Elizabeth Martinez, affectionately known as Chavela, touched the lives of many with her boundless generosity and compassionate heart. She believed deeply in the joy of giving, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. A devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great grandmother, Chavela’s kindness and warmth were felt by all who knew her.
Her radiant smile could light up any room, and her zest for life was truly inspiring. She found joy in the simple pleasures – walking along the beach, dancing with abandon, and exploring new places. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family and friends, creating memories filled with love and laughter.
Though Chavela may no longer be with us, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched. Her love, kindness and beautiful soul will be remembered forever.
The City of Winter Haven is considering updating its official seal, which will remain similar to the current seal with the addition of its incorporation year.
At their regular meeting on Mon. Feb. 10, Winter Haven City Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the first reading of an ordinance to have the official city seal updated.
An update to the city seal was recommended by city staff, who have reported that the current embosser for official city documents has aged and needs to be replaced.
As the city memo states: “The original brass die plates have become flattened through the years, distorting the letters on one embosser and the tree on the other. Additionally, the vintage embossers are heavy and cumbersome to operate when sealing a large volume of documents, which is a slow, inefficient process.”
As the embosser requires replacing, staff has likewise recommended that the seal itself be updated along with the machinery. The new seal would resemble the current seal with the addition of the city’s incorporation year of 1911.
The new electronic embosser and custom plates have been estimated to cost between $1,295 to $2,700, which has been budgeted by the City Clerk, and which, as the city memo explains, “would be paid from account 001-00-105-5101 Office Supplies.”
The City Commission will review and vote on the ordinance during its second reading to be hosted at the next scheduled meeting on Mon. Feb. 24.
Officer Carol Bradley dedicated 30 years to serving and protecting the citizens of Winter Haven, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Officer Carol Bradley dedicated 30 years to serving and protecting the citizens of Winter Haven, leaving a lasting impact on the community. Her career is marked by an unwavering commitment to public safety, community engagement, and mentorship.
After serving in the U.S. Army from 1980 to 1983, Officer Bradley began her law enforcement career in 1986 as a Correctional Officer at Polk Correctional Institution.
In 1991, she made history as the first African American Female Community Service Officer for the Winter Haven Police Department (WHPD), working to strengthen relationships between officers and the community.
In 1993, she transitioned to a sworn officer, earning multiple commendations throughout her career. She was promoted to Patrol Officer II in 1997 and achieved the rank of Master Officer in 2017. Her dedication was recognized with the Chief’s Commendation in 2001, the Optimist Club Award, a Bureau Commendation in 2010 for protecting residential property, and a Letter of Commendation from the community in 2009.
Officer Bradley’s influence extended far beyond traditional law enforcement. In 1998, she became Winter Haven’s first HUD and Homeless Coalition Officer, implementing programs to support individuals experiencing homelessness. From 2006 to 2018, she served as a School Resource Officer, mentoring students and fostering a safe school environment. She also played a significant role in the D.A.R.E. program, educating and inspiring young people throughout Winter Haven.
She received the Circle of Love Award from Ridge Career Center for her work with single mothers and those in need. She also mentored youth in the Orrin Circle neighborhood and remains active in community service through her church.
Beyond her remarkable career, Officer Bradley is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She and her husband, Terry Bradley, have three children—daughters Latisha and Zorita and son Antonio. She is also a proud grandmother to Allure and Nova and mother-in-law to Lamont.
After an extraordinary career, Officer Bradley retired in December 2021, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, and service. The City of Winter Haven proudly honors her as a local hero, recognizing her profound contributions and the lasting impact she has made on the community.
In loving memory of Keri Robinson, who passed away at the age of 28 on February 10, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida. Keri was born on August 22, 1996, in Lakeland, and her presence blessed the community with warmth and kindness.
Keri will be remembered as a caring and compassionate individual who embodied strength and resilience. She was dedicated to her role as a mother, and her love for her daughter Faylin was evident in every moment they shared. Professionally, Keri worked as a truck driver for Eastern Metal, where her determination and hard work left a lasting impression. Outside of work, she enjoyed passions such as baking and playing softball, often devoting her time to helping others and bringing joy to those around her.
She joins her grandmother, Ruth Bost, in eternal rest. She is survived by her father, Andrew Robinson; mother, Kristina Robinson; husband, Joshua Edwards; daughter, Faylin Edwards; stepbrother, Chancelor Fields and grandparents Judith and Jasper Elbertson.
Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Keri’s compassionate spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Saturday, the American Legion honored Detective Meredith Moore and Sgt. Mike Lango for their dedication to the citizens of Winter Haven in all the fantastic work they do on a daily basis. Detective Moore was honored as the lead investigator in a homicide that occurred at a construction site just off Hwy. 17 NW. Through Detective Moore’s relentless efforts and determination, she located video along the trail near the construction site that showed a possible suspect. Tips led to a possible suspect who was ultimately identified as being on the constructions site the night of the homicide, though he denied any involvements. Additional interviews with the suspect by Detective Moore finally revealed that the suspect did in fact fight with the victim ultimately stabbing her, causing her death. Detective Moore’s relentless and diligent investigative efforts gave the family of the victim some closure and ensured justice was served. Sergeant Michael Lango has served the Winter Haven Police Department since 2009, working up the ranks to Sergeant after serving various positions in the Department. Sgt. Lango’s duties have expanded over the years to include assisting with recruitment for the agency., He has been instrumental in increasing qualified applicants leading to increased staffing and significantly improving the department’s operational capacity. Sgt. Lango’s selflessness is a defining trait. Always willing to change his duties with minimal notice for the betterment of the department. His dedication to his colleagues is truly commendable.
Mark your calendars! The OneBlood Blood drive will be here on Tuesday, February 18. The big red bus will be set up in the rear parking lot of the old SunTrust building. How do you prepare?
Make sure that you drink plenty of water.
Eat well-balanced iron rich meals (especially the morning before donating)
Bring an ID with you!
Make sure you limit your caffeine intake the morning before the drive.
Upcoming Blood Drive: Auburndale Police Department Tuesday, February 18, 2025 09:00am – 02:00 pm 2 Bobby Green Plaza Auburndale, FL
** Appointments are not required but are encouraged. WALK – INS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME! All donors will receive a $20 eGift card, a OneBlood Long Sleeve Shirt!
Minimum Starting Rate of Pay, Pending Experience and Certifications
Police Officer Cadet – $20.94 Per Hour With Benefits
Police Officer Trainee – $22.94 Per Hour for the Multi-Week Field Training Program With Benefits
Police Officer – $26.08 Per Hour After Completion of a Multi-Week Field Training Program With Benefits
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS OF POLICE OFFICERS:
Performs professional law enforcement work. Operates a police vehicle to patrol designated areas to preserve law and order; to prevent and detect the commission of crimes; to enforce criminal and traffic laws and to provide general assistance to the public. Operates a police radio to maintain communications with headquarters and supervisor. Responds to calls and complaints of incidents involving traffic accidents, criminal activities or violations, including misdemeanors, felonies and other accidents or disasters. Secures the scene of the incident to restore peace, protect evidence, property and assist injured persons. Administers first aid; calls for medical assistance; interviews complainants and witnesses; takes detailed statements from witnesses and suspects; issues summonses when appropriate. Completes and prepares detailed reports; serves warrants; makes arrests; transports suspects to detention facility; testifies as a witness in court proceedings as needed. Conducts routine follow-up investigations of assigned cases, conducts stakeouts, and surveillance of designated locations. Issues traffic summonses, warnings, parking citations, and vehicle defect correction notices. Directs traffic at special events and congested intersections as needed; escorts funeral processions and other official escorts as assigned. Demonstrates proficiency in the use and care of firearms; meets minimum requirements set by the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission. May serve as field training officer for new police officers. Performs other related law enforcement duties as assigned by supervisor. This is not intended to be an all-inclusive listing of essential job functions; the performance of other essential functions may be required.
Police Officer Cadets will:
Enroll in the next available police academy of the City’s choosing.
Successfully graduate from the named police academy within the prescribed time.
Successfully pass the next available state certification test offered after academy graduation
Meet and maintain all minimum eligibility, qualifications and standards for a police officer pursuant to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Criminal Justice Standards and Training, the City of Winter Haven, and the Winter Haven Police Department
Represent the City in a favorable and professional way both in and outside of academy classes
Repay the City all or a portion of the academy fees and related expenses if program terms and conditions agreed upon in writing are not fulfilled.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Knowledge of the principles, methods, practices, rules, regulations, procedures, and operations of law enforcement.
Knowledge of Federal, State, and City criminal laws and ordinances and the criminal justice system operations.
Knowledge of technical police report writing.
Physical ability, strength and flexibility sufficient to perform the essential job functions.
Ability to ambulate independently and operate a vehicle safely for prolonged periods of time.
Ability to lift and/or move heavy objects or persons in the course of rescue activities.
Ability to physically overcome the physical resistance of a suspect and make a forcible arrest.
Ability to give chase on foot and climb obstacles in the course of law enforcement/criminal apprehension activities.
Ability to withstand working outside in all extreme weather conditions.
Ability to observe and record events accurately and completely; to define problems; establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Ability to read and write legibly; to make written notes; to take detailed statements, and to prepare technical reports and correspondence.
Ability to make public contacts; to interview witnesses, victims, and suspects and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, employees, and the general public.
Ability to work under stressful conditions and to react calmly and responsively in emergency situations.
Ability and proficiency in the use and care of firearms.
Ability to work rotating shifts with occasional overtime.
MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Must be at least 19 years of age and a citizen of the United States.
Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma.
Must not have been convicted of a felony, misdemeanor involving perjury or the making of false claims.
Must not have received a dishonorable discharge from any of the armed forces of the United States.
Must pass a physical examination with a drug screen.
Must demonstrate acceptable physical agility and strength.
Must have a good moral character.
Must successfully complete a background investigation, including a polygraph examination.
Must be able to successfully complete all training requirements including the State required police academy curriculum, field training program, periodic in-service training and weaponry qualifications and a one-year probationary period.
Current Florida State certified law enforcement officers, graduates of a Florida police academy having passed the Florida State Officer Certification Exam, or certified officers from another state who have completed the Florida State Equivalency course are preferred.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Must possess a valid Florida Class E drivers’ license and a good driving record as determined by the City of Winter Haven.
All new hires/academy graduates will be classified as a Police Officer Trainee, compensated at a lesser rate of pay, and must undergo a multi-week Field Training Program.
Upon satisfactory completion of the training program, the incumbent will be re-classified as a Police Officer with the rate of pay adjusted to at least the minimum of this same classification.
PHYSICAL / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Must have the physical ability, strength and flexibility to perform the job functions in the work environment.
Ability to ambulate independently; to stand, walk, sit, and operate a vehicle safely for prolonged periods of time.
Ability to lift and/or move heavy objects or persons in the course of rescue activities.
Ability to physically overcome the physical resistance of a suspect and make a forcible arrest.
Ability to give chase on foot and climb obstacles in the course of law enforcement/criminal apprehension activities.
Ability to withstand working outside in all extreme weather conditions.
Visual ability, including the possession of depth perception and the ability to recognize colors, sufficient to operate a police vehicle both day and night, to observe criminal actions taking place, to positively identify suspects, to observe traffic violations taking place, to read and write reports, correspondence, etc.
Ability to speak and enunciate clearly to communicate effectively with other individuals in person, over the phone or over a radio.
Hearing ability sufficient to understand radio transmissions, conversations with other individuals both in person and over the phone.
Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability.
*$2,000 for Police Officers: $1,000.00 after successful completion of field training; $1,000.00 after completion of first year.
**$5,000.00 for Experienced Florida Certified Law Enforcement Bonus: $2,500.00 after successful completion of field training; $2,500.00 after completion of first year.
The Lakeland Police Department will hold a a press conference announcing progress related to the investigation into a December 2020 shooting that left at least three Lakeland residents wounded and one deceased. On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the Lakeland Police Department, senior officials from the Lakeland Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms & Explosives and U.S. Attorney’s Office will update the public on the ongoing investigation.
According to the press release a suspect has been arrested in connection to the shooting, but it’s unclear if Taqiy Lewis (27, Lakeland) was the actual shooter. Lewis is currently in state prison after pleading guilty to trafficking drugs.
The press conference will take place at 10am tomorrow.
Here are the shooting details initially released by Lakeland Police:
“On Thursday, December 24, 2020, at approximately 5:40 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 1500 block of Amos Avenue in reference to a reported shooting. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found four victims, all with gunshot wounds. The victims, a 70-year-old female, 43-year-old male, 39-year-old female, and a 13-year-old female, were transported to area hospitals for treatment of their injuries. Shortly after arrival at Lakeland Regional Health, the 70-year-old victim succumbed to her injuries and was declared deceased by medical professionals. The other victims, who are all related, had varying levels of conditions upon arrival but are expected to survive their injuries.
Officers were also notified that a 19-year-old male had arrived at the hospital with a gunshot wound. His injuries were sustained during the shooting incident and are not believed to be life-threatening.
Prior to the shooting, a 15-year-old male, who is also related to the victims, was involved in an altercation with other individuals at a separate location, which carried over to the residence at Amos Avenue. At some point, shots were fired by both a resident of the home and by the individuals who arrived at the residence related to the earlier conflict. Detectives, working in partnership with the State Attorney’s Office, are continuing to conduct interviews and follow-up on leads related to all parties involved.”
