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

Frostproof Woman Arrested After Two Dogs Die From Heatstroke and Neglect

carl

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September 17, 2025

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Frostproof Woman Arrested After Two Dogs Die From Heatstroke and Neglect

Polk County Sheriff’s Office Press Release

On June 17, 2025, Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to an anonymous complaint regarding two deceased dogs in the backyard of a residence on West 6th Street in Frostproof. Upon arrival, deputies made contact with 20-year-old Nashali Santiago, who stated she was caring for the dogs while her brother is deployed overseas.

While searching the back yard of the residence, deputies discovered two deceased German Shepherds—identified by Santiago as “Ajax,” a 3-year-old male, and “Sugar,” a 2-year-old female – inside a makeshift pen with no roof or shade. The outdoor temperature at the time was 93 degrees Fahrenheit. The pen contained no food or water bowls, and both dogs appeared to be in the early stages of decomposition.

Santiago told deputies she had last seen the dogs the previous night and claimed they were fine. She stated she typically fed and watered them once daily in the evening.

The dogs were sent to the University of Florida Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, where Dr. Adam Stern, a Board-Certified Veterinary Pathologist and Founding Fellow in Veterinary Forensic Pathology, conducted forensic necropsies. The results confirmed both dogs died from heatstroke and dehydration.

Ajax was found to be malnourished and had not eaten recently. His poor body condition was attributed to inadequate feeding, not illness. Sugar was in normal body condition but had also not eaten recently. No signs of disease or injury were found.

Santiago was arrested and charged with two counts of felony animal cruelty (F3).

“This is a heartbreaking case of neglect. If you take responsibility for an animal, you are obligated to care for it properly. These dogs suffered and died needlessly, and now the woman responsible for their deaths is facing serious felony charges.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

City of Lake Wales May Consider Changing Election Dates from April to November

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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September 16, 2025

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City of Lake Wales May Consider Changing Election Dates from April to November

by James Coulter

Lake Wales residents may start voting in city elections in November rather than April if city commissioners consider a recommendation to change their election dates.

During their workshop on Wed., Sept. 10, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners were given a presentation by the Supervisor of Elections, who recommended Lake Wales host their city elections in November.

“This is not mandatory,” said Melony Bell, Supervisor of Elections. “I am not here to tell you that you have to change your elections…I am here to offer suggestions.”

Bell recommended that city elections be held during odd years in November. She claimed the change could increase voter turnout.

“We want better voter turnout because we have veterans that served in war for us to have that right…to stand here in the great United States of America [where] we are able to cast a vote and let our opinion be known,” Bell said.

Under these proposed changes, a single election cycle would save Polk County an estimated $38,000 and Lake Wales an estimated $12,179.

“The benefits would include a reduction in costs and staff time by having an election every two years instead of every year,” explained City Clerk Jennifer Nanek in the workshop minutes. “In 2025, it cost approximately $10,000 to have an election. In the future, this cost may include run-off elections.”

However, one potential downside, as Bell explained, would be that the change to the new voting format could “cause confusion among Lake Wales voters.”

Deputy Mayor Robin asked about the potential legal ramifications of changing the term limits for city commissioners. Nanek explained that “if the terms were changed from three to four years, the commissioners’ terms would need to be staggered.”

These recommended changes would require a charter amendment to change terms from 3 years to 2 or 4 years. This amendment would require voter approval and would be placed on the ballot for Apr. 7, 2026.

Sheriff Judd Confirms Drowning On Lake Clinch In Frostproof

Frostproof

carl

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September 14, 2025

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Sheriff Judd Confirms Drowning On Lake Clinch In Frostproof

Polk Sheriff Grady Judd

Frostproof, Fla. – A tragic incident occurred Saturday afternoon on Lake Clinch in Frostproof when an adult male drowned.

The emergency call came in at approximately 2:28 p.m. to Clinch Lake Boulevard South and 7th Street West. Frostproof Fire Department, Polk County Fire Rescue, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to the scene.

Sheriff Grady Judd of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office was present as deputies and first responders worked the incident. Despite the efforts of multiple agencies, the victim, an adult male, was pronounced deceased.

Sheriff Judd updated the media and advised the victim’s name is Pierre Richard Flourde, 52, of Frostproof. He apparently attempted to get his boat that drifted off from the shoreline and he went under. A friend tried to save him in vain.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.

CDC Scientists Who Has Ties To Lake Wales Alleged Provocative Posts About Death Of Charlie Kirk

State Road 60 Proposed to Receive Scenic Highway Designation

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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September 14, 2025

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State Road 60 Proposed to Receive Scenic Highway Designation

by James Coulter

Imagine watching the sunrise at Vero Beach. You then hop in your car and drive along State Road 60. You spend the day visiting the many sites, including Lake Wales. Your day trip ends with you watching the sunset at Ybor City in Clearwater.

This hypothetical day trip could be one that many Florida residents and visitors could take if State Road 60 is designated and promoted under a proposed rebranding.

At their workshop on Wed. Sep. 10, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners were offered a presentation of a proposed rebranding of State Road 60 to Scenic Highway 60 Coast to Coast.

“The proposed scenic highway would be a 161-mile corridor stretching from Vero Beach to Clearwater, wrote City Clerk Jennifer Nanek. “The goal is to rebrand SR 60 and encourage tourism by attracting visitors who prefer to explore small towns and scenic routes.”

Designating State Road 60 as a scenic highway would require a “letter of support from every local government entity with jurisdiction over the proposed route,” including Lake Wales, according to a slideshow presented during the presentation.

Robert Kincart, a representative from A-C-T Environmental, explained that State Road 60 was chosen for the proposed designation because it is the only coast-to-coast highway in Florida, and thus could serve as a potential engine for tourism.

Kincart claimed Route 66 as a model for the rebranding. As someone who frequently vacations across Route 66 with his wife, Kincart insisted the rebranding would attract economic growth and development to small towns like Lake Wales through tourism.

“We are excited about the opportunity, and having FDOT excited about something is exciting,” he said. “I think it is a win-win for everyone.”

Darryl Richard, a Landscape Architect with FDOT, explained that the Scenic Highway program was a grassroots movement. He claimed Lake Wales had the potential for further economic growth, especially with the redevelopment of the Lake Walesbilt Hotel.

“I think it is a grand opportunity to promote local business,” he said. “I think if we come together along the Route 60 corridor, great things are going to happen, they are already happening…and we look forward to working with you and your city team.”

The presentation concluded with a song currently being developed to promote the proposed rebranding. The lyrics of the country song showcased all of the wonderful sights one could see traveling from coast to coast along the highway.

“From the sunrise to sunset,

Coast to coast we ride,

Through the heart of Florida,

With the spirit as our guide.

Historic towns and stories,

Every mile a melody,

On Route 60, we are free,

Just you, the road, and me.”

The designation process takes at least two years. Once designated, the byway must be locally managed in perpetuity.

Commissioner Carol Gillespie asked about the potential paperwork that would be required to maintain the scenic highway designation.

City Manager James Slaton replied that most of the work would be done by the county and byway organization, and thus would not be a burden on the city.

A resolution to approve the proposed scenic highway designation will be presented at the next city commission meeting scheduled for Tues. Sep. 16 at 6 PM at Lake Wales City Hall.

In Loving Memory of Carlos Jose Amaro, 74

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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September 12, 2025

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Carlos Jose Amaro, 74

Carlos Jose Amaro, a beloved gymnastics instructor and cherished father, passed away on September 10, 2025, at his residence. Born on February 11, 1951, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Carlos dedicated his life to nurturing the physical and personal growth of countless students through his passion for gymnastics.

Carlos was known not only for his career but also for his brilliant mind and distinctive dry sense of humor that endeared him to friends, family, and colleagues alike. His ability to connect with others transcended generations and backgrounds, leaving a lasting impact on many lives. When he was not teaching, Carlos found immense joy in a variety of hobbies—fishing, dancing, and immersing himself in music were among his favorites. He loved to read and engaged in research with a keen interest, and there was no stopping him when it came to his love for cars and fixing them.

Carlos is survived by his devoted children: daughters, Amarilis Amaro of Australia, and Lizette I. Amaro of Nevada, along with his sons, Marqelexsis Amaro of California, Carlos Julian Amaro of Los Angeles, CA, and Adrian Amaro of Washington, his beloved sister Carmen Thompson and husband, Lawrence of Oak Hills, CA, wife, Zenaida Amaro of Chino Hills, CA, five grandchildren and ten nieces and nephews. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and perseverance that will be cherished by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his father, Ramon Feliciano Amaro, and his mother, Celeste A. Rodriguez. Both played significant roles in shaping the values that Carlos carried throughout his life.

As we remember Carlos, we celebrate his contributions to the lives of many and the warmth he brought into our world. His spirit will continue to resonate through the laughter and zest for life that he instilled in his family and those who were privileged to call him a friend.

No services are being held at this time. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com .

Groundbreaking Ceremony to Celebrate the Expansion of Lake Wales North Fire Station

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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September 12, 2025

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Groundbreaking Ceremony to Celebrate the Expansion of Lake Wales North Fire Station

Lake Wales, Fla. – The City of Lake Wales North Fire Station is set to undergo renovations to support the growing needs of the community.

A groundbreaking ceremony is set to take place on Tuesday, September 16 at 10 a.m., 600 Chalet Suzanne Rd.

“Our goal is to increase personnel on shifts,” Lake Wales Fire Chief Joe Jenkins said.

Renovations include expanding the dayroom, adding sleeping quarters and two new bathrooms.

“We have a fire station within five miles of all locations within the city limits,” Chief Jenkins said. “We’ve also got a new fire station in the design phase that will help us enhance the service in the Southeast city limits of Lake Wales.”

The City plans to break ground on the new fire station in 2026.

Morning Accident Reported on Hwy. 60 W Involves Two Vehicles

Traffic

Maria Iannucci

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September 12, 2025

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Morning Accident Reported on Hwy. 60 W Involves Two Vehicles

We are aware of a traffic collision reported at 6:51 am this morning, Sept. 12, 2025, near 4336 Hwy. 60 W in Lake Wales. Just east of the railroad tracks.

The accident is being initially reported to involve a red Chevy and a gray SUV. It is being described as a minor accident and injuries are being assessed.

Please avoid this area if possible, or proceed with caution as first responders work at the scene.

In Loving Memory of Betty Kathleen Sorrell, 82,,of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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September 11, 2025

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Betty Kathleen Sorrell, 82

Betty Kathleen Sorrell of Lake Wales passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, at the Lifecare Center in Winter Haven, with her family by her side. Born on August 7, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan to the late Harvey and Beatrix Boyer, Betty embodied a spirit of kindness and warmth that touched the lives of those who knew her.

For 42 loving years, Betty was married to Wes Sorrell, a partnership marked by unwavering support and affection. She is also survived by her sons, Harold J. Plant and his significant other, Dawn Hardy, of Lake Wales, as well as William J. Plant and his wife, Paula, of Holyoke, Minnesota. Betty cherished her role as a grandmother to Jack and Natalie, who brought her immense joy and pride.

Betty’s Lutheran faith was a guiding force in her life, reflecting her values of love and generosity. She was known for her welcoming personality, effortlessly making everyone around her feel at home. Her kindness was a cornerstone of her relationships, leaving a lasting impression on her friends and family. She was a retired scheduler for Michigan Seemless Tube.

Betty was previously married to Hank Plant, who preceded her in death. While she has departed from this world, her spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of her loved ones who carry forward her legacy of love and compassion.

A visitation to honor Betty will take place on September 12, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Marion Nelson Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 454 Buck Moore Rd, Lake Wales, FL 33853. All who knew her are invited to join in remembering a woman whose life was characterized by love, resilience, and unwavering grace. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

In Loving Memory of Nancy Jean McGuire, 84

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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September 11, 2025

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Nancy Jean McGuire, 84

Nancy Jean McGuire, a beloved member of her family, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, at the Forsythe Hospice House in Auburndale. Born on February 7, 1941, in Neptune, New Jersey, Nancy lived a life rich in service and devotion to her loved ones.

For many years, Nancy enjoyed a fulfilling career as a private secretary, offering her organizational and administrative skills to Prudential Insurance, public schools, and the U.S. Government. Her professional life was marked by dedication and resilience, reflecting her unwavering commitment to excellence.

In addition to her impressive career, Nancy embraced her Christian faith, which guided her throughout her life and provided comfort in times of sorrow. She had a passion for life and during her younger years, she found joy in sailing, gardening, and painting, pursuits that allowed her to express her vibrant spirit and creativity.

Nancy is survived by her loving son, Brian McGuire, and his wife, Roberta, of Chesapeake, Virginia. She also leaves behind her sister, Linda; her cherished grandchildren, Kyle and Evan; and her precious great-grandchildren, Katelynn and Ryder. These family members were a source of immense pride and joy for Nancy, who nurtured them with love and guidance.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, George Wayne McGuire, her parents, Charles and Dorothy Polhemus, her brother, James Polhemus, and a sister.

Nancy Jean McGuire’s life was a testament to her enduring strength, unwavering faith, and profound love for her family and friends. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

A visitation to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held on September 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at the Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. This will be followed by a graveside service at Lake Wales Cemetery at 2:00 PM to honor her memory. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

One Movie Later: KPop Demon Hunters is the Best Animated Film of 2025

Entertainment

Maria Iannucci

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September 10, 2025

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One Movie Later: KPop Demon Hunters is the Best Animated Film of 2025

by James Coulter

If you told me a decade ago that Sony Pictures Animation would be releasing animated movies better than Disney, I would have cocked an eyebrow. Back then, Sony was infamous for releasing dreck like Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 and The Emoji Movie.

However, within the past half decade, Sony has upped it game with movies that have blown Disney out of the water, releasing such stunning animated masterpieces like the Spider-Verse films, Mitchells vs. the Machines, and their biggest hit yet, KPop Demon Hunters.

Since its debut earlier this summer, KPop Demon Hunters has become a surprise hit. Not only has it become Netflix’s most-watched original title with 266 million views, but its soundtrack became the first to have four of its songs reach the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100. But is KPop Demon Hunters really “Golden”? Or is it a film deserving of a “Take Down”?

KPop Demon Hunters follows three girls: Rumi, Mira, and Zoey. When they’re not busting rhymes as the K-pop trio Huntrix, they’re busy busting up demons as demon hunters. Their music also creates Honmoon, a magical barrier between the human and demon world.

However, when a group of demons disguised as a boy band enter the music scene, not only do their demonic melodies threaten to destroy the Honmoon, but also to knock Huntrix off the top of the music charts. Can the demon-hunting trio save the world and their title as the hottest K-pop bands?

KPop Demon Hunters is what you would get if you crossed Buffy: The Vampire Slayer with Jem and the Holograms. Of course, its overall anime aesthetic, especially with its magical girl characters slaying demons, makes it more comparable to anime like Sailor Moon and Demon Slayer.

Like many recent animated films like the Spider-Verse films and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, this movie’s art style offers a unique blend of 2-D and 3-D animation, resulting in a visually-stunning film that looks like a Japanese anime brought into the third dimension.

The art style shines brightest through its characters’ over-the-top expressions, like when the K-pop trio gorge themselves on a Korean snack platter before their big concert. One notable example is when the band’s energetic, bubbly rapper, Zoey, fawns over a hot guy’s abs, with her eyes turning into hearts, then ab-shaped corn cobs, and the popping into popcorn that her band mater, Mira, starts eating.

The movie’s creator and co-director, Maggie Kang, previously worked on Disney films like Ralph Breaks the Internet. She’s on record calling KPop Demon Hunters her “love letter to K-pop and Korean roots”, with the aim of the movie to combine modern Korean music and culture with ancient mythology and demonology. I know nothing about anything Korean, but from the looks of it, she seemed to do a good job.

Undoubtedly, with the story being about a K-Pop band, the movie’s most shining aspect is its music. The songs are certainly deserving of topping the Billboard charts. As they not only serve as catchy pop songs in their own right, but, like any good number in a movie musical, put words and music to the emotions of its characters. (My favorite song is the rival band’s hit song “Soda Pop.”)

As for the story, not only is the movie’s biggest conflict between the main characters and the rival band, but also the inner conflict experienced by one of the main characters. No spoiler, but one of the characters has a deep dark secret they’ve kept hidden from everyone else and which they feel could jeopardize their mission if it’s revealed.

Also, no spoilers, but like most female-led action films, the movie involves one of the characters falling in love with a “bad boy”, one whose tragic past not only allows him to connect with that character and her secret, but also flesh out his character as a sympathetic villian.

Hands down, KPop Demon Hunters is the best animated movie of the year. Both it and other animated films by other animation studios have been giving Disney a run for its money. Not helping has been how the House of Mouse has been releasing forgettable flicks like Elio, Moana 2, and Wish. If Disney wants to reclaim its title as the most influential animation studio, then it better start taking notes from films like this one.

These K-pop stars don’t just slay demons. They slay mice!

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