Red flag warning issued March 17 by National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin FL:
…CRITICALLY LOW HUMIDITY WITH GUSTY WINDS WILL RESULT IN ELEVATED FIRE DANGER… .The National Weather Service in Ruskin has issued a Fire Weather Warning for low humidity and gusty northwest winds. The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin has issued a Red Flag Warning, which is in effect from noon today to 8 PM EDT this evening. * AFFECTED AREA…Sumter, Polk, Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Inland Citrus, Inland Hernando, Inland Pasco, Inland Hillsborough, Inland Manatee, Inland Sarasota, Inland Charlotte and Inland Lee. * TIMING…From noon today to 8 PM EDT this evening. * WINDS…Northwest 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY…As low as 26 percent. * IMPACTS…Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.
828 pm EDT -The storm which prompted the warning has moved out of the area. Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire. However, gusty winds are still possible with this thunderstorm. To report severe weather, contact your nearest law enforcement agency. They will relay your report to the National Weather Service Ruskin.
—————- At 815 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 12 miles west of Four Corners, or 16 miles north of Auburndale, moving northeast at 30 mph. HAZARD…Tornado. SOURCE…Radar indicated rotation. IMPACT…Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.
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Tornado Warning issued March 16 at 7:43PM EDT by NWS Tampa Bay Ruskin FL
At 743 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 9 miles southeast of Zephyrhills North, or 10 miles east of Zephyrhills, moving northeast at 30 mph. HAZARD…Tornado. SOURCE…Radar indicated rotation. IMPACT…Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely. This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of northwestern Polk County.
A family of three was displaced from their mobile home in Cypress Shores on Friday after a fire broke out in the residence. The two adults and one child were assisted by the Red Cross following the incident. One individual was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
Winter Haven fire crews quickly responded to the scene and were able to take control of the fire. While the mobile home was severely damaged, a neighboring residence experienced only minor heat damage to its siding. Thankfully, no firefighters were injured during the response.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
HAINES CITY – Haines City Mayor Omar Arroyo kicked off his campaign for the County Commission District 4seat on Saturday (March 15) at City Hall.
More than 75 supporters gathered with Arroyo, the first Hispanic Mayor of Haines City and Polk County, for a group photo.
He said he loves the area and hopes his expertise will help with what he sees as the county’s biggest challenge – the enormous population growth.
“I’ve been preparing for the last four years (for the job) by being on different boards and learning about the challenges that the county is facing,” Arroyo said. “I have a passion for helping the community and want to continue the good works of Dr. (Martha) Santiago.”
If elected, he will replace Santiago, who personally asked Arroyo to run for the seat as she plans to retire.
Born in Mexico, Arroyo moved to Austin, Texas at 16where he began his career in residential framing. Two years later, in 2001, he moved to Haines City and is now a general contractor. He believes his constructionexperience will be an asset to the County Commission.
In 2022, Arroyo was elected to the Haines City Commission, making him the first Hispanic commissioner in the City’s history. Then, last year, he was unanimously elected by his fellow Commissioners to become Mayor, also the first Hispanic in the history of the City.
According to polkelections.com, currently, Arroyo is the only candidate registered to run for County Commission District 4 seat. The election will be held Nov. 3, 2026.
He and his wife of 20 years, Alejandra, have three children.
Free Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show in Winter Haven – March 15, 2025
Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 15, 2025, and head to Winter Haven for a thrilling, FREE Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show! The event will take place at Lake Silver, located at 275 South Lake Silver Drive in Winter Haven, and promises fun for the whole family.
The preshow kicks off at 4:30 p.m., giving you a chance to settle in and get ready for the main event, which starts at 5:00 p.m. With talented skiers and an exciting atmosphere, it’s sure to be a memorable afternoon.
Concessions will be available, so you can grab a snack while enjoying the action. Be sure to bring your family, friends, and a blanket or chair to make the most of the experience.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic event – come out, relax, and enjoy the show!
At 3:22 p.m. on March 14, 2025 Polk County Fire Rescue responded to a medical emergency on Avenue I NW in Winter Haven.
Nathaniel Gale, Polk County Fire Rescue PIO confirmed they transported one patient as a trauma alert via ground. He also confirmed the patient was a tree worker who was electrocuted.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office assisted on the call. According to a PCSO PIO it appears the tree worker was shocked when a branch touched the powerline.
The man then reportedly fell out of the tree. He was responsive.
There has been no official info released whether it was a private person or a company.
*Editors Note: I’ve personally known both Dedric Brinson and Freddie Brinson for a long time. Prior to them, even realizing it I used to referee their youth football games. I’ve known Freddie more than Dedric, but I found both these young men to never be aggressive or belligerent (Dedric, lately has a podcast where he does get very emotional, but he is producing content). However, some serious allegations have been levied against both of them. I cannot condone any illegal behavior, which may or may not have occurred. The starting issue was an issue involving Freddie’s son we believe and a school guardian. As a father of three children I can get very emotional in defending them. I hate that this has occurred for these two young men and will be in prayer for this to be resolved in the best possible manner. – Carl Fish
Winter Haven, FL – A local father, Frederick Brinson, was arrested following a verbal altercation at Garden Grove Elementary School that escalated into alleged online harassment and a potential threat against the school.
The incident occurred during a school event when Brinson allegedly engaged in a heated argument with school guardian Laporchia Hodge. District Supervising Guardian Aaron Wilson intervened after noticing Brinson aggressively recording Hodge with his phone. Concerned about the escalating situation, Wilson radioed law enforcement, and both guardians retreated to the front office to wait for police. Brinson was eventually escorted off campus.
Brinson later posted the confrontation on his Facebook account, where he could be seen reportedly cursing at and directing racial slurs toward Guardian Hodge. In the video, he explicitly stated that he would not stop harassing her and made a reference to going “full John Q” on the school—a reference to a movie in which a desperate father takes a hospital hostage to get medical care for his son. This statement reportedly created fear for Hodge and school staff, as Brinson’s anger and aggression suggested he might pose a real threat.
Following this, Brinson allegedly contacted Wilson’s son via Facebook and persuaded him to have a phone conversation. Unbeknownst to Wilson’s son, the conversation was secretly recorded by Brinson’s brother and later broadcast on Facebook Live. This unauthorized recording and public posting violated privacy laws.
After investigating the incident, authorities determined Brinson had allegedly committed multiple offenses, including:
• Harassment (FSS. 784.048(3)) – By repeatedly verbally harassing Guardian Hodge and causing her emotional distress.
• Making a Credible Threat (FSS. 836.10) – By referencing the “John Q” scenario, which raised concerns for the safety of the school and its staff.
• Cyber Harassment (FSS. 934.215) – By using electronic means to further criminal activity.
• Disrupting a School Function (FSS. 877.13) – By preventing school staff from performing their duties.
• Disorderly Conduct (FSS. 877.03) – By using profane language and name-calling in the presence of staff, parents, and students.
• Unlawful Interception and Distribution of Communication (FSS. 934.03 (1)(D)) – By facilitating the unauthorized recording and dissemination of a private conversation.
Brinson was arrested and transported to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Booking Facility. During an interview, he admitted to his actions but claimed he did not know they were illegal. He also insisted that his statements were taken out of context and did not mean them as they were perceived.
Law enforcement continues to stress the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment in schools and online, warning that threats and harassment—whether in person or through social media—carry serious legal consequences.
Editors Note: The initial information on what precipitated this incident is not entirely known at this time. We will update as more information is released.
UPDATE: I-4 Ramp closures at SR 559 (Exit 44) were postponed until tonight, Tuesday, March 18, and Wednesday night, March 19. All other information remains the same.
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Original Post:
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is scheduled to conduct paving projects at the I-4 ramps intersecting with SR 559. These closures will affect both eastbound and westbound traffic on March 17 and March 18, 2025, during the overnight hours.
On Monday, March 17, 2025, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., the eastbound on-ramp and westbound off-ramp at I-4 and SR 559 will be closed, with all ramp traffic detoured. Eastbound SR 559 traffic wishing to enter I-4 will detour westbound to SR 33 (Exit #38), exit, and re-enter I-4 eastbound. Westbound SR 559 traffic will continue on I-4 to SR 33 (Exit #38), exit, and re-enter the interstate headed east, using the SR 559 exit.
On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., the westbound on-ramp and eastbound off-ramps will be closed, with traffic detours in place. Westbound SR 559 traffic will detour via C. Fred Jones Boulevard, Berkley Road, Pace Road, and University Boulevard to enter I-4 westbound. Eastbound SR 559 traffic will detour at SR 33 (Exit #38), turn left under the interstate, and follow SR 33 to SR 559.
*Editors Note: I’ve personally known both Dedric Brinson and Freddie Brinson for a long time. Prior to them, even realizing it I used to referee their youth football games. I would say I’ve known Freddie more than Dedric, but I found both these young men to never be aggressive or belligerent (Dedric, lately has a podcast where he does get very emotional, but he is producing content). However, some serious allegations have been levied against both of them. I cannot condone any illegal behavior, which may or may not have occurred. The starting issue was an issue involving Freddie’s son we believe and a school guardian. As a father of three children I can get very emotional in defending them. I hate that this has occurred for these two young men and will be in prayer for this to be resolved in the best possible manner. – Carl
Winter Haven, FL – A social media influencer, Dedric Brinson, was arrested on March 13, 2025, following a series of alleged disruptive incidents at Garden Grove Elementary School that culminated in a standoff with law enforcement at his residence.
The situation reportedly began earlier in the day when Dedric Brinson’s brother, Frederick Brinson, was involved in a verbal altercation with a school guardian during a school event. The District Supervising Guardian, Aaron Wilson, intervened to de-escalate the situation and called law enforcement, who escorted Frederick Brinson off campus.
Approximately 30 minutes later, Dedric Brinson arrived at the school’s front office and requested access to the school’s WiFi. When informed that it was for students and staff only, Brinson allegedly refused to leave the premises despite multiple requests from school staff and Guardian Wilson. Witnesses reported that Brinson’s behavior became increasingly erratic, causing concern among school employees. Wilson repeatedly instructed him to leave, but Brinson refused, stating that he was waiting for law enforcement.
Wilson continued to direct Brinson off campus, eventually walking him to his vehicle, where he left just before officers arrived.
Later that day, Brinson engaged in a Facebook Live session in which he allegedly played a recorded phone conversation with Wilson’s son, who was unaware he was being recorded. The conversation was broadcast without consent, violating Florida law regarding unauthorized recording and distribution of private communications.
Law enforcement responded to Brinson’s residence while he was live-streaming. When deputies ordered him to exit, Brinson instead slammed the door and continued his broadcast. Officers informed him through a window that he was under arrest, but he refused to comply, acknowledging the potential additional charges but allegedly stating he did not care.
Following an investigation, authorities determined that Brinson committed multiple violations, including:
• Trespassing on School Grounds After Warning (FSS 810.097(2)) – By remaining on school property without legitimate business after being directed to leave.
• Illegal Interception and Distribution of Communication (FSS 934.03 (1)(D)) – By recording and broadcasting a private phone call without consent.
• Resisting an Officer Without Violence (FSS 843.02) – By refusing to comply with law enforcement’s orders to surrender.
Brinson was taken into custody and now faces multiple charges, including a third-degree felony for the unauthorized recording. His actions, both at the school and online, have drawn significant attention, raising concerns over privacy violations and the misuse of social media platforms to escalate conflicts.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, emphasizing the importance of respecting school security measures and lawful orders from law enforcement.
We currently don’t have a current comment from Dedric, but we imagine he will post on his facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BxszRVmmL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Melissa Guevara DOB 07/20/1997 of Plant City, Florida has been arrested and charged with felony retail theft after allegedly stealing from two Target stores in Lakeland 11 different instances totaling 51 items.
It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by the Lakeland Police Department. These facts are up for question and everyone is entitled to question the validity of facts by law enforcement in a court of law. Winter Haven Daily 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 your own conclusion.
“On 02/28/2025, I, Officer Biddick #303 was advised by Target’s Asset Prevention Associate REDACTED located at 3570 Harden Blvd in Lakeland, Florida, 33803 about a series of retail thefts to the business. The victim is identified as Target (two locations), which are located at 3570 Harden Blvd in Lakeland, Florida, 33803 (South), and the Target located at 4005 US Highway 98 N in Lakeland, 33809 (North).
I made contact with Target’s (South) Asset Protection Associate REDACTED, who witnessed through surveillance and floor observation revealed the following;
REDACTED advised the defendant in this case is a repeat offender, identified as Melissa Guevara (DOB: 07/20/1997). REDACTED had encountered the defendant, who had 20 prior incidents, which occurred between 06/14/2024 and 11/03/2024, and charges and pursued under Lakeland Police Department complaint affidavit case number 2024-00105808.
REDACTED stated the following 8 recent thefts occurred at the Target (South) located at 3570 Harden Blvd in Lakeland, Florida, 33803;
On 11/25/2024 at approximately 1719 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 3 items. The defendant rendered payment using a Target Credit card (card # REDACTED)
At approximately 1722 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 3 items with a total value of $39.97.
On 11/30/2024 at approximately 2018 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 1 item for retail value of $25.00 and “ticket switched” by using a falsified tag of $18.00 for a Stanley Cup retail value for 5.00 and a falsified tag of $7.50 for a shirt retail value $25.00. The defendant rendered payment using a Target Credit card (card # REDACTED)
At approximately 2020 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 3 items with a total value of $59.49.
On 12/18/2024 at approximately 1814 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant vas observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 2 items. The defendant rendered ayment using a Gift Card (#REDACTED) and Target Credit card (card #REDACTED)
At approximately 1817 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 2 items with a total value of $16.28.
On 12/26/2024 at approximately 1551 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “ticket switched” 4 items by using a falsified tag of $2.00 for a Stanley Cup retail value for $45.00, falsified tag of $12.00 for a Disney Dress retail value for $49.99, falsified tag of 10.00 for a Disney Dress retail value for $19.99, and falsified tag of $12.00 for a Disney Dress retail value for $19.99. The defendant rendered payment using a Gift Card (#REDACTED) and Target Credit card (card #REDACTED).
At approximately 1536 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 4 items with a total value of $98.97.
On 01/01/2025 at approximately 1952 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “ticket switching” 1 item by using a falsified tag of $4.99 for a Stanley Cup retail value for $35.00 and “skip scanning” failing to scan 5 items. totaling $37.99. The defendant rendered payment using an EBT card (REDACTED).
At approximately 1955 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 6 items with a total value of $87.00.
On 01/03/2025 at approximately 1427 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 11 items, total retail value of $77.98, and “ticket switched” by using a falsified tag of $7.00 for a girl’s clothing item retail value of $20.00. The defendant rendered payment using a Target Credit card (card #REDACTED)
At approximately 1432 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 12 items with a total value of $90.98.
On 01/17/2025 at approximately 2124 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 9 items. At approximately 2129 hours, the defendant passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 9 items with a total value of $140.51.
On 01/24/2025 at approximately 1909 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 4 items. The defendant rendered payment using an EBT card (REDACTED) and Target Credit card (card #REDACTED).
At approximately 1912 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 4 items with a total value of $52.96.
On 02/20/2025 at approximately 1513 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 4 items. At approximately 1520 hours, the defendant passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 4 items with a total value of $48.98.
On this date, Asset Protection Associate REDACTED, approached the defendant, who refused to come into the Asset Protection Office and stated she could not be detained. REDACTED stated the defendant told her children (female and male, between 5-10 years old) to run after being advised law enforcement would be contacted. The defendant and children left the business in a Black Chevrolet bearing Florida tag GTRQ76, registered owner Melissa Guevara.
The following 2 recent thefts occurred at the Target (North) located at 4005 US Highway 98 N in Lakeland, 33809.
I made contact with Target’s (North) Asset Protection REDACTED, who witnessed through surveillance and floor observation revealed the following;
On 11/05/2024 at approximately 1158 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 1 item. At approximately 1200 hours, the defendant passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 1 item with a total value of $7.00.
On 11/14/2024 at approximately 1056 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “ticket switching” 1 item by using a falsified tag of $15.00 for a comforter set retail value of $99.00 and “skip scanning” failing to scan 2 items, total retail value of 24.98. At approximately 1100 hours, the defendant passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 3 items with a total value of $108.98. Asset Protection REDACTED stated the defendant left the business in a Black Chevrolet bearing Florida tag GTRQ76.
Based on the above facts coupled with the identification made by witness REDACTED and REDACTED, the defendant knowingly obtained the merchandise with the intent to permanently deprive the victim/merchant, of possession, use, benefit, and full retail value; as a result, and given the defendant committing 11 retail thefts (w/in 120 days 11/05/24-02/20/2025) with an aggregated total of 51 items of $751.12 stolen at 2 different physical locations; there is sufficient probable cause to charge the defendant (Melissa Guevara) with Felony Retail Theft (3 or more w/in 120 days 10 or more items stolen).
The defendant demonstrated a repeated course of conduct (11 incidents) with the intent to “defraud” by utilizing “ticket switching” and “skip scanning” schemes which were under pretenses and willful misrepresentations; therefore, there is sufficient probable cause to charge the defendant with Scheme to Defraud.”
