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

Veterans Day 2025: Celebrating Service with History, Honor, and Local Specials

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November 11, 2025

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Veterans Day 2025: Celebrating Service with History, Honor, and Local Specials

Each year on Nov. 11, communities across the country come together to honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This Veterans Day, many local restaurants and businesses are showing their gratitude by offering free meals and special discounts to veterans and active-duty service members.

Veterans Day has deep historical roots. It began as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I when the fighting stopped on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. The holiday became official in 1938, and in 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation to rename it Veterans Day — a tribute not just to those who fought in World War I, but to all who have served our nation.

Today, Veterans Day is both a time of remembrance and a moment of appreciation. Along with ceremonies and social media acknowledgement, many businesses are offering veterans a well-deserved “thank you” through free meals and special offers. Most businesses ask for a form of military ID, such as a Veteran ID Card or DD214, and some deals are limited to dine-in guests. Be sure to check with your local restaurants and businesses to confirm participation before you go.

Chipotle

Members of the military community – both veterans and active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID – who order any entrée can get a second entrée free from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Veterans Day.

Starbucks

For Veterans Day, Starbucks will give veterans, service members, and military spouses a free tall 12-ounce brewed coffee (hot or iced) at participating stores in the U.S. (Restrictions may apply.)

Bob Evans

Bob Evans restaurants will offer a free meal from a select Veterans Day menu Tuesday for both veterans and active-duty military.

Beef O’Brady’s

All veterans and active-duty military can get a free burger and fries on Veterans Day. (Not valid with any other offer, discount, or promotion)

Chili’s

The restaurant is giving all veterans and active military personnel a free entrée from a limited list when dining at any location on Veterans Day.

Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers

Veterans and current military members who visit participating locations on Veterans Day can get a free Freddy’s Combo meal card, which is redeemable through the end of the year.

Panera Bread

On Veterans Day, all veterans and active-duty military service members can get a free pastry or bakery item and a cup of coffee at a participating location. Proof of military service is required.

Wendy’s

On Veterans Day, all veterans and active-duty military service members can get a free Breakfast Combo at any participating restaurant. Proof of military service is required.

IHOP

On Veterans Day, veterans and active-duty military personnel can get a free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo, dine in only; proof of military service required.

Outback Steakhouse

Those who visit the restaurant with valid veterans and active-duty military IDs can get a free Aussie 3-Course Meal.

Dunkin’

The eatery is offering all active and retired military a free doughnut when they show their military ID at participating restaurants.

LongHorn Steakhouse

This chain is giving veterans and active-duty military 10% off their meal and a free appetizer or dessert for their table Tuesday.

Olive Garden

OG is offering a free meal from a special menu on Tuesday that includes an entrée and comes with unlimited breadsticks and soup or salad.

Scooter’s Coffee

Show a valid military ID on Veterans Day and get a free medium drink.

Arby’s

Today, all veterans and active-duty military service members can get a free Classic Roast Beef Sandwich at participating locations. Offer good in store; proof of service required.

Sonic

In honor of Veterans Day, Sonic has a Buy One, Get One Free deal when you buy a Sonic Cheeseburger, SuperSonic Double Cheeseburger or Footlong Quarter Pound Coney; offer good for all Sonic app users.

Cracker Barrel

Veterans and active-duty military dining in on 11/11 at participating locations get a free Sunrise Pancake Special. Proof of military service required.

Sonny’s BBQ

Veterans and active-duty military get a free Pork Big Deal, with a valid ID.

Golden Corral

All veterans, active-duty military personnel, reservists and guardsman included, may receive a free buffet meal with beverage from 4 p.m. to close on Veterans Day.

Walgreens

The retailer is offering veterans and active-duty military 20% off regularly priced products on Nov. 11. A valid military ID or proof of service and a myWalgreens account are required.

Fatal Stabbing Leads to Arrest for First Degree Murder

Maria Iannucci

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November 10, 2025

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Fatal Stabbing Leads to Arrest for First Degree Murder

A fatal stabbing on Bullard Ave. this morning ends with the death of a Haines City man, and the apprehension and arrest of the murder suspect.

Lt. Dale Hampton of the Lake Wales Police Department has given the following statement with regard to today’s events:

On November 10, 2025, at approximately 10:30 a.m., officers from the Lake Wales Police Department were dispatched to 309 West Bullard Avenue in reference to a reported stabbing.

Upon arrival, officers located the victim, 48-year-old Ramiro Granados of Haines City, suffering from multiple stab wounds. Officers immediately rendered lifesaving aid until emergency medical personnel arrived and transported Granados to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

During the investigation, detectives identified 28-year-old Jade Curtis Monday, of Lake Wales, as the suspect. Monday was later located on Ruth Avenue in Lake Wales and taken into custody without incident. He has been charged with First Degree Premeditated Murder and two counts of Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

Investigators determined that the incident stemmed from an argument over money between the victim and the suspect. During an interview, Monday admitted to confronting Granados on the evening of November 9th regarding the money owed to him. Monday stated that he constructed a weapon using a wooden walking stick with a large kitchen knife attached to the end and slept with it overnight. On the morning of November 10th, Monday again confronted Granados and when he did not receive the money he was owed, attacked and stabbed Granados multiple times in the neck and head.

This remains an active investigation. Anyone with additional information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Lake Wales Police Department at (863) 678-4223 or to remain anonymous by calling Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477).

FATAL STABBING IN LAKE WALES — SUSPECT AT LARGE

LAKE WALES POLICE DEPARTMENT

carl

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November 10, 2025

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FATAL STABBING IN LAKE WALES — SUSPECT AT LARGE

Breaking News 3:15pm – Suspect Apprehended

Lake Wales, Florida — November 10, 2025

A deadly stabbing occurred this morning at a home located at the corner of Sharp Street and Bullard Avenue in Lake Wales. The Lake Wales Police Department, along with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the scene and remain in the area actively investigating.

According to Lt. Dale Hampton with the Lake Wales Police Department, an argument broke out between two individuals. During that altercation, one individual stabbed the other multiple times. Emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures and transported the victim for treatment, but the victim did not survive.

Local schools are currently on lockdown. Authorities are searching for a suspect described as a Black male riding a blue bicycle, wearing black shorts. No name or further identifying details have been released at this time.

Investigators are urging anyone in the area who may have surveillance cameras or who witnessed suspicious activity to contact the Lake Wales Police Department immediately.

Lake Wales Daily will continue to follow this developing story and update readers as more information is confirmed.

PCSO Investigating Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash in Frostproof

Traffic

Allison

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November 10, 2025

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PCSO Investigating Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash in Frostproof

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating a two-vehicle crash that occurred in Frostproof on Sunday, November 9, 2025, which resulted in the death of one of the passengers.

The crash took place just after 6:00 p.m. on US Hwy 27 at the intersection with CR 630-A, when a blue 2011 Mazda CX9 heading northbound on 27 struck a black 2025 Chevrolet Trax that was heading south on 27 and turning left, or east, onto CR 630-A. The collision impacted the right rear passenger side of the Trax.

The back seat passenger in the Trax, 79-year-old Denise Sample of New York, was ejected and declared deceased at the scene. The driver and the front seat passenger, two elderly residents from New York, were transported to LRH with bruises and abrasions.

The driver of the Mazda, a 19-year-old Frostproof man, was not seriously injured and was treated and released at the scene.

The investigation is ongoing.

Lake Wales Commission Gives Preliminary Approval to Annex 10.76 Acres South of Grove Avenue East

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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November 10, 2025

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Lake Wales Commission Gives Preliminary Approval to Annex 10.76 Acres South of Grove Avenue East

by James Coulter

More than 10 acres of land will soon be annexed into the Lake Wales city limits, with changes to its zoning and future land use designation following the city commissioners’ preliminary approval.

At their regular meeting on Tues. Nov. 4, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously on the first reading of three ordinances on 10.76 acres of land south of Grove Avenue East and west of Hamlin Street.

The first ordinance would annex the land into the Lake Wales city limits, while the other two ordinances would change the property’s land use and zoning designation from County RL to City MDR and City R-1D.

The subject properties are located at the southwest corner of Grove Avenue East and Hamlin Street and are surrounded by single-family homes to the north of Grove Avenue and by Groves at Hunt Club to the west, south, and east.

A request for annexation, land use, and zoning change had previously been presented to the Planning and Zoning Board in June 2025; however, that request was deferred “as the applicant had requested waivers from the new PDP Guidelines, which the Board found were not justified,” wrote Autumn Cochella, Director of Growth Management.

“The City received an amended petition for map amendments…[and] The Planning and Zoning Board voted unanimously to recommend the map amendments to City Commission,” Cochella further elaborated.

The second reading of the three ordinances will be held at a future city commission meeting.

Fatal Crash Reported At Hwy 27 And Hwy 630A Near Frostproof

carl

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November 9, 2025

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Fatal Crash Reported At Hwy 27 And Hwy 630A Near Frostproof

FROSTPROOF, FL – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that a crash at Hwy 27 and Hwy 630A near Frostproof is a fatal traffic accident.

The call came in shortly after 6:12 PM. Multiple agencies responded, including Polk County Fire Rescue, the Frostproof Fire Department, and deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

As of this time, Hwy 27 northbound is shut down, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Drivers should expect significant delays and are urged to use alternate routes until the roadway is reopened.

The Sheriff’s Office has not yet released the identity of the individual involved, pending notification of next of kin.

This is an active and ongoing investigation. Additional details will be released by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office as they become available.

In Loving Memory of Michael Allen Shoppa, 71, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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November 9, 2025

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In Loving Memory of Michael Allen Shoppa, 71, of Lake Wales

Michael Allen Shoppa, a cherished husband, father, and veteran, passed away on November 3, 2025, at AdventHealth Lake Wales, Florida. Born on March 13, 1954, in Muscatine, Iowa. Michael’s life was marked by his dedication to family, passion for the great outdoors, and commitment to serving his country.

During his formative years, Michael developed a strong sense of adventure that would define much of his life. He proudly served in the Navy during the Vietnam Era, an experience that instilled in him the values of honor and duty. Following his military service, he forged a successful career as a truck driver, where he traversed the open roads, creating countless memories along the way.

Michael was a member of the American Legion, representing Iowa with pride long after his return from active duty. His love for nature was evident in his various hobbies; he found joy in shelling, fishing, and hunting for shark teeth. A true nature enthusiast, he also delighted in birdwatching and traveling, immersing himself in the beauty of the great outdoors.

Michael is survived by his wife of 42 years, Sally Shoppa, whose love and companionship were the cornerstone of his life. He is also survived by his daughter, Misty Armstrong, and her husband Chuck of Omak, Washington; and son, Kristian Shoppa, and his wife Rachel of Davenport, Iowa. Michael’s family extends to his sister, Sherri Goans of Missouri. brother in laws, Jim (Sandi) Burke of Catlin, Il, Virgil (Kim) Burke of Leroy, Il, Aaron (Melinda) Burke of Fithian, Il; Sister-in-law, Mary (Bob) Vandenberg of Dundee, Fl; six grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, seven nieces and nephews; adopted sister, Lori Selassie of Arkansas and her three children.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, John Shoppa and Norma Reynolds, as well as his brother, John Shoppa, and sisters Christina Shoppa and Candace Lloyd. Though he has departed from this world, Michael’s spirit and the memories he created with those who loved him will resonate in their hearts forever. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

School Zone Flashing Lights are Changing; Lake Wales Gets One Step Closer to Speed Cameras

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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November 7, 2025

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School Zone Flashing Lights are Changing; Lake Wales Gets One Step Closer to Speed Cameras

Drivers in Lake Wales may have noticed a change in several school zones around the City of Lake Wales this past week and should pay close attention to the speed limit.

In anticipation of the approved school zone cameras for Lake Wales High School, McLaughlin School of Excellence, and Hillcrest Elementary, Lake Wales Police Department has updated the timing on the yellow flashing lights in the these zones.

The three school zones are being updated at this time to be in compliance with Florida State Statute 316.1895(5) when the cameras go live in the coming months. An exact date is not yet available, but is currently anticipated to be within the next three months, according to a City representative.

The updates times are as follows:

Lake Wales High School – on Burns Ave.; the start time will be 6:15 am and will end at 8:00 am. The afternoon start time will be 1:55 pm and will end at 2:55 pm. For early release days, the morning will remain the same with the afternoon starting at 11:30 am and ending at 1230:pm.

McLaughlin School of Excellence – 2 zones on Scenic Hwy.; the morning will start at 6:15 am and ending at 7:30 am. The afternoon lights will start at 1:30 pm and end at 2:30 pm. For early release days, the morning will remain the same with the afternoon starting at 11:00 am and ending at noon.

Hillcrest Elementary: on Hwy. 60; the start time will be 7:15 am, ending at 8:45 am; the afternoon lights will start at 2:45 pm and end at 3:45 pm. For early release, the morning will remain the same with the afternoon starting at 12:15 pm and ending at 3:15 pm.

School zones in compliance with the above statute can allow for items such as doubled fines, minimum and maximum speeds, and the enforcement hours.

The flashing lights in the school zones may be maintained by either the Florida Department of Transportation, or Polk County, depending on the roadway.

Annexation of 5+ Acres of Land for Future Lake Wales Fire Station Given Preliminary Approval

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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November 6, 2025

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Annexation of 5+ Acres of Land for Future Lake Wales Fire Station Given Preliminary Approval

by James Coulter

The Lake Wales City Commission has given initial approval to annex five acres of land, making way for the construction of a new fire station just south of Hunt Brothers Road.

At their regular meeting on Tues. Nov. 4, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously to approve the first reading of an ordinance for the annexation of five acres of land into the city limits.

The subject properties are located south of Hunts Brothers Road. The land, which existed within a 19-acre parcel owned by McKenna Family Enterprises, had been purchased by the City.

The property, once annexed into the city limits, will serve as the location of a future fire station.

“Requests for the assignment of Future Land Use and Zoning designations will be brought at a later date, following a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Board,” wrote Autumn Cochella, Director of Growth Management.

The second reading of the ordinance will be held at a future city commission meeting.

Rotary on The Ridge Club’s Annual Pancake Day-Salute to Veterans

Lake Wales

Allison

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November 6, 2025

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Rotary on The Ridge Club’s Annual Pancake Day-Salute to Veterans

Stacks of pancakes swimming in syrup and juicy links of sausages can be yours on November 15th at the Rotary on The Ridge Club’s annual Pancake Day-Salute to Veterans.

The all-you-can-eat pancake affair runs from 8 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Lake Wales Family Recreation Center, which just happens to be hosting the annual Fall Fest at noon. Come for Breakfast, stay for Fall Fest.

Rotary on the Ridge has been presenting Pancake Day-Salute to Veterans for three years now after the Lake Wales Kiwanis Club passed the pancake flipper to them in 2022.

The Ridge honors veterans at the annual pancake day. We are seeking pictures and stories from our local veterans. Email them to [email protected]

Tickets may be purchased from any Rotary on the Ridge member or via the QR code on the promotional flier or social media. Tickets are $10for adults. Youth 5 and under eat free.

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