Sebring Woman Charged with Animal Cruelty
Sebring Woman Charged with Animal Cruelty
On Saturday, June 8, 2013 Highlands County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to 4315 Lakewood Road in Sebring in response to a complaint of a foul odor coming from the residence. Upon entering the home deputies discovered numerous canine and feline crates containing numerous dogs and cats. Many of the animals appeared to be in very poor health and the living conditions were deplorable.
Highlands County Animal Control was summoned to the location and deputies and officers began removing malnourished and dirty animals from the home. The stench was such that deputies donned personal protective equipment to make the final search of the residence to be certain all of the animals had been removed and that there were no persons in the house. In all 27 cats and 18 dogs were removed from the residence and taken to Animal Control.
Shortly after both Highlands County Sheriff’s and Animal Control personnel departed from the scene, the homeowner, Michelle Ann Brown, 59 years of age, returned to the home. After discussions with Ms. Brown, deputies placed her under arrest for Animal Cruelty. She has currently been charged with 45 counts of animal cruelty and is in the Highlands County Jail with a $45,000 bond ($1000 for each count).
At this time all the animals are being held by the Highlands County Animal Control and are being treated for their conditions as necessary. Further information on the condition of the animals will be forthcoming as their care progresses.
Nell Hays, CPS
Public Information Officer
Highlands County Sheriff’s Office
Office: 863-402-7369
Mobile: 863-214-2533
Death Investigation Press Release
Death Investigation
Highlands County Sheriff’s Detectives are currently attempting to identify a body that was found in Lake June in the vicinity of the Lake June ball fields on Sunday, June 9th. The District 10 Medical Examiner’s Office is working with the detectives in an attempt to provide information from which the identity of the person may be known.
Further updates will be provided as the case progresses.
Anyone with information on this case is requested to contact the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Unit and Detective Roger St. Laurent at 863-402-7250. Anyone with information who wants to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS(8477), contact us on the internet at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com or simply scan the QR code at right. Anonymity is guaranteed!
Nell Hays, CPS
Public Information Officer
Highlands County Sheriff’s Office
Office: 863-402-7369
Mobile: 863-214-2533
Toddler Drowning Press Release
Toddler Drowning
Highlands County Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating a drowning that occurred on Sunday, June 9th at a home on N. Riverdale Road in Avon Park. At approximately 6:30PM Central Dispatch received a call that a one year old child had fallen into the pool and was unresponsive. Once on scene deputies began CPR until Emergency Medical Services arrived and assumed care for the victim. The child was transported to Florida Hospital Heartland however Emergency Room personnel were unable to resuscitate the child.
No further details are available at this time and the case remains under investigation.
“This is a tragic situation and our deputies and victim advocates will assist this family in any way possible”, says Sheriff Susan Benton. As summertime is upon us, Sheriff encourages everyone to please review pool and swimming safety tips. The Consumer Product Safety Commission indicates that the populations most at risk of drowning are children under 5 years old, representing nearly 75% of child drowning fatalities. The website www.poolsafely.gov encourages people to stay close by and keep a watchful eye on children in and around the pool. It also advises to teach children basic water safety tips, keep them away from pool drains, pipes and other openings, have a portable telephone close by in case a call for help is needed and if a child is missing, look for him or her in the pool or spa first.
Nell Hays, CPS
Public Information Officer
Highlands County Sheriff’s Office
Office: 863-402-7369
Mobile: 863-214-2533
Charles Murphy News 6/10
News Cast for June 10th:
Members of the class of 2013 listen to various speeches and to accolades from their principal at the OHS graduation exercise held Friday night.
Close to 330 students accepted diplomas as the Okeechobee high school graduation ceremony held Friday night at the Ag Civic Center. The ceremony included remarks by Class Vice President Brendon Jonassaint, songs by Kylie Shirley and a trio from Carson Harris, Nicole St. Pierre and Jack Radebaugh. Class Valedictorian this year was Sarah Davis and Salutatorian was Thomas Jacob Close. Principal Toni Wiersma saluted the class on maturity and community service. Thirty-five migrant students graduated this year. Four of the graduates will join the US Army, two the marines and seven the US Navy.
Among arrests today, 69 year old Jesse Williams was charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon for allegedly stabbing 49 year old Gilbert Pickens in the back with a pocket knife. Alcohol was said to have played a role in the incident on Thursday night.
The highway patrol yet to identify a female killed in an accident on route 721 north of Lakeport on Friday evening. A 2008 Dodge Avenger was north bound when it left the road on the east shoulder and collided with two concrete poles, rolling over several times. The driver was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene.
Sports Cast for June 10th:
Brendon Jonassaint was named the Brahman Award winner for the boys’ tennis team this year. The teams won 9 out of 12 matches and were competitive throughout the year. Jonassiant did well in both singles and lost just one match in doubles this year. He said the Brahman award held some special meaning for him. Jonassaint was praised by his coaches for his character, team support and his personality. He said he appreciated those compliments. Jonassaint advised the younger players to play the sport year round and work on their game. He said never to give up and always to play hard. BJ earned an academic scholarship at the University of Florida and wants to study biology and medicine.
Press Release for Infant Death
NEWS RELEASE
June 6, 2013
Infant Death
Highlands County Sheriff’s Office Detectives are investigating the death of a one year old infant. At approximately 3:00PM on May 24, 2013 Central Dispatch received a call from a local medical facility requesting deputies because an infant had arrived at the emergency room by EMS and was deceased. Detectives learned that the child had been left in a vehicle with the motor off but the fan on. Subsequently the baby went into distress and ultimately died. The cause of death is pending the District 10 Medical Examiner review.
Adriana Alicia Espinosa, 23 years of age of 3521 SR 70, Lake Placid, the mother of the child, has been arrested and charged with Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child and Neglect of a Child Causing Great Bodily Harm. She is currently in the Highlands County Jail with a bond of $300,000. Also charged in the case is Christopher Eiland, 22 years of age of Fort Meade. Eiland has been charged with Failure to Report Suspected Child Abuse, Abandonment or Neglect. Mr. Eiland was located in Fort Meade and was taken into custody by Polk County Sheriff’s Deputies who served the warrant. He is currently released on bond.
This case is still under investigation. Anyone with information is requested to contact Detective Hank Smith of the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Unit at 863-402-7250. Anyone with information who wants to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS(8477), contact us on the internet at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com or simply scan the QR code at right. Anonymity is guaranteed!
Nell Hays, CPS
Public Information Officer
Highlands County Sheriff’s Office
Office: 863-402-7369
Mobile: 863-214-2533
Employers Welcome To Register At No Cost
Employers Welcome To Register At No Cost
MOORE HAVEN, FL. — According to Economic Development Council director Tracy Whirls, several EDC member businesses have recently approached the council for assistance in identifying potential employees for their businesses.
Whirls says Manhattan Construction will break ground in July on the new $23.6 million Moore Haven Junior Senior High School, which is expected to generate more job opportunities through local subcontractors.
The Glades County EDC is organizing a Job Fair tentatively set for Thursday, June 20 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Doyle Conner Building in Moore Haven. There will be no cost to businesses who wish to participate, although we do ask that you rsvp to indicate your interest.
Registration forms for participating businesses will be available on the EDC website, www.gladescountyedc.com. Potential employees will also be invited to register so that as new openings arise so the council will have a database of prospective employees to refer.
If your company is interested in participating in this event, please contact Emily Rigdon at erigdon@gladescountyedc.com or Tracy Whirls at twhirls@gladescountyedc.com or phone (863) 946-0300 for more information.
Safety First as the Tropical Storm Andrea Moves Over Florida
SAFETY FIRST AS THE TROPICAL STORM ANDREA
MOVES OVER FLORIDA
~ Drivers should use caution before hitting the road before and after a storm ~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Highway Patrol urges motorist to be cautious as the first tropical storm of the hurricane season moves through Florida. Motorists are advised to closely monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Andrea and follow instructions from emergency management officials.
The Florida Highway Patrol urges drivers to follow safety tips that can save lives:
- For real-time traffic and road condition reports, as well as maps and additional safety tips, FHP encourages motorists to visit www.flhsmv.gov/fhp/. Florida drivers also can call 511 on their cell phone or visit http://fl511.com/ for up-to-the-minute updates on traffic congestion, road construction, lane closures, severe weather and travel delays on interstates and major highways.
- For more information and updates on Tropical Storm Andrea, visit: http://www.floridadisaster.org/DEMpublic.asp
- Stay put. – Avoid driving in heavy storms, and stay in a safe place after the storm. Be prepared to remain where you are for an extended period. Often, injuries and deaths occur in the aftermath of storms. Sightseers impeding roadways cause obstacles for emergency personnel responding to those in need.
- Slow down. – Roadways remain slick after storm so if you have to drive, decrease your speed to avoid hydroplaning.
- Be cautious of high winds. – Windy conditions adversely affect all vehicles, particularly high profile vehicles, such as buses and trucks, as well as motorcycles. Gusty wind makes driving difficult, especially when it is rapidly changing speed and direction.
- Pay attention. – You may come up on an intersection that is no longer controlled by a traffic control device. If a law enforcement officer is directing traffic, follow his directions. Otherwise, treat the intersection as you would treat an intersection governed by a four-way Stop sign.
- Flooding Safety. –Never drive into moving water. If you cannot see the roadway beneath the water, do not drive through it! The water may be deeper than it appears and the road may already be washed away.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit www.flhsmv.gov or follow us on Twitter @FDHSMV. You can find us on Facebook, too.
Charles Murphy News 6/7
News Cast for June 7th:
A Highlands county woman charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child, apparently leaving the child in a hot vehicle. The one year old child died later at the hospital. 23 year old Adriana Espinosa of route 70 in Lake Placid was also charged with neglect. 22 year old Chris Eiland of Fort Meade was charged with failure to report suspected child abuse.
A single wide mobile home gutted by fire at 3632 South East 25th Street Wednesday night. The resident Norma Risner was not home at the time. Over 53 thousand dollars was the estimate of damage. The American Red Cross came to her aid. The State Fire Marshall to determine the cause. Firemen were on the scene for over three hours.
OHS graduation was postponed due to Tropical Storm Andrea and will be held tonight at 8 pm at the Okeechobee Ag Civic Center. The graduating class was expected to be near 3 hundred and 30 students.
The Okeechobee school board honored 10 employees with over 3 hundred years’ experience at the end of the school year. Teachers who graduate this year include Mary Ellen Emley, Ernest Johnson, Susan Karns, Susan and James Lapenna, Cathy Raulerson, Earnestine Roberson and Richardean Singleton.
Among arrests today, 30 year old Tyrone Thomas was charged with domestic violence by strangulation.
53 year old Don White of Buckhead Ridge was charged with tampering with a witness and aggravated stalking in an ongoing dispute in that community. White faces battery related charges from an earlier allegation. Glades County deputies say White is charged with violating a court order for protection.
Sports Cast for June 7th:
Brooke Snyder was named co MVP of the Lady Brahman flag football team this year. The senior was a leader on the defensive unit this year and was among the team leaders in tackles and interceptions. She said the award was a bit of a surprise. Snyder says she liked flag football and that helped her excel. The Lady Brahman defense was among the best in the area this year. Snyder was praised because as a corner back she never let an opposing receiver catch a touchdown pass.
OHS alumnus Jonathan Crawford was picked number 20 by the Detroit Tigers in the Major League baseball amateur draft last night. The perennial contenders Tigers have loved strong pitchers with good fastballs. The Tigers look at Crawford as a starting pitcher with a timetable of 2 to 3 more years of minor league seasoning. Crawford pitched to a 3.86 earned run average this year for the University of Florida. The Tigers have 6.5 million to pay their draft picks this year with just over 2 million slotted for the first round selection.
Charles Murphy News 6/6
News Cast for June 6th:
Close to 330 students will graduate from Okeechobee high school tonight. Commencement exercises will be held at the Okeechobee Ag Center starting at 8 pm. Principal Toni Wiersma recalled that this class thought about others and were involved with back pack for kids which provided food for needy families on the weekends. Gates open for the ceremony at 7 pm and motorists must use the route 710 entrance.
Toni Wiersma on 2013 OHS graduation
Among arrests today, 30 year old Marlon Thomas was charged with possession with intent to sell or delivery marijuana and felony marijuana possession after a drug raid at a home on South East 26th Street. Over 8 thousand dollars in suspected drug cash was seized along with 36 grams of marijuana.
31 year old Joshua Scott was charged with burglary and grand theft for a burglary in Pioneer Estates. 23 year old Cory Pethybridge was charged with grand theft for allegedly stealing a pair of boots from a local retailer.
51 year old Ronald Pena was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a knife, and battery after an alleged domestic quarrel.
A DUI checkpoint last Saturday resulted in 30 citations, one DUI arrest and 9 criminal citations. More than 5 hundred vehicles were inspected on route 70 west by city police, troopers and sheriff deputies.
In the courts, 60 year old Jerry Vanepps received 9 months in jail, 2 thousand dollars in fines and court costs for running over a pedestrian on route 70 west while intoxicated in April of 2010. Jose Berrera Martinez was either walking on the road or the shoulder when he was struck. Prosecutor Robert Moeller said two eye witnesses didn’t cooperate with the state’s case. He said this was a good resolution without that eye witness testimony. The pedestrian was also apparently intoxicated when he was killed.
Robert Moeller on Jerry Vanepps case
Sports Cast for June 6th:
Sarah Davis was named the Gold Glove award winner for Okeechobee softball this year capping a four year run as an excellent two and three sport athlete for the Lady Brahmans. Davis intends to study at Texas A&M University in the fall. She is also the class valedictorian this year. She explains that high school sports and academics will hold a lot of great memories.
Davis says she is glad about her accomplishments in both academics and athletics and wouldn’t change a thing about high school. Davis had over 130 putouts in the field and a solid year at the plate for the district champions. She was also a top volleyball player and lettered in girls weight lifting.
Murphy Meets with Top Army Corps Official
MURPHY MEETS WITH TOP ARMY CORPS OFFICIAL
Discusses Concerns Regarding Lake Okeechobee Discharges, Calls for Funding for Indian River Lagoon Project
Today, U.S. Representative Patrick E. Murphy (FL-18) met with Jo-Ellen Darcy, Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works), who is the top official for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. At this meeting, Rep. Murphy expressed his serious concerns about the releases from Lake Okeechobee, which are extremely damaging to the local ecosystem and economy. With rainfall expected to be heavy this season, Rep. Murphy stressed the importance for alternative approaches to lake discharges to avoid the devastating impact they have on the St. Lucie River. Furthermore, Rep. Murphy discussed the need to fully fund and move quickly on Everglades restoration efforts, including the Indian River Lagoon Project, with the overall goal of improving the natural flow of water and improving water quality throughout the region.
“I welcomed the opportunity to meet with Assistant Secretary Darcy today to discuss many pressing issues facing the Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches, including funding for the Indian River Lagoon Project as well as scheduled discharges from Lake Okeechobee,” said Rep. Murphy. “With increased releases likely from Lake Okeechobee due to increased rainfall predicted in the region, I pushed the Army Corps to work expeditiously so we can stop these harmful discharges in order to protect our precious ecosystem.
“I also shared with Assistant Secretary Darcy my strong concerns regarding the failure of the President’s budget to include funding for the Indian River Lagoon Project, which is vital not only to the district but to overall Everglades restoration efforts. While I was once again reassured that phase one of the project has the funds necessary for its completion, I will closely monitor the Army Corps’ progress and the Administration’s funding to ensure this important project is fully funded and completed in a timely manner.”
The Army Corps of Engineers is a major player in Everglades restoration and other water quality related issues in Florida, such as the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), including the C-44 Indian River Lagoon Project, and the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP). Additionally, the Corps is responsible for repairing the Herbert Hoover dike and maintaining the regulation schedule of Lake Okeechobee, in addition to managing coastal restoration and dredging projects, all of which greatly impact the environment and economy in the Palm Beach-Treasure Coast district that Rep. Murphy represents.
