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

Storm and Water Lines to be Upgraded at Orange and Crystal Avenue Streetscape

City of Lake Wales

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February 16, 2025

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Storm and Water Lines to be Upgraded at Orange and Crystal Avenue Streetscape

by James Coulter

Orange and Crystal Avenue are planned to receive upgrades to their sewer and water lines along with their streetscape work if the City of Lake Wales approves an addendum to a task order.

At their workshop meeting on Wed. Feb. 12, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners reviewed an ordinance for an addendum to a task order for the Orange and Crystal Avenue streetscape.

In 2021, the City of Lake Wales had previously approved an agreement with Chastain Skillman for upgrades to Orange Avenue, Crystal Avenue, and Market Street. The task order would include upgrades to storm and water lines.

As the city agenda memo states, the proposed task order will cost $49,700 and “produce construction drawings and a permit application package for the water line and storm upgrades in the vicinity of the Orange, Crystal, and Market Street Streetscape Project.”

The memo further states: “Much of this area has already been mapped by surveyors, but additional mapping will be required for the water line upgrades in the alleys and near the water plant.”

City commissioners will vote on the ordinance at their upcoming city commission meeting on Tues. Feb. 18. 2025 at 6 PM at Lake Wales City Hall, located at 201 W Central Ave.

In Loving Memory of Charles Ronald McCranie

Obituaries

carl

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February 15, 2025

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In Loving Memory of Charles Ronald McCranie

Charles Ronald McCranie, a Tallahassee resident, passed away the afternoon of February 12, 2025, while he was biking, one of his favorite pastimes. He was born in Lake Wales, Florida 74 years ago and was a graduate of Florida State University.

He is survived by Phyllis, his wife of 35 years; his son, Ryan (Mackenzie); stepsons, Allen and Craig (Paige) Thomas and four grandchildren, Cole, Anna, Nathan and Liam. He is also survived by his two younger sisters, Carol Simmons and June Newcomer (Chuck). All will sorely miss him.

Visitation will be held at Lifesong Funeral Home. 20 S. Duval Street, Quincy, FL at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, February 15, 2025.

Don’t Forget Frostproof Valentine Street Dance Tonight

Frostproof

carl

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February 15, 2025

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Don’t Forget Frostproof Valentine Street Dance Tonight

On Saturday, February 15, 2025, the city of Frostproof, Florida, will host its annual Valentine’s Street Dance, a cherished community event that brings residents and visitors together for an evening of celebration and entertainment. The festivities are scheduled from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM on East Wall Street, transforming the heart of downtown into a lively dance floor.

Attendees can look forward to a variety of attractions designed to create a memorable experience. The evening will feature live music by the Outta Hand Band, known for their engaging performances that span multiple genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Complementing the live music, DJ JMoney will keep the energy high with a dynamic mix of tunes throughout the night.

A selection of popular food trucks will be on-site, offering a diverse array of culinary delights to satisfy all tastes. For those looking to capture the evening’s memories, a photo booth will be available, providing fun props and backdrops for attendees to commemorate the occasion. Additionally, beer and wine will be available for purchase, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The Valentine’s Street Dance is a family-friendly event, welcoming attendees of all ages to join in the fun. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor seeking a vibrant community celebration, Frostproof’s Valentine’s Street Dance 2025 promises an evening filled with music, dancing, and heartfelt memories.

Lake Wales Police Arrest Man For DUI With 3 Children – He Has Never Been Issued A Drivers License

carl

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February 15, 2025

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Lake Wales Police Arrest Man For DUI With 3 Children – He Has Never Been Issued A Drivers License

On February 9, 2025, the Lake Wales Police were conducting speed enforcement at the intersection of S.R. 60 and Hwy 27 around 10 p.m. An officer reportedly clocked a pickup truck traveling at 68 MPH in a 40 MPH zone. The vehicle was pulled over, and the driver advised that he did not have a driver’s license and instead provided a Mexican passport.

The driver, Primitivo Alvarez (DOB: 6/10/89), was charged with speeding and driving without a license. During the stop, the officer smelled a strong odor of alcohol. Alvarez also appeared to have watery eyes and slurred speech. Additionally, he had three juveniles in the vehicle, ages 12, 9, and 8.

LWPD officers conducted a field sobriety test, which Alvarez reportedly failed. At that point, he was arrested. According to the affidavit, Alvarez refused a breathalyzer test:

“After completing the field sobriety tasks, Alvarez was asked if he would be willing to provide a sample of his breath using the Intoxilyzer 8000 device. He refused to submit to the breath test.”

The suspect was read an implied consent warning but still refused the breathalyzer.

Alvarez was transported to the Polk County Jail and charged with DUI with passengers under 18, driving without a license, and speeding.

In Loving Memory of Lowell Lee Scott, 85

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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February 15, 2025

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Lowell Lee Scott, 85

Lowell Lee Scott of Rabbit Hash, Kentucky passed away Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at AdventHealth Lake Wales.

He was born February 1, 1940 in Rabbit Hash, Kentucky to the late Jewell and Sarah Scott; he moved to Lake Wales from Kentucky three years go. Lowell was an avid Nascar fan and an engineer who used to build race engines for Nascar.

Lowell is survived by his daughters, Alexis Scott of Fort Bragg, California and Stacie Scott; son, Branden Scott of Lake Wales; sister, Judy Caudill of Florence, Kentucky; and two grandchildren.

No services are scheduled at this time.

Man Found Stabbed on Sidewalk in Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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February 14, 2025

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Man Found Stabbed on Sidewalk in Lake Wales

A call to law enforcement about excessive noise leads to the discovery of a victim of a stabbing in Lake Wales this week.

Special Investigations and Traffic Commander Lieutenant Emmanuel Figueroa of the Lake Wales Police Department has stated that, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at around 9:45 p.m., a call was received with regard to a noise disturbance in the area of Washington Ave. and Jewel St. in Lake Wales.

When officers arrived to the area in question, Figueroa states they were notified by at least one bystander that there was a person hurt on the ground nearby. A male victim was discovered on the sidewalk with stab wounds. Medical assistance was requested and first responders arrived quickly to render aid.

The lieutenant says that, to his knowledge on Thursday afternoon, the victim was in stable condition.

Figueroa would not confirm whether a suspect is in custody at the time of our request for information, as this is an open investigation.

We will update this article as soon as more information is available.

Accident Shuts Down Hwy. 60 E. In Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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February 13, 2025

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Accident Shuts Down Hwy. 60 E. In Lake Wales

At approximately 2:53 p.m on Thursday, February 13, 2025, a traffic collision was reported at Hwy. 60 E and Highland Drive, east of Lake Wales.

The accident is said to involve two vehicles with mild to moderate damage. First responders are at and heading to the scene.

Traffic is building eastbound as Hwy. 60 eastbound is temporarily shut down. Please find an alternate route.

The Mahalak Family Businesses Drive Change in Our Community

Maria Iannucci

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February 13, 2025

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The Mahalak Family Businesses Drive Change in Our Community

The Family Business: While there are fewer of them around then there used to be, Polk County is fortunate to have one particular group of dealerships owned by one family. We’re even more fortunate to have the Mahalak family of dealerships because of their great commitment to community, OUR community.

To tell the story of your Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram dealerships properly, we must take a journey back to 1966 in Michigan. Here, this popular family-owned business was first founded by Ralph Mahalak Sr.

Over the last 59 years, their customer-focused business plan has gradually expanded to establish Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram dealerships in Winter Haven, Lake Wales, and Davenport; they serve Polk County today, and far beyond.

We know they sell quality vehicles, offer parts, and provide great service.

But that’s not all.

Because the Mahalak team’s dedication to local residents, regardless if they are customers, they have found many ways to serve communities in Polk County on a scale that few are aware of:

St. Jude’s: From January 25 – February 25, 2025, the Low Payment Kings are teaming up with 97.5 WPVC for the St. Jude Radioathon to help raise donations to help treat and defeat childhood cancers. The company will make a donation to St. Jude’s on your behalf for every test drive or service visit made at one of their locations.

Jeepin’ with Judd: Jeepin’ With Judd 2025 will be held February 21-23, 2025 at Clear Springs Ranch in Bartow, Florida . Jeepin’ With Judd is a family friendly, Jeep-only family-friendly event. The Low Payment Kings are Sheriff level sponsors again this year and will have a tent set up selling Jeep accessories, as well as various giveaways and raffles.

All proceeds from this event will be donated to Polk Sheriff’s Charities, Inc. PSCI was officially formed in December 2006, is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization. Its ultimate formation was a result of the tragic murder of Deputy Matt Williams and K-9 DiOGi after a routine traffic stop. The community’s outpouring of emotional and monetary support after that tragic event ultimately demonstrated how a charity like PSCI would be supported, and The Low Payment Kings are proud to support local law enforcement.

Heart of the Badge: Along those same lines, Ralph Mahalak found another way to support our brave first responders through Heart of the Badge. It’s his way supporting first responders; they have window clings at their stores available to the community and a Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/HeartoftheBadge/, offers more information.

18 Aces to Conquer Cancer: 18 Aces is a charity golf event to be held February 24, 2025. The Mahalak Auto Group’s Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund aims to bring awareness of pancreatic cancer, while donating proceeds to the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute for Pancreatic Cancer Research.

Pancreatic cancer spreads rapidly and is seldom detected in its early stages, which is a major reason why it’s a leading cause of death from a cancer diagnosis. Signs and symptoms may not appear until the disease is quite advanced, and surgical removal isn’t possible.

This year’s unique event will be held at The Country Club of Winter Haven, 4200 Country Club Rd. S., Winter Haven. Sponsors can win a Jeep/Ram lease with every hole-in-one; $30 million worth of cars may be given away! One golfer will have a chance to win $1,000,000; 6 golfers have the opportunity to bank $100,000. And all the while, funds will be raised to support pancreatic cancer research.

For more information on, or to become a sponsor of 18 Aces, please visit https://18acestoconquercancer.com/.

ARCA Sponsorship: The Low Payment Kings are the Official Safety Vehicle Supplier of the ARCA Safety Initiative at Racetracks Across America (c) including Flat Rock & Toledo Speedways, Daytona International Speedway, and Michigan Speedway.

EPSON Tour: The Low Payment Kings are sponsoring the Central Florida Championship February 24 – March 2, 2025 at Country Club of Winter Haven, which benefits LPGA*USGA Girls Golf.

The Mahalak family business at Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and Fiat of Lake Wales, Winter Haven and Posner Park, as well as their dealerships in Monroe, MI, including Monroe Superstore, Buckeye Superstore in Shelby, OH, and LPK Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Defiance in Defiance, OH, is a leader in demonstrating that service to the community is a valued responsibility. All are encouraged to participate and support these, as well as the many other charitable causes across Polk County. Taken care of each other is what it’s all about.

For more information of these upcoming events, or to find out how you can help your community, call Alex Mahalak at 863-412-7476 or visit https://www.low-payment-kings.com/

City of Lake Wales Residents May Have Three or More Candidates to Consider for the Mayor’s Office in April

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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February 13, 2025

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City of Lake Wales Residents May Have Three or More Candidates to Consider for the Mayor’s Office in April

As of 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, voters in the City of Lake Wales may have at least three candidates to consider on the ballot in April.

Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk for the City of Lake Wales, says that three candidates have filed to run for mayor this far; Jack Hilligoss, Curtis Gibson and Kasen Hampton have each files the initial paperwork.

Both Hilligoss and Gibson have qualified to run, while Hampton has until Friday, Feb. 14 at noon to do so, Nanek says.

Steps to qualify to run for the office include several forms to be filled out, 25 nominating petitions and the filing fee of $161.08.

The formal instruction on qualifying to run for the office of Mayor of Lake Wales is as follows:

File the following forms with the City Clerk during qualifying period, no earlier than 12:00 noon on February 10, 2025 and no later than 12:00 noon on February 14, 2025. (i.e., 11:59 on February 10 is too early, and 12:01 on February 14 is too late):

Appointment of Campaign Treasurer DS-DE 9 (This form must be turned in first before any nominating Candidate Petitions are circulated)

Statement of Candidate, DS-DE 84, Section 106.023, F.S. (If not turned in already), but it must be within 10 days of Filing DS-DE 9 with City Clerk

Candidate Oath required by Florida Statutes Section 99.021

Disclosure of Financial Interests CE FORM 1 confirmation

Qualifying Fee and Election Assessment Total: $161.08 Commissioner Candidates (Make payable to: City of Lake Wales) – (Check must be signed by Treasurer or Deputy Treasurer).

f. Nominating Petitions

g. Acceptance of Nomination

h. Candidate’s Oath, City Code Chapter 8-40

i. Loyalty Oath

j. Notice of Pre-election Test of Machines

Mayor Jack Hilligoss, the current mayor, has been in office since April 2022 and is seeking reelection.

Former City Commissioner Curtis Gibson is also the mall manager at Eagle Ridge Mall and has also begun his campaign.

Kasen Hampton is 18 years old and would be seeking office for the first time.

Any new unregistered candidates seeking to run for the mayor’s office have until noon on Friday, February 14, 2025 to submit all necessary documentation.

In Loving Memory of Tammy Sue Singleton, 61, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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February 12, 2025

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Tammy Sue Singleton, 61

Tammy Sue Singleton of Lake Wales passed away Friday, February 7, 2025 at AdventHealth Lake Wales under the care of Vitas Hospice.

She was born October 26, 1963 in Batesville, Mississippi to the late James and Sandy Tuttle. Hunting and fishing with her family in Mississippi always brought her joy. She moved to Lake Wales from Byhalia, Mississippi 35 years ago. Tammy was a loving and caring woman whose greatest pleasure was taking care of her family and her home. She lived her life in full color and could always be found with a smile on her face, looking for ways to spread her happiness to others. In her free time, Tammy enjoyed doings crafts, especially ones that required woodworking. She never missed an opportunity to share her faith in God with anyone who was around her.

Tammy was preceded in death by her brother, Tim Tuttle. She is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Michael Singleton; son, Justin Singleton of Lake Wales; and sisters Debbie Weathers of Byhalia, Mississippi and Lori Wilson of Byhalia, Mississippi.

No services are scheduled at this time.

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