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

Support Lake Wales First Responders as They Go Head to Head at Annual Softball Game 11/15

Lake Wales

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November 12, 2024

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Support Lake Wales First Responders as They Go Head to Head at Annual Softball Game 11/15

There’s a friendly competition about to happen between Lake Wales Police Department and Lake Wales Fire Department, and the community is invited to cheer their favorite team on!

On Friday, November 15, 2024, LWPD and LWFD will play their annual First Responders’ Softball Game at Lake Wales Little League Field, 315 N. Wales Drive, Lake Wales.

The game begins at 6:30 PM.

Supporters of the Lake Wales Police Department team should wear blue. Supporters of the Lake Wales Fire Department team should wear red.

More Than $26K Approved for Renovations to City Museum’s Yellow Depot Building

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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November 11, 2024

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More Than $26K Approved for Renovations to City Museum’s Yellow Depot Building

by James Coulter

The Lake Wales History Museum will be receiving more than $26 thousand for much-needed renovations to its Yellow Depot building now that the City Commission has approved the expenditure.

At their regular meeting on Tues. Nov. 5, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously to approve its consent agenda.

One agenda item pertained to an expenditure of $26,926.41 to Semco Construction, Inc. for renovations at the Museum’s Yellow Depot building.

The expenditure will be used for repairs to the Yellow Depot building’s windows and walls. Specifically, a ceiling grid will be added to help regulate temperature inside the building.

Currently, the building is being used by the museum’s curator to store artifacts and to perform their curator duties.

However, due to the lack of a framed ceiling, the building’s HVAC system is unable to maintain a proper temperature for the museum’s operations.

“By performing the renovation of adding a ceiling grid and tile system this will reduce the area that will need to be kept at the proper temperature for the museum’s operations,” Mark J. Calvert, Public Works Operation Manager, wrote in the city memo for the agenda item.

“In addition to the ceiling grid there will be new LED light fixtures added and some HVAC additions added for the new ceiling,” he continued.

The Lake Wales City Museum recently celebrated its grand re-opening on Fri. Oct. 25.

“While we originally planned for all of our updated exhibits to be completed and open to the public by our re-opening event ‘Beers with Pioneers’, due to ongoing construction, building restoration, and hurricane-related delays, the museum has made the decision to open our updated exhibits in phases,” a Facebook post on Tues. Oct. 15 stated.

The post continued: “As we continue our phased reopening, we will share progress updates and announce the opening of new exhibits on our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages. The Lake Wales History Museum remains committed to being a valuable community resource during this time.”

Museum Director Angela Rosado, in an e-mail, explained that the museum’s main Pink Depot had a bid placed by the city to replace its roof. The bid was placed on Thurs. Nov. 7, and bids are being reviewed at this time.

Stroller Being Pushed by Mother Struck by Vehicle in Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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November 11, 2024

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Stroller Being Pushed by Mother Struck by Vehicle in Lake Wales

At approximately 6:46 this evening, November 11, 2024, a traffic collision was reported on Buck Moore Road, just north of Highway 60.

Lake Wales Police Department Investigations Commander Lieutenant Dale Hampton advises that the call was for a vehicle vs. pedestrian.

“The mother was leaving the exit of Walgreens and crossed Buck Moore Rd, headed to 7-Eleven, when a vehicle struck the baby stroller she was pushing,” Hampton says.

The mother was reportedly not injured, but Hampton says the stroller was struck, and the baby was ejected from the stroller. The baby was taken by air to an unnamed hospital.

Buck Moore Rd. is currently open to traffic, but law enforcement is still present as they work to clear the area after their investigation. Please avoid this area.

Three Vehicle Accident at Hwy. 27 in Lake Wales Causing Backup

Traffic

Maria Iannucci

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November 11, 2024

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Three Vehicle Accident at Hwy. 27 in Lake Wales Causing Backup

On November 11, 2024 at 6:24 p.m. Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Polk County Fire Rescue responded to a multi-vehicle crash near the intersection of Hwy. 27 and Cypress Gardens Blvd.

It was reported that three cars were involved, two sedans and an SUV.

Vehicle 1 – Chevy Equinox

Vehicle 2 – Kia Sol

Vehicle 3 – Ford Fusion

Nathaniel Gale, Polk County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer (PIO) confirmed one patient was transported via ground to a local hospital.

At this time, Polk County Sheriff’s Office advises the middle and outside lane of 27 are blocked on the southbound side just north of the intersection with Cypress Gardens Blvd.

Lake Wales: Semi vs. Vehicle, Hwy. 27 Shut Down

Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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November 11, 2024

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Lake Wales: Semi vs. Vehicle, Hwy. 27 Shut Down

Video credit: Maria Iannucci/Lake Wales Daily

At approximately 10:49 AM, a traffic collision was reported near the intersection of Highway 27 S. and LongLeaf, just south of Candle Rd. and south of the Love’s gas station. The crash involved a vehicle versus semi. There is significant damage to the vehicle and the semi is on its side across the center of Hwy. 27.

Photo, with permission by reader of Lake Wales Daily

One trauma, patient was transported by helicopter with non-life-threatening injuries. The cause of the crash is unknown at this time. An investigation is underway.

Lake Wales Police Department Sargent Michael Waldron advises, “There is a significant backup of traffic on Highway 27 southbound approaching this area. Drivers are strongly advised to avoid this area if possible.”

At this time, some traffic is being diverted on the shoulder past the accident scene, or through the LongLeaf Industrial Park.

Waldron says State officials have been contacted and are in the process of plans to remove the semi from the roadway. This process may take a few hours. It is unknown with the contents of the semi is at this time.

Avoid Hwy. 27 in this area as the scene is being investigated and the cleanup is completed.

The History of Veterans Day, and How We Can Continue to Honor our Favorite Veterans

Featured

Maria Iannucci

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November 11, 2024

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The History of Veterans Day, and How We Can Continue to Honor our Favorite Veterans

My father, Guillermo A. Santiago, in is 80s

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website shares a great explanation of the history of Veterans Day on their website:

“World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of ‘the war to end all wars.’

“Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.”

The Oxford Dictionary defines this day as, “ A public holiday held on the anniversary of the end of World War I (November 11) to honor US veterans and victims of all wars. It replaced Armistice Day in 1954.”

The National Veterans Day Ceremony is held at Arlington National Cemetery, where a wreath is laid at the Tomb of the Unknowns and a parade of colors takes place.

Poppies are a symbol of remembrance for the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

These are all common facts you can find online.

Now, to continue to honor the men and women who have served our country, it’s critical that their lives and their stories be remembered.

On this Veteran’s Day, I share part of my father’s story, in hope that he will be remembered:

My father, later known as PFC Guillermo A. Santiago, came to the United States from Puerto Rico as a veritable orphan in his late teens. He joined the United States Army in 1940, where he served for almost five years.

A part of the 10th Mountain Division, he fought in World War II, traveling through Europe and Africa, often on the front line. He always cherished his time in the military, so much so that when he passed away at the age of 85, he was laid to rest at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. His headstone says it best: “He Loved God and Country”.

Santiago’s gravesite at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL

The photo shown here was taken when he was 19 (left), with his brother, Anibal (my Uncle Andy), out west, when they were both a part of the Civilian Conservation Corps prior to the start of the war. What’s interesting is that, they were separated years earlier after their father died, and they had not seen each other in years, had not made prior contact, and happened to be on the same base. This photo represents their reunion, and is the earliest photo I have of my father, which is quite appropriate.

Guillermo and Anibal at the CCC camp where they unexpectedly reunited

I ask you to remember him, and all Veterans, on this beautiful November day. The sacrifices made by our military cannot be measured, but should be cherished. Happy Veterans Day to all the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. God bless you, and may God bless America, always.

Single Vehicle Crash Takes Out Power Pole, Two Trauma Patients Transported by Air in Lake Wales

Traffic

Maria Iannucci

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November 11, 2024

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Single Vehicle Crash Takes Out Power Pole, Two Trauma Patients Transported by Air in Lake Wales

A traffic collision in Lake Wales has resulted in injuries and the downing of a power pole, requiring road closure for most of the night and hours to come.

According to Polk County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer, Meghan Petty, PCSO was dispatched to a crash at 3111 Masterpiece Road (near the intersection of Timberlane Rd.) at 1:11 AM. Lake Wales Daily is advised that a single vehicle crashed into a power line.

A Polk County Fire Rescue representative advises that two trauma alert patients were transported by air with injuries. No further information on injuries is available at this time.

As of 7 AM this morning, the powerlines are still down at or near the intersection of Timberlane Road and Masterpiece Road. The officer on scene has advised that the lines that are down may still be live as Duke Energy works to remedy the situation. They are currently working and drivers are strongly advised to avoid this area as both directions of Masterpiece Rd., and Timberlane Rd. approaching the intersection, are closed.

This intersection is expected to be closed for several hours as Duke Energy Works to restore power and repair or replace the damaged pole. Several people have reported intermittent power outages through the night and this morning. This can be expected as crews work on the repairs.

Plan to find an alternate route if you are planning travel within this area.

As always, drive safe.

Intersection of Masterpiece Road and Timberlane Road

Lake Wales Care Center Invitational Golf Tournament Nov. 16

Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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November 10, 2024

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Lake Wales Care Center Invitational Golf Tournament Nov. 16

The 32nd Annual Lake Wales Care Center Invitational Golf Tournament, sponsored by Chemical Containers, Inc., has a new date of Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 8:00am EST – 8:00pm at Lake Wales Country Club.

Money raised supports the many community ministries Care Center provides. Because of the generosity of the business community in sponsoring this event, all of the golfer registration fees support Care Center directly.

Registration closes on Friday, November 15. To register, or for tickets, please contact Lake Wales Care Center directly.

Pair Arrested For Trespassing In An Active Lake Wales Construction Site

LAKE WALES POLICE DEPARTMENT

carl

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November 10, 2024

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Pair Arrested For Trespassing In An Active Lake Wales Construction Site

Monday 10/21/2024 at approximately 11:55pm the Lake Wales Police we’re called to a possible trespassing at a current Lake Wales construction site. Officers arrested Makayla White DOB: 04/16/1990 & John Riff DOB: 01/30/1992 charging them with Trespassing on a Posted Construction Site.

The following is a redacted, but unedited portion of the Lake Wales Police Department arrest affidavit for White. Riffs affidavit is almost identical (It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by the Lake Wales Police Department. These facts are up for question and everyone is entitled to question the validity of facts by law enforcement in a court of law. The Lake Wales Daily Ridge does not rewrite these facts as some meanings or interpretations could be in error and change context. We hope readers appreciate being able to read the information and come to their own understanding and conclusions. A suspect is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.) :

“ On Monday, 10/21/2024, I responded to an active construction site of a subdivision located near REDACTED in reference to subjects trespassing on the property. An off duty Polk County Sheriff’s Office Deputy (REDACTED) notified Lake Wales Police that there were suspicious individuals in the construction site located at Grove Ave,and Hamlin Street. Officers were advised of several subjects were on site with flashlights. Once on scene, I observed one white male and one white female subjects currently detained by Officers. One subject was later identified as Defendant Makayla Jean White.

This site is currently an active construction site for a new subdivision where all the homes are currently a construction site. Makayla stated she was there to get stuff out of the dumpsters. There was a significant amount of property that was taken. The defendant Makayla Jean White was located inside the cargo van in front of two homes inside the construction site. She was detained and questioned post Miranda about what she was doing at the site at this hour of night. She advised they were going through the dumpsters on the property. Multiple items of construction material to include a full uncut 4 ‘ 8 ‘ sheet of plywood, multiple concrete blocks, rebar, and large rolls of electrical wire were located inside the vehicle she was driving.

Makayla stated at no time did she enter any of the homes and the all the property taken was out near the street or dumpster. Be advised that all the property taken seemed brand new and never used. It has yet been determined if the property was taken from the dumpsters or from inside the homes being built. I was clear that Makayla White and her co-defendant were there for the purpose of salvaging construction material in violation of the posted sign prohibiting trespass, salvage or dumping debris.

There is clearly posted signs at every single construction home that states “LENNAR, NO TRESPASSING, No Salvage or Dumping Debris, Violators Will Be Guilty of a Felony”. Based on the information obtained, Makayla Jean White will be charged with Trespassing on a Posted Construction Site 810.09(2) (c)* The construction manager’s name is also listed on the signs and permit numbers are located on each sign.”

Both suspects have been given court dates. White posted bond and has a court date 12/9/2024. Riff had a court date 11/8/2024, but details are not yet available.

In Loving Memory of Deryl W. Futrill, 74

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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November 10, 2024

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Deryl W. Futrill, 74

Deryl W. Futrill of Haines City passed away on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at Winter Haven Hospital.

He was born October 1, 1950, and has been a local resident since 1973. He was a retired forklift driver for Florida’s Natural and a member of the Grace Baptist Church. He was a founding member of the Lake Wales Moose Lodge, and he enjoyed fishing, but was known as “The Unlucky Fisherman”.

Deryl was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Futrill in 2007. Survivors include his sons, Brian “BJ” Futrill of Haines City and Travis Futrill of Lake Wales; and one grandson, Dylan Futrill.

Memorial service will be held at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales with Rev. Kerry Beatty officiating. Day and time of service to be scheduled.

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