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

Motorcycle vs. Vehicle Crash at Scenic Hwy. N and 640

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January 27, 2025

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Motorcycle vs. Vehicle Crash at Scenic Hwy. N and 640

On Monday, January 27, 2025, a traffic collision reportedly involving a motorcycle was reported at 11:00 a.m. at or near the intersection of Scenic Hwy. N. and Hwy. 640.

The accident reportedly involves a motorcycle vs. vehicle, with rollover and heavy damage.

Expect significant road blockage and heavy presence of first responders.

UPDATE: 1/27/25, 11:55 a.m.: Katelyn Hoverkamp, public information officer at Polk County Fire Rescue, says PCFR crews were dispatched at 11:06 a.m. to a traffic collision reported at the Scenic Hwy N/Hwy 640 intersection in Lake Wales.

“Upon PCFR’s arrival at 11:06 a.m., crews located three patients. While on scene, two of those patients were evaluated and declined medical transport. The third patient involved was transported from the scene via AirCare.,” says Hoverkamp.

“No additional injuries were reported. No additional patients were transported.”

Avoid this area if possible. This article will be updated when receive additional information from law enforcement.

Vehicle Crash on Hwy. 60 in Kenansville Causing Heavy Backup into Polk near Lake Kissimmee

Maria Iannucci

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January 27, 2025

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Vehicle Crash on Hwy. 60 in Kenansville Causing Heavy Backup into Polk near Lake Kissimmee

Hwy. 60 E from the county line at 9:15 a.m. Photo provided by D. Mixon

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a traffic collision was reported around 7:38 a.m. on Monday, January 27, 2025 on Hwy. 60 and Peavine Rd, near Kenansville. The crash is in Osceola County, east of Polk.

Video provided by D. Mixon

FHP’s website denotes that there are injuries and road blockage as a result of the crash.

Expect delays on 60 if headed east.

Lake Wales EDC Requests $50,000 Increase to Contract to Hire New Staff Member

Uncategorized

Maria Iannucci

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January 27, 2025

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Lake Wales EDC Requests $50,000 Increase to Contract to Hire New Staff Member

By James Coulter

To help facilitate its growing workload and the implementation of new initiatives, the Lake Wales Economic Development Council (EDC) is seeking an increase of $50,000 from the city to help hire an additional staff member.

At their workshop on Jan. 15, 2025, , Lake Wales city commissioners were presented with a request by City Manager James Slaton for an increase of $50,000 to the EDC’s contract to help hire a new staff member.

Skip Alford, Chamber of Commerce and EDC, explained that the new hire would be “crucial for the EDC to effectively carry out its mission and achieve its goals in the coming years,” according to City Clerk Jennifer Nanek in the agenda minutes.

Mayor Jack Hilligoss inquired about the specific amount of $50,000 and how those funds would be utilized. Alford answered that the $50,000 would go toward hiring the new staff member, specifically with the credentials of “strong project management skills.”

Alford also explained that a portion of those funds would go towards “minor building maintenance and upkeep, such as addressing unforeseen issues like the damaged oak tree.”

As Nanek wrote: “Mr. Alford emphasized that the primary focus of the budget increase is to enhance the EDC’s staffing capacity and improve its ability to effectively pursue economic development opportunities.”

The current EDC budget, according to Hilligoss, consists of $125,000 from the City and $31,000 from partner contributions. He asked if the partners could potentially help contribute to the fund increase.

Alford replied that, while “partner contributions have increased slightly”, he had not yet approached them to request an increase in contributions.

Commissioner Keith Thompson expressed skepticism about the city funding non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as the EDC. He inquired about alternative funding models like matching grant programs and other models that “encourage self-sufficiency and minimize the city’s long-term financial commitment.”

Another concern he had, as Nanek wrote, was the “need for clear, measurable outcomes and a focus on long-term sustainability.” He stated that the EDC “should focus on quantifiable results, such as job creation and economic growth, to justify its funding requests.”

In Loving Memory of John “Jack” Moulton, 85, of Winter Haven

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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January 26, 2025

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John “Jack” Moulton, 85

John “Jack” Moulton of Winter Haven passed away Thursday, January 23, 2025 at Waters Edge.

He was born February 9, 1939 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late Robert and Mildred Moulton; he moved to Winter Haven from Wisconsin in 1995. Jack was a retired wildlife biologist for the State Government and was a veteran of the United States Army. He enjoyed playing tennis, going fishing, biking, being outdoors, and taking care of nature.

Jack is survived by his wife of 59 years, Lois W. Moulton; daughters, Lori Lyons and husband Mat of Louisa, Virginia and Carla Finley and husband Scott of Winter Haven; son, Eric Moulton and wife Carla of Greenbrae, California; brother, David Moulton of Syracuse, New York; grandchildren, Mathew Lyons, Alyssa Lyons, Carli Zanders, Marcus Finley, Isabella da Silva Moulton, and Lucas da Silva Moulton; and great-grandchild, Holden Zanders.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his honor can be sent to a Nature Conservancy of your choice.

Polk County Fire Rescue On Scene Of Pick-up Vs House in Babson Park

Babson Park

carl

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January 26, 2025

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Polk County Fire Rescue On Scene Of Pick-up Vs House in Babson Park

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office & the Polk County Fire Rescue is currently on scene of a vehicle vs house off Crooked Lake Dr. N.

The accident occurred at 8:03pm and involved a dark gray or black looking pickup truck. It’s difficult to tell as the vehicle appears to have been headed eastbound on Crooked Lake Dr N. and appears to have not negotiated the turn.

The pick-up went through the trees and brush to end up hitting the side wall of the residence or garage. Units have stood down helicopter that was on standby. Does. It appear any major injuries.

This is a developing story and we will up as more information becomes available.

Tail lights of pickup can be seen going through bushes and trees to hit building.

The Polk County Youth Fair Runs Through Jan. 31. How it Became A Symbol of Community

Maria Iannucci

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January 26, 2025

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The Polk County Youth Fair Runs Through Jan. 31. How it Became A Symbol of Community

The Polk County Youth Fair, running now through January 31, 2025, is a long-standing event in our area, one that supports students in a broader education beyond reading and math. But how did it get started?

The PCYF offers this history of the Fair on their website and how it came to be:

On October 7, 1944, G. W. (Buck) Mann, Jr., stood talking with a representative of Hon. Nathan Mayo, Commissioner of Agriculture, and on that day the hoping and thinking that had been going on about an agricultural show pavilion in this area of Florida turned into activity which has culminated in the facilities, not yet completed, but which are being used for the first time to stage the Polk County Youth Fair.

Following the October 7th meeting, the Livestock Committee of the Bartow Chamber of Commerce headed by W. H. Stuart, Chairman, met with Mr. Mayo in Winter Haven on November 18,
1944. Mr. Mayo made a proposal in which he asked the committee to help make the project a state, county and city effort in keeping with his state-wide plan for similar areas surrounding such other points as Quincy, Ocala, Orlando and Belle Glade.

The City of Bartow responded, immediately by donating the Pavilion site and a cash contribution to the building fund. The County of Polk heartily endorsed the project and backed it with the financial assistance requested. Individual citizens – cattlemen, merchants, fruit growers and others have likewise contributed generously.

On December 5, 1944, Joe Taylor, hardworking Secretary of the Bartow Chamber of Commerce helped arrange a meeting between the livestock committee and Mr. W. L. Wilson, Director of State Markets, and Col. M. B. Hawkins, Construction Engineer. The title to the Pavilion site is held by the Florida Agricultural Marketing Board of which Mr. Wilson is secretary. On this occasion the building site was approved and Mr. Wilson made the first public announcement regarding this project. He has
cooperated fully, and Col. Hawkins has worked many hours on the building plans. As the building has progressed toward completion, E. S. Rydholm, Supervisor of Construction for State Markets has given much assistance.

During the time of the introductory conferences, sketches and blue prints of show pavilions and exhibit buildings from all over the country were being accumulated for study and guidance.
On January 11, 1945, the committee met with Mr. L. H. Lewis, Livestock & Field Crops Specialist, Florida State Marketing Bureau. As he was Mr. Mayo’s representative with whom we had our first talk, he has from the beginning worked with us in every way to help make these facilities adequately serve the needs of this area of the State. Mr. Lewis suggested that before drawing any plans he would like for the committee to see the new pavilion then being completed in Valdosta, Georgia. Consequently,
on February 21, 1945, twenty-nine enthusiastic citizens went to Valdosta. Practically every man on the trip made a written report and suggestions which were studied by the building committee.

A building and planning committee composed of Buck Mann, Chairman, Sam Clark, C. E. (Tiny) Williams, Paul Hayman, L. G. Carlton and W. H. Stuart, ex-officio member, went to work on plans. A. Alex Hatton, a former Bartow boy now located in Orlando, was engaged as architect. Many sketches were drawn and much time has elapsed since plans were started, but scarcity of materials, priorities, gray market prices, lack of funds and many other obstacles have not been able to diminish enthusiasm or stop the project.

In November 1947, W. H. Stuart took Clay Gardenhire to Tallahassee where the basic contract for the barn and arena were awarded to Gardenhire Brothers. The members of this Bartow firm have manifested the same interest in the project as the building committee and by doing many seemingly impossible things have brought the building to its present stage of completion.

We are not celebrating the completion of the project, but possibly only its beginning, and as Mr. Mayo turns the key to the pavilion over to the people of this area of Florida, may its inaugural use by our young citizens be symbolic of the use and growth of these facilities through the coming years.

We can be thankful for a State, a County, a City and a Citizenship that march forward together.

Police Unity Tour Brings Awareness to Fallen PSCO Deputy Blane Lane; How the Community Can Lend Support

Polk County

Maria Iannucci

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January 26, 2025

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Police Unity Tour Brings Awareness to Fallen PSCO Deputy Blane Lane; How the Community Can Lend Support

PCSO Deputy Blane Lane, mortally wounded in the line of duty in October 2022. Photo credit: PCSO

Polk County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Blane Lane was killed in the line of duty in October 2022. A member of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office never forgets that, and doesn’t want you to either.

Manatee County Deputy Jim Racky is riding in the 2025 Police Unity Tour, a 3-day, 300-mile bicycle ride in honor of Deputy Lane. The ride begins in Portsmouth, VA and concludes in Washington D.C. during National Police Week, May 11-17, 2025.

The Police Unity Tour has a dual mission: to honor this who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, and to raise funds for the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C.

For more information, please visit Team RACKY’S – Police Unity Tour Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082206860876&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr

Maria’s Meal Picks: Serve Simple Deliciousness at Your Next Get-Together

Maria’s Meal Picks

Maria Iannucci

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January 25, 2025

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Maria’s Meal Picks: Serve Simple Deliciousness at Your Next Get-Together

If a versatile, easy and economical recipe is just what you need for game day, get-togethers or stress-free evenings at home, these Mini Beef Wellingtons are perfect for you. Enjoy them as a meal with favorite sides or serve as an appetizer the next time you play host.

Mini Beef Wellingtons

Mushroom Sauce:
1 can (14 ounces) mushrooms
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon garlic powder
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream

8 ounces beef tenderloin steaks, cubed
1 package (17 ounces, 2 sheets) puff pastry
water
garlic and herb spreadable cheese
1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
mashed potatoes, for serving

To make mushroom sauce: In blender, blend mushrooms and chicken broth; set aside.

In skillet over medium heat, melt butter and mix in flour. Slowly add mushroom broth while stirring. It should start to thicken; if it doesn’t, add 1 tablespoon flour and stir well.

Add garlic powder and salt and pepper, to taste. Mix in heavy cream while continuing to stir. Remove from heat and set aside.

Heat oven to 400 F.

Cube steaks and place in bowl then cover and mix well with 1 cup mushroom sauce.

Cut each puff pastry into six squares for 12 total. Use water to moisten each corner of squares and bring them together, forming small box shape. Place 1 heaping tablespoon meat mixture into each pastry square.

Place squares on parchment paper-covered cookie sheets and bake 15 minutes.

Spoon spreadable cheese over hot squares and top with bacon pieces.

Serve with mashed potatoes and use leftover mushroom sauce as gravy.

One Man Killed, One Seriously Injured in Two Vehicle Crash

Maria Iannucci

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January 25, 2025

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One Man Killed, One Seriously Injured in Two Vehicle Crash

The following is a press release issued by Brian Bruchey, public information officer at Polk County Sheriff’s Office regarding the overnight fatal crash earlier today:

PCSO – Deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to a fatal two-vehicle crash early Saturday, January 25, 2025, on State Road 60, about a half-mile east of Logistics Parkway in Winter Haven.

Units were dispatched to the scene at about 4:25 am, along with members from Polk County Fire Rescue.

Upon arrival of first responders, 35-year old Orli Dagoberto Argueta Sanchez of Eagle Lake was found deceased in his vehicle, a 2004 Nissan Sentra.

The other vehicle, a 2022 Hyundai Sonata, was driven by 27-year old Sergio Nino Ramirez of Lake Wales. He was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.

Based on evidence and witness statements, the Nissan was traveling east on eastbound SR 60, and the Hyundai was also in the eastbound lanes, but traveling west. The two vehicles collided head-on.

The eastbound lanes of SR 60 were closed for approximately four hours.

Criminal charges are pending the outcome of the investigation, which is ongoing.

Ridge Scenic Highway Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Community Event Feb. 3

Maria Iannucci

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January 25, 2025

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Ridge Scenic Highway Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Community Event Feb. 3

Lake Wales, FL – The Ridge Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity (CME) invites the community to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the scenic highway designation on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 3:00 PM. Doors open at 2:30 PM at the Lake of the Hills Community Club (47 E. Starr Avenue, Lake Wales, FL 33898).

The event will feature refreshments, music, and a historical presentation highlighting the significance of the Ridge Scenic Highway. Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear tributes to the individuals and organizations who played a crucial role in securing the designation.

A Scenic Journey Through Florida’s History

In 2003, representatives from municipalities, organizations, and communities along State Road 17 (Scenic Highway) joined forces with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to advocate for the designation of a 39-mile stretch from Frostproof to Haines City as a Scenic Highway. Their efforts culminated in the official recognition by the Florida Scenic Highways Program in February 2005.

Established to showcase Florida’s exceptional cultural, historic, archaeological, recreational, natural, and scenic treasures along its highway system, the Florida Scenic Highways Program currently boasts 27 designated Scenic Highways, with 6 holding the prestigious National Scenic Byway distinction. This grassroots program raises awareness of these valuable resources, enriching the travel experience for visitors and residents alike. Byway participation fosters resource preservation, enhancement, and economic development within each region.

The Ridge Scenic Highway: A Corridor Rich in History and Beauty

The Ridge Scenic Highway CME continues to promote the scenic route through its annual 39-mile yard sale, encouraging exploration and appreciation for this unique corridor.

Join the Celebration!

The Ridge Scenic Highway CME in partnership with the Lake of the Hills Community Club extends a warm invitation to the community to join this celebratory event. For more information, please contact Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, City of Lake Wales at 863-678-4182 ext. 1254 or [email protected].

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