new information is released.

Power Outage Impacting Several Winter Haven Areas This Morning

Staff Reporter
-
0
Power Outage Impacting Several Winter Haven Areas This Morning

A message from the City of Winter Haven:

We are aware a power outage impacted parts of Winter Haven this morning.

Please treat any intersections with traffic lights not working as a four-way stop.

Even in areas where power has been restored, lights may need to be reset. Crews are working to restore functionality.

Please contact TECO directly with any questions regarding the power outrage at 813-223-0800

Man Caught on Camera Stealing Almost $700 Worth of Merchandise from CVS in Auburndale

Staff Reporter
-
0
Man Caught on Camera Stealing Almost $700 Worth of Merchandise from CVS in Auburndale

Auburndale Police Department ATTEMPT TO IDENTIFY:

On 04/12/25, Auburndale PD responded to a retail theft at CVS located at 99 Magnolia Ave., Auburndale FL. At approximately 1731 hours, the unknown male suspect entered the business and walked around concealing multiple high value items inside of his shirt which was covered by his sweater vest. The suspect then proceeds to leave the store, passing all points of sale without attempting to pay.

The total value of the stolen merchandise was $685.80.

SUSPECT – Unknown male, LSW a gray ball cap, long sleeved button up white shirt with blue stripes, blue t-shirt underneath, gray jeans, brown puff sweater vest, and black/white tennis shoes.

If you have any information, please contact Officer Beauliere at 863-956-7755 or email at [email protected]

City of Winter Haven Proclaims May 11 to 17 as Police Week

Staff Reporter
-
0
City of Winter Haven Proclaims May 11 to 17 as Police Week

City of Winter Haven Proclaims May 11 to 17 as Police Week

by James Coulter

 To honor the brave men and women who worked tirelessly to protect and serve the local community, the City of Winter Haven has designated this week as Police Week.

 At the regular meeting of the Winter Haven City Commission on Mon. May 12, Charlie Bird, Assistant City Manager, presented an official proclamation designating the week between May 12 and 17 as Police Week.

 Police Week was designated as such, according to the proclamation, “in recognition of the contribution law enforcement officers have made to our civilization through their dedicated and selfless efforts in enforcing our laws.”

 The proclamation also designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day “in honor of the Federal, State, and municipal peace officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.”

 “It is important that people throughout our community know and understand the problems, duties, and responsibilities of law enforcement agencies and that members recognize their duty to serve the people of the community by safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence or disorder, and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression or intimidation,” the proclamation read.

 Vance Monroe, Police Chief, offered his sincere gratitude to the City Commission for honoring him and his fellow officers at the city police department for their service to the community through this official proclamation. He offered the following words:

 “On behalf of the men and women of the Winter Haven Police Department, I want to sincerely thank you for this proclamation. Your recognition today means a great deal to all of us who wear the badge and serve this incredible city.

 We are proud to say that through strong partnerships with each of you on this dais and with our community members, Winter Haven continues to be one of the safest cities in Florida. Our historically low crime rate of 1.71 is a direct result of that collaboration, and it is a reflection of what we can accomplish with trust, transparency, and teamwork come together.

 This proclamation reminds us that we are not in this alone. We are grateful for your leadership, your support, and your confidence in the work we do each and every day. Thank you for allowing us the honor to serve and protect and grow with the City of Winter Haven.”

 

Sgt. Shaquille Haynes likewise expressed his gratitude: “We take so much pride in being able to serve this community each and every day. So, to be able to receive this recognition is just fantastic. So, we really appreciate it.”

 Sgt. LaDarius Cooper, who works in the Investigative Services Bureau, expressed his appreciation to the commission for allowing his department to provide a voice to the victims without one.


Sgt. Shaquille Haynes at podium
Sgt. LaDarius Cooper at Podium

 “The victims that we deal with oftentimes have no voice,” he explained. “Either they are afraid to speak or, because of the nature of the case, they cannot speak anymore. We have to advocate on their behalf, and we cannot do that if we do not have the resources or tools afforded to us by the commissioners. So, on behalf of those who cannot speak or are afraid to speak, thank you.”

Two Injured, One Hospitalized After Suspected Arson in Lakeland

Carl Fish
-
0
Two Injured, One Hospitalized After Suspected Arson in Lakeland

Bartow, Fla. (May 15, 2025) — Polk County Fire Rescue responded to an early morning structure fire on Dawn Heights Drive in Lakeland. The suspected cause of the fire is arson. 

 

Crews responded at 3:54 a.m. and Engine 35 was first on scene and found a single family home 50% involved. The fire spread to a nearby vehicle.  PCFR members also found two patients outside of the structure. Crews worked quickly getting water on the fire at 4:06 a.m. while others on scene provided medical treatment. 

 

There were several people in the home at the time of the fire. All were outside the home when fire crews arrived.

 

The fire was extinguished at 4:15 a.m. PCFR transported one trauma alert patient to a nearby hospital while the other patient received treatment on scene.

 

The Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office and Polk County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the fire.

 

PCFR reached out to the Red Cross for aid for the displaced individuals.

Semi Blocking Roadway in Winter Haven

Staff Reporter
-
0
Semi Blocking Roadway in Winter Haven

May 14, 2025- 3:26 p.m.

A semi is blocking the roadway and disabled at Old Lucerne Park Rd at Lake Lucerne Way in Winter Haven.


A wrecker is on the way – however there will be a significant amount of time before traffic can travel. Law enforcement is on scene.

In Loving Memory of Thomas Benedict

Staff Reporter
-
0
In Loving Memory of Thomas Benedict

Thomas Benedict

December 27th, 1958 – May 4th, 2025

Thomas Benedict, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025, in Winter Haven, Florida, at the age of 66. Born on December 27, 1958, in Syracuse, New York, Tom was a pillar of love and kindness throughout his life, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. 

Throughout his diverse career, Tom wore many hats—including restaurant owner, bartender, limo driver, and a diligent worker in the produce department of a local grocery store. No matter what the job, his sincerity and commitment shone brightly. Tom was known not only for his work ethic but also for his ability to find humor and joy in everyday life, a trait that made him both funny and generous. An active member of the Beymer Methodist Church in Winter Haven, Tom also held a special connection to the United Methodist Church in Skaneateles, New York. His dedication continued as a member of the Sons of the American Legion and a former member of the Skaneateles Volunteer Fire Department. Tom had a passion for antique cars, often seen driving his cherished Cadillac, and he found peace tending to his garden and grilling and making the holiday meals for his family. A lover of games, he would often engage in challenges presented by The New York Times. Tom had an extraordinary gift for seeing the good in all things, which resonated throughout his life. His steadfast loyalty, honesty, and kindness made him genuinely one of a kind. He exemplified what it meant to be a patriotic citizen, deeply loving his country and community.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, B. Case and Arline Benedict; brothers in law, Joseph DeLaney, Tom Magee. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Pat DeLaney Benedict, and his cherished children: Tom (Hannah) Benedict II, Joseph William Benedict, Sarah (Sasha) Hallock, Mary (Barry) Descaro, and Meg Benedict; beautiful grandchildren; Judah, Oliver, Elizabeth, and Abigail, who will forever carry his spirit in their hearts. He also leaves behind his brothers, John (Sue) Case Benedict, William Robert (Maureen) Benedict, and James (Ramona) Benedict; sisters, Karen (Alex) Pisciarino, Janet (Tom) Denton, and Judy Benedict. His family circle also included beloved brothers-in-law, Bill (Debbie) DeLaney and Michael DeLaney, C.S.C., and sisters-in-law, Janet DeLaney and Kate DeLaney Magee, as well as countless nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by his warmth and generosity, and his beloved dog, Nellie. We find solace in knowing that Toms’ legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the love he shared.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who knew Tom for the love and compassion shown. In honoring his memory, let us keep his spirit alive by continuing to spread kindness and generosity in our own lives. 

As he often encouraged when saying goodbye, “Keep the faith.” 

1...203204205...1,203Page 204 of 1,203