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
Between inventory issues and interest rates, buying a vehicle can be quite an ordeal, making it an investment worth protecting.
Today’s vehicles require less maintenance than ever before. You can go longer between oil changes and many tires are rated for longer travel. However, keeping up with regular maintenance remains part of your vehicle’s upkeep.
Whether you’ve purchased a new vehicle or you’re aiming to keep a car or truck you already own in good working condition, these tips can help you maintain its peak performance and appearance.
Car Wash: At least once a month, make a point of washing your car to remove built up grime. Not only is the dirt unsightly, but the mess can also damage your paint job and even the frame. Remember what love bugs can do.
Covered Parking: When possible, use a garage or other form of covered parking. You’ll protect your paint job from harsh UV rays, and you’ll also limit exposure to bird droppings and other potentially corrosive or damaging elements in the environment, like dust and pollen.
Windshield Wipers: Visibility is one of the most important aspects of safety when you’re driving, and windshield wiper blades play an essential role. Squeaking, streaking and failing to clear precipitation are all signs your blades need to be replaced. Check wipers regularly and plan on replacing them at least every 6-12 months.
Battery: You may not think much about your battery as long as your engine is turning over and your vehicle is running smoothly. However, even a car in good condition can have battery damage. At least once a year, check for signs of battery acid. If you detect the white powdery substance around your battery terminals, disconnect the cables (negative first) and apply a mixture of baking soda and water with a wire brush. Rinse with water and dry before replacing the cables.
Air Filter: The air filter doesn’t just affect the air quality in the cabin of your vehicle. A dirty filter can also cause engine strain because it hinders proper air flow. Over time, you may even notice a decline in gas mileage and acceleration performance. Many factors affect how often you need to replace your filter, but a quick visual inspection should give you a clear idea. Your owner’s manual will help you determine how to access the filter; it’s easier than people often assume.
When in doubt, get it checked out! Visit www.lowpaymentkings.com and find a service center near you.
~ If it takes your hands off the wheel, your eyes off the road or your mind off driving, it’s a distraction. ~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), its division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), and its public safety partners remind drivers to stay distraction-free while behind the wheel. April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and both drivers and passengers alike have a duty to refrain from engaging in or fostering distraction.
The act of driving requires keen concentration as drivers must constantly be in tune with factors such as their speed, surroundings, other drivers, roadway conditions and more. Throw distractions into the mix such as texting or talking on the phone, and this act becomes harder to do safely. Preliminary data for 2024 shows that in Florida, nearly 300 people died and over 2,200 people suffered serious bodily injuries due to a distracted driver.
A distraction is anything that takes your hands off the wheel, your eyes off the road, or your mind off the act of driving. While you may not think you are a distracted driver because you do not engage in more well-known distractions such as texting, you may be engaging in other distractions that put you, your passengers and others on the roadway at risk. This might include, but is not limited to, listening to loud music, eating, engaging with passengers or adjusting your vehicle’s entertainment or navigation system.
Just like the driver, passengers have a duty and responsibility to cultivate a safe driving environment. As a passenger, refrain from distracting behaviors such as, but not limited to, playing music loudly, shouting or talking loudly or unnecessarily directing the driver’s attention to objects or events taking place outside the vehicle.
If the driver is engaging in distraction, you as a passenger have the right to speak up and inform them their actions are dangerous. To remedy, offer to send a text, help with navigation or make needed in-vehicle adjustments for them.
Every day, Florida’s law enforcement officers, first responders, service workers, citizens and visitors find themselves along the side of the roadway. Whether they are doing their job, providing or receiving assistance, or attending to a personal need, it is the duty of all other motorists to obey the Florida Move Over Law and move over a lane or slow down if moving over is not possible.
If you are driving distracted, it is difficult for you to perceive if something happening ahead of you along the roadway requires moving over, slowing down or coming to a stop. Eliminate distraction so you can protect those who protect you.
“When you engage in a distraction while behind the wheel, even briefly, you put your life and others’ on the roadway in danger,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner.“No matter how important a text, call or other distraction may be, it can wait. Your primary focus should be ensuring you and your passengers arrive to your destination safely.”
“Steering clear from distractions while driving prevents tragedies,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II. “It is your duty and responsibility to stay alert and operate your vehicle in a vigilant manner each time you drive. Distractions can wait, but the safety of you and those around you cannot.”
Drivers who receive one of the above citations due to distracted driving can incur points on their driver license, fines and court fees or worse. Don’t let your decision to drive distracted be the reason someone does not arrive alive.
“We all play a role in creating safer roadways and that starts with the choice to make responsible driving decisions, such as putting away distractions, while behind the wheel,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Small actions can lead to major strides in achieving our goal of eliminating serious injuries and fatalities across Florida’s roadways.”
“Distracted Driving is anything that takes your attention away from safe driving. Florida’s sheriffs are committed to enforcing distracted driving laws to protect the public. We ask you to take steps to eliminate distractions that could lead to crashes. As President of the Florida Sheriffs Association, I fully support the ‘Put It Down’ campaign by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles,” stated Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell, President of the Florida Sheriffs Association.
“This Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA) urges drivers to be “hands free” by connecting their devices to Bluetooth in their vehicles and concentrating on the road,” saidFPCA President Charlie Vazquez, Chief of Police Tampa International Airport “No call or text, no alert from your social media accounts, is worth your life. Please make the roads safer for everyone by choosing to focus fully on driving.”
Next time you get behind the wheel, remember the importance of driving distraction-free. For more information on distracted driving, visit FLHSMV’s distracted driving webpage.
An easy recipe that can serve your family or a crowd is a perfect solution for any cookbook. Look no further than this Easy Enchilada Casserole, an ideal fit for family dinners or hosting a group when served as a dip.
Photo screenshot from Lake Wales Gardens website of one of the buildings in the complex
A structural collapse was reported to Polk County Fire Rescue around 11:32 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 504 4th St. S. in Lake Wales. This address is in the Lake Wales Gardens apartment complex, which encompasses several buildings with multiple units.
Lake Wales Police Department Lt. Ed Palmer says that the ceiling in one of the lower apartments collapsed, which will displace the residents in that unit. The main roof of the building did not collapse. The cause of the collapse is not known at this time.
Management at the Lake Wales Gardens apartments is aware of the situation and maintenance is working to repair the damage. 
At approximately 10:49 AM on Saturday, April 5, 2025, a traffic collision was reported on Masterpiece Road at the intersection of Timberlane Rd. in Lake Wales.
They said to be two vehicles involved, one appearing to be a gray SUV.
Masterpiece Road is currently closed in both directions at Timberlane Road as first responders are blocking the roadway while working the crash.
Please find an alternate route. This story will be updated.
UPDATE 11:23 a.m.: Polk County Fire Rescue reports that no injuries required transport. The roadway is now said to be reopened.
To honor its legacy as a “City in a Garden”, the City of Lake Wales released a proclamation observing a national holiday in honor of trees and other natural flora.
At their meeting on Wed. Apr. 2, 2025, Lake Wales Mayor Jack Hilligoss offered an official proclamation recognizing Apr. 2 as Arbor Day, in which he encouraged residents “to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands.”
Founded on April 10, 1872, Arbor Day is a national holiday established by J. Sterling Morton, a Nebraska state legislator and newspaper publisher who, according to the Arbor Day Foundation, “had an enthusiasm for trees and advocated strongly for individuals and civic groups to plant them.”
The first official holiday in 1872, as the official proclamation explained, “was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees in Nebraska.” In 2023, the Arbor Day Foundation reportedly planted and distributed more than 1.7 million trees.
The city’s proclamation recognized the benefits that treesprovide to the environment and communities such as Lake Wales:
“Trees can be a solution to combating climate change by reducing the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cutting heating and cooling costs, and…trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community.”
“Trees — wherever they are planted — are a source of joy and spiritual renewal,” Mayor Hilligoss wrote. “I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this and future generations.”
By officially recognizing Arbor Day, Lake Wales shows its commitment to the local environment as envisioned by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., who helped design the city and the adjoining Bok Tower Gardens as a “City in a Garden.”
Merlin Entertainments, the UK-based owner of attractions such as Legoland Florida and The Orlando Eye at Icon Park, has announced a series of layoffs affecting its operations in Central Florida.
On April 1, 2025, Merlin’s creative division, Merlin Magic Making, issued a notice to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity detailing the permanent layoff of 31 employees at its Lake Wales facility, located at 1501 Longleaf Blvd. The layoffs are scheduled to commence on May 31, 2025, and may continue through June 13, 2025. The affected positions include Brick Stockers, Lego Model Designers, Model Builders, Model Builder Team Leads, Model Designers, Model Shop Managers, Model Shop Supervisors, and Model Technical Builders. Employees do not have bumping rights, and none are represented by a union.
Photo Courtesy of Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce
This decision follows a previous announcement in January 2025, when Legoland Florida Resort in Winter Haven revealed plans to lay off 234 employees, primarily from its entertainment department. These layoffs, which began on March 25 and concluded by April 7, were part of operational changes aimed at enhancing the guest experience and allowing the resort to operate more flexibly in a competitive market.
The layoffs at Merlin Magic Making coincide with a broader restructuring within Merlin Entertainments. In February, Fiona Eastwood was appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, and in March, the company announced plans to merge three operating divisions into a single unit to streamline operations and better leverage the company’s scale.
These workforce reductions come amid financial challenges for Merlin Entertainments. In 2024, the company reported a 3.2% decline in total revenues, amounting to approximately $2.6 billion, and a 15.1% drop in profits to about $721 million. The company attributed these declines to unfavorable weather conditions and a weaker market for weekend visits, particularly in Europe and the U.S.
Photo Courtesy of Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce
Despite these challenges, Merlin Entertainments is continuing to invest in its attractions. The company has announced plans to invest approximately $90 million in new indoor roller coasters for Legoland Florida and Legoland California, set to open in 2026.
The recent layoffs highlight the ongoing adjustments within Merlin Entertainments as it seeks to navigate a competitive theme park industry and address financial pressures.
In 2022, more than 24,505 children were reported to be victims of abuse or neglect in Florida. To help combat this trend, the City of Lake Wales released a proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Photo credit: Lake Wales Police Department
At a city commission meeting on Wed. Apr. 2, 2025, Lake Wales Mayor Jack Hilligoss offered an official proclamation observing the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
“Child Abuse Prevention Month reminds Floridians of all ages that they can help children increase positive childhood experiences, which lead to happier, healthier childhoods,” Mayor Hilligoss said.
Photo credit: Lake Wales Police Department
Since 1983, April has been designated as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, according to Google, in an effort, “to raise awareness and take action to prevent child maltreatment, with communities and organizations working together to support families and create safe environments for children.”
In the official proclamation, Hilligoss referenced several local and state organizations committed to addressing and alleviating child abuse and neglect within the state of Florida.
“Prevent Child Abuse Florida, in collaboration with the Governor’s Office of Adoption and Child Protection, the Florida Department of Children and Families, Heartland for Children, and The Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida, implements Pinwheels for Prevention, a statewide coordinated campaign to raise awareness of child abuse prevention efforts by teaching about healthy child development and positive parenting practices, and establishing Circle of Parents peer support groups,” he wrote.
Residents are encouraged to call the Hope Line at 850-300-HOPE ” to speak with a Care Navigator for support to develop a plan to achieve economic self-sufficiency, referrals to local partners, and help identifying goals and barriers in their lives.”
LAKE WALES – Gregory Lewis, the now-former Principal of Bok Academy North, resigned April 1 after his arrest for petty theft. Toyaleta Speed, Assistant Principal, has been named Interim Principal for the school.
According to the Lake Wales Charter School officials, Lewis resigned following his March 28 arrest in Winter Haven. Lewis was arrested at Walmart for skip-scanning while using the self-checkout line, meaning he intentionally failed to scan certain items before completing his purchase. The total value of the stolen items was less than $40.
He was placed on administrative leave following his arrest.
Until being named Interim Principal, Speed was the Assistant Principal of Curriculum at Bok Academy North, ensuring students and staff were equipped with research-based instruction. She received her undergraduate and master’s degrees from Florida A&M University and a Specialist in Educational Leadership from Nova Southern University. She has more than 20 years experience in education.
Hey there, Lake Wales locals! The first weekend of April is bringing some fantastic fun right to our doorstep. From a morning 5k to a lively karaoke night, there’s plenty to enjoy in Lake Wales from April 4–6, 2025. Grab your friends and family, and let’s make some weekend plans! 🎶✨
Saturday, April 5, 2025
🏃 Carillon Classic 5k presented by AdventHealth
When: 7:00 AM
Where: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
What’s Happening: Kick off your Saturday with a scenic 5k run! With 65 interested and 15 confirmed runners, it’s a great way to get moving in Lake Wales. Lace up and join the fun!
What’s Happening: Time to shine on the mic! This karaoke night has 7 interested and 1 confirmed so far—bring your best tunes and make it a memorable evening.
Where: 3200 River Ranch Boulevard, River Ranch, FL 33867 (just 20 miles east of Lake Wales)
What’s Happening: Saddle up for a rootin’-tootin’ good time! Amanda N Hollis and Leslie are interested in this nearby rodeo, featuring bull riding, trick riding, and more. A short drive from Lake Wales, it’s perfect for a fun night out!
What a great way to spend the weekend in and around Lake Wales! Whether you’re running in the morning, singing your heart out, or cheering at the rodeo, there’s something for everyone. Which event are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll see you around town—or at the rodeo—enjoying the fun! 🌟🎉
