Orlando Woman Charged With DUI With Serious Bodily Injury After Crash Critically Injuring 2 Young Children In Frostproof Crash

Frostproof

Staff Reporter

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May 22, 2023

32-year-old Ashauntie Cox (DOB 2/15/1991) of Orlando, who caused serious bodily harm to two children in her vehicle while fleeing from two crashes and driving under the influence, was arrested in Polk County on Friday, May 19, 2023, and charged with several felonies.

According to witnesses and information developed during the investigation, the first crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on US Hwy 27 at the intersection with US Hwy 98 near Frostproof. Cox was driving a blue Kia southbound on Hwy 27 when she struck a grey Chevy Silverado pickup truck and then fled at a high rate of speed. As she continued to recklessly speed south down Hwy 27, weaving in and out of slower moving traffic, she rear-ended a 2016 Honda CRV while trying to pass between that SUV and the vehicle next to it which were both also going southbound. The victim driving the CRV was taken to Sebring Hospital, where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

The collision caused Cox’s vehicle to flip several times, ejecting two Orlando children, ages 5 and 8 years old. Both sustained significant injuries, and they were taken to Tampa General Hospital where they are both in critical condition. A 27-year-old female passenger was also seriously injured along her spinal cord, hip, and back. She remains at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in stable condition.

When deputies arrived at the scene of the crash, they detected the odor of marijuana and located a bottle of tequila in Cox’s vehicle. Cox was transported to the hospital and interview by deputies. Cox told deputies they were driving from Orlando to Avon Park to celebrate the 5-year-old’s kindergarten graduation. She admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day, and to having four shots of tequila. Her blood was drawn for further analysis, and she displayed several signs of impairment.

She was booked into the Polk County Jail and is being charged with:

· Three counts DUI with serious bodily injury (F3)

· Two counts negligent child abuse with great bodily harm (F2)

· Reckless driving (F3)

· One count DUI with property damage (M1)

· One count DUI (M2)

Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigation.

“This woman had no regard for anyone’s life when she got behind the wheel intoxicated and then drove recklessly down a major highway, but what’s worse is the blatant disregard she had for the lives of the innocent children in her car. I expect a successful prosecution to hold her accountable—and let’s hope she loses her driving privileges if she’s released from jail or prison. Please keep these babies and their families in your prayers.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Lake Wales Woman Under Arrest After Polk Deputy Is Attacked & Injured By Her Dog After She Allegedly Threatened Duke Energy Workers

carl

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February 26, 2025

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Lake Wales Woman Under Arrest After Polk Deputy Is Attacked & Injured By Her Dog After She Allegedly Threatened Duke Energy Workers

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrested Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, of Lake Wales, and charged her with multiple felonies. According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Wilfong-Perkins had threatened to let her dogs loose to attack Duke Energy workers. The workers were there to shut off power the was reportedly being obtained illegally. When the deputy responded and while he was trying to take Wilfong-Perkins into custody one of the suspects dogs attacked him causing significant bodily injury to his arm and face.

Below is a copy of the arrest affidavit and long detailed list of charges. It should be noted that this is an unedited, but redacted report of facts by the PCSO. 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 Lake Wales Daily 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 02/25/2025, Deputy Sheriff (D/S) Wofford #7999 responded to 4 Sugar Pine Loop in Lake Wales, Florida regarding Duke Energy employee’s being threatened by the homeowner.

Upon arrival, D/S Wofford made contact with REDACTED, who will be referred to as victim 1, and REDACTED, who will be referred to as victim 2. Victim 1 advised the above location had the power shut off, by Duke Energy, due to non-payment. Duke Energy received an alert that there was low voltage at the meter, which meant electricity was being stolen directly from the meter. Victim 1 and victim 2 were sent to the location to check the meter and disconnect the power at the pole itself. When victim 1 arrived, he exited his vehicle, which is clearly marked with the Duke Energy logo, wearing a shirt and hard hat clearly marked with the Duke Energy logo, and began walking toward the residence. As he approached, the suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, looked out her open window and told victim 1 to leave her property. Victim 1 attempted to explain his purpose for being there but before he was able to explain, the suspect stated if he was not going to leave then she was going to let her dogs out. The suspect proceeded to open the door and let her dogs; 2 full-grown large Great Danes and 2 medium size German Sheppard/Belgian Malinois, out of the residence. The dogs proceeded to aggressively approach Victim 1, who retreated to safety inside his truck due to fear of being attacked. Victim 2 observed the release of the dogs and did not exit his vehicle due to fear of being attacked. Victim 1 contacted law enforcement to report the incident.

D/S Wofford approached the residence and observed the suspect standing near the front of the residence. A large Great Dane was observed chained up near the suspect. Another large Great Dane was observed chained up in the back yard along with 2 medium size German Sheppard/Belgian Malinois in a wire crate on the side yard.

D/S Wofford attempted to conduct his investigation with the suspect about why he was there but refused to listen, was speaking incoherently and continued to repeat herself telling everyone to get off of her property. While D/S Wofford was speaking to the suspect, she used her cellphone to call 9-1-1. The suspect was belligerent and hostile with the 9-1-1 operator. She demanded to speak to a supervisor and even requested “FHP” be present during the investigation.

Due to the suspect’s misuse of emergency services, in the presence of D/S Wofford, he began to make multiple lawful commands for the suspect to step away from the dog so that he could take her into custody. The suspect refused to comply with the multiple lawful commands made by D/S Wofford. D/S Wofford approached the suspect to take her into custody, but as he did, the suspect’s trained Great Dane attacked him. The dog bit D/S Wofford, causing serious bodily injury to his left forearm and just above his left eye. D/S Wofford was able to disengage from the dog, retreat to safety, request backup, and EMS. The suspect grabbed the dog’s collar and held it close to her as protection while D/S Wofford retreated.

D/S Wofford was unable to gain control of the suspect due to the dog attacking him and then being used as protection. D/S Wofford continued to give lawful commands to the suspect to step away from the dog, which she refused to comply with. He was unable to dispatch the dog due to the dogs close proximity to the suspect.

Polk County Medics arrived on scene to treat D/S Wofford and ultimately transported him to Lake Wales Hospital where he received 4 stiches in his left forearm and 3 stiches above his left eye.

D/S Lyle #7446, along with other Deputies, arrived on scene and began giving multiple lawful verbal commands, to the suspect, to step away from her dog so that she could be taken into custody without further incident. The suspect continued to refuse to comply with these lawful commands. Ultimately, the suspect was tased and Deputies were able to pull the dog’s chain away from the suspect so that she could be secured in handcuffs and taken into custody without further incident.

Through my investigation, I determined probable cause existed to charge the suspect, Tiffany Wilfong- Perkins, with violation of the following Florida State Statutes:

784.07(2)(D).- Tiffany actually and intentionally touched or struck Polk County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Sheriff Wofford #7999 against his will, intentionally caused bodily harm to him. In committing the Battery, Tiffany knowingly and intentionally caused permanent disfigurement to D/S Wofford. The incident caused permanent disfigurement to D/S Wofford’s face and arms. D/S Wofford was dressed in his agency-issued, green duty uniform bearing patches on each sleeve that read, “Polk County Sheriff’s Office” and he had a silver star affixed to his chest.

Under the circumstances of this incident, the precedence of Clark v. State (FL 2001) was utilized. A summary of Clark vs. State provides that a battery may be found as a result of the intentional touching or intentional striking of something other than the actual body of the person. However, the object that is touched or struck must have such an intimate connection with the person that it is to be regarded as a part or as an extension of the person. In this incident, Tiffany’s brown Great Dane, appeared to be highly trained and was used as a weapon against D/S Wofford.

784.07 (2)(C) – The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, intentionally and unlawfully threatened, by action, to do violence to Polk County Sheriff’s Office D/S Wofford. At the time, Tiffany appeared to have the ability to carry out the threat. Tiffany’s actions created a well-founded fear that the violence was about to take place in D/S Wofford’s mind. The assault was made with a fully-formed, conscious intent to commit Aggravated Battery upon D/S Wofford.

784.021(1)(A).. – Two Counts- The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, intentionally and unlawfully threatened, by both word and action, to do violence to Duke Energy employees, victim’s two and three, REDACTED, and REDACTED. At the time, Tiffany appeared to have the ability to carry out the threat. Tiffany’s actions created a well-founded fear that the violence was about to take place in the minds of the victims.

843.01. – The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, knowingly and willfully resisted, obstructed, and opposed D/S Wofford by doing violence to him. At the time, PCSO D/S Wofford was engaged in the lawful execution of a legal duty (Attempting to place her under arrest for a misdemeanor that occurred in his presence [Misuse of 911]). At the time, D/S Wofford was an officer and Tiffany knew he was an officer. D/S Wofford was dressed in his agency-issued green duty uniform bearing patches on each sleeve that read “Polk County Sheriff’s Office” and he had a silver star affixed to his chest and arrived to the property in a marked, agency-issued patrol vehicle.

843.02. – The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, knowingly and willfully resisted, obstructed, and opposed D/S Lyle #7446 without doing violence to him. The suspect refused multiple commands to come from behind her trained Great Dane and speak with law enforcement regarding a possible aggravated assault.

At the time, PCSO D/S Lyle was engaged in the lawful execution of a legal duty (Responding to a call for service at her address). At the time, D/S Lyle was an officer and Tiffany knew he was an officer. D/S Lyle was dressed in his agency-issued, green duty uniform bearing patches on each sleeve that read, “Polk County Sheriff’s Office” and he had a silver star affixed to his chest and arrived to the property in a marked, agency-issued patrol vehicle.

365.172(14)… – The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, accessed 911 services for the purpose of making a false complaint and to report false information that could result in the emergency response of any public safety agency. The suspect knowingly used 911 services for a purpose other than obtaining public safety assistance. Her misuse of 911 caused multiple deputies and detectives to respond to the scene after D/S Wofford was injured while attempting to take her into custody for her misuse. The cost to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office was over $100.00.

828.12 (1) – The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, deprived her approximately a two year old male, blue Great Dane of necessary sustenance. The dog was taken under PCSO Animal Control bite protocol and examined by veterinarian, Dr. Jackson. Dr. Jackson noted that the dog weighed 117.6 pounds, had a 103.6 temperature, and a Fecal exam showed the dog to have hook worms. Dr. Jackson gave the dog a body score 2/9. Dr. Jackson advised the dog is very thin and stated a healthy Great Dane should weigh between 150-175 pounds. Dr. Jackson advised the dog is not being provided the necessary sustenance to have a healthy weight. I observed the dog’s pelvic bones, ribs, and spine to be easily visible in violation of this statute.

812.14. – The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, knowingly, willingly, and intentionally altered and tampered with electricity that was remotely turned off on 02/20/2025, but was previously provided by Duke Energy. Duke Energy was notified of low-voltage at the meter and sent a representative to the property. The representative, REDACTED, advised that the meter was removed and was “jumped” by unknown means.

812.014(2)(C)1.*. – The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, knowingly, willingly, and intentionally used approximately $892.00 of power services provided by the victim, Duke Energy. In an attempt to avoid paying those charges, the suspect, by unknown means, “jumped the meter” and illegally obtained 160 kilowatts of power between 02/20/2025 and 02/25/2025. The total loss to the company at the time of this investigation was $1,342.93.

810.09(2)(A) – The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, unlawfully prevents a utility worker from accessing property where the utility has a legal easement or right of entry provided under F.S.S. 362.01. F.S.S. provides utility companies the legal right to enter private property for service-related activities.

During the investigation, I observed several environmental violations in plain sight. Upon inspecting the property, I discovered several piles of broken-down items including furniture, plastics, wood, and scrap metal located throughout the property. The suspect, Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins, is the sole adult living at the residence and is responsible for all activities on the property.

F.A.C Code 62-701.300 (1)(a) states, no person shall store, process, or dispose of solid waste except as authorized at a permitted solid waste management facility or a facility exempt from permitting under this chapter.

After completing an inspection at this location it was determined the defendant was currently operating an unpermitted landfill at this location. The piles containing furniture, auto parts, plastics, wood, and scrap metal should have been properly discarded at a permitted solid waste facility and not placed in his back yard to deteriorate. As a result of violating F.A.C. 62-701.300 (1)(a), the defendant was determined to be in violation of F.S.S. 403.161 (1)(b) which states, fail to obtain any permit required by this chapter or by rule or regulation, or to violate or fail to comply with any rule, regulation, order, permit, or certification adopted or issued by the department pursuant to its lawful authority.

While conducting the above search, several waste tires (seven waste tires) were observed being stored on the property. The property located at 4 Sugar Pine Loop, Lake Wales, Florida, is not a permitted waste tire collection center and the defendant was determined to be in violation of F.A.C Code 62-711.400(4)(a). F.A.C Code 62-711.400(4)(a) states, No person shall store waste tires unless the waste tires are: (a) Collected and stored at a permitted waste tire collection center.

While on site, I observed/smelled raw sewage coming from the west of the residence that was attracting hundreds of flies. I did not observe any corrective measures and determined the untreated human waste was in violation of F.S.S. 386.041(1)(a), which states: Untreated or improperly treated human waste, garbage, offal, dead animals, or dangerous waste materials from manufacturing processes harmful to human or animal life and air pollutants, gases, and noisome odors which are harmful to human or animal life.

After conducting an inspection of the exterior of the residence, I determined Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins should have made an attempt to correct the flies in addition to the septic issues. I determined Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins to be in violation of 386.041(1)(e) which states: The creation, maintenance, or causing of any condition capable of breeding flies, mosquitoes, or other arthropods capable of transmitting diseases, directly or indirectly to humans.

While continuing to search the property, I discovered wood, plastics, papers, and an electronic device in a pile being intentionally burned. The items being burned by Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins contained several materials that are prohibited from burning.

After my inspection of the fire intentionally set by the defendant, I determined Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins violated F.A.C Code 62-256.300(2)(a) – (2) Prohibition on the Open Burning of Certain Materials. (a) The open burning of biological waste, hazardous waste, asbestos-containing materials, mercury-containing devices, pharmaceuticals, tires, rubber material, residual oil, used oil, asphalt, roofing material, tar, treated wood, plastics, garbage, or trash is prohibited.

As a result of violating F.A.C. 62-256.300 (2)(a), F.A.C. 62-711.400(4)(a), and F.A.C. 62-701.300 (1)(a) the defendant was determined to be in three separate violations of F.S.S. 403.161 (1)(b) which states, fail to obtain any permit required by this chapter or by rule or regulation, or to violate or fail to comply with any rule, regulation, order, permit, or certification adopted or issued by the department pursuant to its lawful authority.

While on scene, I observed, in plain view, an exposed septic pool on the west side of the building. The waste water pipe of the mobile home was observed dumping raw human waste into an exposed septic pool. No apparent attempt had been made to correct/treat the exposed raw human sewage as required and in violation of F.S.S. 386.041(1)(a), which states: Untreated or improperly treated human waste, garbage, offal, dead animals, or dangerous waste materials from manufacturing processes harmful to human or animal life and air pollutants, gases, and noisome odors which are harmful to human or animal life.

After conducting an inspection of the exterior of the travel trailer I also determined Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins should have made an attempt to correct the septic issues. I determined Tiffany Wilfong-Perkins to be in violation of F.S.S. 386.041(1)(b) which states: Improperly built or maintained septic tanks, water closets, or privies.

The defendant was also determined to be in violation of F.S.S. 381.0065 (4) when she failed to obtain the required permit to construct a septic tank on the property. F.S.S. 381.0065 (4) states that a person may not construct, repair, modify, abandon, or operate an onsite sewage treatment and disposal system without first obtaining a permit approved by the department. As a result of violating F.S.S. 381.0065 (4), the defendant was determined to be in violation of F.S.S. 403.161 (1)(b). F.S.S. 403.161 (1)(b) states, fail to obtain any permit required by this chapter or by rule or regulation, or to violate or fail to comply with any rule, regulation, order, permit, or certification adopted or issued by the department pursuant to its lawful authority.”

FWC to Host Virtual Public Meeting Regarding Options for Regulated Black Bear Hunting in Florida

Outdoors

Maria Iannucci

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February 26, 2025

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FWC to Host Virtual Public Meeting Regarding Options for Regulated Black Bear Hunting in Florida

Florida black bear. Photo credit: Wikipedia

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) wants to hear from the public about their thoughts on potential options for regulated black bear hunting and has scheduled a virtual public meeting on March 13, 2025, beginning at 6 p.m. EDT. Those interested in attending the meeting can join by going to MyFWC.com/Hunting and clicking “Florida black bear.” The public can also email their comments to [email protected].

At its December 2024 Commission meeting, the FWC’s Bear Management Program gave Commissioners a 5-year update on implementing the 2019 Florida Black Bear Management Plan, highlighting recent bear management and research efforts. Following the presentation, the Commissioners directed staff to return to a future Commission meeting to propose options for implementing a potential bear hunt.

For more information, visit MyFWC.com/Hunting and click on “Florida black bear.”

In Loving Memory of Wayne Helm, 76, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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February 25, 2025

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Wayne Helm, 76

Wayne Helm of Lake Wales passed away Saturday, February 22, 2025 at his residence.

He was born October 20, 1948 in Lake Wales to the late Elmer and Lola Helm; he has been a lifelong resident of Lake Wales. Wayne was a retired Captain for the Lake Wales Police Department and served with the United States Army in Vietnam. He and his wife, Laura, were fans of the band Alabama and the University of Florida Gators. Before becoming ill, Wayne loved his cigars, going fishing, and playing golf.

Wayne was preceded in death by his wife, Laura Helm; and brother, Gary Helm. He is survived by friends, Don Williams and Hurley “Sonny” Jones; brother-in-law, Kenneth Waski; many special nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews; and his cats, Peabody and Sherman.

No services are scheduled at this time. Inurnment with military honors will be held at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell at a later date.

LWCS Board of Trustees Takes First Step in Superintendent Search

Lake Wales

carl

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February 25, 2025

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LWCS Board of Trustees Takes First Step in Superintendent Search

BY ANITA TODD, Special Articles

* Editor’s Note: Daily Ridge will post the members of the Superintendent Search Committee as soon as they are made public.

LAKE WALES – The Lake Wales Charter School Board of Trustees held a scheduled meeting on Feb. 24 at Lake Wales High School.

During the Work Session, Dr. Lynn Johnson, Chair of the Superintendent Search Committee, announced the process of finding a new leader for the System. Johnson hand-selected a group of seven to comprise the Selection Committee members. The members include Johnson; a current elementary school principal; a current middle or high school principal; two teacher representatives; a parent representative; and a community representative. LaQuanda Burroughs, LWCS Human Resources Director, will oversee the process under the Sunshine Law.

According to Johnson’s timeline, the committee will meet for the first time in the week of March 3. She said she would train the group on being objective during the evaluation process and how to use the scoring method. The scoring method and blind reviews will be used to prevent bias, she said.

“We have to assess people based on merit. We have toassess people based on qualifications. We have to assess people based on experience,” Johnsons said.

The job listing will be posted by March 17 for 15 days.

After the “weeding out” process – a period when the committee scores each candidate based on their submitted credentials without any identifying information – the group will come together to recommend the top 10 candidates to the Board. Those 10 will then be interviewed by the Board of Trustees – by the Board as a group and one-on-one -which should be completed by the week of April 28.

The Board of Trustees will then recommend the top five and then the top three with a final decision by May 19.

“Hopefully, the offering (to the Superintendent for the position) could happen before the end of the school year,” Johnson said. “I hope that you trust that I can lead this process in a way that can get us the best person that will truly lead this system.”

The proposed committee members will receive an email from Dr. Johnson today (Feb.25). Once their acceptance is given, the members’ names will be made public.

Dr. Johnson was selected by Danny Gill, Chair of the Board of Trustees, to act as the Chair of the Superintendent Selection Committee. He also asked her to recommend how the process will be conducted.

However, at least two Trustees questioned the decision of her choosing the selection committee entirely on her own.

“I’d like to have some input on that – just to submit some names,” said Andy Blair, Trustee.

Dr. Johnson explained why she alone chose the committee members.

“There are concerns that people on the board would want people on the committee who they want on the committee to help sway the process,” Dr. Johnson said.

Brian Marbutt, Trustee, disagreed.

“I have the exact opposite concern. We have one board member picking the committee and the rest of the board has no say,” Marbutt said. “I would prefer to have a representative on the committee for each board member …. Versus having one board member pick the committee. One vote cannot sway the entire committee. If it’s all Sunshine then you know there should be no issues there from that standpoint. I stand with Andy on possibly figuring out a little different makeup of the committee.”

However, neither Blair nor Marbutt’s objections were addressed by the Board.

The next Board meeting will be held March 10.

Importance of Local Elections in Lake Wales

Kip

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February 25, 2025

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Importance of Local Elections in Lake Wales

Participating in local mayoral elections is a crucial civic duty that directly impacts the quality of life in our communities. Mayors, as the chief executives of cities, oversee daily operations, implement policies, and represent the city’s interests. Their decisions influence essential services such as public safety, education, housing, and transportation. By voting, residents ensure their voices are heard in selecting leaders who will make decisions that reflect the needs and aspirations of the entire community.

Despite the significant impact of local governance, voter turnout in municipal elections often remains low. Low participation can result in a lack of representation and accountability. Every vote carries substantial weight in local elections, where outcomes can be decided by a narrow margin. Engaging in the electoral process empowers citizens to hold elected officials accountable and fosters a government that reflects diverse perspectives and priorities.

The 2022 Lake Wales mayoral election serves as a reminder of the importance of voter turnout. In this election, only 2,587 ballots were cast out of 9,827 registered voters, resulting in a voter turnout of just 26.33%. The results were closely contested, highlighting the power of each vote in shaping the city’s future. As Lake Wales continues to grow, residents have an opportunity to influence decisions that impact their daily lives by engaging in the democratic process. Voting in local elections is essential for ensuring that municipal leadership reflects the community’s collective interests and works toward a prosperous and sustainable future for all.

2022 Official Lake Wales Mayoral Voting Results

Lake Wales is currently experiencing significant growth from both residential and business perspectives. The city has approved the annexation of 558 acres for the Lake Wales Commons Development, a mixed-use project that will feature 3,200 residential units along with retail and industrial space. This development is expected to bring a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and townhomes, along with commercial and light industrial spaces, contributing to the city’s economic development strategy.

Proposed developments and growth in Lake Wales

Additionally, the city is seeing a surge in new businesses and economic activities. The Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council is actively promoting a strong business climate while supporting the community’s quality of life. New developments and business initiatives are expected to provide greater opportunities for residents and attract more investments to the area.

In 2023, Advanced Drainage Systems, one of the nation’s leading providers of innovative water management solutions, announced it would build a new, state-of-the-art pipe manufacturing facility in Lake Wales

However, this rapid growth comes with challenges. Traffic congestion is increasing, making daily commutes more time-consuming. Schools are at or over capacity, straining resources and affecting the quality of education. Furthermore, the city faces potential water supply challenges as it seeks sustainable solutions to meet the growing demand. Addressing these issues requires thoughtful leadership and active civic participation to ensure that the community’s needs are met in a balanced and responsible manner.

In conclusion, voting in local mayoral elections is essential for ensuring that municipal leadership reflects the community’s collective aspirations. Through this engagement, residents can effect meaningful change and promote a thriving, well-governed city. The ongoing growth in Lake Wales highlights the importance of active civic participation to shape the future of the community.

To make a difference, residents can:

Register to vote: Ensure you are registered and encourage others to do the same.
Stay informed: Follow local news like Lake Wales Daily or The Daily Ridge, attend city hall meetings, and participate in community discussions to stay updated on the issues and candidates.
Volunteer: Join a campaign, help at polling stations, or assist with voter registration drives.
Vote early: Take advantage of early voting options to avoid long lines on election day.
Encourage others: Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about the importance of voting and help them get to the polls.

By taking these steps, residents can actively contribute to the democratic process and ensure their voices are heard in shaping the future of Lake Wales.

Sources: Water Challenges Facing Lake Wales, Traffic, Area Growth, Business Development, Lake Wales 2022 Election Results

Green & Gold Foundation Presents HHM Education & Leadership Series Feb. 25

Maria Iannucci

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February 24, 2025

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Green & Gold Foundation Presents HHM Education & Leadership Series Feb. 25

The Green & Gold Foundation presents HHM Education & Leadership Series on February 25, 2025 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.at the B Street Community Center, 230 B Street, Lake Wales.

Mr. Keron Thompson, Black Business Investment Fund, will be the special guest speaker for the evening.

Light refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Mr. Rodney Rackley at 407-832-7689.

Damaged Stormwater Inlet at Longleaf and Live Oak Blvd to be Repaired

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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February 24, 2025

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Damaged Stormwater Inlet at Longleaf and Live Oak Blvd to be Repaired

by James Coulter

A damaged stormwater inlet at the intersection of Longleaf and Live Oak Boulevard will be fixed now that the City of Lake Wales has approved expending $28,450 on repairs.

At their meeting on Tues. Feb. 18, 2025, Lake Wales City Commissioners voted unanimously to approve their consent agenda. One item pertained to proposed repairs to a storm inlet at a local intersection.

Located at the intersection of Longleaf and Live Oak Boulevard, the stormwater inlet has received sufficient damage as to affect the roadway upon which it is built.

“The roadway…has begun to sink due to a compromised stormwater inlet and a cracked underground storm pipe,” the city agenda memo stated. “The damaged infrastructure is allowing groundwater intrusion, undermining the integrity of the road and posing a growing safety concern.”

Furthermore, as the memo states, “If left unaddressed, the continued deterioration of the pipe will exacerbate roadway instability, increase repair costs, and present a significant public safety hazard.”

As such, the city was recommended to expend $28,450 to have Odom Contracting perform the repairs. The funds for these repairs will be allocated within the city’s Maintenance & Repairs (M&R) Stormwater Repairs budget.

Odom was chosen for the job as it has “provided the most cost-effective and timely solution, ensuring the structural integrity of the roadway and stormwater system is restored efficiently.”

Both Suspects Arrested After Last Night’s Murder over Marijuana in Frostproof

Maria Iannucci

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February 24, 2025

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Both Suspects Arrested After Last Night’s Murder over Marijuana in Frostproof

UPDATE 2/25/25: Polk County Sheriff’s Office Offers Additional Details on the Arrests of Two Juveniles Charged with 1st Degree Murder; Names the Second Suspect:

Sheriff Grady Judd held a secondary press conference on Tuesday morning, Thursday, February 25, 2025, to offer additional information with regard to the investigation of two juveniles, charged with the first-degree murder of a 22-year-old man from Eagle Lake in a drug-related situation. The victim’s name has been released as Juan German-Garo, Jr., 22.

The second suspect, who has been referred to until now as a 16-year-old, is Charles Andrew Jackson III, a student at Lake Wales High School.

He is said to be the individual who went online, and using an unnamed app, and requested to purchase $400 worth of marijuana from the 22-year-old victim he allegedly later shot.

According to Sheriff Judd, the investigation shows that the victim is said to have travelled from his home in Eagle Lake to Frostproof to meet Jackson and his partner, 15-year-old Tyjhae Allen. Allen was arrested yesterday. After a 3-4 minute conversation, Jackson allegedly pulls a Draco AK-47 out of a book bag owned by Allen and shoots the victim 3 times. The victim is mortally wounded, and his vehicle rolls about a half a block down the road and comes to a stop. Two large bags of marijuana were found in the victim’s vehicle, according to a statement released by PCSO.

During the press conference, Sheriff Judd says that 911 was called, but does not elaborate on who made the call.

Both “Tyjhae and Charles flee,” says Judd. “Then Tyjhae says…my book bag is still in the middle of the road…so he runs back to get his book bag. He runs home. Charles disappears.”

It is suspected by investigators that, as Jackson fled, he called his father, Charles Jackson Jr., 37, who resides in Avon Park, to pick him up.

On Monday, February, 24, 2025, representatives of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office go to Avon Park to make contact with Jackson Jr., in search of his son. While officers are present, Jackson Jr., who himself has a criminal record, allegedly texted his son and encourages him to flee, while immediately deleting the texts. Jackson Jr. was arrested as a result.

As it turned out, Jackson III allegedly decided to attend classes on Monday at Lake Wales High School, where he is a student.

“He showed up for school. Did you hear what I said?” says Sheriff Judd during the press conference. “Monday morning he showed up for school at Lake Wales High School like nothing had happened. And he just murdered a guy by shooting him three times…”

PCSO PIO Meghan Petty has confirmed that Jackson III, after fleeing from Lake Wales High School, turn himself in to the south substation of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at around 3 PM yesterday. It is not clear if he was alone or with his mother.

Lake Wales High School was placed on heightened security for a period of time on Monday afternoon.

Tyjhae Allen is charged with first degree murder, attempted armed robbery, tampering with evidence, and giving false information to a law enforcement officer. He was arrested for criminal mischief to a vehicle in 2021.

Charles Jackson III is charged with first degree murder, attempted armed robbery, and tampering with evidence. He was arrested in 2022 for juvenile in possession of a weapon.

Charles Jackson Jr. was arrested for tampering with evidence [for deleting the text messages between him and his son], and accessory to first degree murder. His criminal history includes 25 previous felonies and 14 previous misdemeanors, and he has been to state prison two times based on convictions for battery on the elderly, simple battery, fleeing to elude law enforcement, and grand theft.

The gun used to murder German-Garo Jr. has not yet been located. It is a Draco pistol, which looks similar to an AK-47 without the stock [see example photo]. Anyone with information about the location of the firearm is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers 1-888-400-TIPS (8477). There is a $5,000 reward for information leading to the location of this weapon, and callers remain completely anonymous.

The investigation is ongoing.

Original story: The Polk County Sheriff’s Office held a press conference this afternoon, Monday, February 24, 2025, revealing that one suspect in last night’s homicide in Frostproof has been arrested.

Sheriff Grady Judd says 15-year-old Tyjhae Allen will be charged with 1st degree murder, tampering with evidence, and attempted robbery.

Since this afternoon’s press conference, PCSO has advised the media that they have also apprehended and arrested the second suspect, a 16-year-old, whose name has not yet been released. The circumstances around the 16-year-old’s arrest have not been made public at the time of publication.

There were two known suspects involved in the murder of a 22-year-old in Frostproof on Sunday evening February 23, 2025.

The press conference began with the following statement from Sheriff Judd:

“We had a very tragic event that shouldn’t have happened yesterday afternoon at about 5 PM in Frostproof, Florida. A 22-year-old kid was shot and killed. Now, I want to preface this by saying this 22-year-old kid was selling marijuana. That’s right, I hear it over and over; ‘Oh, it’s just a low-level, non-violent crime, marijuana.’ Well, tell our victim’s mother that, who lost her 22-year-old child yesterday.

“And here’s what occurred:

“As we know now, a 15- and a 16-year old suspect went on an app and ordered up some marijuana. When our victim arrived at about 5:00 p.m. yesterday afternoon in this Frostproof neighborhood, as he’s pulling down the road, he’s stopped by a 15- and a 16-year-old. They have some conversation for, as it’s described to us, for 2 or 3 minutes, when one of our suspects pulls out a firearm and begins to shoot our 22-year-old victim, who then tries to return fire.

“His car drifts down about a half a block where it runs into the edge of the road and stops and that’s where we find our 22-year-old, with a clutched…with marijuana in his hand; a baggie of marijuana in his hand, and he’s deceased.

“Tyjhae Allen is 15 years of age. He’s one of the two suspects. He’s in custody. This occurred in his neighborhood; and in fact, he stopped our drug-selling victim in front of his house.”

Sheriff Judd states in the press conference that the suspects did not have any money to purchase marijuana at the time of the confrontation.

At 3:30 this afternoon, PCSO advised that both suspects were in custody, and that more information about the second suspect would be released at a later time.

Sheriff Judd says his office will request that the state attorney’s office try them both as adults.

As for the victim, Sheriff Judd says that, even at 22, he was still a “kid.”

“He shouldn’t have been selling dope, but he certainly shouldn’t have died because he was. And he did. He was murdered. In the street. In this nice quiet neighborhood.”

Hwy. 60 Delays Today with Road Construction Near Downtown Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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February 24, 2025

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Hwy. 60 Delays Today with Road Construction Near Downtown Lake Wales

Plan for some delays on Hwy. 60 eastbound today between 1st and 2nd streets in Lake Wales today.

Crews are working on the business entrances near Locorito and Brake Burger. The right eastbound lane must merge to the left in this area to get past the construction. The merge begins in front of Publix.

Please drive with caution on Hwy. 60 as trucks work in the area today, or find an alternate route.

LWPD Hosts Community Relations Advisory Committee Meeting Feb. 24

Maria Iannucci

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February 24, 2025

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LWPD Hosts Community Relations Advisory Committee Meeting Feb. 24

The Lake Wales Police Department is hosting a Community Relations Advisory Committee Meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, February 24, 2025, at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. The public is invited.

The purpose is to promote a dialogue and positive relationships between the community and the Police Department.

The Lake Wales Family Recreation Center is located at 1001 Burns Ave., Lake Wales.

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