Marilyn M. Aciego

Marilyn M. Aciego is the Publisher of Inside Lake and a veteran journalist with more than two decades of experience covering Lake County. Born and raised locally, she is a graduate of Umatilla High School and Lake-Sumter State College, where her journalism career began. Marilyn has reported on some of the area’s most high-profile and impactful stories, including the disappearance of Trenton Duckett, the death of Sheriff Chris Daniels, and the murders of Jamaria Sessions, Master Deputy Bradley Link and Xavier Williams. Her work is known for exclusive sourcing, public records expertise, and a willingness to ask uncomfortable questions. In 2023, she was honored with Lake-Sumter State College’s Distinguished Alumni Professional Achievement Award. In 2024, Marilyn was the first to break two major Lake County public safety stories, reinforcing Inside Lake as a trusted source for timely, independent, and community-focused reporting. In addition to publishing Inside Lake, Marilyn serves as the Florida Bureau Chief for an international media organization. She has an adult son she raised in the same community she reports on every day.

Man found dead in burning Altoona home Saturday

ALTOONA, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a man was found dead in a burning home Saturday afternoon. LCSO and Lake County Fire Rescue responded to 20332 Wood Duck Road, Altoona around 1 p.m. on reports the home was on fire. LCFR removed a deceased male from the home, and authorities found he had an apparent gunshot wound, according to LCSO Lt. John Herrell. The man, identified as Michael Gall, 49, lived at the home and detectives are conducting a death investigation, Herrell said; no other information was released.

Man found dead in burning Altoona home Saturday Read More »

Lady Lake police investigating after man found dead in golf cart Sunday night

LADY LAKE, Fla.—Lady Lake Police Department is investigating after a man was found dead in a golf cart Sunday night. The 59-year-old man, whose name has not been released, was found after LLPD responded to 1 LaGrande Boulevard and found him unresponsive around 10 p.m. Sunday. “There were no signs of foul play, however the cause of death is unknown. Police do not believe there is any cause for alarm to the community,” Town of Lady Lake Spokesperson Elisha Pappacoda said in an email. If you have any information on the man’s death, call LLPD at 352-751-1565.

Lady Lake police investigating after man found dead in golf cart Sunday night Read More »

Astatula man killed Friday morning after rear-ending dump truck in Orange County

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla.—A 30-year-old Astatula man was killed before daybreak Friday morning after he rear-ended a dump truck near Zellwood, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly after 5:30 a.m., the Astatula man was driving a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado westbound on Jones Avenue near Jewel Foliage Road when he entered the eastbound lane, traveling above the posted speed limit, to pass another vehicle, FHP said. He reentered the westbound lane, failed to slow down and rear-ended a 1985 dump truck being driven by a 38-year-old Eustis man. The Astatula man was transported to AdventHealth Apopka and pronounced deceased; the Eustis

Astatula man killed Friday morning after rear-ending dump truck in Orange County Read More »

Accused murderer back in Lake County

TAVARES, Fla.—The man police believe is responsible for the murder of a Leesburg store owner was booked into the Lake County Jail Friday morning. Alex Lopez, 25, is facing charges of premeditated murder, armed robbery and two other weapons offenses, and is being held on no bond. Lopez was on the run for nearly a month, while Leesburg Police Department worked with state, federal and local agencies to track him down and finally located him at a motel in Kissimmee around 7 p.m. Wednesday, Leesburg Police Department Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. He was taken into custody by the FDLE/Orlando –

Accused murderer back in Lake County Read More »

Trial set to begin in ‘24 murder of Leesburg store owner

TAVARES, Fla.—The trial of the man accused of killing a Leesburg store owner is scheduled to begin this week, according to court records. Alex Lopez, 26, is accused of gunning down Raied Shihadeh, 51, during a robbery at Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, on May 30, 2024 and fleeing the scene. Shihadeh was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries. Lopez, of Wildwood, was on the run for nearly a month after the murder, before being captured at a Kissimmee motel by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Violent Crimes Task Force. Lopez

Trial set to begin in ‘24 murder of Leesburg store owner Read More »

Umatilla man pleads no contest to ’22 DUI manslaughter crash that killed Sorrento woman, sentenced to more than 11 years in prison

TAVARES, Fla.—A man accused of operating his motorcycle drunk and killing a woman riding on the back in April 2022 has pleaded no contest to DUI manslaughter and was sentenced to more than 11 years in prison. Edgar Wesley Tello, 66, of Umatilla, has been in the Lake County Jail since his arrest in February 2023, nearly a year after the crash that killed Rebekah Jo Towner less than two weeks after her 28th birthday. On April 24, 2022, Towner, of Sorrento, was a passenger on 2006 Harley Davidson being controlled by Tello, northbound on Grove Street in Eustis, when

Umatilla man pleads no contest to ’22 DUI manslaughter crash that killed Sorrento woman, sentenced to more than 11 years in prison Read More »

Leesburg man accused of exposing himself on busy highway during road rage incident Sunday

LEESBURG, Fla.—A man was arrested after he was accused of exposing his genitals to three people in the middle of the day on a busy highway during a road rage incident Sunday afternoon. Shortly before 3:15 p.m. Sunday, a Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a report of a road rage incident and indecent exposure. One of the victims told the deputy they were traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 27 when they slowed due to heavy rain, according to an arrest affidavit. A speeding silver Kia Optima swerved around their vehicle and cut them off. The Optima continued to

Leesburg man accused of exposing himself on busy highway during road rage incident Sunday Read More »

Death of 9-year-old girl being treated as a homicide investigation, maternal family says

MONTVERDE, Fla.—The maternal family of the child found deceased in a Montverde home Monday has publicly identified her and they say the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has told them her death is a homicide investigation. Only Inside Lake spoke with the uncle and grandmother of Jamaria Sessions, 9, this week. According to Jamaria’s uncle Joseph Robinson, Jamaria and her younger sister, 5, had been living with their father, Lojuan Sessions since October 2023, and Jamaria was found deceased at his home in Montverde. Prior to that, they were living with their grandmother when Sessions picked them up from school without

Death of 9-year-old girl being treated as a homicide investigation, maternal family says Read More »

Ham Radio Field Day set for this weekend

TAVARES, Fla.—Each June, more than 40,000 amateur radio operators, known as “hams” set up temporary transmitting stations in public places  throughout North America to demonstrate ham radio’s science, skill, and service to our communities and nation. It combines public service, emergency preparedness, community outreach, and technical skills in a single event. Field Day has been an annual event since 1933 and remains the most popular event in ham radio. The competitive aspect of Field Day is to contact as many other amateur stations as possible between 2 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The public is invited to attend the

Ham Radio Field Day set for this weekend Read More »

Information finally released following search warrants executed on gaming facilities earlier this month

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—Only Inside Lake was on the scene earlier this month as Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives, in conjunction with the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) searched an internet gaming facility in unincorporated Umatilla, and LCSO has finally released information regarding that search warrant and three more. On June 13, 2024, four search warrants were executed at different illegal gaming establishments in Lake County. Detectives with the Leesburg, Clermont, Eustis, and Mount Dora police departments also assisted with the investigation that stemmed from continued concerns that illegal gambling throughout Lake County leads to an increase in law enforcement calls

Information finally released following search warrants executed on gaming facilities earlier this month Read More »

Driver who caused crash that shut down Grove Street Monday night arrested for DUI

EUSTS, Fla.—The driver of the truck that took out an electrical pole, a fire hydrant, and shut down Grove Street for more than 10 hours Monday has been arrested for DUI. Tyler G. Cook, 29, of Eustis, was arrested early Tuesday morning after being released from the hospital, where he refused a blood draw, according to an arrest affidavit. Around 6:30 p.m. Monday, EPD responded to a crash one Grove Street near North Eustis Street and found a power pole lying across the road, a fire hydrant spewing water and a blue Chevy truck on its roof, with an open

Driver who caused crash that shut down Grove Street Monday night arrested for DUI Read More »

Child found deceased at Montverde home, Medical Examiner to determine cause of death

MONTVERDE, Fla.—A 9-year-old child was found deceased by a family member at their home in Montverde Monday and turned over to the Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause of death, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The child’s name and gender were not released. Little information was available Tuesday, but “there is no danger to the public and the investigation is ongoing,” Cpl. Chanel Martin told Inside Lake.

Child found deceased at Montverde home, Medical Examiner to determine cause of death Read More »

Truck takes out electrical pole, fire hydrant, flips over and shuts down Grove Street in Eustis Monday night

EUSTS, Fla.—A state road is shut down Monday night after a speeding truck took out an electrical pole, a fire hydrant, and flipped over; and the driver may have been drunk, according to Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri. An adult male, who has not been publicly identified, was traveling northbound on Grove Street near North Eustis Street at a “high rate of speed” in a pickup truck around 6:30 p.m. when he lost control, hit the pole, the fire hydrant and flipped over, Capri told Inside Lake. The driver and his passenger were transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares with

Truck takes out electrical pole, fire hydrant, flips over and shuts down Grove Street in Eustis Monday night Read More »

Dump truck driver swerves and hits pickup head-on, killing DeLand man Friday morning

DeLAND, Fla.—A 35-year-old DeLand man was killed Friday morning after a dump truck swerved and hit the pickup truck he was driving head-on, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 7:15 a.m., a 23-year-old Deltona man was driving a 2018 Kenworth dump truck eastbound on State Road 44, approaching Misty Lane in the DeLand area of Lake County, when he swerved left to avoid stopped traffic, FHP said The dump truck crashed head-on into a 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 traveling westbound, killing the Ram’s driver. The dump truck driver was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares with minor injuries. Earlier

Dump truck driver swerves and hits pickup head-on, killing DeLand man Friday morning Read More »

Fatal crash shuts down SR 44 Friday morning

Update: Dump truck driver swerves and hits pickup head-on, killing DeLand man Friday morning – Inside Lake   DeLAND, Fla.—State Road 44 is shut down while the Florida Highway Patrol investigates a crash that killed a man Friday morning. The crash happened around 7:15 a.m. at State Road 44 and Misty Lane in the DeLand area of Lake County and involves a 2018 Kenworth dump truck, a 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 and a 2024 Toyota Camry. The driver of the Ram was pronounced deceased on the scene and had not been identified at press time; details on how the crash

Fatal crash shuts down SR 44 Friday morning Read More »

Law enforcement investigating internet gaming facilities in unincorporated Umatilla and Tavares

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—There is a large law enforcement presence at two internet gaming facilities, one in unincorporated Umatilla and one in unincorporated Tavares, Thursday morning and Inside Lake is working to find out why. Inside Lake received multiple tips and was on the scene at Hotspot, 37415 State Road 19, Umatilla, briefly and witnessed several marked units from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office at the business around 9:30 a.m. A tipster also said there was a law enforcement presence at another Hotspot, located at 11203 U.S. Highway 441, Tavares, near County Road 473. “We’re working an investigation regarding those gaming

Law enforcement investigating internet gaming facilities in unincorporated Umatilla and Tavares Read More »

Shots fired in Tavares condo complex Wednesday, knocks power out to multiple residences

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after multiple shots were fired in a condominium complex late Wednesday night. Shortly before 10 p.m., TPD received multiple 911 calls in reference to numerous shots being fired in the Rosewood Condominiums, located off Dead River Road, Det. Courtney Sullivan said. No one was injured, according to Sullivan, and two vehicles fled the complex; one may have been a gray Chevrolet Impala or a Dodge Dart. Police believe there were multiple people involved in the incident and at least two shooters, due to evidence found at the scene. An electrical box was shot, leaving

Shots fired in Tavares condo complex Wednesday, knocks power out to multiple residences Read More »

Eustis family trying to rebuild their lives after loss of home and dog to devastating fire

EUSTIS, Fla.—A Eustis family is trying to rebuild their lives after losing their home and beloved dog to a devastating fire around midnight Monday. Amanda and Joe Mitchem and their son, Joey, 16, were able to escape the blaze, but lost everything they owned and their pup “Bitty Dog,” in the fire. Their daughter, Joni, 18, did not live at the home but was storing most of her belongings there, Amanda told Inside Lake.  The Mitchem family does not have insurance.   Joe and Amanda heard their breaker box making a “buzzing” sound late Sunday night and when Joe opened

Eustis family trying to rebuild their lives after loss of home and dog to devastating fire Read More »

FHP: Boy, 6, seriously injured after jumping from moving SUV near Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating an incident that involved a child jumping out of a moving SUV in unincorporated Leesburg Wednesday, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said. A 2007 Dodge Durango was traveling northbound on County Road 33 with its windows down when the 6-year-old boy jumped out near Chipmunk Drive, Garcia said. The boy was transported to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children with serious injuries; the driver, a 36-year-old woman from Okahumpka, was not injured. The relationship between the boy and the woman was not released. The incident remains under investigation.

FHP: Boy, 6, seriously injured after jumping from moving SUV near Leesburg Read More »

Lake County jury convicts man of shooting woman in Mount Dora last year

TAVARES, Fla.—A man accused of shooting a woman twice in Mount Dora last year was convicted by a Lake County jury Wednesday, according to the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. In March 2023, Mount Dora Police Department responded to the 1500 block of Pine Avenue on a report of a shooting and when they arrived, they found a woman in a 2010 Nissan passenger vehicle suffering from two gunshot wounds. The victim told police “Jason,” later identified as Jason Jameel Ganga shot her while she was attempting to leave, and he was inside. There were two bullet holes through

Lake County jury convicts man of shooting woman in Mount Dora last year Read More »

Tavares police thwart man’s plans to kill his father and beat him with a stick Wednesday

TAVARES, Fla.—A 27-year-old man is behind bars, accused of violating a New York injunction that prohibits him from possessing a firearm, after Tavares Police Department found him with a loaded 9mm he planned to use to “put all of the bullets into his father,” according to an arrest affidavit. Tavares Police Department responded to a home on a request that Tyekwon A. Neal be evaluated because he was “acting crazy,” as he left the home on foot shortly before 1:30 pm. Wednesday. Neal’s father told officers Neal said he was going to make him pay for his mistakes and he

Tavares police thwart man’s plans to kill his father and beat him with a stick Wednesday Read More »

Lady Lake police asking for tips to crack the case that left a young man dead last year

LADY LAKE, Fla.—It’s been nearly a year since 20-year-old Bryson Leverette was gunned down by a group of armed suspects in the Skyline Hills area of Lady Lake and Lady Lake Police Department has a new, seasoned detective on the case. Leverette and another victim were leaving a home at 104 Caroline Avenue around 12:45 a.m. June 30, 2023, when they were approached by the group, armed with several firearms, Town of Lady Lake Spokesperson Elisha Pappacoda said in a press release. LLPD responded to the home after a report of gunshots and found Leverette deceased, and a second person

Lady Lake police asking for tips to crack the case that left a young man dead last year Read More »

Leesburg police identify murder suspect, need public’s help finding him

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has identified the man they believe is responsible for a murder and armed robbery Thursday night. A warrant has been issued for Alex Lopez, 25, of Wildwood for premeditated murder, armed robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and using a firearm during a felony. Shortly after 9 p.m. Thursday, a man believed to be Lopez, entered Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, and shot Raied Shihadeh, 51. He was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. The suspect, now identified as Lopez, fled

Leesburg police identify murder suspect, need public’s help finding him Read More »

Leesburg police release new photos of murder suspect in quest to identify him

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has released enhanced photos of the suspect who killed a store owner during a robbery Thursday night. Shortly after 9 p.m. Thursday, the male suspect entered Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, and shot Raied Shihadeh, 51. He was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. The suspect fled the scene and despite an extensive search by K9 units and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office aviation unit, they were unable to apprehend him, Walsh said. LPD quickly released a still photo and video following the senseless

Leesburg police release new photos of murder suspect in quest to identify him Read More »

Leesburg robbery and shooting victim dies overnight, suspect on the run

LEESBURG, Fla.—The store employee who was shot during a robbery in Leesburg Thursday night has died. Raied Shihadeh, 51, was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries, Leesburg Police Department Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. LPD responded to Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, at 9:08 p.m. Thursday on a report of a robbery and shooting and found Shihadeh unconscious. Lake EMS and Leesburg Fire Rescue responded to the scene to treat Shihadeh and he was airlifted due to the seriousness of his injuries, according to Walsh. “Leesburg officers immediately established a perimeter and requested our

Leesburg robbery and shooting victim dies overnight, suspect on the run Read More »

PHOTO: Marilyn M. Aciego/Inside Lake

LCSO Investigating possible murder-suicide in Umatilla

UMATILLA, Fla. – The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating what may be a murder-suicide in Umatilla Friday morning. LCSO and Umatilla Police Department responded to a home at 44 South Kentucky Avenue around 5:30 a.m. after a complainant reported receiving a “suspicious text message,” according to a press release. When law enforcement arrived, they found Tracy Bean, 50, and Ki’anna Lister, 25, both deceased. Today is Lister’s birthday, according to the birthdate released by LCSO. “The victims displayed signs of homicidal trauma, Lake County detectives are on scene investigating the possible murder-suicide,” according to the press release. The relationship

LCSO Investigating possible murder-suicide in Umatilla Read More »

VIDEO: Leesburg Police release surveillance video of store robbery

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story described the possible race of the suspect, Leesburg Police Department has since stated the suspect’s race is unconfirmed.  LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has released store surveillance video of an armed robbery and shooting Thursday night. Police have not identified the man who entered the Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, Leesburg and shot an employee shortly before 9:30 pm. LPD is looking for a male wearing an orange shirt and had his face covered with a pink shirt. The victim was airlifted to a local hospital and the victim’s condition was unknown

VIDEO: Leesburg Police release surveillance video of store robbery Read More »

One shot in robbery at Leesburg store Thursday night, Leesburg Police searching for suspect

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story described the possible race of the suspect, Leesburg Police Department has since stated the suspect’s race is unconfirmed.  Update: VIDEO: Leesburg Police release surveillance video of store robbery – Inside Lake LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is searching for a suspect who robbed and shot a store employee Thursday night. Details were limited at press time, “It’s a very active scene,” LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh told Inside Lake. Shortly before 9:30 p.m., Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, Leesburg was robbed, and one person was shot. The victim was airlifted to an area

One shot in robbery at Leesburg store Thursday night, Leesburg Police searching for suspect Read More »

Sorrento man accused of taunting friend after running him over last week in Eustis, victim airlifted

EUSTIS, Fla.—A man was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center last week after his friend ran him over—and Eustis Police say it was intentional. Around 6:30 p.m. May 19, EPD responded to the intersection of Clay Boulevard and Pine Grove Road on a report of someone being hit by a vehicle and when they arrived, they found Frederick Correll lying on the ground, bleeding, with road rash all over his body. His injuries were so severe he was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center, according to an arrest affidavit. His condition at press time was unknown. Correll’s friend was on

Sorrento man accused of taunting friend after running him over last week in Eustis, victim airlifted Read More »

FHP identifies Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday

ASTOR, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol has identified the man killed in Astor early Wednesday morning. Robert Sangster Jr., 26, of Umatilla, was standing in the westbound lane of State Road 40, near Blue Creek Lodge Road shortly after 4 a.m. when he was struck by a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee being driven by a 58-year-old Polk City woman. The woman swerved to avoid Sangster Jr., but the right side of the SUV collided with him. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. The woman was not injured and remained on scene, FHP said. The crash closed State Road 40 for approximately

FHP identifies Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday Read More »

Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday morning; SR 40 shut down

Update: FHP identifies Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday – Inside Lake ASTOR, Fla.—A 26-year-old Umatilla man was killed Wednesday after he was struck by an SUV on State Road 40 in Astor, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Umatilla man was standing in the westbound lane of State Road 40 shortly after 4 a.m. when he was struck by 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee being driven by a 58-year-old Polk City woman. The woman swerved to avoid the man, but the right side of the SUV struck him, killing him. His next of kin has not been notified.

Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday morning; SR 40 shut down Read More »

2nd suspect in Paisley home invasion nabbed Tuesday

TAVARES, Fla.—The man wanted for a home invasion and zip-tying a victim earlier this month is behind bars. James Kenneth Rohrer, 28, was taken into custody by Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies in the DeLand area of Lake County early Tuesday morning, according to public records. Rohrer is accused of zip-tying a man and ransacking his home, after his partner in crime, Kayla Louise Berlinski, 31, used a ruse to enter the home of Martin Bottom Jr. on May 12. Bottom Jr. said Berlinski arrived at his home, and he confronted her about a prior theft at his home. Berlinksi,

2nd suspect in Paisley home invasion nabbed Tuesday Read More »

Eustis man killed in early morning wrong-way crash

ZELLWOOD, Fla.—A Eustis man was killed early Sunday morning in a head-on crash, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 42-year-old Eustis man was driving a 2013 Kia Optima northbound in the southbound lanes of Orange Blossom Trail/U.S. Highway 441 approaching Jones Avenue just before 2:30 a.m., when he collided with a 2012 Toyota Rav 4 being driven by a 51-year-old Orlando woman. The Eustis man was transported to AdventHealth Apopka, where he was pronounced deceased; his next of kin has not been notified. The Orlando woman and her passenger, a 72-year-old woman, also of Orlando, were transported to Orlando

Eustis man killed in early morning wrong-way crash Read More »

Suspect in Mount Dora slayings mentally incompetent, judge rules

TAVARES, Fla.—The woman suspected of brutally murdering an elderly Mount Dora couple “is incompetent to proceed” to her murder trial due to her mental illness, Lake Circuit Judge Cary Rada ruled earlier this week. Vickie Lynn Williams, 51,  is accused of stabbing Darryl Getman, 83, and Sharon Getman, 80. The married couple was murdered in their Waterman Village home sometime between the hours of 11 p.m. Dec. 30, 2022, and 2 a.m. Dec. 31, 2022. After murdering the couple, Williams stole their green Kia Soul and was still driving it when she was apprehended by a Savannah Police Department officer

Suspect in Mount Dora slayings mentally incompetent, judge rules Read More »

Deputies OK after Clermont woman sprays them with chemical during well-being check

CLERMONT, Fla.—Four Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies are OK after being doused with a substance Friday by a woman while they performed a well-being check, according to an arrest affidavit. Deputies arrived at an apartment in unincorporated Clermont after a father requested a well-being check on his small child. The child’s age and address are redacted from the affidavit. They attempted to contact Crystal Lorraine Velez, 36, at her apartment and she did not answer the door. They found the door was unlocked but barricaded and “due to concerns for persons inside the apartment” they removed the barricade, entered the

Deputies OK after Clermont woman sprays them with chemical during well-being check Read More »

Man returns to Tavares business day after he was trespassed, punches cop in the mouth

TAVARES, Fla.—A 69-year-old man is being held in the Lake County Jail on $6,000 bond, accused of returning to a business he was trespassed from the day before and punching a Tavares Police Department officer in the mouth when he tried to take him into custody. Shortly before 3 p.m. Friday, TPD responded to Japan Express, 456 East Burleigh Boulevard, in reference to Michael Stanley Bomber returning to the restaurant after he had been trespassed, according to a report. The officer approached Bomber, confirmed his name and asked if he was aware of the trespass he was issued Thursday night.

Man returns to Tavares business day after he was trespassed, punches cop in the mouth Read More »

National Safe Boating Week kicks off Saturday

LITTLE LAKE HARRIS, Fla.—The unofficial start to summer is upon us and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is reminding boaters to stay safe during National Safe Boating Week that begins Saturday. Inside Lake had the opportunity to speak with FWC’s Kristen Turner and Chad Weber, along with Hunter Bland of the National Safe Boating Council Friday about staying safe on the waterways. Florida is the “Boating Capital of the World,” with more than 1 million vessels registered in the state, according to FWC. Florida does have some requirements for boating but common sense and taking simple precautions

National Safe Boating Week kicks off Saturday Read More »

Eustis Police investigating apparent suicide at Eustis gas station

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is investigating after a body was found Thursday morning at a busy gas station and police believe it was a suicide. “It appears to be a suicide and there is no danger to the public,” EPD Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake. The body of a male in his 30s was found by a store employee around 9 a.m. Thursday in the area of the dumpster at 7-Eleven, 2002 North Highway 19, EPD Capt. Jon Fahning said. His name has not been released, pending notification of next of kin. If you are struggling or having suicidal

Eustis Police investigating apparent suicide at Eustis gas station Read More »

Woman wanted for home invasion, impersonating law enforcement in custody

PAISLEY, Fla.—The woman accused of a weekend home invasion near Paisley is in the Lake County Jail on no bond. Kayla Louise Berlinski, 31, of Paisley, was taken into custody Monday night, two hours after Inside Lake published its story on the incident that occurred around 12:30 p.m. Sunday. Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a home near Paisley after a friend who checks on Marvin Bottom Jr. regularly, reported finding him bound with zip ties. Bottom Jr. said Berlinski arrived at his home Sunday, and he confronted her about a prior theft at his home. Berlinksi, wearing both

Woman wanted for home invasion, impersonating law enforcement in custody Read More »

Pair wanted for zip-tying Paisley man and invading his home Sunday, 1 suspect accused of impersonating police officer

PAISLEY, Fla.—A man and a woman are wanted by Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives after a Paisley man was found bound with zip ties in his home Sunday afternoon. LCSO responded to the home after someone reported finding the man with his hands bound behind his back, shortly before 12:30 p.m. Sunday, according to a probable cause affidavit. The victim, Marvin Bottom Jr., said Kayla Berlinski, arrived at his home Sunday and he confronted her about $30 he believed she stole from him on a prior visist to his home. Berlinksi, wearing both a jacket and a hat emblazoned with

Pair wanted for zip-tying Paisley man and invading his home Sunday, 1 suspect accused of impersonating police officer Read More »

Pedestrian killed in Sumter crash Friday morning

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla.—A pedestrian was killed Friday morning after being struck by an SUV and a cement truck, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The pedestrian, who has not been identified, was attempting to walk across State Road 44, near County Road 229, shortly before 6 a.m. when he was struck by a Land Rover Range Rover being driven westbound by a 42-year-old Leesburg man. He was then struck a second time by a cement truck being driven by a 29-year-old man, also of Leesburg, FHP said. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Pedestrian killed in Sumter crash Friday morning Read More »

FDLE arrests Mount Dora man on child pornography charges

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—A Mount Dora man is facing 10 counts of possession of child pornography following a search warrant at his Natoma Boulevard home Wednesday, according to an arrest affidavit. Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) executed a search warrant at the home of Tyler James Hammond, 29, “in furtherance of an investigation” into an electronic device at the home being used to download child pornography, the affidavit states. During an interview, Hammond reportedly admitted he had seen child pornography files using Kik, a messaging application, on his phone that was located in his bedroom. Agents looked

FDLE arrests Mount Dora man on child pornography charges Read More »

Head-on collision kills Clermont man Wednesday morning

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—A Clermont man was killed Wednesday morning after the car he was driving hit an SUV head-on near Clermont, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Clermont man, 52, was driving a 2018 Nissan Maxima eastbound on Schofield Road when he failed to maintain his lane and struck a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee head-on that was traveling westbound on Schofield Road near Five Mile Road, around 6:30 a.m. The impact caused both vehicles to overturn several times, FHP said. The Clermont man was pronounced deceased on the scene. The Grand Cherokee’s driver, a 39-year-old Orlando man, was airlifted

Head-on collision kills Clermont man Wednesday morning Read More »

Troopers investigating fatal crash near Clermont Wednesday morning

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed at least one person Wednesday morning. The crash occurred on Schofield Road near 5 Mile Road near Clermont around 6:30 a.m. Wednesday and troopers have shut down a portion of Schofield Road. This is a developing story. 

Troopers investigating fatal crash near Clermont Wednesday morning Read More »

Wrong-way driver busted with nitrous oxide by Tavares police

TAVARES, Fla.—A wrong-way driver who caught the attention of a Tavares Police Department officer Sunday was arrested for possession of four canisters of nitrous oxide, commonly known as “whippets,” according to a report. Just before noon Sunday, a TPD officer was parked at Lake County Schools on Burleigh Boulevard when she spotted a grey SUV traveling eastbound in a westbound lane, causing other drivers to swerve into the median and switch lanes, a report states. The officer activated her lights and sirens and caught up to the SUV around Banning Beach Road, where it pulled over in the middle of

Wrong-way driver busted with nitrous oxide by Tavares police Read More »

Mount Dora police searching for young man last seen Friday night

Update: Nathaniel Woods was found safe in Ocala.  MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a young man who was last seen Friday night. Nathaniel E. Woods, 23, was reported missing around 9 a.m. Sunday and was last seen Friday evening by family members, MDPD said in a missing person bulletin posted on its social media account. Woods is described as a black male, 5 feet, 10 inches tall, 150 pounds with brown eyes, and bald. He is believed to be driving a grey Pontiac sedan, license plate 86BHZC. If you have information on

Mount Dora police searching for young man last seen Friday night Read More »

Deputies investigating exchange of gunfire near Mount Dora Thursday

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an incident that involved the occupants of two vehicles apparently shooting at each other Thursday afternoon in unincorporated Mount Dora. LCSO responded to Old Eustis Road around 5 pm. Thursday after someone reported shots were fired in the area, according to a report. A witness told a deputy he was outside when he heard what he believed to be fireworks. He then saw a silver midsize sedan traveling eastbound and what appeared to be a longer style gun firing shots from behind the car at a “metallic deep blue” truck traveling

Deputies investigating exchange of gunfire near Mount Dora Thursday Read More »

5th Annual Lake County Back the Blue (and Red) Walk scheduled for Saturday; Firefighters added this year

TAVARES, Florida—For the fifth year in a row, law enforcement and supporters will join forces for the annual Lake County Back the Blue Walk at Wooton Park Saturday morning, and this year firefighters will join the fun.  Scheduled for 9 a.m., this is one of many law enforcement events around Lake County held in May during Law Enforcement Appreciation Month and this year, Organizer Shannon Cook wanted to add firefighters to the appreciation walk to coincide with the Lake County Board of County Commissioners proclaiming May 4 “International Firefighters’ Day” in Lake County, she told Inside Lake. “I figured what

5th Annual Lake County Back the Blue (and Red) Walk scheduled for Saturday; Firefighters added this year Read More »

Orlando Health South Lake Hospital receives 12th consecutive “A” grade for patient safety

CLERMONT— Orlando Health South Lake Hospital has earned its 12th consecutive ‘A’ grade from the Leapfrog Group, an independent nonprofit organization committed to driving quality, safety and transparency in the U.S. health system. “Providing a safe, quality experience for patients is at the core of what our team does every day, no matter the unit or department,” said Lance Sewell, senior vice president, Orlando Health North Central Region and president, Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. “To achieve 12 ‘A’ grades in a row is a gratifying recognition of the seamless collaboration and teamwork that occurs between our providers, clinicians and

Orlando Health South Lake Hospital receives 12th consecutive “A” grade for patient safety Read More »

Former Tavares police officer nabbed on Volusia County burglary, theft charges

TAVARES, Fla.—A former Tavares police officer is being held in the Lake County Jail on $171,000 bond, accused of burglarizing $50,000 worth of jewelry, along with credit and debit cards from a Volusia County home earlier this week. Theodore “Teddy” Pearl, 28, is accused of stealing numerous pieces of jewelry from a home in DeBary that belonged to the grandparents of a juvenile friend of his, according to a Volusia Sheriff’s Office (VSO) charging affidavit. VSO responded to the home on River Drive Monday when one of the homeowners reported her home had been burglarized while she and her husband

Former Tavares police officer nabbed on Volusia County burglary, theft charges Read More »

Man who threw the “Dew” at Tavares store clerk turns himself in

TAVARES, Fla.—A man who threw a bottle of Mountain Dew at a Tavares gas station clerk earlier this month turned himself in on a warrant for battery Tuesday, according to Tavares Police Department. On April 13, TPD responded to Kangaroo, 933 County Road 48 on a report of a battery. The complainant told officers a male customer was upset about difficulties with a self-checkout and a second clerk went to a register to begin ringing up customers. The man, later identified as Scott Francis May, began complaining about the wait, and said, “This is (expletive) ridiculous,” according to a report.

Man who threw the “Dew” at Tavares store clerk turns himself in Read More »

Tavares Police investigating after young woman falls from 8th floor of parking garage

TAVARES, Fla.—A young woman was airlifted to an area hospital after falling from the 8th floor of the Tavares parking garage Wednesday afternoon, according to Tavares Police Department. TPD is on scene and still investigating, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. “It’s too soon to tell if she jumped or fell,” Sullivan said. This is a developing story.

Tavares Police investigating after young woman falls from 8th floor of parking garage Read More »

Domestic violence incident ends in “high-risk” traffic stop and arrest in downtown Eustis Wednesday night

EUSTIS, Fla.—A man accused of a domestic battery was arrested Wednesday night in downtown Eustis after leaving the scene of the incident with his mother. Eustis Police Department responded to a home near the Lake County Fairgrounds around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday on a report of physical domestic altercation and possible kidnapping. As officers arrived, dispatch advised the children were no longer in the car that left the scene, and the victim told officers all her children were at the home and not in the vehicle with her ex-husband. She said her youngest son was in the car with him, but

Domestic violence incident ends in “high-risk” traffic stop and arrest in downtown Eustis Wednesday night Read More »

Tavares brothers-in-law found safe in Miami

TAVARES, Fla.—The two Tavares men reported missing have been found, according to Tavares Police Department. Richard Weis, 85, and his brother-in-law Charles Constable, 67, were located in Miami and are alive and safe, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. No other information was available at press time. Previous story: Silver Alert issued for 2 Tavares men – Inside Lake

Tavares brothers-in-law found safe in Miami Read More »

Major law enforcement presence in missing Mount Dora mom’s former neighborhood Friday

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Multiple law enforcement agencies could be seen Friday searching multiple bodies of water in the neighborhood where Mount Dora mom Nicole Baldwin was reported missing in November 2023. Dive teams from several Central Florida sheriff’s offices converged on Lancaster at Loch Leven beginning around 8 a.m. Friday and searched multiple bodies of water and retention ponds near Strathmore Circle where Baldwin was reported missing by her daughter Alisha Baldwin in early November 2023, Mount Dora Police Department Spokesperson Misty Sommer told Inside Lake Friday. Dive teams from Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Sheriff’s

Major law enforcement presence in missing Mount Dora mom’s former neighborhood Friday Read More »

Silver Alert issued for 2 Tavares men

Update: Richard Weis, 85, and his brother-in-law Charles Constable, 67, were located in Miami and are alive and safe. TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is searching for two men who were last seen in Altamonte Springs around 1:30 p.m. Thursday, according to TPD Spokesperson Courtney Sullivan Tavares residents Richard Weis, 85, and his brother-in-law Charles Constable, 67, are believed to be traveling in a grey 2019 Jeep Cherokee Limited with license plate Z7XKE and dark tinted windows and a “Sheriffs 2024” sticker on the driver side rear window. Weis has undiagnosed dementia and is described as 5 feet, 8 inches tall,

Silver Alert issued for 2 Tavares men Read More »

Tavares motorcyclist killed in Leesburg crash Saturday

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Tavares motorcyclist was killed Saturday afternoon after a car pulled out of a Leesburg gas station and collided with him on U.S. Highway 441, according to Leesburg Police Department Capt. Joe Iozzi. William Clough, 65, was riding a 2015 Harley-Davidson southbound on U.S. Highway 441 near Tomato Hill Road when Bettyrose Knittle, 88, of Fruitland Park, pulled out of RaceTrac and struck Clough around 5 p.m., Iozzi said. Clough was seriously injured and transported by ground to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Traffic was diverted around crash for approximately three hours, according

Tavares motorcyclist killed in Leesburg crash Saturday Read More »

Multiple law enforcement agencies search for missing Mount Dora mom Saturday

EUSTIS, Fla.—Only Inside Lake was on the scene as a large search was conducted Saturday by multiple law enforcement agencies for Mount Dora missing mom Nicole Baldwin. Law enforcement officers and volunteers searched areas near the east side of Eustis for Baldwin, who has been missing since early November 2023. Inside Lake witnessed searchers on foot, along with additional searchers on ATVs and horses. The search spanned several hours and ended early in the afternoon Saturday. The search was planned for at least several weeks and a search of that magnitude involves a lot of preparation to coordinate with multiple

Multiple law enforcement agencies search for missing Mount Dora mom Saturday Read More »

Teen arrested for killing family cat in dryer Monday

MINNEOLA, Fla.—A teenager is facing a charge of animal cruelty—excessively cruel, after putting the family cat in the dryer and killing it, according to an arrest affidavit. Shortly before 6 p.m. Monday, Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a home on Plum Lake Drive in Minneola on a report of a suspicious incident. When they arrived, the mother of Cayden Mikkel Williams told a deputy her son had just killed the family cat, named “Mouse” by putting it in the dryer. She said when she was coming into the neighborhood with her other children, she saw Williams walking and

Teen arrested for killing family cat in dryer Monday Read More »

Man suspected of battering woman at Eustis grocery store apprehended Thursday

EUSTIS, Fla.—A man who was wanted for battery by one law enforcement agency and wanted for questioning by another was apprehended Thursday by Eustis Police Department. According to an arrest affidavit, Deon Otis Grant, 18, was arrested for simple battery stemming from an incident Sunday at Winn Dixie, 1955 North State Road 19, Eustis. Around 5 p.m. EPD responded to the grocery store after the victim reported she was “inappropriately touched,” by a black male, later identified as Grant. She told officers she arrived at the store around 4:30 p.m. and noticed Grant “wandering” around the store without a shopping

Man suspected of battering woman at Eustis grocery store apprehended Thursday Read More »

Tavares double stabbing suspect turns himself in to US Marshals Tuesday

TAVARES, Fla.—The man accused of stabbing a father and son Sunday was taken into custody Tuesday by U.S. Marshals, according to Tavares Police Department. Daryl Shack, Jr., 34, is accused of stabbing Frederick “Lee” Crawford II, 55, and Frederick “Trey” Crawford, 30, around 2 p.m. Sunday. Both victims were airlifted to local hospitals for treatment and the elder Crawford is in critical condition and his son is in critical, but stable condition, TPD Spokesperson Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. Shack fled the scene following the double-stabbing and TPD obtained a warrant for his arrest the same night. Shack agreed to

Tavares double stabbing suspect turns himself in to US Marshals Tuesday Read More »

Former teacher found guilty of sexually battering foreign exchange student in ’23

TAVARES, Fla.—A former high school teacher has been found guilty of sexually battering a foreign exchange student last year, along with other charges related to the incident. A Lake County jury found Dmitri V. Kostyunina, 51, guilty of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, delivery of cannabis to a person under 18 and sexual battery last week in Tavares, according to Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson’s office. Kostyunina was employed as a science teacher at Apopka High School when he was arrested in October 2023 after the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) contacted Mount Dora Police Department

Former teacher found guilty of sexually battering foreign exchange student in ’23 Read More »

Father and son stabbed in Tavares Sunday, suspect on the run

TAVARES, Fla.—A father and son were both airlifted to local hospitals Sunday afternoon after being stabbed during an argument, according to Courtney Sullivan, Tavares Police Department Public Information Officer. TPD responded to an “unknown medical call” in the 700 block of North Disston Avenue shortly before 2 p.m. Sunday. When they arrived, they found Frederick “Lee” Crawford II, 55, and Frederick “Trey” Crawford III, 30, suffering from stab wounds, and both men were airlifted for treatment. “Lee” Crawford was in extremely critical condition at press time with life-threatening injuries and “Tray” Crawford was in critical condition, Sullivan said. The suspect

Father and son stabbed in Tavares Sunday, suspect on the run Read More »

Tavares Police searching for driver who hit pedestrian and fled Saturday night

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is searching for a hit-and-run driver who fled the scene after striking a pedestrian Saturday night. A man was crossing the street at State Road 19 and County Road 561 at 8:53 p.m., near McDonald’s, when a vehicle hit him, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said.  That vehicle stopped, but a second vehicle, believed to be a white Ford F-150 or an F-250, hit the man a second time and fled southbound on County Road 561, according to Sullivan. The man suffered non-life-threatening injuries; his name has not been released. If you have information on

Tavares Police searching for driver who hit pedestrian and fled Saturday night Read More »

FHP searching for suspect who carjacked Groveland man on I-75

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla.— The Florida Highway Patrol is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man who carjacked a Groveland man on Interstate 75 early Friday morning. Around 2 a.m. Friday, a 38-year-old-old Groveland man, working as a supervisor for American Medical Response (AMR,) found a crashed pickup truck on the southbound I-75 exit ramp to westbound Interstate 4. The truck was later found to be stolen, according to FHP. The Groveland man encountered a man who immediately fled on foot and then saw a second man standing in the road. The second man then jumped on the side of

FHP searching for suspect who carjacked Groveland man on I-75 Read More »

Astatula Police corporal suspended following domestic battery arrest

ASTATULA, Fla.—An Astatula Police Department corporal is suspended and under internal investigation following an arrest for domestic battery last week. Erick Capraun, 50, who has been with APD since 2016, was arrested by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office after his girlfriend said he had been drinking and pushed her Thursday afternoon. She told deputies when she walked into the house in unincorporated Leesburg, Capraun started yelling at her over financial issues and pushed her in the shoulder. The argument ensued and he reportedly said, “stupid (expletive) I’m going to lose my dog.” Capraun did serve as a K9 handler for

Astatula Police corporal suspended following domestic battery arrest Read More »

Fatal crash shuts down 2 roads near Howey-in-the-Hills

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla.— A 73-year-old woman was killed Tuesday morning after a semi pulled out in front of her on State Road 19, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 7 a.m., a 43-year-old Palm Springs man was driving a semi eastbound on O’Brien Road; he attempted to make a left turn on State Road 19 and pulled out in front of a 2017 Toyota 4-Runner being driven by a Howey-in-the-Hills woman. The SUV t-boned the semi’s trailer and the Howey-in-the-Hills woman was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced deceased. The Palm Springs man was not injured. At

Fatal crash shuts down 2 roads near Howey-in-the-Hills Read More »

Man apologizes for having sex with minor in recorded phone call, facing 13 charges

MINNEOLA, Fla.— An elementary school custodian was arrested last week after an underage girl told her guardian she had sex with him a few days before, according to an arrest affidavit. The girl told Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives James Pacheco, 19, of Minneola, told her he was 17 years old and a student in Groveland after they began communicating in January after meeting on Snapchat. On March 12, the girl, whose age is redacted from the affidavit, went to Pacheco’s Minneola home where they had consensual sex, she said. She said the encounter was painful, but she did not

Man apologizes for having sex with minor in recorded phone call, facing 13 charges Read More »

Clermont woman who was “acting strange and talking about having premonitions” arrested for killing husband

CLERMONT, Fla.—A woman is facing a first-degree murder charge after shooting and killing her husband late Sunday night, according to an arrest affidavit. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to 10649 Lake Ralph Drive in unincorporated Clermont just before 10:10 p.m. on a report of a homicide and when they arrived, the complainant whose name is redacted from the affidavit, escorted a deputy into the home where Maria Jose Rodriguez, 40, was sitting in the dining room. She was secured in handcuffs and placed in a patrol vehicle and deputies then found her husband, Andrew Rodriguez, 40, lying on his

Clermont woman who was “acting strange and talking about having premonitions” arrested for killing husband Read More »

No charges expected in Eustis shooting Sunday

EUSTIS, Fla.—The man who shot his cousin Sunday in a dispute over a vehicle repair likely won’t be charged, according to Eustis Police Department. Jamaal Jones, 32, got into a dispute with his cousin, Devante Simmons, 31, over Jones repairing Simmons’ transmission, EPD Sgt. Paul Barnett told Inside Lake. The altercation led to Jones shooting Simmons after warning him several times, Barnett said. Simmons was shot in the left upper thigh and transported to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford with non-life-threatening injuries. Previous story: BREAKING NEWS: Eustis Police investigating after dispute between cousins ends in shooting – Inside

No charges expected in Eustis shooting Sunday Read More »

BREAKING NEWS: Eustis Police investigating after dispute between cousins ends in shooting

EUSTIS, Fla.—One man is in custody and one man is in the hospital after a dispute between cousins ended in a shooting Sunday, according to Eustis Police Department Chief Craig Capri. The incident occurred around noon Sunday at 210 West Stevens Avenue near Titcomb Street. Police had not released names at press time, and Capri said detectives are investigating whether the incident was a case of self-defense. The victim suffered a non-life-threatening injury and was transported to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford. This is a developing story. 

BREAKING NEWS: Eustis Police investigating after dispute between cousins ends in shooting Read More »

Leesburg search warrant takes multiple guns and trafficking amounts of drugs of the streets

LEESBURG, Fla.—A search warrant earlier this week took multiple guns and trafficking amounts of drugs off the street and landed a Leesburg man in jail whose criminal history dates back 26 years, according to an arrest affidavit. Around 8 p.m. Tuesday, the Lake County Sherriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit (SIU,) LCSO SWAT, Homeland Security agents and detectives with Clermont, Eustis, Leesburg and Mount Dora police departments executed a search warrant at 2519 Myer Ave., Leesburg and found Walter Canady, 43, sitting in the driver’s seat of a vehicle in the driveway and 12 other people at the home. Upon searching

Leesburg search warrant takes multiple guns and trafficking amounts of drugs of the streets Read More »

Injured motorcyclist files lawsuit against Mount Dora bar he says served alcoholic pedestrian involved in crash last summer

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—A motorcyclist thrown from his bike after striking a pedestrian who was standing in the middle of the road last summer has filed a lawsuit against the owners of the bar he says knowingly served an alcoholic before the fatal crash. According to the lawsuit, Jason Dean Bowlin, 42, was served “numerous alcoholic beverages while a patron at Big Dog Saloon” on or about Aug. 20, 2023. Around 12:45 a.m. Brandon Crunk was riding his 2021 Harley-Davidson westbound on County Road 19A near Progress Boulevard when he struck Bowlin who was standing in the middle of County Road

Injured motorcyclist files lawsuit against Mount Dora bar he says served alcoholic pedestrian involved in crash last summer Read More »

More charges for accused Eustis serial burglar

EUSTIS, Fla.—The man accused of multiple thefts in Eustis and Mount Dora beginning in October 2023 is now facing more charges, according to Eustis Police Department. Jordan Makuannen, 19, has been held in the Lake County Jail on no bond since he was arrested earlier this week after Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies worked together and took him into custody after he bailed out of a stolen vehicle near the Lake County/Polk County line. Makuannen is now facing additional charges related to the stolen Dodge Durango he dumped at Club at Eustis Apartments March

More charges for accused Eustis serial burglar Read More »

Leesburg woman arrested after boy tells his mom she touched him while he was sleeping

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office quickly arrested a Leesburg woman early Saturday morning after a boy told his mother she inappropriately touched him while he was sleeping. LCSO responded to a home in unincorporated Leesburg after the boy’s mom reported her son had called her “in a complete panic” and said he woke up to Anna Jackson, 38, rubbing his genitals and inner thigh, according to an arrest affidavit. The boy, whose name is redacted because he is the victim of a sex crime, is between 12 and 15 years old, his exact age is also redacted. He told

Leesburg woman arrested after boy tells his mom she touched him while he was sleeping Read More »

Jacksonville man accused of stealing SUV from Fruitland Park business and fighting Tavares cops last week

TAVARES, Fla.—A Jacksonville man is being held in the Lake County Jail after being accused of stealing a vehicle from a business in Fruitland Park, fleeing from a Tavares Police Department officer and fighting that officer and another one last week. Nigel Jaylen Sabb, 28, is accused of stealing a 2014 Ford Edge from Honest Autos, 2381 U.S. Highway 441, Fruitland Park around 9 a.m. Wednesday, according to a Fruitland Park Police Department arrest affidavit. A representative of the business told FPPD a customer dropped off the vehicle for some cosmetic repairs and left the keys in the exterior door

Jacksonville man accused of stealing SUV from Fruitland Park business and fighting Tavares cops last week Read More »

Man arrested last year for multiple thefts in Eustis nabbed by deputies after bailing out of stolen SUV in South Lake early Monday

CLERMONT, Fla.—A man wanted for failure to appear in court for crimes in 2023 and now suspected of committing recent thefts in Eustis and Mount Dora, was apprehended after a Polk County license plate reader hit on the stolen SUV he was driving early Monday morning. According to an arrest affidavit, around 4:45 a.m. Monday, the Polk County license plate reader hit on a black Honda SUV that was stolen in Mount Dora and Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputies located it traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 27 near U.S 192, approaching the Lake County line. PCSO’s Aviation Unit observed

Man arrested last year for multiple thefts in Eustis nabbed by deputies after bailing out of stolen SUV in South Lake early Monday Read More »

LCSO: No apparent foul play in death of man Friday

LEESBURG, Fla.—Authorities have released the name of the man pronounced dead at a Leesburg gas station Friday and they do not believe his death was the result of foul play, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Dispatchers at Leesburg Police Department received a call from a person attempting to drive someone to the hospital Friday afternoon and they were instructed to pull over if they needed medical assistance, LCSO Cpl. Chanel Martin told Inside Lake Friday. Leesburg Police Department Capt. Joe Iozzi said investigators determined the incident began in LCSO’s jurisdiction and LCSO took over the investigation. The driver

LCSO: No apparent foul play in death of man Friday Read More »

FHP searching for Honda that intentionally hit Leesburg motorcyclist in I-75 road rage incident

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is searching for a gray or silver Honda Civic that intentionally rammed a motorcycle on Interstate 75 just after midnight Friday. A 52-year-old Leesburg man was riding a motorcycle near mile marker 319 in a northbound lane and passed a commercial vehicle on the outside shoulder while the Civic passed in the center lane, according to FHP. After the Civic and the motorcycle had passed the commercial vehicle, the driver of the Civic “abruptly steered to the outside shoulder and rammed the motorcycle intentionally,” FHP said in a press release. Video of a road

FHP searching for Honda that intentionally hit Leesburg motorcyclist in I-75 road rage incident Read More »

LCSO investigating after EMS pronounces person deceased at Leesburg gas station

Update: LCSO: No apparent foul play in death of man Friday – Inside Lake LEESBURG, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a death that occurred Friday. Dispatchers at Leesburg Police Department received a call from a person attempting to drive someone to the hospital and they were instructed to pull over if they needed medical assistance, LCSO Cpl. Chanel Martin told Inside Lake. They pulled over at Wawa, 1400 North Boulevard, Leesburg and when EMS arrived, they found a person was deceased, Martin said. Leesburg Police Department Capt. Joe Iozzi said investigators determined the incident began in LCSO’s jurisdiction

LCSO investigating after EMS pronounces person deceased at Leesburg gas station Read More »

Clermont man accused of exposing himself to minor in store parking lot in February

CLERMONT, Fla.—An 18-year-old man is scheduled to be arraigned later this month on a charge of lewd and lascivious exhibition after being accused of exposing himself to a minor female in the parking lot of a busy store in February. On Feb. 23, the girl told a Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy she walked up to the vehicle she was riding in the parking lot of Kohl’s, 12305 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont when Ismael Torres Marchany, of Clermont, “startled her.” She said Marchany was making a “hissing” sound and when she turned around, he was exposing and touching himself, according

Clermont man accused of exposing himself to minor in store parking lot in February Read More »

Eustis man held on no bond after baseball bat attack

EUSTIS, Fla.—A baseball bat attack sent one man to the hospital by helicopter and another man to the Lake County Jail, late Sunday night, according to an arrest affidavit. Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Waycross Avenue and Gables Drive, near Eustis around 10:30 p.m. Sunday after a witness reported she saw a man, later identified as Jamie Hoover Locklear, 41, strike another man in the head with a black metal baseball bat. When deputies arrived, they found a man, who was not publicly identified, suffering from a “severe laceration” on his head, approximately 3 inches long, the affidavit

Eustis man held on no bond after baseball bat attack Read More »

Dad Arrested for DUI Crash that Killed 2 Toddler Sons and Injured Another Son on Easter Eve ’22

TAVARES, Fla.—A father is in the Lake County Jail on no bond after being arrested for DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide and operating a vehicle without a driver license causing death, stemming from a crash that killed his two young sons on Easter Eve in 2022. David Shawn Pelfrey, 22, was picked up at his home in Fruitland Park on a warrant Thursday, nearly two years after the crash that killed his young sons, Damian and Dominic and seriously injured their younger brother Daylen. Inside Lake spoke with the boys’ mom, Miranda Martin, by text Monday and she said Daylen is

Dad Arrested for DUI Crash that Killed 2 Toddler Sons and Injured Another Son on Easter Eve ’22 Read More »

Eustis Traffic Stop Leads to Trafficking Arrest Early Friday

EUSTIS, Fla.—Dark tint and a burned-out tag light caught the attention of a Eustis Police Department officer early Friday and ended with the arrest of an Apopka man for trafficking, according to an arrest affidavit. Around 12:45 a.m. Friday, EPD was patrolling the area of U.S. Highway 441 and Eudora Road when an officer noticed a vehicle with “very dark” tint and a tag that was not completely illuminated. The officer stopped the vehicle and smelled burnt marijuana as he approached the car, the affidavit states. The officer asked the four females and one male occupying the car if anyone

Eustis Traffic Stop Leads to Trafficking Arrest Early Friday Read More »

Pedestrian Killed after Walking in front of Eustis Man’s Truck in Seminole County Wednesday

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla.—A pedestrian was killed in Seminole County after walking into the direct path of truck being driven by a Eustis man Wednesday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 72-year-old Maitland man was crossing U.S. 17-92 at Spartan Drive around 6:30 a.m. when he walked in front of a 2002 Toyota Tundra being driven by a 34-year-old Eustis man. Witnesses told FHP the Eustis man had a green light. The Maitland man was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center and pronounced deceased; the Eustis man was not injured and remained on scene. The crash is under investigation.

Pedestrian Killed after Walking in front of Eustis Man’s Truck in Seminole County Wednesday Read More »

BREAKING NEWS: Suspected Mount Dora Prowler Identified and Arrested

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department has identified and arrested the man suspected of prowling the city’s west side last week while armed. Dylan Michael Price, 29, of Mount Dora, was arrested Monday following a search warrant at his home and is facing two counts of armed trespassing and one count of petit theft, City of Mount Dora Spokesperson Misty Sommer said. He spent just over two hours in jail before being released on $4,500 bond just before midnight Tuesday, according to Lake County Jail online booking records. Previous story: Mount Dora Police Seeking Public’s Help with Identifying Suspected Burglar

BREAKING NEWS: Suspected Mount Dora Prowler Identified and Arrested Read More »

Georgia Man Accused of Shooting Friend as they Travel on the Turnpike near Clermont Sunday Night

CLERMONT, Fla.—A Georgia man is being held in the Lake County Jail on no bond after being accused of shooting his friend as they traveled on Florida’s Turnpike late Sunday night. The Florida Highway Patrol asked for assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office around 10:30 p.m. Sunday in reference to a man stopping vehicles and asking for help. Not long after, LCSO received a 911 call from an unnamed individual stating someone was banging on their door and asking for help in unincorporated Clermont, according to an arrest affidavit. Deputies responded to the home and found Bounmy Xayavong, who

Georgia Man Accused of Shooting Friend as they Travel on the Turnpike near Clermont Sunday Night Read More »

Argument Over Drill Led to Shooting Near Fruitland Park Friday

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla.—The man accused of shooting another man in unincorporated Fruitland Park Friday is now facing an attempted murder charge. According to an arrest affidavit, Scott Hutcheson and Michael Robert Corkill, 39, got into an argument after Corkill grabbed Hutcheson’s drill while he was at a friend’s house working on a four-wheeler. Hutcheson told Corkill not to touch his things and Corkill reportedly said, “I’ve got something for your (expletive,)” and walked across the street to his home at 36751 Shadow Hill Drive, according to an arrest affidavit. Corkill then stepped out of his home, stood in his driveway,

Argument Over Drill Led to Shooting Near Fruitland Park Friday Read More »

Eustis Police Chief Shuts Down Rumors about Carnival

EUSTIS, Fla.—Social media posts and rumors about a fight at the City of Eustis annual Georgefest event Saturday night were exaggerated, according to Eustis Police Department Chief Craig Capri. EPD officers broke up two minor fights Saturday night at the Georgefest carnival that involved several dozen teens, some who participated in the fights, and some who just watched. One juvenile arrest was made, Capri told Inside Lake Sunday morning. The teen was arrested for battery, a misdemeanor. Misdemeanor juvenile arrests are not public record, so the teen’s name was not released. It is still an active investigation and more arrests

Eustis Police Chief Shuts Down Rumors about Carnival Read More »

Joyride in Stolen SUV lasts less than 15 Minutes, Suspect Runs and is Tased by Tavares Police

TAVARES, Fla.—A joyride in a stolen SUV did not last long for a Tavares man early Wednesday morning when Tavares Police Department apprehended the man less than 15 minutes after he stole it, according to a report. Just before 3:30 a.m. Wednesday, a woman reported that while she was feeding cats at Circle K, 439 South Duncan Drive, an unknown black male jumped out of a tan SUV and hopped into her red 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and drove off. TPD responded to the scene and officers began canvassing the area, along with officers from Astatula Police Department and Lake County

Joyride in Stolen SUV lasts less than 15 Minutes, Suspect Runs and is Tased by Tavares Police Read More »

Mount Dora Police Seeking Public’s Help with Identifying Suspected Burglar

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance with identifying a man who is suspected of prowling and committing burglaries on the west side of the city and he may have been armed, according to a social media post. A homeowner who lives near Crestview Drive and Normandy Drive told Inside Lake he awoke to the sound of several gunshots and a heavy police presence overnight Thursday and some of his neighbors captured the man on video surveillance. The homeowner said his home and vehicles were not burglarized but the gunshots sounded very close to his home.

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Deputies take Suspected Shooter into Custody after nearly 4 Hours

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla.—A man suspected of shooting another man in unincorporated Fruitland Park Friday is in custody, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office Lt. John Herrell. Few details were released in the incident that began around 3 p.m. and ended nearly four hours later around 7 p.m. on Shadow Hill Drive near Fruitland Park. Herrell told Inside Lake the male suspect shot another man in the arm during an argument and refused to speak with deputies. The suspect, whose name has not been released, was transported to the Lake County Jail after being taken into custody; the victim was transported

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BREAKING NEWS: Large Law Enforcement Presence Near Fruitland Park, Deputies Attempting to take Shooting Suspect into Custody

Update: Deputies take Suspected Shooter into Custody after nearly 4 Hours – Inside Lake   FRUITLAND PARK, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is working to take a suspect into custody who allegedly shot another man Friday afternoon, according to LCSO Lt. John Herrell. LCSO released few details Friday afternoon but did tell Inside Lake the male suspect shot another man in the arm and deputies had not been able to contact the suspected shooter at press time. The incident began as an argument and the victim has non-life-threatening injuries, Herrell said. Witnesses told Inside Lake there is a large law

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Leesburg Woman Accused of Shooting 2 People Last Week in Custody

LEESBURG, Fla.—The woman accused of shooting two people in Leesburg last week is in custody after turning herself in to the Lake County Jail Sunday, according to Leesburg Police Department Capt. Joe Iozzi. Ra’Niyah M. Benton, 20, is accused of shooting a male and a female in the 1000 block of Crosby Steet in Leesburg around 4 p.m. Thursday. The victims went to UF Health Leesburg hospital on their own and the male victim was later flown to UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville as a precaution, Iozzi said last week. Their current conditions are unknown. Benton is facing two

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Argument Leads to Shooting and Lands Leesburg Man in Jail

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg man is being held in the Lake County Jail on no bond after shooting another man in unincorporated Leesburg late Monday night. Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a home on County Road 452 shortly before 11:30 p.m. Monday on a report of an argument between Brandon Saunders and Mike Ford, according to an arrest affidavit. When deputies arrived, they found Ford lying on the ground suffering from two gunshot wounds and they began rendering aid to Ford, who was in and out of consciousness. He told deputies Saunders came after him and Ford “laid him

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BREAKING NEWS: Gas Leak Shuts Down 3 Eustis Roads Monday

Update 4:30 pm.: The roads have reopened.  EUSTIS, Fla.—A gas leak shut down three streets in Eustis Monday afternoon. Around 2:45 p.m. authorities shut down Grove Street between East Idlewild Avenue and East Pinehurst Boulevard; East Idlewild Avenue and East Pinehurst Boulevard are also shut down. This is a developing story.

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Leesburg Police Searching for Shooting Suspect

LEESBURG, Fla—Leesburg Police Department is searching for a suspect who shot two people Thursday afternoon, according to LPD Capt. Joe Iozzi. Around 4 p.m. LPD responded to UF Health Leesburg Hospital regarding a shooting and found two victims, Iozzi said. Police determined the two victims, a 28-year-old male and a 20-year-old female were shot in the 1000 block of Crosby Street, about 10 blocks from the hospital. The male was flown to UF Health Shands Hospital inn Gainesville as a precaution and both victims are in stable condition. Police are now searching for Ra’Niyah M. Benton, 20, who is wanted

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Man who Killed French Bulldog in 2021 Clermont Botched C-Section Headed to Prison

CLERMONT, Fla.—One of the men arrested after a botched C-section killed Lyla the French bulldog in Clermont in 2021, is headed to prison after pleading no contest to numerous charges last week, according to Lake County Clerk of Court online records. Frankie Huertas Rivera, 36, pleaded no contest Friday—exactly three years to the day Lyla lost her life. In 2021, Larry Colon, then 50, paid Rivera $650 to perform a C-section on Lyla in Colon’s living room and Colon’s daughter filmed the horrific surgery and posted it to TikTok Feb. 9, 2021. According to a probable cause affidavit in the

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