On January 2, 2025, at approximately 4:20 PM, Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the intersection of 1st StreetWest and Rifle Range Road in Wahneta in reference to an armed disturbance.
The victim was in the area working as a contractor for Frontier Communications. He told deputies that while he was near the dead end of 3rd St. West, a Hispanic male approached his work vehicle and attempted to carjack him – threatening him with a handgun. The suspect was unable to gain access to the victim’s vehicle, because the doors were locked. The victim, in fear for his life, fled the area in his vehicle, and called 9-1-1. He provided a detailed description of the suspect to deputies, and PCSO Aviation and K9 units responded to assist in the search for the suspect.
An individual matching the suspect’s description was located at 103 Bomber Roadby PCSO K9 units. When deputies approached the suspect, later identified as 30-year-old Erasuro Mascorro Jr. of Wahneta, he fled into a wooded area. Mascorro was apprehended by K9 Ketchum. The victim positively identified Mascorro as the carjacker who threatened him with a handgun, and Mascorro was arrested.
Detectives responded to the scene to assume the investigation. When interviewed, Mascorro claimed he did not remember the incident because he “blacked out” and he admitted to using both PCP and meth earlier in the day. Erasuro Mascorro has been charged with attempted armed carjacking, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and resisting arrest. Mascorro’s criminal history includes arrests for possession of methamphetamines, battery on a pregnant woman, and child abuse.
“Erasuro Mascorro is a very dangerous individual. Not only does he admit to using illegal drugs, but he has a history of violence, and is now known to be armed. I’m proud of my deputies who were able to quickly apprehend this fleeing felon before he seriously hurt anyone. He is a danger to the community, and the hard-working citizens of Polk County need him behind bars.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
Palm Coast, Fla. – Around 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31, a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) trooper was traveling northbound on Interstate 95 (I-95) near mile marker 290 in pursuit of a vehicle with a BOLO (Be on the Lookout) alert due to the driver of the vehicle making suicidal threats. The trooper lost visual of the driver, later identified as Dominic Joseph Guerrisi, 18, calling off the pursuit.
Dispatch regained visual of Guerrisi and advised troopers he was exiting onto US 1 traveling south. During this time, another trooper positioned at County Road 204 and US 1 witnessed Guerrisi pass their marked FHP unit, accelerating rapidly as if he was attempting to flee and elude. The trooper activated their emergency lights and sirens and pursued Guerrisi. Weaving in and out of traffic in an effort to flee, Guerrisi entered a roundabout at US 1 and Old Kings Road, exiting onto Old Kings Road. Ensuring the roundabout was free of traffic, the trooper continued the pursuit down Old Kings Road.
At this time, the trooper noticed another trooper further down Old Kings Road with emergency lights activated who also had an auxiliary trooper riding with them. Guerrisi proceeded to drive on the wrong side of the roadway toward the trooper and auxiliary trooper, making intentional contact with their patrol vehicle. The trooper witnessing this swiftly responded and approached Guerrisi’s vehicle, giving verbal commands for him to exit. With the help of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO), Guerrisi was placed under arrest, transported to an area hospital for his injuries, and booked into the Flagler County Jail. Both the trooper and auxiliary trooper involved were transported to the hospital and have since been released.
State Troopers put their lives at risk in defense and protection of our state 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “This incident and arrest highlights the immense courage Florida’s Finest and our Auxiliary Troopers display daily.”
“Your Florida Highway Patrol Troopers and FHP Auxiliary Officers are committed to upholding the law in Florida, courageously being in harm’s way while courteously protecting and serving our residents and visitors. This service includes holding reckless individuals accountable for their choices that endanger innocent others,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II. “We are thankful that none of the law enforcement involved were more seriously injured, and grateful for the invaluable assistance from our telecommunication professionals and fellow law enforcement partners.”
DEARBORN, Mich., January 3, 2025 – Following record Ford electric vehicle YOY sales in 2024, Ford is extending the Ford Power Promise complimentary home charger and standard installation through March 31, 2025. The program is designed to help more people benefit from the convenience of filling up at home with a complimentary Ford home charger as well as the potential to save money on gas.
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The Ford Power Promise was developed from insights and feedback from Ford customers and dealers about the real barriers some people face when deciding if an electric vehicle is the right choice for them.
Key Features of the Ford Power Promise include:
Complimentary Home Charger & Standard Installation1: Retail Purchase or lease of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, or E-Transit Cargo Van customers are eligible to receive a complimentary home charger and standard installation at their home.
On-the-Road Charging2: The BlueOval Charge Network simplifies journeys by locating chargers across networks, including Tesla Superchargers. Enjoy seamless road trips with Plug and Charge via the FordPass app.
Battery Confidence: An eight-year/100,000-mile high-voltage battery warranty provides peace of mind with every drive.
24/7 Support3: A dedicated team of Ford advisors offers continuous support, including complimentary roadside assistance with charging support.
The Ford Power Promise promotion is available for retail customers who purchase or lease a 24MY or 25MY Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning or E-Transit Cargo Van from participating Ford dealers.
Just one week ago, on Friday, December 27th, Haines City was shaken by a heart-wrenching tragedy that claimed the life of a vibrant young woman named Asiya. The incident unfolded near the intersection of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way and Avenue K, around 6:22 PM, when Asiya and her employer were traveling in a white transport van. In a shocking turn of events, an unknown suspect in a 4-door sedan unleashed a barrage of gunfire tragically striking Asiya, cutting her life short in an act of senseless violence. The driver of the van also sustained injuries, but thankfully has received medical care and is on the path to recovery.
In the wake of this devastating loss, the Haines City Police Department is working tirelessly to piece together the events that led to Asiya’s untimely death. We are reaching out to the community, emphasizing the vital role that each individual can play in seeking justice for Asiya and her family. If anyone has even the smallest bit of information regarding this tragic incident, they are strongly encouraged to come forward. Together, the community has the power to bring comfort to Asiya’s grieving family and to help ensure that the parties responsible for this never victimize our community again.
Haines City Police Department remains steadfast in our commitment to uncovering the truth and holding those responsible accountable. As we reflect on the life of Asiya and the light she brought to those around her, let us unite in the hope that justice will prevail and that her memory will inspire change within our community.
We understand that fear or a sense of misguided loyalty can make people hesitant to speak out. However, we want to reassure our citizens that anonymity is guaranteed through Heartland Crime Stoppers. Heartland Crime Stoppers can be contacted by calling 1-888-400-TIPS (8477), through their website at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com, or on their free P3tips app compatible with any smartphone or tablet.
Haines City Police Department is offering a $2,500 reward in addition to Heartland Crime Stoppers $5,000 reward, for a total of $7,500 for anyone that can provide information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for this senseless act.
There is no better time than now to do the right thing and speak up, so we can bring justice to Asiya, a beloved daughter, mother, sister, aunt, friend, and member of our community.
You may remember that PCSO posted about Patrick last week, when he stole equipment from Polk County Fire Rescue… Right before Christmas.
Well, he might be in jail, but he’s continuing to be charged with burglaries. Today, our (PCSO) detectives were contacted by a resident of Winter Haven, who had just returned home from a Christmas vacation. As she was reviewing the Ring camera footage from her house, she noticed a thief stealing packages off her doorstep on December 23, 2024. She called us (PCSO), and we were able to immediately identify the suspect as good ole Patrick Ciszek, and we knew exactly where to find him (the Polk County Jail).
Ciszek may be behind bars, but that doesn’t protect him from being charged with more crimes. He’ll have to answer for this theft, the one he was already arrested for, and any other thefts he has committed as we continue to investigate.
Henry Lee Williams was born in the parish of St. Ann, in Jamaica on November 16, 1952, to Edith Johnson and Vincent Williams. He grew up in the Clarksonville District and attended Clarksonville Primary School. He later attended the Trench Town Comprehensive High School in Kingston.
After high school, Henry joined the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), where he spent ten (10) years in service, and achieved the rank of Detective. In 1981, he emigrated to the United States of America and began his career in healthcare. He worked as a Union Organizer for 1199 SEIU for over 30 years, before retiring to the sunny state of Florida, where he enjoyed a peaceable low-key life. He loved to listen to reggae music, play dominoes, relax on his lanai, and spend time with family.
Henry is predeceased by his mother Edith, father Vincent, and brothers Astley, George, Michael, and Lloyd. He is survived by his wife Angela, sons Ricardo, Paul, Kevin, Dain, and Courtney, daughters Aisha, LaToya and Alissa Lee, grandchildren Ohnja, Makayla, Ava, Layla, Ava (yes two Avas), Zoey, Abdoullah, Alhagie, Xander, Zhane, Andre, Destiny and Khalil, sisters Rema, Dorothy, Carmen and Patricia, and brother Fitzroy, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Henry Lee Williams was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and so much more. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Cody wanted Reanna. Reanna wanted Cody. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office wanted Cody, and took Reanna too. In other words, they were both arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
The PCSO was looking for 29-year old Cody Huggins of Auburndale, because he had a warrant for his arrest for Grand Theft ($20k-$100k). His girlfriend, 26-year old Reanna Wanie of Lake Wales had already been arrested for the same case back in early December, but posted bail.
Detectives discovered that Cody fled Polk County, and made his way to Wisconsin. He made the mistake of returning to Polk County.
On Tuesday, December 31st, deputies arrived at the Camellia Motel in Winter Haven and knocked on a specific door. Reanna Wanie answered the door, and she was escorted outside. This got the attention of Cody Huggins, who peeked out of the bathroom. What he saw was K9s Rone and Kreed staring back at him. Huggins quickly surrendered.
Huggins was arrested on his warrant, and both he and Reanna were charged with possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
Huggins is a prolific offender, having been arrested for numerous crimes in the past such as: burglary, vehicle theft, DUI, Fleeing from LEO, Forgery, Fraud, Trespassing, Criminal Mischief, Grand Theft, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera.
When people think of Florida, oftentimes they think of Disney World, Universal Studios, Miami, The Florida Keys, Clearwater, etc. People might not think of Polk County right away when they are planning trips to Florida, but should they be? Who would have thought that in the middle of Central Florida, there are actually tons of exciting things to do? Living in Polk County for several years, I experienced firsthand some great attractions right in the area. Though there are tons of things to do throughout the county, I will highlight my personal top 10 and I’d love to hear yours!
Legoland Florida Resort in Winter Haven
A very popular and well-known attraction in Polk County is LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven. Having a young kid, LEGOLAND was a must. I have taken my daughter there many times and she just loves it. They actually now have multiple parks within. There is the LEGOLAND theme park, where you can find rides, shows, and other attractions. The kids can even get their “driver’s licenses” at the Ford Driving School!
Legoland Florida Resort
We all know Florida can get hot, especially during summertime. Polk County might not be super close to the beach, but a having a water park right in Winter Haven sure sounds fun. The LEGOLAND water park has various amenities, including slides, wave pool, lazy river, water play structures, and more.
One of the newer additions to LEGOLAND is the World’s First Peppa Pig Theme Park. I was lucky enough to be invited to attend the soft opening of Peppa Pig Theme Park with my daughter a couple years back, and she got to ride every single ride and watch the shows within the park. She loves Peppa Pig, so you can imagine how much fun she had.
For residents and even visitors of Florida, essentially everyone knows about the presence of alligators. With that being said, if you have not yet made a trip to Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, just outside of Winter Haven, you might be missing out. Circle B Bar Reserve is known for their alligators. It is a reserve of over 1,200 acres where you’ll find all sorts of plants and animals.
At Circle B, there are various walking trails, and some trails will even take you to the lake, where odds are you’ll see a gator. There are many trails ranging from 0.2 miles up to 1.3 miles. Many photographers and even painters have been known to travel here to take advantage of the opportunities to capture the beauty that this reserve offers, whether that is through a lens or on canvas.
In addition to alligators, in the reserve you might spot owls, eagles, hawks, sandhill cranes, otters, bobcats, foxes, and various other species.
If you love beautiful scenery, flowers, peaceful environments, then Bok Tower Gardens is a must-see. Located in Lake Wales, these gardens are open every day of the year. In addition to the breathtaking gardens, it also has its own visitor center, café and shop. Bok Tower offers various admission plans, from single day admission, to special event admission, to special member admission.
Do you believe in spirits/ghosts? If you live in Polk County, you might have heard of Spook Hill, but have you actually ever been there to see if the rumors are true for yourself? Spook Hill is a “gravity hill” where if you follow its directions, cars appear to be rolling up the hill. Sounds interesting right? Whether you believe in spooky stuff or not, if you’re in the Lake Wales area, it might be fun to just try it for yourself.
The idea is to stop your car at the designated spot, put the car in neutral and feel the effects of driving uphill when the car is actually rolling downhill in neutral.
Image source Visit Central FL
Spook Hill is located right at Spook Hill Elementary School:
321 Dr JA Wiltshire Ave
Lake Wales, FL 33853
Safari Wilderness in Lakeland
Lakeland has its fair share of attractions, and one notable attraction, especially for those animal lovers, is Safari Wilderness. This wild animal safari is not a zoo and not a theme park. They are unique and refer to an experience here as an “adventure in nature.” Here you’ll find over 260 acres of wilderness.
Various tour options are offered. Tour by vehicle, tour by camelback, tour by ATV or even tour by kayak! Sounds fun.
Bonnet Springs Park is a large park located in Lakeland. There are over 160 acres for people to explore, and the best part is that it is a FREE park. A great benefit to this park is its close proximity to downtown Lakeland.
This park offers recreation, art and an escape. What I mean by that is the park allows people the opportunity to escape the busy world and slow down time and enjoy the moment. Exploring nature can have a way of calming people, and this park allows the opportunity.
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo in River Ranch
Did you know that there is a resort in River Ranch? Yes, that’s right. River Ranch is home to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, a “luxury glamping ranch.” They even have teepees!
If you like relaxing in nature, then this is the place for you. The resort is about 1,700 acres big and is right at the Kissimmee River. Spend your day horseback riding and taking in all of your surroundings, then at night unwind by relaxing by the campfire.
Those interested in aviation and are in the area during Spring may want to check out SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo. Located in Lakeland, this yearly event brings in people from all over to experience daily airshows, exhibitors, show planes, demo flights, workshops, movies and much more!
Polk County is filled with u-pick farms. From strawberries, to oranges, to flowers, there are u-pick farms throughout the county that might be worth taking a trip to. My family loves strawberries, especially my young daughter, and when we found a local Polk County place to take her to in order to pick her very own, she was over the moon excited.
Our daughter got to experience picking her very own strawberries to wash and eat. The very best part – the ones she picked were amazing! So fresh and delicious. Though I will not highlight one specific u-pick farm, there are some located in Polk County and the surrounding areas, such as Plant City.
Airboat Tours
Polk County is full of lakes. Have you ever considered an airboat tour? Airboat tours can be a different and fun way to explore the lakes and wildlife of Polk County. One of the first events I covered for Daily Ridge when I started working for them was an airboat tour. I was new to Florida, and seeing alligators in the lake was truly a cool experience. I even got to hold a baby gator after the tour was complete.
If you live in Polk County or are planning a trip here, you might consider one of these top ten places.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office Robbery detectives identified and arrested two suspects who robbed a man at gunpoint on Christmas Day (December 25, 2024) in the 7-Eleven parking lot on Finley Avenue in Davenport.
The victim who was robbed was visiting family in Polk County and staying in a Davenport Airbnb. Around 5:00 p.m. on December 25th, the victim went to the 7-Eleven to clean up a coffee spill in the back of his car. He parked his car next to the vacuum and car wash area in the parking lot, proceeded to clean inside his car, then went inside the store to retrieve more napkins.
While he was inside the store, the two suspects, Christian Ayala (DOB 5/1/1999) and Najee Mears (DOB 7/20/1990) drove into the parking lot in Ayala’s gray Honda Accord and parked in front of the victim’s car. When the victim went back to his car, the suspects confronted him. Mears pointed a gun at the victim and told him to “give them what he had” and “don’t try anything, or I will shoot you.” The victim handed over his backpack that contained his wallet and personal belongings, including cash and credit cards.
The victim gave deputies a detailed description of the suspects and their vehicle. Video surveillance was also obtained, which corroborated the victim’s statements and descriptions. PCSO Robbery detectives were able to identify the suspect vehicle, which was registered at an address on Sunny Day Way in Davenport.
On December 31, 2024, detectives responded to that address and made contact with Ayala and his mother, who confirmed Ayala lives there and that she rents a room to Mears. Ayala cooperated with detectives at the scene, and admitted to committing the armed robbery with Mears.
Initially, Mears refused to come out of the house, and was seen by detectives on the perimeter trying to jump over the back fence of the property. He ultimately surrendered peacefully and also confessed to the crime.
During a search of their rooms, detectives found the victim’s backpack and the personal belongings that were inside of it. They also seized 45.90 grams of marijuana from Mears’ room, and 35.60 grams of marijuana from Ayala’s room. Mears also had a Smith and Wesson 9mm handgun in his room.
Najee Mears has an outstanding Polk County warrant for failure to appear (original charge, petit theft) and two prior felony convictions in New Jersey for unlawful possession of a firearm and criminal trespassing. Ayala is currently on probation for possession of marijuana over 20 grams.
Mears was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:
Armed robbery (FL)
Conspiracy to commit armed robbery (F2)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (F2)
Possession of marijuana over 20 grams (F3)
Possession of drug paraphernalia (M1)
Resisting arrest (M1)
Ayala was booked into the Polk County Jail and charged with:
Armed robbery (FL)
Conspiracy to commit armed robbery (F2)
Possession of marijuana over 20 grams (F3)
Possession of drug paraphernalia (M1)
Violation of probation (M2)
“These two were certainly not celebrating Christmas appropriately – they were sticking a gun in someone’s face. Luckily they didn’t shoot the victim or anyone else, and thanks to the swift actions and excellent investigative skills of my detectives, they are now both behind bars.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
Juan Manalisay Cruz, 73, beloved husband of Jo-Anne E. Sanchez-Cruz, passed away Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
Juan is survived by his children: Sangmee “Annie” Cruz-Fochtman (Daughter) and her husband Jeff Fochtman, Roberto L. Sanchez (Son) and his wife Tysha Carasquillo, Rosa C. Sanchez (Daughter) and Mina Cruz (Daughter); his grandchildren: Kirra and Kellan Fochtman, Angel, Roberto, and MiKayla Sanchez, Genesis Vasquez, Karis-Joi Sanchez, JonMichael, Angelina, and Noelani Sanchez, Joia Cruz, his siblings: Jesus “Bobolike” Cruz and Grace Taitague Cruz, Mae Cruz, Carmelita Cruz and George Crisostomo, Norbert and Marivic Cruz , Michael and Barbara Cruz, Raymond and Evelyn Cruz, Annie Cruz, Clotilde (Annie) Cabrera Cruz, Francisco (Jeba)Garrido, his service dog “Ruth” and numerous nieces, nephews and relatives from the Gentry family. He was the son of the late Jose Cruz and Ana Cruz and was predeceased by Pedro Cruz (Brother), Fransisco “Kiko” Cruz (Brother), Joseph Cruz (Brother), Vicente Cruz (Brother), Catherine Garrido (Sister), and Miguel Sanchez (Son).
Juan, affectionately known as “Johnny” by his family, was born in Merizo, Guam on April 12, 1951. He joined the Army in 1969. Sergeant First Class (Retired) Cruz was a highly decorated Vietnam war hero who served in the US Army for 23 years. He was awarded the Purple Heart three times and the Bronze Star with “V” device. Juan was an active member of the Purple Heart Association, and the American Legion. Upon retirement from active duty military service, Juan went on to teach, coach and mentor cadets as a JROTC Instructor at St. Croix Central High and Charlotte Amalie High Schools in the US Virgin Islands. Juan was a devout Catholic and served the Lord in many ways to include his membership in the Knights of Columbus, Legion of Mary, Men’s Emmaus, and the Faith Riders.
He enjoyed riding his Harley, collecting stamps, tinkering and road tripping. Juan was a devoted family man. Most of all he loved cooking, BBQing, entertaining and creating a loving hospitable environment for his family and friends. This giant of a man will be dearly missed by his family, friends and all those that knew him.
