PCSO: We made an arrest on Monday, February 3rd that brings to mind a song by R. Dean Taylor from 1970 called, “Indiana Wants Me.”
38-year old Phillip Stone of Winter Haven knows what it’s like to be wanted by Indiana.
Stone had a warrant out of Huntington County, Indiana (not too far from Fort Wayne, the home of the Komets). Stone was wanted for selling synthetic narcotics.
At around 12:07pm Monday, PCSO deputies went to a residence on Varner Drive in Winter Haven (near Jan Phyl Village Park).
Stone saw deputies coming, so he ran into the house. Then he tried to run out the back, but went back inside. Then he tried to run out again, but ran back inside again. Stone had no escape plan, and it showed.
After about 15 minutes, Phillip Stone surrendered, and he was taken to the Polk County Jail on his warrant. He was additionally charged with resisting for not surrendering sooner.
Stone will receive “deluxe” travel accommodations to Huntington County, Indiana. #BonVoyage, Phillip!
PCSO has confirmed the crash involved a semi and a car. The driver of the car appears to have non-life threatening injuries. The roadway is all clear now.
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This morning, February 4, 2025 around 7:40 a.m. Polk County Fire Rescue and Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to Hwy 60 E and Logistics Pwky in Winter Haven for a vehicle crash.
It has been very foggy this morning on the roadways and initial reports are a semi vs car.
We have reached out to law enforcement and PCFR for details.
Nathanial Gale, PCFR Public Information Officer confirmed they transported one trauma alert via ground.
There is heavy traffic backup at time of publication.
We will update this article with more information after confirmation from law-enforcement.
A railroad history exhibit and a gallery focusing on everything that makes life worth living in Lake Wales are some of the renovations that are currently underway or planned for the Lake Wales History Museum.
An update to the museum’s ongoing renovations—both past, present, and future—was presented to the City Commission during their work session meeting on Wed., Jan. 20, 2025.
Museum Director Angela Rosado mentioned how, despite previous challenges (most notably the COVID-19 pandemic), the museum has been able to expand its outreach into the community and move forward with much-needed renovations.
Currently, the museum is undergoing renovations in three phases. The first phase, which is now completed, oversaw the creation of the Founders Exhibit, showcasing the history of local landmarks including Chalet Suzanne and Bok Tower Gardens.
The next two phases will respectively oversee the development of the railroad history exhibit and a main gallery space themed to, “Things that make life worth living in Lake Wales,” which will highlight community events, local businesses, and the city’s foundational industries.
Other key priorities for the foreseeable future will include improving ADA accessibility, exploring the potential of the museum’s freight space, and gathering community input to improve future museum offerings and experiences.
These renovations have been facilitated through more than $65,000 in grants and donations and more than 15 partnerships with local businesses and non-profit organizations.
Commissioner Keith Thompson proposed the creation of a museum membership program to help facilitate funding for future renovations and other developments. As he and his wife are patrons of the Lake Wales Art Center, he knows the importance of community support for local institutions.
“This [the museum] is a much-needed partnership [with the city],” he said. “We are focused on the present and future of Lake Wales, so we need an organization that keeps us tethered to our past.”
Rosado agreed that a museum membership program would be beneficial, which is why they are considering creating such a program with members benefits including exclusive access toselect exhibits and discounts on future museum events.
Commissioner Thompson then inquired about the Stuart house building, expressing concern about its condition and asking if the space could be better utilized by the museum.
“That is a historic building. I just don’t want to see it fall into disrepair,” he said. “I don’t know what we need to do. Can we look into what we can do to make them operational? I think we really need to figure that out.”
Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson suggested the house could be used for office space, meeting rooms, and even fundraisers, both for the museum and for local non-profit organizations.
“Years ago, we had a successful fundraiser there for the charter schools,” he explained. “It is a charming house. I always thought that it would be a wonderful location to be utilized by fundraising groups and non-profits and for office staff work, entertainment, and events. I think it would be very effective.”
Unfortunately, Rosado informed the commission that the building was not included in the current operational agreement between the city and the museum. She explained that a revised agreement would be required to include it within the museum’s operation scope.
Frances Amerson, affectionately known as Susie, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025, at the age of 58. Born in Thomasville, North Carolina, to the late Dalton and Hazel Hill, Susie’s family relocated to Florida during her childhood.
Susie’s greatest pride and joy was being “Mimi” to her beloved grandchildren. She poured her heart and soul into caring for Michael, Zander, Lane, Ryland, and Gia, showering them with time, love, and affection. Her grandchildren were her world, and the love she gave them will forever remain in their hearts.
She is survived by her loving husband, Robert Amerson; her daughter, Kristi Wingham (Mike); her adored grandchildren, Michael, Zander, Lane, Ryland, and Gia; her stepchildren, Robert Amerson, Jr., Angel Ruiz, and Dana Owens; her brother, Dalton Hill; her lifelong friend, Sue Harris; and her favorite sidekick, her dog, Jack.
Susie is preceded in death by her sister, Angel, and brothers, Jimmy, Lonnie, and Roger, who have welcomed her into eternal rest.
A celebration of Susie’s life was held on Saturday, January 25th, at 10:00 AM at the First Baptist Church in Auburndale, Florida. Family and friends were invited to join in remembering and honoring the remarkable life she lived.
Susie’s legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to her family and friends will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a shots fired call in Poinciana. The call came around 7 pm. The incident location is in the area of Maple Dr. in southern Poinciana.
Shots Fired Call In The Area Of Maple Dr. Poinciana.
According to Meghan Petty, Polk County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer “we received a report of gunfire on Maple Drive in Poinciana. We are on scene investigating the incident, but as of now, we can’t find anyone who has been shot. I will keep you posted if there are any updates.
Current Map Of The City of Poinciana
This is a developing story. We will update as more information is released.
Today’s warrant of the day from PCSO is 56 yr. old Eric John Brown of Country Place SW in Winter Haven.
Polk County Sheriff’s Special Victims Unit detectives have obtained a warrant for his arrest for lewd battery on a juvenile victim.
Eric Brown is 5’11”, 200 lbs, and has an extensive criminal history, including priors for drug possession, forgery, DWLSR, and theft. This is a 2021 mugshot.
If you know where we can find Eric Brown please call us at 863-298-6200 and refer to case number 25-4588.
If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Heartland Crime Stoppers in one of four ways:
CALL 1-888-400 TIPS (8477) DIAL **TIPS from your cell phone VISIT the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on “Submit A Tip,” DOWNLOAD the free “P3tips” app on your smartphone or tablet.
LAKELAND, FL (FEBRUARY 4, 2025) – Barbara Harrison has been located safe and reunited with family! Thank you to everyone who shared this important information.
MissingPersons – Help Locate Barbara Harrison
LakelandPD is working to locate, Ms. Barbara Harrison, age 72. Barbara was last seen around 10PM yesterday evening. (February 2, 2025) at a residence in the 3600 block of Peregrine Way in Lakeland. She was discovered missing this morning.
Barbara around 5’3” tall, weighs 120 lbs. It is unknown what Barbara might be wearing; however, she may be in a nightgown. Family has advised she has early stages of Dementia.
Anyone with information on Barbara’ whereabouts is asked to call 911 or at 863-834-6966
During the weekend of January 17-20, United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) and local partners successfully assisted in relocating all families and individuals displaced by the fire at the Imperial Swan Hotel in Lakeland. In an incredible display of community unity and collaboration, local, county and national agencies worked together to provide housing for those impacted by the devastating event. The leadership of the City of Lakeland, Paul Womble from the County Emergency Management and Kay Kasser of Combee Connection, were instrumental in the successful outcome.
The fire, which broke out at the Imperial Swan Hotel in January, left many people who were already facing hardship from the recent hurricanes without shelter. Thanks to the tireless work of organizations including FEMA and local nonprofits such as UWCF, GiveWell Community Foundation, the Red Cross, the Salvation Army and Talbot House Ministries, every displaced individual and family has now been placed in stable, longer-term housing.
Many individuals had previously been placed in the Imperial Swan Hotel due to housing loss after Hurricane Milton.
UWCF is deeply grateful to its partners for their swift and comprehensive response to the crisis. The cooperative effort resulted in a rapid recovery plan that not only met the immediate needs of those displaced but also provided long-term solutions. The community’s dedication to supporting one another in a time of crisis has been nothing short of inspiring.
“We’ve seen firsthand how compassionate leadership and strategic collaboration can bring about real, positive change,” said Christina Criser Jackson, President and CEO of United Way of Central Florida. “This is a shining example of what can happen when the public sector, nonprofits, and community leaders work together with one common goal: to support our neighbors in their time of need.”
UWCF continues to support individuals and families affected by the fire as they transition to permanent housing. They remain committed to ensuring that everyone in the community has access to the resources and assistance they need to build a better future.
For more information on United Way of Central Florida and how to get involved, please visit uwcf.org.
About United Way of Central Florida
United Way of Central Florida works to improve lives and strengthen our community by identifying gaps in services and providing solutions. UWCF works with qualified partners to improve the health, education and financial stability of people in Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties and provide a safety net in emergencies. United Way works to amplify donor dollars with local matches, convene partners to improve efficiencies and broker services that produce the best return on investment in the areas of most critical need. United Way believes no one can do their best if they are hungry, sick or in pain. To learn more, visit uwcf.org or call 863.648.1500.
Improvements to the Harbor at Lake Henry Accepted by the City of Winter Haven
by James Coulter
Much-needed improvements to sewer, water, wastewater, and other infrastructure within a 36+ acre subdivision have been formally accepted by the City of Winter Haven.
At their regular meeting on Mon. Jan. 27, Winter Haven city commissioners voted unanimously to approve a resolution confirming acceptance of improvements, infrastructure, and dedications for the Harbor at Lake Henry Subdivision.
Located south of the east intersection of Old Lucerne Park Road and Lucerne Park Road (SR-544), Harbor at Lake Henry is a 36+ acre subdivision containing 179 building lots and 14 common lots.
“On August 26, 2024, the City Commission approved Resolution R-24-38 platting the Harbor at Lake Henry Subdivision; however, certain improvements were not completed at that time,” wrote Chris Young, Senior Planner, in the city agenda memo.
To ensure the subdivision received all the necessary infrastructure and improvements to guarantee completion, the developer, Harbor at Lake Henry, submitted a bond for $313,258 to help cover the costs of the remaining improvements.
“Incomplete improvements included earthwork, sanitary sewer, potable water, stormwater management, and engineering certification,” Young wrote.
“Recent inspections by staff found all incomplete improvements are now complete, and the water, wastewater, and reuse utilities along with internal road rights-of-way can now be accepted by the City,” he continued.
During public comments, local resident Ernestine Davis asked the commissioners about the possibility of installing a stoplight at the intersection of the easternmost connection of Lucerne Park Road.
Mayor Pro Tem Nathanial Birdsong replied that the City of Winter Haven does not have control over the installation of stop lights, as that was a matter handled by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), not the city.
He did mention that a roundabout was installed near the subdivision, which hopefully should help alleviate traffic problems.
“The roundabout is supposed to bring some relief in the area,” he said. “It is a challenge to access Lucerne in those areas. It is dangerous… So hopefully, that will bring some assistance or help.”
