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Sheriff Grady Judd To Brief Media On Operation “Swipe Left” Where Drug Dealer’s Use Dating Apps to Sell Meth And More

Carl Fish
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Sheriff Grady Judd To Brief Media On Operation “Swipe Left” Where Drug Dealer’s Use Dating Apps to Sell Meth And More

Following a 6-month-long undercover investigation, Polk County Sheriff’s Office undercover Narcotics detectives made 60 arrests throughout Polk County and obtained eight (8) arrest warrants related to the sale and/or possession of illegal narcotics. The drug sales transactions all took place on three different social media and mobile dating apps: Grindr, Scruff, and Taimi. Grindr was the app with more drug sales than the other apps mentioned. The investigation began in July 2021 when PCSO received a Heartland Crime Stoppers tip indicating that people were openly selling drugs on the well-known dating app Grindr. PCSO detectives created undercover profiles within the app, and found it relatively easy to strike up conversations with those who were selling methamphetamine, cocaine, Ecstasy, LSD, Fentanyl, and marijuana in Polk County. It was clear during the conversations and ensuing undercover drug buys that the suspects’ primary purposes for being on the dating app were to sell drugs – not to find a date. “We’ve known for some time that suspects will use the Internet and social media to prey upon children online, or to engage in prostitution, but this is something we are seeing more and more of in Polk County – suspects who are using dating apps to sell illegal narcotics. Suspects are getting more creative, but so are our detectives. We’re working with these mobile app companies to raise awareness, and asking for their cooperation during our investigations. The good news is, we found that some who were on the dating app were reporting illegal drug sales when it became apparent to them, and the mobile app companies were banning some suspects attempting to sell drugs. When we find drug dealers, we put them in jail.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff Detectives filed 159 total felony and 72 total misdemeanor charges against the suspects during the investigation. Altogether, the suspects have 908 previous charges, including 453 prior felonies and 455 prior misdemeanors. Eleven (11) of the suspects told detectives they receive government assistance. Detectives will continue to monitor social media and dating apps for illegal drug transactions. We encourage the public to send us specific tip information about online drug sellers through Heartland Crime Stoppers at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward. 
Based on the online drug sales, detectives obtained 52 arrests warrants for those who actually sold illegal narcotics. During the investigation they arrested 16 other suspects related to illegal narcotics. There are still eight suspects with warrants who are at-large. Detectives also served three search warrants at the following addresses: ·        152 Abundant Life Drive, Auburndale·        1550 Robin Street, Auburndale·        2461 Avenue C SW, Winter Haven During the investigation:
·        14 firearms seized (2 were reported as stolen)·        Approximately 280 grams of methamphetamine purchased (street value: approximately $14,000)·        Approximately 3 grams of cocaine purchased ·        Approximately 113 grams (130 pills) of Ecstasy ·        Approximately 1.5 grams of Fentanyl/heroin ·        Approximately 1 gram of LSD·        Approximately 28 grams of psychedelic mushrooms·        Approximately 645 grams of marijuana  Those arrested are as follows (in alphabetical order by first name): Abraham Hope, DOB 06/25/1994 of Davenport·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of meth WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Adam Cooper*, DOB 03/30/1977 of Lakeland·        Sale of marijuana (F3)·        Possession of marijuana WITS (F3)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Allen Tyson*, DOB 03/21/64 of Bartow·        Sale of marijuana (F3)·        Possession of marijuana WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Angela Miller-Jordan, DOB 04/30/1966 of Auburndale·        Possession of meth (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Anthony Ballard, DOB 03/08/1975 of Auburndale·        Armed trafficking in meth (Capital Felony)·        Sale of meth (F3)·        Possession of meth WITS (F2)·        Possession of firearm by convicted felon (F2)·        Grand theft of a firearm (F3)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of marijuana over 20 grams (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Camilo Jaramillo, DOB 12/01/1994 of Haines City·        Sale of marijuana (F3)·        Possession of marijuana WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Chloe Vandendriessche, DOB 02/13/1995 of Auburndale·        Sale of marijuana (F3)·        Possession of marijuana WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)·        Possession of weapon/ammo by convicted felon (F2)·        Violation of injunction for protection (M1) Christina Earp, DOB 04/09/1985 of Winter Haven·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of meth WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Christopher R. Baker, DOB 05/24/1987 of Lakeland·        Sale of meth (F2)

  • Possession of meth WITS (F2)

·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)·        Battery domestic violence (3 counts) Daniel Zahony, DOB 11/12/1985 of Lakeland·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of meth (F3)·        Possession of prescription drug without prescription (M2)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)·        Conveyance burglary (F2)·        Petit theft (M2) Danyell Coggins, DOB 01/14/1975 of Winter Haven·        Possession of meth (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) David Caines*, DOB 12/04/1975 of Mulberry·        Trafficking in meth (F1)·        Possession of meth WITS (F2)·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of structure or vehicle for drug sales (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of marijuana (M1)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Dawanda Gunter, DOB 08/02/1997 of Winter Haven·        Sale of marijuana (F3)·        Possession of marijuana WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Donald King, DOB 08/22/1982 of Lakeland·        Possession and delivery of LSD WITS (F3)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3) Donald Taft, DOB 06/30/70 of Lakeland·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of meth WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Doug Billings, DOB 01/25/1968 of Auburndale·        Possession of meth (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)·        Resisting arrest (M1) Frederick Bollard, DOB 09/11/1984 of Bartow·        Sale of meth (F2)

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

 Gator Kleizo, DOB 01/22/1966 of Auburndale·        Trafficking in meth (F1)·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of meth WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Jack Bohannon*, DOB 04/16/1953 of Lakeland·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of meth (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*he told detectives he receives government assistance  Jacob Cogswell, DOB 09/12/1987 of Bartow·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of meth WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) James Deese, DOB 10/06/1955 of Auburndale·        Trafficking in meth (F1)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Jaime Acevedo, DOB 11/09/1986 of Lakeland·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Possession of meth WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Jarvis Tibado, DOB 10/11/1982 of Auburndale·        Possession of meth (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)·        Giving false ID to LEO (M1) Jessalyn Humbertson*, DOB 8/24/99 of Winter Haven·        Sale of marijuana (F3)·        Possession of marijuana WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*she told detectives she receives government assistance Jim Luna, DOB 03/14/1962 of Lakeland·        Sale of marijuana (F3)·        Possession of marijuana WITS (F2)·        Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)·        Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Jireh Brooks, DOB 04/13/1996 of Lakeland ·        Sale of meth (F2)·        Conspiracy to sell meth (F3)

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

John Davis, DOB 07/12/1981 of Winter Haven· Trafficking in MDMA (F1)· Possession of heroin (F3)· Possession of cocaine (F3)· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of marijuana over 20 grams (F3)· Possession paraphernalia (M1) John Panzarella*, DOB 08/30/58 of Winter Haven· Delivery of marijuana (F3)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Jonus Banks, DOB 12/28/1980 of Lakeland· Sale of cocaine (F2)· Possession of cocaine WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Keone Fox, DOB 11/24/1986 of Lakeland· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Maegan McCarthy, DOB 07/14/1984 of Winter Haven· Trafficking in MDMA (F1)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Mar’dasia Brooks, DOB 05/23/1998 of Winter Haven· Possession of marijuana WITS (F3)· Possession of marijuana over 20 grams (F3)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Mark Cox*, DOB 01/14/1981 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Mark Scott, DOB 09/15/1963 of Lakeland· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Mary Heffler, DOB 05/17/1972 of Auburndale· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Michael Blankenship*, DOB 04/08/1956 of Lakeland· Possession of marijuana (M1)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*an affidavit was filed with these charges Michael Decker, DOB 08/13/1966 of Auburndale· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)· Resisting arrest (M1) Michael Sonja, DOB 08/06/1975 of Bartow· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Minter Hall*, DOB 07/12/1955 of Bartow· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Nicholas Sferrvzza, DOB 06/07/83 of Auburndale· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Possession of meth (F3)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Noel Heyne, DOB 10/13/1972 of Lakeland (in custody)· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Phillip Carter, DOB 09/24/1965 of Winter Haven · Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Reynaldo Lopez, DOB 06/16/2000 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Richard Sturges, DOB 06/07/55 of Lakeland· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of marijuana (M1)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Robert Reedy III*, DOB 09/17/68 of Winter Haven· Sale of marijuana (F3)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Rodney Bacon, DOB 01/06/80 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Rodney Davis*, DOB 05/03/1972 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth with intent to sell (WITS) (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Ronald Stowe, DOB 04/09/1958 of Auburndale· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)· VOP (F3) Scott Ledington, DOB 12/06/1966 of Auburndale· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Stacey Shepherd, DOB 11/29/1966 of Auburndale· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Thomas Bohuslaw*, DOB 05/30/1965 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)*he told detectives he receives government assistance Timothy Machado, DOB 08/10/1972 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Ty’Bias Giles, DOB 08/12/1999 of Lakeland· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)· Carrying concealed firearm (F3)· Armed robbery (Capital Felony)· Aggravated battery with deadly weapon (F2) Tyler Oliver, DOB 04/10/1998 of Winter Haven· Sale of marijuana (F3)· Possession of marijuana WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Wandy Noel, DOB 10/22/1991 of Winter Haven· Driving while license suspended (knowingly) (M2) William Anglin, DOB 08/10/1987 of Bartow· Delivery of marijuana (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3) William Waddell, DOB 02/07/77 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Detectives obtained arrest warrants for these eight (8) suspects: Adam Trembley, DOB 08/14/1982 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2) · Sale of marijuana (F3)· Possession of marijuana WITS (F3)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Angelo Lopez, DOB 10/28/1986 of Lake Wales· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Christopher Wright, DOB 04/16/1989 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Donovan Brandt, DOB 03/18/1983 of Lake Wales· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Jesse Velez-Pagan, DOB 10/03/1990 of Dundee· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) John Rials, DOB 12/05/1978 of Winter Haven· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Matthew Gamwell, DOB 07/07/1982 of Lake Wales· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Use of two-way communication device to commit felony (F3)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Willy Dunn, DOB 11/26/1994 of Lake Wales· Sale of meth (F2)· Possession of meth WITS (F2)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) During the investigation, these three (3) suspects were also arrested/charged: Joshua Allen, DOB 09/13/1980 of Auburndale· Armed trafficking in meth (Capital Felony)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1) Henry Sanchez, DOB 10/19/1994 of Orlando· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of prescription drug without prescription (M1)· Resisting arrest (M1)· Battery on LEO· Giving false info to LEO Robert Tillis, DOB 03/09/1973 of Mulberry· Possession of meth (F3)· Possession of prescription drug without prescription (M1)· Possession of paraphernalia (M1)

Lake Wales Police Take Man Into Custody After Responding To Shots Fired Call Late Wednesday Afternoon

Carl Fish
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Lake Wales Police Take Man Into Custody After Responding To Shots Fired Call Late Wednesday Afternoon

Lake Wales, Florida- The Lake Wales Police Department responded to a call of “shots fired” in the area of Polk Ave., Townsend Ave. & Steedly Ave. late Wednesday afternoon. While officers were in the area they also heard gunshots. According to the Lake Wales Police Department’s Deputy-Chief, David Black, officers were able to track down the man who was firing the shots.

LWPD officers took Victor Hansen into custody. According to Black, the suspect alleges that he shot into the ground. The incident is under investigation, but there is currently no danger to the public.

We will update this article as more details are available.

Fictitious Name Notice

Staff Reporter
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Fictitious Name Notice

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned pursuant to the fictitious name statutes 865.09 Florida statues will register with the division of corporations of the state of Florida upon receipt of proof of publication of this notice the fictitious name to wit  Living Water Ministries under which we are or intend to do business as in Polk County Florida that parties interested in said business enterprises are as follows Names or officers Paul J. Guertin, LLC.

Lake Wales Seminole Hotel Foreclosure Complete

Staff Reporter
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Lake Wales Seminole Hotel Foreclosure Complete

The City of Lake Wales has had many challenges when it comes to revitalizing its downtown landscape. Some of the building on the radar include the Dixie Walesbilt Hotel as well as the Seminole Hotel.

DailyRidge.com obtained documentation that the foreclosure of the Old Seminole Hotel has been completed. The city can now move forward with finding a new developer who will renovate the building and help improve the downtown experience.

The Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency will now be able to seek a responsible party to redevelop the property.

The Seminole Hotel was built on North First Street, at the northwest corner of Crystal Avenue and 1st Street.

Lake Wales Charter School could lose $248,317.41 in funding due to FTE Audit

Staff Reporter
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Lake Wales Charter School could lose $248,317.41 in funding due to FTE Audit

During the November 29, 2021 Lake Wales Charter School Board of Trustees Work Session and Board Meeting the Schools attorney Robin Gibson shared a legal counsel update. Mr. Gibson advised the board that a new legal matter had arisen. Each Board member was presented with a Memorandum from the Law Offices of A.M. Stuckey with offices in Lake Wales. Gibson shared the Memorandum appeared to be about an FTE audit that would affect Lake Wales High School. Mr. Gibson went on to state that he would reach out to the lawyer that presented the Memorandum directly and accommodate them as much as possible.

Danny Gill

Danny Gill the Trustee and Chair asked Alricky Smith the CFO of the Lake Wales Charter School System if there was any validity to the $248,000 audit. Mr. Smith stated that the document appeared to be the scope of an audit that is called the Florida Education Program Audit that’s typically completed by the Florida Auditor General.

Mr. Smith shared that the audit is part of ongoing engagement. Since Lake Wales Charter Schools is part of the Polk County School district the actual engagement was with the Polk County School Board. One of the schools identified in the audit was Lake Wales High School and was subject to an audit review.  

Based on the information provided Mr. Smith indicated there were some preliminary findings for the amount $248,000. Mr. Gill asked Mr. Smith if he was involved or part of the audit. Mr. Smith replied, “No Sir, I’m sorry one part of it”. Mr. Smith shared he had some discussions about the audit with Lake Wales High School’s Principal Donna Dunson back in September. Mr. Smith went on to share that he was never engaged with the auditor and was not part of the exit conference. Mr. Gill shared there was a lot of information that needed to be reviewed and thanked Mr. Smith for answering his questions.

The Daily Ridge researched the audit claims and it appears that Lake Wales High Schools 2019-2020 school year was part of the Audit. The notice of audit was provided to the school March 9, 2021 which was to begin April 19, 2021. The audit revealed eight deficiencies the school did not meet according to state standards. Based on the states audit findings these eight deficiencies could result in the school receiving a $248,317.41 adjustment that could be levied against annual funding the school receives from the state.   

The Daily Ridge reached out to Mr. Smith for further clarification regarding the Audit.  

Was this potential adjustment resolved with the state?

The Polk County School Board FTE Audit Report for the 2019-20 FY(AG-424) has not been issues as a final report by the Florida Auditor General’s Office. The Lake Wales High School will have a chance to respond to their findings once the report has been released to the Florida Department of Education(FDOE).

Will the adjustment be applied or will the adjustment be dropped?

Once the findings are resolved, FDOE will instruct the Polk County School Board on how to collect any funding due back to the State, if that is the final outcome.

When were you made aware of the FTE audit?

In the Spring of 2021, the school’s Principal first noted that the school was engaged in an ongoing FTE audit during a Lake Wales Charter Schools leadership meeting. Later the school noted the audit was still ongoing during the Lake Wales Charter Schools Board’s Annual Retreat.

When did you learn that a potential adjustment of $248,317.41 being levied against the school?

The first draft of the Preliminary and Tentative findings were present to me on August 10, 2021.

Is there a policy or protocol in place that would notify the Chair or the Board of Trustees of audits or possible levies?

Lake Wales Charter Schools does not currently have a policy on notifying the Board of audit engagements. However, the CFO has always noted during a board meeting that the Financial Statements audit was ongoing.

If there is a policy or protocol did Principal Dunson follow the policy? 

No, policy was violated, but the school leaders has been put on notice that all external reviews or audits must be communicated with the Superintendent  and CFO prior to engagement.

Based on the School Boards Agenda and Minutes posted to their website it does not appear that the School Board addressed the findings of the Audit nor addressed the items contained within the Memorandum that was presented that could result in the school losing $248,317.41 in funding.

You can watch the video here LWCS Board of Trustees Work Session and Board Meeting – YouTube

Audit Conversation takes place during first 17 minutes of meeting.

Single vehicle crash Tuesday on I-4 kills Orlando man

Staff Reporter
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Single vehicle crash Tuesday on I-4 kills Orlando man

Single vehicle crash Tuesday on I-4 kills Orlando man

One man was killed and another was critically injured Tuesday, January 25, 2022, when the vehicle they were in spun out of control on I-4 in Polk County and crashed into a tree.

Both men were from Orlando; 42-year old Jean Marie St. Gilles died at the scene, and 55-year old Divel Laurent suffered critical injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

Deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the crash at about 10:21 AM, along with Polk County Fire Rescue.

Mr. Laurent had been driving the white 2006 Lincoln Town Car east on I-4 just before the crash, which occurred about a half-mile west of US 27 (Davenport area).

A witness told detectives from the PCSO’s Traffic Homicide Investigations that the Town Car may have gotten too close to another vehicle and Mr. Laurent jerked the steering wheel to move away, but lost control of the vehicle.

The Town Car began to rotate across the roadway as it slid into the median and struck an oak tree.

Detectives reported that both men had been wearing their seat belts, and that it was raining at the time of the crash.

Two eastbound lanes of I-4 were shut down for approximately three hours while units were on scene.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Lakeland Man Facing Multiple Charges After Deputies Respond To Vehicle Accident With Shots Fired

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Man Facing Multiple Charges After Deputies Respond To Vehicle Accident With Shots Fired

Lakeland, Florida – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Connor Walker (DOB 12/07/1993) and charged him with FSS 784.045(2) 3 counts Commit Aggravated Battery, FSS 784.021(1)(A).. Agg Assault Deadly Weapon w/o Intent to Kill, FSS 790.23(1)(A)… Poss of Firearm Convicted Felon, FSS 893.13(6)(B) Cannabis Posses not more than 20 grams, FSS 893.147 Poss/Use of Narcotic Paraphernalia, FSS 316.061 Leave Scene of Crash Involve Prop Damage and CO94-28 Possession of Open Container. The charges stem from an incident in Lakeland last Saturday night. According to reports deputies were called to a vehicle accident with shots fired. The following is a long excerpt from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office affidavit (It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office . These facts are up for question and everyone is entitled to question the validity of facts by law enforcement in a court of law. The Daily Ridge 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 their own understanding and conclusions):

“On January 22, 2022, I was contacted as the Southwest General Crimes Unit on call Detective in reference to a shooting.

Upon arrival, I responded to the intersection of South Florida Ave and Schoolhouse Road in reference to the shooting. I made contact with victim, REDACTED, who stated he was driving southbound on South Florida Ave when he drove past a vehicle crash. The vehicle crash had already occurred and he did not witness the crash. THE VICTIM stated he was a former paramedic and felt he had a duty to render aid. THE VICTIM conducted a U-turn and drove north bound until he stopped in the northbound inside lane. THE VICTIM exited his vehicle and began to check on various subjects who had been involved in the crash. THE VICTIM stated one of the vehicles, which he described as a red car, rammed a vehicle head on that he was standing approximately four feet away from. THE VICTIM stated the vehicle then backs up about 6 feet and the driver, later identified as Connor Walker, then turns the car towards THE VICTIM . Walker reaches with his right hand across his body and in his hand THE VICTIM describes seeing a silver reflective object which he interprets as a firearm. While pointing at THE VICTIM , Walker says “Move mother fucker” and before the vehicle hits THE VICTIM the vehicle serves away from him. Once THE VICTIM interpreted the object as a firearm he then reaches into his waistband to obtain his concealed firearm and proceeds to shoot at the vehicle. THE VICTIM stated he was in fear for his life and the lives of the people around him.

Walker then crashed in the south bound median a short distance away from the original crash. Walker then exited the vehicle and walked back towards the crash scene. When emergency sirens were heard Walker fled the scene. The red vehicle is a Red 2011 Chrysler bearing Florida temporary tag DBV5912.The vehicle is registered to a Connor Walker DOB 12/07/1993. Walker’s last known address is Harrison Rd Lakeland, FL 33810.

I made contact with victim2, REDACTED, who advised she was sitting at the left turn light and it was a red arrow. VICTIM2 then felt a sudden impact to her vehicle and her four year old, REDACTED, began to cry. VICTIM2 exited her vehicle to check on REDACTED. As VICTIM2 was out of the vehicle she observed the Red Chrysler intentionally hit her rear passenger side quarter panel as it was trying to flee the scene. VICTIM2 stated Walker appeared to be dazed and out of it but he continued to try and flee the scene. At this time, a bystander came over and helped REDACTED get to safety.

I made contact with victim3, REDACTED, who advised he drove up to the left turn light behind the crashed vehicles. VICTIM3 advised the Chrysler was the vehicle he pulled up behind. VICTIM3 stated the Chrysler was facing southbound in the northbound lane and began to come towards him. VICTIM3 attempted to back up but there was a vehicle behind him. Walker then intentionally rammed his vehicle in to VICTIM3’s vehicles front end. After being rammed, VICTIM3 heard gunshots and immediately left the turn lane. VICTIM3 got in to the southbound lanes and looked at Walker and observed him holding a black pistol in his hands. VICTIM3 watched Walker flee in to the woods on the west side of S Florida Ave whenever he could hear emergency sirens.  VICTIM3 positively identified Walker via photo pack.

I approached the crashed Red Chrysler and on the passenger side seat in plain view, I observed a clear plastic baggie containing a green leafy substance. I seized the green leafy substance and a portion of the substance was placed into an AP-4 Hemp Typification Test Kit, which yielded a blue result, indicating the presence of more than 1% delta-9 THC. Also in plain view on the passenger floorboard was a 16 oz. can of Heineken beer.

Based on the above information I determined sufficient probable cause to charge Connor Walker with FSS 784.045(2) 3 counts Commit Aggravated Battery, FSS 784.021(1)(A).. Agg Assault Deadly Weapon w/o Intent to Kill, FSS 790.23(1)(A)… Poss of Firearm Convicted Felon, FSS 893.13(6)(B) Cannabis Posses not more than 20 grams, FSS 893.147 Poss/Use of Narcotic Paraphernalia, FSS 316.061 Leave Scene of Crash Involve Prop Damage and CO94-28 Possession of Open Container.”

Goats and Rabbits and Pigs (Oh My!) at 75th Annual Polk County Youth Fair

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Goats and Rabbits and Pigs (Oh My!) at 75th Annual Polk County Youth Fair

Goats and Rabbits and Pigs (Oh My!) at 75th Annual Polk County Youth Fair

by James Coulter

Regan Durden, 13, never tied a goat before until a few weeks ago, yet she won first place at the goat tying competition on Monday at the Polk County Youth Fair in Bartow.

Several dozen students from Polk County schools were able to see how quickly they could chase a goat, pin it to the ground, and wrap a rope around its legs. Reagan was able to do it in 13.48 seconds, placing her in first place. She won a golden belt buckle and a cash prize of $20.

A student from Winter Haven Christian School, Regan had been practicing for the past several weeks under the tutelage of her best friend’s grandfather. Chasing the goat and pinning it down proved to be the hardest part, she explained.

“It is running around trying to kick you,” she said.

Regan had been participating for several years with her family. She had previously won awards for raising a steer and for racing the fastest horse. She appreciates being able to see and showcase many animals.

“It feels really good,” she said.

She and her family had been attending the Polk County Youth Fair for 16 years. They have participated in everything from hog and horse raising to archery and the chili cook off. Her brother, Chase, has won first place in horticulture one year, while she had won a competition for horses.

Her mother, Stephanie Griggs Joiner, appreciates how the event allows children like her own to learn valuable job skills and impart upon them important lessons in virtues like hard work and responsibility.

“They learn something new each time,” she said. “It teaches kids there is more to life than video games. It teaches them responsibility and taking care of another animal.”

Since 1947, the Polk County Youth Fair has provided hundreds of local students from organizations like 4-H, Future Farmers of America and Future Homemakers of America the opportunity to test their skills and participate in competitions for livestock, agriculture, and consumer sciences.

From archery to whip cracking, to livestock breeding, cake baking, and sewing, students of all ages were able to prove themselves in a program, which, according to organizers, aims at “serving to promote the educational development of the youth of the county.”

“In addition to hundreds of students competing for top prizes and scholarships, more than 200 volunteers support and educate Polk’s youth in the best practices of raising animals and plants,” The Ledger reported.

The event was hosted from Fri. Jan. 22, and will continue to be hosted until Fri. Jan 28 at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Science’s Stuart Center, located at 1702 S. Holland Parkway, Bartow, FL 33830. The event is free to the public.

Auburndale Police Investigating Death

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Auburndale Police Investigating Death

Auburndale Police Department Investigating Death


At approximately 3:36 p.m. on Monday, January 24, 2022, officers of the
Auburndale Police Department were dispatched to a report of a body found floating in Lake Stella near downtown Auburndale.


Officers arrived to find the body of a 40-year-old white male near the south shoreline of Lake Stella. The investigation determined that two young men were fishing from the grass banks of the lake when one of them cast a line that hooked something heavy. As he reeled it in, he realized it appeared to be connected to the body of an adult male.

One of the gentlemen called his father, who responded to the lake, determined it was, in fact, the body of an adult male, and called 911.

Officers arrived and investigated the scene. The decedent was identified as a local resident who had recently returned to the area. It appeared he may have been in the water for 24-48 hours. There were no obvious signs of trauma, though this is a medical examiner case. An autopsy is pending.

As of this writing, we have been unable to contact next of kin. Those efforts continue this morning.
If you have any information or witnessed anything in the area of Lake Stella over the past weekend, please contact Auburndale Police Department Detective Alex Pena at (863)965-5555.


Updates will be provided as they become available.

PCSO Detectives Arrest Kissimmee Woman For Fraud and Elderly Exploitation

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PCSO Detectives Arrest Kissimmee Woman For Fraud and Elderly Exploitation

On January 24, 2022, PCSO detectives arrested 56-year-old Donnitta Jean Vaughn of Kissimmee for stealing more than $14,000 from an 80-year-old Poinciana woman with dementia. Vaughn was the victim’s caregiver.

In June of 2019, the victim was evaluated by her physician who recommended that she not live alone in her home, at which time Vaughn, who is a licensed Certified Nursing Assistant, was hired as the victim’s caregiver to assist with personal care, household chores, and transporting the victim to her doctor’s appointments. Vaughn was paid $720.00 a week as the victim’s caregiver.

It was during another doctor’s visit in December of 2019, that Vaughn received the results from an exam revealing the victim did “not appear capable of making responsible decisions pertaining to healthcare, finances, or housing matters.”

Vaughn remained employed with the victim until March of 2021. During her employment, Vaughn had access to the victim’s financial information, including debit and credit cards, and other personal identification information.

In the final weeks of Vaughn’s employment with the victim, the victim’s friend (who had power-of-attorney) learned that one of the victim’s credit cards was missing. After reviewing the credit card statement, she found that there had been several fraudulent charges made with the card. She also discovered suspicious activity on the victim’s credit report.

While talking with the victim about her finances, her friend learned that Vaughn, who was initially paid by checks, was now driving the victim to the bank where she would withdraw cash to pay Vaughn. That’s when the victim’s friend contacted PCSO detectives.

Detectives reviewed bank statements and credit reports, and discovered Vaughn obtained $4,868.00 more than her agreed upon salary.

Detectives also found payments to Duke Energy which were applied to Vaughn’s personal residence account. Additionally, Vaughn fraudulently obtained three credit cards in the victim’s name and used them to buy clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, bath and travel items, eat out at restaurants, and pay childcare fees. Vaughn fraudulently charged a total of $9,594.28 to those cards.

Vaughn admitted to detectives that she felt she wasn’t getting paid enough, and knew the victim did not have the mental capacity to give permission for an increased salary, so she began using the victim’s credit cards to pay her bills and purchase other items.

“Licensed medical professionals are entrusted with caring for and protecting people during their most vulnerable moments. Instead of caring for the victim, Vaughn took advantage of her situation and stole thousands of dollars from her. Thankfully, the victim’s friend called us right away, and we will do everything in our power to ensure Vaughn is held accountable.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Vaughn was arrested for:

  • Criminal Use of Personal ID of a Person over 60-years-old (F2)
  • Exploitation of the Elderly (F2)
  • Fraudulent Use of Credit Cards (F3)
  • Obtaining Property by Fraud (F3)
  • Grand Theft (F3)

She is currently in the Polk County Jail being held on $18,000 bond.

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