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 Moose Lodge: A Local Pillar of Community, Charity, and Connection

Lake Wales

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July 1, 2025

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Lake Wales Moose Lodge: A Local Pillar of Community, Charity, and Connection

If you are ever searching for a place to feel connected or get more involved with your community, look no further than the Lake Wales Moose Lodge. On May 22nd, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mike Hayhurst and Dwayne, who have each been members of the Lake Wales Moose Lodge for over ten years. I asked them about the lodge’s mission and their involvement in the community.

I met Mr. Hayhurst and Dwayne at Kimber’s Bar & Grill, where they were representing the Lake Wales Moose Lodge as sponsors of Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation, which was hosting an event that evening. Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation is just one of the many organizations that the Moose Lodge supports throughout the year.

Mr. Hayhurst explained that the lodge is deeply committed to supporting the local community, more so than many other organizations. Their contributions are evident in the wide range of groups they help, including Lake Wales High School athletics, Nalcrest High School Softball, Shop With a Cop, Habitat for Humanity, the Veterans Association, and many more.

The Lake Wales Moose Lodge is dedicated to making a lasting impact, and their calendar is filled with charitable events. Upcoming efforts include hosting the Shop With a Cop event one week before Thanksgiving and another benefit for Culpepper’s Foundation in January.

At its core, the Lake Wales Moose Lodge—and the Moose Lodge national organization—has always been about making a difference. Since its inception, the national Moose Lodge has focused on caring for children and senior citizens, a mission it proudly continues to this day.

If you or someone you know is interested in joining, you can learn more at mooseintl.org. Membership is open to those who want to do more than just socialize—it’s about becoming part of a network that truly gives back to its community.

As Mr. Hayhurst puts it, “Once you come into your local lodge and become a member, it’s not just about socializing and drinking at the bar and having a good time. You then start to learn what it’s all about, and it’s really worth it once you get in there.”

One thing is certain: members like Mr. Hayhurst and Dwayne do an outstanding job representing the values of the Moose Lodge. They embody what it means to serve and support their community and are perfect examples of what it means to be part of the Lake Wales Moose Lodge.

In Loving Memory of Bernie John Jackson., Jr., 85

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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July 1, 2025

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Bernie John Jackson, Jr., 85

Bernie John Jackson of Lakeland passed away Sunday, June 29, 2025 at Lakeland Hospice House.

He was born January 11, 1940 in Tampa to the late Bernie and Edith Jackson. Bernie was a retired Police Officer from Lakeland Police Department. When he was younger, Bernie enjoyed water skiing; he skied at Cypress Gardens. He loved being a Ham Radio operator and enjoyed doing word search books.

Bernie was preceded in death by his wife, Lois Ruth Jackson; and son, John. He is survived by his daughters, Anne Becker and husband Charles of Lakeland, Linda Rodriguez and husband Eddie of Brooksville; sons, Thomas Jackson and wife Jan of Titusville, Bernier Jackson of Orlando; sister, Judith Brown of Tampa; 8 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, July 7, 2025 at the Lake Wales Mausoleum.

Frostproof Crash Involving Upended Truck Sends One By Air to Hospital

Maria Iannucci

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July 1, 2025

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Frostproof Crash Involving Upended Truck Sends One By Air to Hospital

Photo by Thomas Spradlen, with permission

At 3:26 PM on Monday, June 30, 2025, a traffic collision was reported at 760 Palm Ave. N. in Frostproof.

A Polk County Sheriff’s Office public information officer has advised that the collision involved an oil truck. One victim was said to be entrapped.

Polk County Fire Rescue public information officer, Nathaniel Gale has confirmed that one patient was transported by air as a trauma alert.

The cause of the crash is unknown.

A local witness in the aftermath of the accident, Thomas Spradlen, says several roads were blocked for some time as multiple rescue units worked to extricate one victim.

Due to privacy regulations, the condition of the airlifted patient remains unknown.

In Loving Memory of George Lewis Brown, Jr., 88, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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June 29, 2025

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George Lewis Brown, Jr., 88

George Lewis Brown, Jr. of Yalaha passed away Thursday, June 26, 2025 at his residence.

He was born on July 14, 1936 in Grove City, Pennsylvania to the late George and Lucille Brown; he moved to Lake Wales from Buckhannon, West Virginia in 2007, then moved to Yalaha. George served with the United States Air Force from 1955 until 1959 and was a financial accountant for MacAsphalt for 27 years before retiring. He was a member of Frostproof Presbyterian Church.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Vance Brown in 2018. He is survived by his daughters, Kimberly Ann Matthews and husband Steve of Huntington, West Virginia, Cynthia Lynn Sullivan and husband Bryan of Bartow; son, Michael Alan Brown of Yalaha; sister, Betty Mae Linn of Reston, Virginia; nephew, Nick Strope; and 12 grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 18, 2025 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

Begin Summer Days with a Satisfying Breakfast

Maria’s Meal Picks

Maria Iannucci

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June 29, 2025

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Begin Summer Days with a Satisfying Breakfast

Before heading out the door for pool days, bike rides, summer camps and other family-favorite activities, there’s one key component to starting your day on the right foot: a nutritious breakfast. Filling morning meals help you and your loved ones power through all summer has to offer, whether you’re getting active on a hike or family walk or simply soaking in the sun.

Paired with a healthy lifestyle, an 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice includes key nutrients such as vitamin C, folate, thiamin and potassium, as well as calcium and vitamin D (in fortified juices), that help support the immune system all year long. Summer is no exception, particularly with its usual hectic schedules that include sports and other outdoor activities. Plus, it’s fat-free, cholesterol-free, sodium-free, has no added sugar and is made up of almost 90% water, which means it’s a healthy complement to your water hydration routine, another must during the hot summer months.

While delicious and nutritious on its own, an option like Florida Orange Juice can also be enjoyed as part of morning favorite recipes like French toast. As a meal that can satisfy the entire family, this Orange Juice French Toast with Infused Whipped Cream offers a twist on a breakfast classic.

As a delicious addition to any diet, 100% orange juice is a perfect way to sit down together at the table before tackling the day’s adventures.To find more nutrition-forward summer recipe ideas, visit floridajuice.com.

Orange Juice French Toast with Infused Whipped Cream

Recipe courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus

4 eggs
1/2 cup milk
3/4 cup, plus 1/4 cup, Florida Orange Juice, divided
10 slices milk bread
1 cup heavy whipping cream
neutral oil
maple syrup, for serving

In shallow dish, whisk eggs, milk and 3/4 cup orange juice.
Dunk each slice of bread in egg mixture, letting it soak in.
While bread soaks, whip heavy cream until it reaches stiff peaks, about 3 minutes. Gently fold in remaining orange juice until well combined.
On hot pan over medium heat, in small amount of oil, fry both sides of each bread slice. Remove from heat when golden brown.
Serve French toast in stacks with dollop of whipped cream and drizzle of maple syrup.

In Loving Memory of Dorothy Inez Tucker, 82, of Babson Park

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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June 28, 2025

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Dorothy Inez Tucker, 82

Dorothy Inez Tucker of Babson Park passed away Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at Somers Hospice House in Sebring.

She was born July 24, 1942 in Lake Wales to the late George and Laura Smith; she has been a lifelong resident of the area. Dorothy was the owner of Tucker Grove Service and was of the Christian faith. She enjoyed hunting, fishing, and going to the casino. She loved to spend time with her family.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Frank Tucker; and brothers, Bill Smith, Johnny Smith, and Melvin Smith. She is survived by her daughters, Linda Inez Wilson and husband Mike of Homosassa Springs, Karen Kae Edwards and husband Keith of Lake Wales; son, Jimmy Franklin Tucker and wife Karen of Babson Park; sister Thelma Gandy and husband Wendall of Babson Park; brother, Robert Smith of Osage, Kansas; grandchildren, Tiffany and husband Kyle, Kandi and husband Jeffrey, Tara; step-grandchildren, Melissa, Tabatha; great-grandchildren, Tyler, Sean, Elizabeth, Oakley, Rylynn; and great-great-granddaughter, Paisley.

A private family service will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her honor can be sent to Good Shepherd Hospice (https://www.chaptershealth.org/for-volunteers-donors/personal-giving/).

Vacancies on City of Lake Wales Boards Open to Residents

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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June 28, 2025

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Vacancies on City of Lake Wales Boards Open to Residents

CITY OF LAKE WALES- City staff is accepting expressions of interest to serve on City boards. Residents are encouraged to get involved and engage in the decision-making process as it relates to community governance. Check out the list of vacancies below, and apply here: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/formcenter/citizen-board-application-form-18/citizen-board-application-form-83

(1) Code Enforcement Board – Members are appointed by the City Commission. The board consists of seven (7) members. Whenever possible, membership shall include an architect, a businessperson, a realtor, an engineer, a general contractor, and a subcontractor. Members must be residents. There are 2 alternate positions (3-year term)

An interview process is necessary for new applicants only.
Members are required to file an annual Form 1, Statement of Financial Interests.
Current vacancies: 2 regular and 2 alternates

2) Tree Advisory Board – Members are appointed by the City Commission.
The tree advisory board shall study and advise city administration on the inventory of trees on city-maintained property.
The board consists of five (5) members. A majority of members must live or own property in city limits. (3-year term)

There is no interview process requirement for applicants applying for appointment to this board.
Members are not required to file an annual Form 1, Statement of Financial Interests.
Current vacancies – 1 Vacancy

3) Board of Adjustment and Appeals – Members are appointed by the City Commission.
This board hears and decides appeals where it is alleged that there is an error in any order, decision or determination of the administrative official in the enforcement of zoning regulations.
The board consists of five (5) members. Members must be residents. (3-year term)

An interview process is necessary for new applicants only.
Members are required to file an annual Form 1, Statement of Financial Interests.
Current Vacancies: 2 Vacancies

4) Historic District Regulatory Board – Members are appointed by the City Commission.
The purpose of the historic board is to administer the regulations within this chapter pertaining to historic districts.
The board consists of five (5) members, of which 50% of the members shall reside or own property within the City. Members shall be chosen to provide expertise in the following disciplines to the extent such professionals are available in the community: historic preservation, architecture, architectural history, curation, conservation, anthropology, building construction, landscape architecture, planning, urban design, and regulatory procedures. (3-year term)

An interview process is necessary for new applicants only.
Members are required to file an annual Form 1, Statement of Financial Interests.
Current vacancies – 1 Vacancy

Mixed Media Art Classes for Kids and Adults Today, June 28

Maria Iannucci

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June 28, 2025

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Mixed Media Art Classes for Kids and Adults Today, June 28

An Adult Mixed Media Art class is taking place today, June 28, 2025, at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. It is designed for ages 13+ and will be led by local artist Toni Doku. Participants will integrate painting and textiles to create a unique art piece. The class runs from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Also at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center today, a Youth class is available for children in Kindergarten through 13 years old. Toni Doku will guide participants in integrating painting and sculpture. This class is scheduled from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

In Loving Memory of Michael Douglas Jevcak, 85, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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June 27, 2025

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Michael Douglas Jevcak, 85

Mike died peacefully with his wife, Carol by his side on June 24, 2025. He lived in Ohio and joined the Navy at age 24. He was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida stationed in VP5, a sub hunter outfit. This was during the Cold War. He lived in Lake Wales, Florida for the past 20 years.

Mike had a blend of deep faith, a love for life, and a sense of humor. Being an altar boy in both the Byzantine and Roman Rite Catholic Churches was a unique and meaningful experience, showing his strong commitment to his faith. Mike had a passion for golf and appreciated the good things in life, like his wife cooking and making others laugh. Mike had a strong sense of responsibility, as the resident Quality Control Officer of the house and the worst back seat driver.

Mike is survived his wife Carol of 61 years and his son Bryan (Maggie) and family of Ohio. He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews. Ron Jevcak, Cindy and Geoff Rozich, Kevin and Beth Fox, and Larry and Kelly Fox, and several great nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Amber, sister, Magda Molcan, and his parents Mary and Andrew Jevcak.

Services will be held at a later date.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Southeastern Polk County Until 4:15 pm

Weather

Maria Iannucci

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June 27, 2025

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Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Southeastern Polk County Until 4:15 pm

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued by the National Weather Service in Ruskin, in Southeastern Polk County in central Florida, including Lake Wales, until 4:15 PM on Friday, June 27, 2025.

At 3:38 PM, a severe thunderstorm is located 8 miles south east of Lake Wales, moving northeast at 20 mph.

It is recommended that you take shelter in place or per instruction.

60 mph wind gusts are possible.

Locations impacted may include Highland Park, Crooked Lake Park, Babson Park, Hillcrest Heights, Frostproof, and Lake Wales.

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