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Wanted Young Man Dies in Crash on Stolen Motorcycle in North Lakeland

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The following is a press release by PCSO:

“The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a motorcycle fatality that occurred on Saturday, November 29, 2025. The deceased motorcyclist has been positively identified as 26-year-old Kyle Cole of New Port Richey, who had active Polk County warrants for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, discharging a firearm in public, and culpable negligence, aggravated battery and aggravated assault on law enforcement, fleeing to elude, felony criminal mischief, breaking a fence containing livestock, trespassing, and resisting arrest. At the scene of the crash, deputies also learned that the motorcycle he was operating had been reported stolen on October 31, 2025. 

The crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on Knights Station Road just west of Harrelson Road in north Lakeland. According to witnesses and evidence at the scene, Cole was on the stolen 2024 Suzuki heading east on Knights Station and tailgating (following very closely) behind another vehicle. For unknown reasons, he lost control of the bike and it fell then flipped onto its left side, ejecting Cole. The occupants of a Jeep Cherokee that was heading westbound possibly hit the bike after it fell – that driver stopped and remained at the scene, and cooperated fully with law enforcement. 

When first responders arrived, bystanders were performing CPR on Cole, but he succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital. 

Cole’s active warrants stemmed from two separate investigations, the most recent of which occurred on Friday, November 21st. Around 4:40 p.m. that afternoon, deputies responded to the area of Duff Rd to look for the registered owner of a 2003 gold Chevy Avalanche truck who had an active warrant out of Hillsborough County. They found the truck parked at the gas pumps of the Circle K located at 7250 US Hwy 98 north, but Kyle Cole (not the owner with the warrant) was behind the wheel.

As deputies converged on the truck with Cole and another man inside and gave them both multiple commands to get out and surrender, Cole rammed every PCSO vehicle nearby then fled at a high rate of speed down Kathleen Rd then onto Dove Meadow Trail. He crashed through the gate to a private ranch, causing $100,000 worth of damage. The suspects abandoned the Avalanche and fled on foot into a wooded area and were not located by law enforcement. PCSO issued warrants for Cole’s arrest for aggravated battery and assault on law enforcement, fleeing to elude, felony criminal mischief, and other charges. 

“This suspect, at a very young age, displayed blatant disregard for the law and it ultimately cost him his life. Had he not fled from us on November 21st, after hitting several patrol vehicles with his car, he would have been safely housed in the jail and not recklessly driving a stolen motorcycle a week later. What a shame.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff”

Tips for Parents to Minimize Stress and Maximize Joy During the Holidays

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Stress and parenting go hand in hand, but during the holiday season, many parents find their stress levels rising to new heights.

Between coordinating schedules, shopping, traveling and managing children’s expectations – plus the disruption to the school routine that everyone had finally settled into – the season can feel more like mayhem than merry.

However, by thoughtfully planning and implementing a few practical strategies, parents can protect their well-being and support their families. Early childhood experts from The Goddard School share guidance to help parents stay grounded and make the most of their meaningful family moments this holiday season.

Clarify Priorities

One of the most empowering steps is to decide in advance what truly matters to your family.

Consider:

-Which traditions or gatherings are nonnegotiable?

-Are there holiday events you can skip this year without regret?

-What obligations are you taking on out of habit rather than genuine desire?

By reducing the number of “must-do” activities, you can avoid overextending your family. It’s OK to decline invitations when your calendar is already full.

Establish a Budget

Holiday spending can weigh heavily on your mind.

Create a family holiday budget that includes gifts and activities, then stick to it. Use the opportunity to teach your children about responsible spending and gratitude. Remember, the most meaningful gifts are often those made with time, attention or creativity, not the highest price tag.

Set Boundaries

Stress often arises when family dynamics, expectations or traditions clash. You can reduce this by setting boundaries and communicating them early. Speak openly with the relatives and friends you’ll see about what’s comfortable for your family and what isn’t (e.g., physical space, travel, topics to avoid). Let your children know what to expect, as the lack of routine during this time can be particularly challenging. Modeling clear boundaries helps your children learn to express their own needs, too.

Prioritize Your Physical and Emotional Health

Amid the hustle, your own basic care often slips, but your well-being is key to being present for others. Consider establishing routines, such as:

Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours per night whenever possible.

Nutrition: Keep healthy staples in the mix, even if treats abound.

Movement: A short walk, stretch breaks or gentle exercise may help reset your nervous system. Stepping outside can be especially helpful.

Also, if illness strikes, listen to your body and give yourselt permission to pause. Pushing through tends to backfire.

Design a Stress Rescue Plan

Even the best-laid plans don’t prevent tension or unexpected emotional triggers. Anticipate stress by creating fallback strategies. For example, plan to use a playlist, a quick breathing exercise or a sensory object to help you regroup when your stress escalates. These strategies work for children as well.

If you’re worried about unwanted questions – such as a family member asking about politics or your plans to have another child – rehearse your response in advance with a friend. When these stressful moments arise, having a toolkit gives you a sense of control.

Unplug and Be Present

Screens are omnipresent. While they serve a purpose, they can be an unwelcome distraction, especially when you’re spending time with loved ones you don’t get to see often. Try to designate screen-free times, such as during meals, after dinner or when gifts are being exchanged. Use screens intentionally, such as video calling out-of-town family members, rather than passively scrolling. Focus on in-person connection by playing games, telling stories, making crafts or taking walks. Remember to lead by example, as your children are watching. Being fully present at key moments is the one gift your family will remember above all else.

As the holidays approach, the pressure to do it all can loom large. By clarifying priorities, setting boundaries and safeguarding your health, you can minimize stress and maximize joy. That said, even with careful planning, things can go off course, and that’s OK. Practice self-compassion and allow for imperfections. Enjoy every laugh, surprise and even the occasional moment of calm.

Thirteen Inch Rainfall Deficit Leads Swiftmud To Declare Phase One Water Restrictions And Remember Wasteful Water Use In Polk County Could Cost You A $500 Fine

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Polk County residents are now under Phase One Water Shortage Restrictions after the Southwest Florida Water Management District issued a districtwide water shortage order that took effect December first. The district says the move comes after a thirteen inch rainfall deficit over the past twelve months and declining water levels throughout the region.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District, often called Swiftmud, reports that this year’s summer rainy season produced lower than normal totals. As a result, aquifer, lake and river levels are expected to continue falling through the dry season. Phase One is the district’s lowest conservation level and serves as an early warning step.

According to Katelyn Hoverkamp, Public and Media Relations Officer for the Polk County Communications Division, the Phase One designation does not change local irrigation schedules. In an email sent to Daily Ridge, Hoverkamp stated, “At this time, customers irrigation guidelines are not impacted.” She added that Polk County residents should continue following existing watering days and times already established by county ordinance.

While irrigation schedules remain the same, residents are reminded that wasteful or unnecessary water use is still a finable offense under Polk County rules. Phase One reinforces these long standing requirements.

Polk County defines wasteful use as the most egregious forms of water loss, including:

allowing irrigation water to run off into streets or storm drains watering during or immediately after rainfall broken sprinkler heads spraying into roads, sidewalks or driveways using potable water for tasks that can be completed by other means

Violations can result in up to a $500 fine, which is unchanged under Phase One.

A complete list of Polk County’s irrigation rules and enforcement guidelines can be found at: POLK COUNTY WATER RESTRICTIONS

The Florida Governmental Utility Authority, which serves multiple communities in Polk County and throughout the state, helped distribute the regional advisory. Kevin Bakewell, Communications Consultant for FGUA, said the situation highlights the need for regional water management. “Most water issues are regional, not local,” Bakewell said. “Hydrology does not follow political borders, which is why the Legislature created regional districts to manage supply, conservation and permitting.”

What Phase One Means Compared To Higher Phases

Florida’s water shortage phases increase based on drought conditions. A brief overview is included for context.

Phase One

Does not change watering days. Prohibits wasteful or unnecessary water use.

Phase Two

Typically limits outdoor irrigation to one day per week and may restrict decorative or nonessential uses.

Phase Three

Outdoor irrigation may drop to once every other week or be limited to essential uses only. Additional restrictions may apply to car washing, pressure washing and filling pools.

Phase Four

The most severe level. Outdoor irrigation often prohibited. Commercial, residential and construction water use may be reduced.

Phase One does not mean higher phases are imminent, but it signals that drought conditions are being closely monitored across the district.

The Phase One restrictions are scheduled to remain in effect through July first unless conditions change. Polk County officials and FGUA are encouraging residents to stay informed and continue practicing responsible water use throughout the dry season.

Frostproof to Host Holly Jolly Christmas Party After Annual Parade Dec 6

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The City of Frostproof is inviting families to keep the holiday spirit going with a festive celebration immediately following the Frostproof Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6. The annual Holly Jolly Christmas Party will take place at Henderson Field, located at 71 N Lake Reedy Blvd, and promises an evening full of cheer for all ages.

Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities, including a snow slide, train rides for the kids, food vendors, and holiday music to set the perfect seasonal mood. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and two adorable elves will also be available for photos—just don’t forget to bring your own camera.

For more information, call 863-635-7850.

Flyer courtesy of City of Frostproof

For more information about the annual Frostproof Christmas Parade, visit https://lakewalesdaily.com/2025/12/01/frostproof-gears-up-for-a-festive-christmas-in-the-country-parade-december-6/

This Day In History November 28, 1925- The Grand Ole Opry Begins Broadcasting

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The following is an article from history.com

“The Grand Ole Opry, one of the longest-lived and most popular showcases for western music, begins broadcasting live from Nashville, Tennessee on November 28, 1925. The showcase was originally named the Barn Dance, after a Chicago radio program called the National Barn Dance that had begun broadcasting the previous year.

Photo source Bob Grannis Getty Images

Impressed by the popularity of the Chicago-based National Barn Dance, producers at WSM radio in Nashville decided to create their own version of the show to cater to southern audiences who could not receive the Chicago signal. Both the Grand Ole Opry and the National Barn Dance aired on Saturday nights and featured folk music, fiddling, and the relatively new genre of country-western music. Both shows created a growing audience for a uniquely American style of music and were launching grounds for many of America’s most-loved musicians–the singing cowboy Gene Autry got his first big break on the National Barn Dance. The WSM producers recognized that Americans were growing nostalgic for the rural past, so all live performers at the Grand Ole Opry were required to dress in period costumes and adopt old-time names.

The four-and-a-half-hour Grand Ole Opry program became one of the most popular broadcasts in the South, and like its Chicago cousin, helped make country-western an enduring part of the popular American musical landscape.”

Welcome, World Travelers: What Critics Are Saying About Animal Kingdom’s New Better Zoogether Show

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Welcome, World Travelers: What Critics Are Saying About Animal Kingdom’s New Better Zoogether Show

by James Coulter

On Nov. 7, 2025, Zootopia: Better Zoogether opened in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The new Zootopia-themed 4D show replaces the former It’s Tough to Be a Bug attraction, which had run for nearly 25 years since the park’s opening day and closed earlier this year on Mar. 16, 2025.

My Personal Thoughts

I haven’t been able to visit the new attraction in person. However, I have watched video footage of the 9-minute show on YouTube. Personally, I feel it’s okay. I love the Zootopia movie, but I felt this attraction was, at the most, serviceable, something families can enjoy between riding Avatar: Flight of Passage and the Kilimanjaro Safaris. Not great, but good enough.

I never experienced the former It’s Tough to be a Bug attraction when it was open. As a kid, I was scared at the prospect of being “stung” by my theater seat and especially by feeling bugs “crawling” along my legs. (A similar attraction, Honey, I Shrunk the Audience, literally traumatized me with its mice escaping from the screen. There was no way I was going to suffer a similar experience.)

So, I don’t really have the same nostalgia for the Bugs show that other guests may have. And personally, as forced as it might be, a show based on a recent popular movie like Zootopia is a much better fit for Animal Kingdom than one based on a Pixar movie that hasn’t been relevant since it first premiered in the late 1990s.

What Other Critics Are Saying

I appear to be alone in that assessment, as other critics claimed that the former attraction fit better with Animal Kingdom’s overall theming than the new show literally based on talking animals.

Tom Corless from WDW News Today, while admitting that Better Zoogether was “perfectly serviceable”, felt that the attraction “undermines the entire idea of this park”, even going so far as to claim the show evokes “some weird dystopian future where humans died and all animals live together in harmony and do not eat each other.”

“No matter how you felt about ‘It’s Tough to be a Bug’, it fit in Animal Kingdom again because there was an edutainment aspect,” Corless argued, writing how the new show, in stark contrast, is “a 9-minute Zootopia short that in no way connected to conservation or the real animal world.”

Many other critics felt that the new show, despite being based on a movie about animals, felt “out of place” in Animal Kingdom. Tom Bricke from Disney Tourist Blog called the attraction “a suboptimal fit”, claiming the show could have easily fit into any other park.

“This show could go literally anywhere, Bricke said. “In fact, if you told me that this was originally slated for Animation Courtyard[at Disney’s Hollywood Studios] or literally any other theater on property, I wouldn’t be surprised.”

Like Corless, Bricke insisted the show clashed with the overall theming of Animal Kingdom, a park created to celebrate biodiversity and champion environmentalism, elements clearly lacking in the new show.

“Diehard Walt Disney World fans know that Animal Kingdom revolves around the balance and harmony between the human world and the animal kingdom,” Bricke wrote. “On that basis, Zootopia actually isn’t perfect for the park.”

A staff writer for WDWMagic expressed a similar sentiment, explaining how Better Zoogether “feels disconnected from the setting” and “doesn’t contribute to Animal Kingdom’s broader message about wildlife and conservation.”

As for the actual show itself, the WDWMagic staff writer criticized it for being too fast-paced “with constant cuts, overlapping dialogue, and a dense sound mix that can make it difficult to follow the story.” And unlike the show it replaced, the new show “a single comparable ‘wow’ moment.”

Chattin on the Ridge: What I’m Thankful For

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Chattin on the Ridge: What I’m Thankful For

by James Coulter

The following is a transcript of a recent podcast minisode of the Chattin on the Ridge podcast. Listen to the podcast on Acast: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/minisode-21-what-im-most-thankful-for-this-year

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. It’s the time of year that invites us to pause and reflect on the many gifts in our lives, the things we’re most thankful for. So, for this podcast minisode, I figured there’s no better topic than counting my many blessings by sharing the things I’m truly thankful for:

First and foremost, I am thankful for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. That should go without saying. Without God, none of us would be here—quite literally. Creation itself depends on the Creator; and because we are here, His presence is undeniable.

And I’m especially grateful for Christ’s sacrifice, through which all of mankind is redeemed from sin. We have all fallen short of God’s glory, yet through Christ we can stand tall despite our failings. I’ve certainly made my share of mistakes, and I’m thankful Christ shed His blood to cleanse my past and grant me new life. I admit I haven’t been as faithful in recent years, but as the story of the Prodigal Son explains, His forgiveness extends to all of us, no matter how far we wander.

I’m especially grateful for Christ’s presence, particularly through life’s storms. The past few years have proven difficult, what with my mother’s passing, the loss of my dog, a close friend severing ties with me, and my abrupt move from my home in Florida. I’ve walked through some very dark times, yet Christ has remained with me, His light guiding and comforting me through it all.

I’m also thankful for my employers, Carl Fish and Kip Kirchberg. These two have been more than great bosses. They have also treated me like family. Carl especially has proven to be a supportive father figure. Not only does Carl appreciate all the work I do for him and the Daily Ridge, from articles to movie reviews, to audio and video podcasts, but he grants me the freedom to achieve my full potential. Especially after moving away from Florida, I am thankful that he and Kip have allowed me to continue working for them remotely. They are truly the best bosses I have ever worked for.

I am most thankful for my family, especially my sister Laura and my niece Courtney. Both of them welcomed me back to my old home after having to leave my home in Florida. Both of them have helped me regain my footing since then, and both of them continue to help look after my best interests following my mother’s passing.

I’m also thankful for my other relatives. the past decade haveseen new additions to our family. My niece Courtney married a wonderful, supportive husband, Justin, and both of them are raising a son and daughter, Atlas and Ember. My nephew Thomas married a loving wife, Makayla, and my sister adopted another son, Joey. My family has provided a supportive social circle who have helped me through thick and thin and supported me through my big move from Florida. They have been able to help me many times when I could not help myself, and for that, I am grateful for each and every one of them.

I am thankful for being able to acquire a new affordable insurance plan, both for my health and my car. My new plan with GEICO, as the commercials boast, has allowed to save 15 percent or more on my car insurance, which has helped alleviate my expenses.

My health insurance, especially, have proven most beneficial. Through it, I’ve been able to receive therapy and medication that has significantly improved my mental health, especially this past year. My therapist and psychologist, Erin and Dana, have talked me through my many personal insecurities and anxieties, and my prescriptions of Buspar and Prozac have allowed me to overcome my depression and anxiety.

 Most of all, I am thankful that my overall financial situation has significantly improved. As I mentioned, my new health and car insurance plans provide me better coverage at much affordable rates.

 But most of all, I am thankful that I have been able to become more productive through my work to be able to earn more and afford a decent living for myself in my new home. I was even able to buy a brand-spanking new laptop, which has not only helped me with my work, but can also be written off as a business expense.

 These past few years, I have faced trials and tribulations and suffered many losses. But at the same time, I have also made great gains that more than make up for those losses. And I hope and pray that the Good Lord will continue to offer me His grace and blessings.

 And I hope and pray that all of you see the blessings in your own life. Regardless of what struggles that you may have faced, just know that God is greater than your struggles, and that good things come to them who wait.

 From all of us at the Daily Ridge, have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving.

Important Information Regarding Haines City Christmas Parade

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Haines City Parks & Rec –

Before you sit down to your turkey day meals, enjoy this important appetizer of information about the upcoming Christmas Parade!

Haines City Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6, 2025
6:00 PM

The 2025 Christmas Parade will begin at the intersection of Lake Elsie Drive & Hwy 17-92 and travel east (in the west-bound lanes, which means you can sit in the east-bound lanes to enjoy the parade!) on Hwy 17-92 to 6th Street. It will then make a right on 6th Street and travel south until it reaches Lake Eva Park.
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𝐈𝐌𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐓 𝐑𝐎𝐀𝐃 𝐂𝐋𝐎𝐒𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐒

  1. Hwy 17-92 will be closed in BOTH directions from Lee-Jackson Hwy (Publix entrance will be accessible) to 10th Street, starting at 3:00 PM and will remain closed until the conclusion of the parade, approximately 7:30 PM.
  2. The following roads will be closed starting at 3:00 PM:
  • 6th Street between Hwy 17-92 and Wood Ave.
  • Wood Ave. between 6th Street & 8th Street.
  • 8th Street between Wood Ave. & Johns Ave.

Polk County Utilities Reports Massive 5.4 Million Gallon Raw Wastewater Spill In Davenport Last Week

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Davenport, Florida- Polk County Utilities reported a massive wastewater spill last week after a force main pipe split off Champions Gate Blvd within the Northeast Regional Utility Service Area. The incident occurred on the Polk County side of Champions Gate Blvd. The spill is associated with the Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility according to a report filed with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

The report states the break occurred around 11 pm on November 19. Approximately 5.4 million gallons of raw wastewater were discharged. Utilities staff diverted the flow as soon as the break was discovered, routing wastewater into the stormwater system and a nearby dry stormwater pond to contain it until the line could be repaired. For comparison, Florida law defines a spill of 1,000 gallons or more reaching stormwater, surface waters, or leaving the plant site as a significant spill. Last week’s release was 5,400 times that threshold.

(Editor’s note: We earlier wrote the following sentence “Approximately 5.4 million gallons of raw wastewater were released before crews could stop the flow”. That sentence was inaccurate. We advised the flow was never stopped and clarified it had to be diverted as we report in the bold sentence above. The situation was handled ASAP after the break was discovered.)

Utilities staff diverted the wastewater into a stormwater system and a nearby dry stormwater pond to contain the flow. By 4 pm on November 21, the overflow was fully stopped.

Crews removed approximately 320,000 gallons from an impacted wetland area, pumped out stormwater structures, and continued disposal efforts as part of the remediation process. Spill notifications were posted in the affected area as required by law.

Some of the discharged wastewater reached Horse Creek, also known as Horseshoe Creek.

According to the documentation submitted to DEP, the response steps listed follow the procedures Florida requires for significant wastewater incidents. Those steps include public notification, containment, removal of impacted water from wetlands and stormwater areas, application of lime to neutralize affected sites, and water sampling for fecal and E. coli.

Horse Creek sometimes referred to locally as Horseshoe Creek, is a natural freshwater stream in northeast Polk County that feeds into the Peace River basin. The creek supports surrounding wetlands, wildlife, and downstream water resources, making it an environmentally sensitive part of the county’s watershed. Because some of last week’s wastewater discharge entered Horse Creek, the area should requires routine monitoring and water quality testing to assess any potential impact.

Daily Ridge is reaching out to county officials to review the Horseshoe Creek water testing results once they are available.

Burglary, Battery, And Attempted Murder Charges Filed After Violent Incident In Auburndale

Auburndale, Florida – A 67-year-old man, John Power, and his daughter, Rachel Frueh, are facing serious charges after a violent confrontation at an Auburndale home on October 25. Their granddaughter and daughter, Cheyenne Randall, was at the center of the incident, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded after receiving a report of a burglary with battery. Per PCSO, Cheyenne had been staying with Rachel and Power while trying to detox from fentanyl. The affidavit states Cheyenne left their home without notifying them and went to the a female (victim) residence. At some point afterward, Rachel and Power arrived at the home and knocked on the door.

According to PCSO, when the victim opened the door, Rachel allegedly reached inside, grabbed the victim by the hair, and dragged her outside onto the concrete. Rachel allegedly struck the victim several times.

According to deputies Power entered the home without permission while attempting to locate his granddaughter. When he could not find her, he returned outside and allegedly began striking the victim in the head multiple times. He also allegedly rammed the victim’s head into a pole outside the residence.

Rachel then allegedly re-entered the home, found her daughter Cheyenne hiding in the bathtub, and told her they were leaving.

Two neighbors heard screaming. Witness One, a male neighbor, retrieved his firearm and ran toward the home, while Witness Two, his wife, began recording the incident. Witness One told deputies he saw Power on top of the victim striking her repeatedly and believed the victim would be killed if he did not intervene. He attempted to pull Power away before pointing his firearm and ordering him to stop.

The affidavit states Rachel then took a broom from inside the home and struck the victim in the face as she exited. Witness One pushed Rachel away to protect the victim, causing Rachel to fall and causing Witness One to drop his firearm. Power then allegedly tackled Witness One. Witness One broke free, retrieved his firearm again, and ordered the assaults to stop.

Witness Two’s video reportedly shows Rachel raising the broom as if preparing to strike Witness One before lowering it.

A verbal altercation reportedly occurred between Rachel and Witness Two shortly before law enforcement arrived. Deputies say Rachel allegedly struck Witness Two in the face.

The victim was transported to Lakeland Regional Health with non-life-threatening injuries. PCSO reports indicate neither

Rachel nor Power have prior battery convictions.

Initial Charges Filed

John Power initially faced:

• Battery

• Burglary with Battery

Rachel Frueh initially faced:

• Battery – Touch or Strike

• Burglary with Assault/Battery

• Petit Theft

• Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon Without Intent to Kill

According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Power’s charges were later upgraded to:

• Battery – Touch or Strike (784.03.1A1)

• Burglary with Assault or Battery (810.02.2A)

• Attempted First-Degree Premeditated Murder (782.04.1A1)