Around the County Archives

Eustis man turns himself in, facing manslaughter charge in deadly Tavares shooting

TAVARES, Fla.—A Eustis man turned himself in Friday in connection with the fatal shooting of a Leesburg man Sunday. Edwin Hypolite Francillon, 34, was taken into custody at the Lake County Jail around 10:15 a.m. on charges of manslaughter with a firearm and aggravated battery with a firearm, according to the Tavares Police Department. Police responded to Caroline Court Apartments, 1000 East Caroline Street around 2:20 a.m. Sunday, after a caller reported a man had been shot. Officers found De’Angelo Donta McKnight, 26, wounded and attempted lifesaving measures along with Lake County EMS and Tavares firefighters. McKnight was transported to

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 30, 2026

Eustis man arrested on accessory charges in fatal Tavares shooting

TAVARES, Fla. — An Eustis man was arrested Wednesday in connection with the fatal shooting of De’Angelo Donta McKnight at Caroline Court apartments early Sunday. Jonathan Erickson Louis, 24, was arrested around 8:55 a.m. on two counts of accessory after the fact, according to Tavares Police Department. Louis was on felony probation, and detectives arranged through his probation officer to meet him at the state probation office on County Road 561 in Tavares. He was arrested there and transported to the Lake County Jail, where he is being held on no bond. Much of the five-page affidavit was redacted, including

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 29, 2026

Eustis father accused of helping son evade arrest in DeLand double murder now facing ammo charge in Lake

EUSTIS, Fla. — A Eustis father previously arrested on allegations he helped his teenage son evade law enforcement after a DeLand double murder was booked into the Lake County Jail Tuesday on an ammunition charge. Daytron Winston Etkins, 41, is charged with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. He was released on $10,000 bond. According to a probable cause affidavit, detectives found 36 rounds of ammunition while searching his Bates Avenue home in August. A Ruger handgun box containing nine .44 Magnum rounds and three .40 Smith & Wesson rounds was found in a storage room, and a Phoenix

Eustis father accused of helping son evade arrest in DeLand double murder now facing ammo charge in Lake Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 29, 2026

Eustis woman accused of choking roommate’s kitten; Pumpkin still missing

EUSTIS, Fla. — A Eustis woman was arrested on an aggravated animal cruelty charge after police said surveillance video showed her shaking a kitten off a towel and leaving the animal motionless on the ground. Candie Roseann Pryce, 29, was arrested Saturday after she returned to the residence she shared with the kitten’s owner, according to an arrest affidavit. The kitten, named Pumpkin, had not been found when the affidavit was written. Eustis Police Department responded to the residence on East Key Avenue Friday night after the facility’s manager reported that Pryce may have harmed the kitten. The manager showed

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Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 28, 2026

Deputies searching for two suspects in armed robbery at Tavares-area internet casino

TAVARES, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help identifying two men suspected in an armed robbery at an internet casino Saturday morning. The robbery occurred around 9 a.m. at an internet casino in River Plaza in unincorporated Tavares, LCSO said. Anyone who recognizes either man or has information about the robbery is asked to call LCSO at 352-343-2101, email tips@lcso.org or call Crimeline at 1-800-423-8477, reference case number 260113122.

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Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 26, 2026

Homemade vehicle crashes into fences, tree, killing Paisley man

PAISLEY, Fla. — A 67-year-old Paisley man was killed and an Apopka woman was injured when a homemade vehicle struck two fences and a tree Sunday afternoon, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was driving a 1995 assembled homemade vehicle eastbound on Poinsettia Avenue approaching Oleander Street around 3:45 p.m. when he lost control, FHP said. The vehicle ran off the left side of the road, reentered the roadway and then ran off the right side, striking a chain-link fence, a barbed-wire fence and a tree. The driver was pronounced deceased at the scene. His passenger, a 26-year-old

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Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2026

BREAKING NEWS: Leesburg man killed in shooting at Tavares apartment complex

TAVARES, Fla. — A 26-year-old Leesburg man was shot and killed outside a residence at Caroline Court apartments early Sunday, according to the Tavares Police Department. TPD responded to the complex at 1000 East Caroline Street around 2:20 a.m. after a 911 caller reported a man had been shot. Officers arrived about four minutes later and found De’Angelo Donta McKnight suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Police, Lake County EMS and Tavares Fire Department attempted lifesaving measures on scene and McKnight was transported to AdventHealth Waterman, where he later died. Preliminary information showed McKnight was standing outside the front door

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2026

Pedestrian, 80, killed in Minneola crash Friday night

MINNEOLA, Fla. — An 80-year-old Minneola man died after being struck by a car on U.S. Highway 27 Friday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 10 p.m., a 2021 Toyota Corolla was traveling south in the outside lane north of West Pearl Street when it struck the man, who was standing in the outside lane, facing west, FHP said. He was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center with critical injuries, where he later died. The driver, a 21-year-old Tavares woman, was not injured and stayed at the scene, FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi said. The crash remains under investigation.

Pedestrian, 80, killed in Minneola crash Friday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Minneola / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 24, 2026

Motorcyclist killed in overnight Tavares crash

TAVARES, Fla. — A Tavares man was killed early Saturday morning after losing control of his motorcycle, according to Tavares Police Department. Shortly after 1:15 a.m., Mark Osier, 69, was riding a 2019 Harley-Davidson southbound on County Road 561 near Ken Bragg Way when he lost control, a witness told TPD. A TPD officer was nearby and immediately responded, TPD said. Osier was transported to an area hospital and pronounced deceased. The crash remains under investigation.

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Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 24, 2026

Paisley man charged with meth trafficking after deputies find suspicious liquid in Polar Pop cup

UMATILLA, Fla. — A Paisley man was arrested the day before his birthday after deputies found a liquid mixture weighing 419 grams that tested positive for methamphetamine inside a Polar Pop cup, according to an arrest affidavit. Jason Edward King, who turned 53 Thursday, was arrested early Wednesday on charges of trafficking in methamphetamine over 400 grams, possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and tampering with physical evidence. A Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy spotted a white Chevrolet pickup stopped past the stop bar at County Road 450 and County Road 42 around midnight

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Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 22, 2026

Leesburg house fire claims one life

LEESBURG, Fla. — One person died in a house fire on South Truett Street early Friday morning, according to the Leesburg Fire Rescue. Leesburg firefighters were dispatched to 109 S. Truett St. around 12:45 a.m. and arrived about five minutes later. Lake County Fire Rescue also responded to assist. The person’s identity has not been released pending confirmation and notification of next of kin. The Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the fire’s origin and cause.

Leesburg house fire claims one life Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 16, 2026

Man accused of smashing pharmacy bench cites community center dispute, Eustis police say

EUSTIS, Fla. — A man accused of smashing a concrete bench outside Bay Pharmacy Sunday told police his actions were politically motivated and related to the future of the Eustis Community Center, according to an arrest affidavit. David Alan Neal, 56, of Eustis, was arrested for criminal mischief involving damage less than $200. Eustis police responded to the pharmacy, 2 E. Magnolia Ave., around 10:30 a.m. Sunday after a report that someone had taken a decorative bench from beside the business and smashed it in the road before leaving on foot. Police found Neal in the north parking lot of

Man accused of smashing pharmacy bench cites community center dispute, Eustis police say Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 14, 2026

Proposed Eustis waterfront developers named in new lawsuit as residents fight community center sale

EUSTIS, Fla. — Residents opposing the possible sale of the Eustis Community Center are organizing a public gathering next week, as two people behind the proposed waterfront development are named in a newly filed lawsuit involving a separate Winter Garden project. The gathering is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, at the Eustis Community Center, 601 Northshore Drive. Gail Isaac-Thomas, a lifelong Eustis resident, has spoken against the proposed sale at multiple commission meetings and on social media. She shared a flyer promoting next week’s gathering with the message, “Save Our Eustis Community Center.” Signs reading “Save

Proposed Eustis waterfront developers named in new lawsuit as residents fight community center sale Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 10, 2026

Inside Lake’s guide to fall and Halloween events

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Pumpkin patches, haunted trails, fall festivals and plenty of candy! Communities across Lake County have a full calendar of fall and Halloween events planned. Inside Lake will update this list as more events and details become available. Updated Oct. 7, 2026 Oct. 10–31: Pumpkin Patch | Fruitland Park Community United Methodist Church’s 24th annual pumpkin patch will offer pumpkins, gourds and new photo opportunities. Pumpkin sales benefit local children and youth. Time: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sunday–Friday, 1–7 p.m. Location: Community United Methodist Church, 309 College Ave., Fruitland Park Cost: Pumpkins and gourds available for purchase.

Inside Lake’s guide to fall and Halloween events Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 7, 2026

Man killed crossing U.S. 27/441 in Lady Lake

LADY LAKE, Fla. — A 72-year-old man was killed Monday morning when he was struck by a car while attempting to cross U.S. Highway 27/441 near Longview Avenue, according to Lady Lake Police Department. Jimmy Edwards was crossing the highway when a northbound 2016 Lexus E350 driven by Larry Wilson, 63, of Lady Lake, struck him in the inside lane, police said. Edwards suffered fatal injuries. Wilson was not injured, stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators, according to police. Police said Edwards was not in a designated crosswalk when he was struck. The crash is under investigation.

Man killed crossing U.S. 27/441 in Lady Lake Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 5, 2026

Groveland names police chief

GROVELAND, Fla. — Groveland has selected Lt. Sammy Anderson as its new police chief, promoting a 15-year veteran of the department. Anderson has 23 years of law enforcement experience and most recently served as Groveland Police Department’s special operations lieutenant, according to the city. Fire Chief Kevin Carroll, who served as interim public safety director following former Chief Shawn Ramsey’s departure, has been named permanent public safety director. The city said Carroll spent weeks interviewing department employees individually and assessing the department’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats before preparing a recommendations report. A recurring theme was employees’ desire to see

Groveland names police chief Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 2, 2026

LCSO SWAT responds after man accused of firing rifle at brother near Groveland

9:20 p.m. update: The suspect was taken into custody without incident. GROVELAND, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team responded to a home near Groveland Tuesday after a man allegedly fired multiple rounds toward his brother during an argument. Deputies responded to 7023 State Road 33 around 12:15 p.m. and learned the brothers had argued over an allegation of theft, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley The victim threw a ceramic bowl toward his brother as the argument escalated. The suspect then returned to his residence, retrieved a rifle and fired multiple rounds toward the

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Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 29, 2026

Pedestrian killed, motorcyclist seriously injured in SR 429 crash

SORRENTO, Fla. — A pedestrian was killed and a motorcyclist was seriously injured in a crash on State Road 429 early Sunday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. A 41-year-old Winter Garden man was riding a 2020 Harley-Davidson southbound in the outside lane near mile marker 42 shortly just after 12:45 a.m. when he struck a pedestrian in the roadway, FHP said. The pedestrian, a 26-year-old Carrollton, Georgia woman, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The motorcyclist, who was wearing a helmet, was transported to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford with serious injuries. The crash remains under investigation.

Pedestrian killed, motorcyclist seriously injured in SR 429 crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 27, 2026

Vickie Williams sentenced to life for murders of retired Mount Dora couple

TAVARES, Fla. — Vickie Lynn Williams was sentenced to life in prison Friday for the stabbing deaths of retired Mount Dora couple Darryl and Sharon Getman after a jury recommended life rather than the death penalty. Williams, 53, was convicted earlier this week of two counts of first-degree murder. The jury deliberated for approximately 30 minutes before returning the guilty verdicts. Following the penalty phase, the jury recommended a life sentence and Lake Circuit Judge Cary F. Rada sentenced Williams to life in the Florida Department of Corrections. The State Attorney’s Office had sought the death penalty. “Darryl and Sharon

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Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 25, 2026

Jury finds woman guilty in slaying of elderly Mount Dora couple; death penalty proceedings begin Thursday

TAVARES, Fla. — A Lake County jury needed only about 30 minutes Tuesday to find Vickie Lynn Williams guilty of murdering an elderly Mount Dora couple inside their Waterman Village home nearly four years ago. Williams, 53, was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder in the stabbing deaths of Darryl Getman, 83, and Sharon Getman, 80. The State Attorney’s Office is seeking the death penalty. Proceedings will resume Thursday for the jury to consider whether Williams should be sentenced to death. “This verdict brings accountability for the brutal deaths of Darryl and Sharon Getman,” State Attorney Bill Gladson said.

Jury finds woman guilty in slaying of elderly Mount Dora couple; death penalty proceedings begin Thursday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 22, 2026

Woman sentenced to life in prison in Leesburg fentanyl death

TAVARES, Fla. — A Umatilla woman was sentenced to life in prison last week for selling fentanyl that killed a Leesburg man in June 2021. Eleven days after his death, the woman’s 2-year-old daughter also died from fentanyl toxicity. A Lake County jury found Jalynn Nichole Davis, 41, guilty Thursday of death caused by the unlawful distribution of fentanyl. She was sentenced the same day to life in state prison with credit for 1,892 days served, court records show. The case stemmed from the June 2, 2021, death of Wesley Brown. Brown bought $20 worth of what he believed was

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 22, 2026

Lake County Jail inmate accused of offering $5,000 to have witness killed

TAVARES, Fla. — A Clermont man jailed on an aggravated assault charge is accused of offering another inmate $5,000 to kill a witness in the case that led to his incarceration, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

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Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 18, 2026

State Attorney’s Office finds Lake County deputy’s fatal shooting of Timotheus Reed lawful

LEESBURG, Fla. — A Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy acted lawfully when he fatally shot Timotheus Reed while responding to a reported stabbing in April, according to a review released by the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. The six-page review, dated Wednesday, concluded the deputy reasonably feared for his life when Reed allegedly ignored repeated commands, reached into his pocket and turned toward the deputy from approximately 10 feet away. The State Attorney’s Office closed the case without filing charges. Its review did not identify the deputy. The incident began at approximately 6:22 a.m. April 12 when a woman

State Attorney’s Office finds Lake County deputy’s fatal shooting of Timotheus Reed lawful Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 17, 2026

3 Lake County Jail detention deputies arrested in alleged child care assistance fraud scheme

TAVARES, Fla. — Two Lake County detention deputies are accused of using forged pay records to obtain child care assistance, and a third is accused of helping them, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation began Sept. 10 after a representative of the Early Learning Coalition of Lake County contacted LCSO about suspected fraud involving two detention deputies employed at the Lake County Jail, LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said. The coalition provides financial assistance for child care through federal and state grant funding. Pay records submitted for the two deputies were flagged because of discrepancies involving their historical

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Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 17, 2026

Eustis police release few details about overnight shooting

EUSTIS, Fla. — Eustis police are investigating after a person arrived at AdventHealth Waterman with a single gunshot wound to the head early Wednesday morning. Officers responded to the hospital at approximately 12:50 a.m., Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake. The victim was in stable condition Wednesday afternoon, Capri said. Inside Lake contacted Capri Wednesday morning after receiving multiple calls about police activity on Blackberry Court and reports that AdventHealth Waterman had been placed on lockdown following the victim’s arrival. Tavares Police Department later confirmed the lockdown. Capri initially declined to release any information, citing an active investigation.

Eustis police release few details about overnight shooting Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 16, 2026

Clermont man fatally struck while crossing County Road 455

CLERMONT, Fla. — A 37-year-old Clermont man was killed Monday morning when he was struck by a car while walking in a marked crosswalk, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was walking east across County Road 455 just north of Great Lawn Way in unincorporated Clermont at 6:10 a.m. when 2019 Acura TLX traveling southbound struck him, FHP said. The driver, a 19-year-old Davenport woman, did not see the pedestrian in the crosswalk before the collision, according to FHP. She was not injured. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

Clermont man fatally struck while crossing County Road 455 Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 14, 2026

LCSO investigating after skeletal remains found in Astor

ASTOR, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is in Astor investigating after possible human remains were found early Friday afternoon. Just before 12:45 p.m., LCSO received a report of possible skeletal remains found in a wooded area near Camp McQuarrie Road and State Road 40, Deputy Stephanie Earley said. Detectives and the Crime Scene Investigations unit are currently on scene investigating, Earley said. “At this time, we cannot confirm whether the remains are human. Additional information will be provided once the Medical Examiner has completed the examination and provided confirmation,” Earley said. “This is an active and ongoing investigation.”

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Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 11, 2026

Groveland man killed in wrong-way crash on State Road 33

GROVELAND, Fla. — A 22-year-old Groveland man was killed Wednesday morning after he struck a tractor-trailer head-on while driving the wrong way on State Road 33, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Groveland man was driving a 2005 Ford Five Hundred southbound in the northbound lane of State Road 33, north of Edgewood Boys Ranch Road in unincorporated Groveland, just after 6 a.m. when he drove into the path of a 2012 Mack tractor-trailer driven by a 47-year-old Riverview man. The Riverview man swerved to the right in an attempt to avoid the Ford, but the vehicles collided head-on,

Groveland man killed in wrong-way crash on State Road 33 Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 9, 2026

Leo’s 2-day tree adventure ends as Lake County firefighters arrive to help

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — After spending two days stuck in a tree, Leo the orange cat finally made his way back to solid ground Tuesday morning, just as Lake County firefighters were preparing to rescue him. Leo belongs to 92-year-old George, who lives on Laura Lane in unincorporated Mount Dora. After the cat spent two days in the tree, a neighbor called Lake County Fire Rescue for help. Engine 27 responded around 10:40 a.m., and firefighters put up a ladder to reach Leo. But before they could make the climb, Leo came down on his own. “Lake County Fire Rescue

Leo’s 2-day tree adventure ends as Lake County firefighters arrive to help Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 8, 2026

Pair found guilty 4 years after massive Lake County drug bust

TAVARES, Fla. — Four years after a massive multi-agency drug investigation dubbed “Operation Sneak-A-Peek” resulted in 27 people facing charges and the largest fentanyl haul in Lake County history, a jury found two defendants guilty Friday of drug trafficking and related charges. Cliff Demond Johnson, 44, and Davonte Marques Heflin, 30, were found guilty of all charges against them following a trial that included testimony from numerous expert witnesses and phone records, according to the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. Johnson was convicted of conspiracy to commit trafficking in fentanyl, conspiracy to commit trafficking in cocaine, manufacture of cocaine,

Pair found guilty 4 years after massive Lake County drug bust Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 4, 2026

Motorcyclist killed after crashing into tree on County Road 42

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — A 36-year-old Ormond Beach man was killed Wednesday afternoon when his motorcycle ran off County Road 42 and struck a tree, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was riding a 2022 Ducati motorcycle eastbound on County Road 42, west of Central Camp Road in the DeLand portion of Lake County, at 1:40 p.m. when he attempted to negotiate a curve to the left, FHP said. The motorcycle ran off the right side of the roadway onto the grass shoulder and struck a tree, according to FHP. The rider was pronounced deceased at the scene.

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Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 2, 2026

Lady Lake woman, 82, dies after being struck by SUV Tuesday night

LADY LAKE, Fla. — An 82-year-old Lady Lake woman died after she was struck by an SUV while walking along Vermont Avenue Tuesday evening, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The woman was walking west along the north portion of Vermont Avenue around 7:30 p.m. while an 83-year-old Lady Lake man driving a 2012 Dodge Journey was traveling westbound on Vermont Avenue approaching Wales Place, FHP said. The driver did not see the woman walking along the roadway, and the front right of the SUV struck her, according to FHP. The woman was transported to UF Health The Villages Hospital,

Lady Lake woman, 82, dies after being struck by SUV Tuesday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 2, 2026

VIDEO: Mount Dora pastor arrested for felony battery after confrontation at Tavares park

TAVARES, Fla. — A longtime Lake County pastor was arrested for felony battery after video captured him elbowing a man over 65 during a confrontation at Wooton Park earlier this week. Richard Edward “Rick” Pughe, 60, of Eustis, started HopeCity Church in Mount Dora with his wife and serves as its lead pastor, according to the church’s website. Tavares Police Department responded to Wooton Park at 1:39 p.m. Tuesday after receiving a report of a battery at a gazebo, according to an arrest affidavit. The victim, who “became very animated,” told police he was at the gazebo with family members

VIDEO: Mount Dora pastor arrested for felony battery after confrontation at Tavares park Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 29, 2026

20 years after Trenton Duckett disappeared, family to gather for annual vigil

LEESBURG, Fla. — Twenty years after 2-year-old Trenton Duckett disappeared from Leesburg, his family and supporters will gather Thursday night to once again light candles and hold onto hope that he will someday come home. The annual candlelight vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday at Leesburg Town Square. Trenton’s father, Joshua Duckett, and grandmother, Carla Fort, have continued the tradition each year since his disappearance. Two decades have passed since Joshua last saw his son. Trenton was 2 years old then. If he is alive today, he is 22. On Thursday, the 20th anniversary of Trenton’s disappearance, the National

20 years after Trenton Duckett disappeared, family to gather for annual vigil Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 27, 2026

Woman killed at Leesburg home identified; police say evidence supports resident’s account

LEESBURG, Fla. — A 23-year-old woman who was shot and killed while allegedly trying to enter a stranger’s home early Tuesday has been identified, and police say evidence collected at the scene was consistent with the homeowner’s account of the shooting. Ananda Conley of Leesburg was identified by Leesburg Police Department Wednesday afternoon. Conley lived approximately two to three blocks from the home in the 1600 block of Crest Avenue where she was killed. The current residents moved into the home in May and did not know Conley, Lt. Shannon Walsh said. According to Conley’s friend and roommate, Conley had

Woman killed at Leesburg home identified; police say evidence supports resident’s account Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 26, 2026

Woman shot, killed while allegedly trying to enter Leesburg home early Tuesday

LEESBURG, Fla. — A woman was shot and killed early Tuesday while allegedly attempting to enter a Leesburg home, according to the Leesburg Police Department. Leesburg police responded to a home in the 1600 block of Crest Avenue around 4:45 a.m. Tuesday after receiving a report of a woman attempting to enter the residence. According to police, the homeowner said he repeatedly told the woman to leave the property and warned her he was armed. He told investigators the woman continued trying to enter the home, prompting him to fire a handgun through the door and break a window. Police

Woman shot, killed while allegedly trying to enter Leesburg home early Tuesday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 25, 2026

911 calls reveal events leading up to fatal Lake County deputy-involved shooting

LEESBURG, Fla. — Three newly released 911 calls provided additional details about what was reported before and immediately after Lake County sheriff’s deputies fatally shot 32-year-old Erik Leopold Sharpe at a Leesburg-area home Aug. 20. The calls, obtained by Inside Lake, included two from the same caller at the home and a separate call from an air conditioning technician who was working there when the incident began. Information identifying the callers was redacted from the recordings. During the approximately 11-minute first call, a caller reported a domestic disturbance involving Sharpe and firearms at 10110 Morningside Drive. “We’re having a

911 calls reveal events leading up to fatal Lake County deputy-involved shooting Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 25, 2026

Bodycam footage released in fatal Lake County deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg

WARNING: The body camera videos below show a fatal deputy-involved shooting and may be disturbing to some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised. LEESBURG, Fla. — Newly released body camera footage shows the moments leading up to a fatal deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg that left a 32-year-old man dead Thursday afternoon. Erik Leopold Sharpe was killed after Lake County sheriff’s deputies responded to 10110 Morningside Drive just before 3 p.m. following a 911 call reporting an armed domestic battery. Body camera footage obtained by Inside Lake shows deputies approaching the residence with their weapons drawn and encountering Sharpe near the home,

Bodycam footage released in fatal Lake County deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 24, 2026

Winn-Dixie making a comeback in Eustis with new store

EUSTIS, Fla. — A grocery store favorite is returning to Eustis. The Winn-Dixie Company confirmed to Inside Lake Friday morning it is returning to the city it called home for decades, but an opening date has not been released. “The Winn-Dixie Company is excited to confirm plans to open a new grocery store in Eustis, marking another significant step in the grocer’s continued investment and growth across Florida,” the company’s Media Relations team said in an email to Inside Lake. According to a lease obtained by Inside Lake, the store, along with a liquor store, will be located in the

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Eustis, Features, Inside Scoop / By Jolie Fowler / August 21, 2026

Man killed in deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg identified

LEESBURG, Fla. — A man who was killed in a deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg Thursday afternoon has been identified as 32-year-old Erik Leopold Sharpe, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Just before 3 p.m., deputies responded to 10110 Morningside Drive after receiving a 911 call reporting an armed domestic battery. When they arrived, they were confronted by Sharpe, who was armed with a firearm, LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said. According to Vachon, Sharpe’s actions forced deputies to discharge their firearms. Sharpe was killed, and the deputies were not injured. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the shooting,

Man killed in deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg identified Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 21, 2026

Armed person confronts Lake County deputies during domestic call near Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla. — Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responding to an armed domestic battery call near Leesburg discharged their firearms after being confronted by an armed person Thursday afternoon, according to LCSO. Just before 3 p.m., deputies responded to 10110 Morningside Drive after receiving a 911 call reporting an armed domestic battery. “Once our deputies arrived, they were confronted with an individual armed with a firearm whose actions forced our deputies to discharge their firearms,” LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said. The deputies were not injured. The armed person is deceased, Vachon said. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will investigate

Armed person confronts Lake County deputies during domestic call near Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 20, 2026

Chad Farnsworth selected as next Lake County Schools superintendent

TAVARES, Fla. — Lake County Schools Deputy Superintendent Chad Farnsworth will be the district’s next superintendent following a unanimous vote by the School Board Wednesday. Farnsworth will succeed Superintendent Diane Kornegay, who is retiring at the end of the 2026-27 school year after leading the district for a decade. Farnsworth has served as deputy superintendent since 2024 and previously spent seven years as the district’s assistant superintendent and chief of staff. He also served four years as superintendent of Bradford County Schools. The School Board received seven applications for the position, with Farnsworth and Miami-Dade County Public Schools Chief of

Chad Farnsworth selected as next Lake County Schools superintendent Read More »

Amazon driver found unresponsive near Fruitland Park identified; cause of death still unknown

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla. — An Amazon delivery driver who was found unresponsive and later died has been publicly identified, but her cause of death is still unknown more than a week after she was found. Jaylene Vargas Gonzalez was found unresponsive inside an Amazon delivery vehicle around 7:30 p.m. Aug. 10. Deputies responded to the area of Clark Road in unincorporated Fruitland Park after receiving a report that the vehicle had been running while stationary for an extended period of time, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake last week. Gonzalez was transported to a local hospital,

Amazon driver found unresponsive near Fruitland Park identified; cause of death still unknown Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 18, 2026

Umatilla man killed in CR 439 crash Monday

UMATILLA, Fla. — A 49-year-old Umatilla man was killed Monday afternoon in a head-on crash on County Road 439 near Umatilla, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 5:45 p.m., the Umatilla man was driving a 2020 Ford Escape northbound on County Road 439, south of Freeman Drive, while a 22-year-old Lake Mary man was driving a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado southbound, FHP said. According to FHP, the Umatilla man failed to maintain his lane and entered the path of the Silverado. The front left sides of the vehicles collided, causing both vehicles to overturn. The Umatilla man was pronounced deceased

Umatilla man killed in CR 439 crash Monday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 17, 2026

Fatal crash shuts down CR 439 near Umatilla

UMATILLA, Fla. — A fatal crash has shut down County Road 439 near Umatilla, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 5:45 p.m. Monday near Freeman Drive. The road is shut down at County Road 42. No other information was immediately available. This is a developing story.

Fatal crash shuts down CR 439 near Umatilla Read More »

Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 17, 2026

Man killed after lying down in path of car near Clermont, FHP says

CLERMONT, Fla. — A 31-year-old Haines City man was killed early Saturday after a witness told investigators he walked into a lane on U.S. Highway 27 and laid down in the path of a car, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Just before 6:40 a.m., a 69-year-old Clermont man was driving a 2015 Kia Forte northbound on U.S. Highway 27, south of Cagan Crossings Boulevard. According to FHP, a witness said the pedestrian was walking in the left-turn lane before entering the northbound inside lane and lying down in the path of the Kia. The undercarriage of the Kia struck

Man killed after lying down in path of car near Clermont, FHP says Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 15, 2026

Groveland police chief sues city, alleges whistleblower retaliation

GROVELAND, Fla. — Groveland Police Chief Shawn Ramsey filed a lawsuit Friday against the City of Groveland, alleging city officials retaliated against him after he submitted written whistleblower complaints reporting what he believed were violations of law, misuse of public office, abuse of governmental authority and other governmental misconduct. The 29-page complaint, obtained by Inside Lake, was electronically filed through Florida’s e-filing portal late Friday afternoon. The filing was still pending clerk acceptance Friday evening. The lawsuit alleges the city violated Florida’s Public Whistle-blower’s Act by subjecting Ramsey to repeated investigations, publicly exposing him as the whistleblower, undermining his authority

Groveland police chief sues city, alleges whistleblower retaliation Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 14, 2026

Tavares man killed in Orange County rollover crash

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A Tavares man was killed Thursday afternoon in a single-vehicle crash in Orange County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Just after 5:30 p.m., the 33-year-old man was driving a 1999 Ford F-350 westbound on Jones Avenue approaching Dirt Drive when, for unknown reasons, he lost control of the truck and ran off the road, FHP said. The truck overturned and landed on its roof. The man was transported to AdventHealth Apopka, where he was pronounced deceased. The crash remains under investigation.

Tavares man killed in Orange County rollover crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 13, 2026

Wanted home invasion robbery suspect taken into custody in Clermont

CLERMONT, Fla. — A man wanted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement was taken into custody Thursday afternoon with the assistance of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team. Agents with the FDLE Task Force located Malikai Gaskins, who was wanted on an FDLE warrant for armed home invasion robbery, at an apartment at 760 South Grand Highway in Clermont around 3:30 p.m., Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. According to Earley, Gaskins barricaded himself inside the apartment. Agents with the FDLE Task Force and detectives with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Bureau

Wanted home invasion robbery suspect taken into custody in Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 13, 2026

Missing person investigation ends with victim, suspect dead near Mount Dora

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — A missing person report Wednesday led Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies to the discovery of two deceased people, including the missing person and a neighboring resident identified as the suspect, according to the sheriff’s office. Around 5:30 p.m., deputies responded to a residence in the area of Bay Road in unincorporated Mount Dora after receiving a report of a missing person, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley said. When deputies arrived, they discovered a bullet hole in the passenger-side window of the victim’s vehicle and blood inside. While searching the vehicle, deputies found the victim deceased

Missing person investigation ends with victim, suspect dead near Mount Dora Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 13, 2026

Amazon delivery driver dies after being found unresponsive near Fruitland Park

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla. — An Amazon delivery driver who was found unresponsive inside a delivery vehicle Monday evening near Fruitland Park has died, but investigators say the cause of death remains unclear. Shortly before 7:30 p.m. Monday, deputies responded to the area of Clark Road in unincorporated Fruitland Park after receiving a report of an Amazon delivery vehicle running while stationary for an extended period of time, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. When deputies arrived, they found the female driver unresponsive inside the vehicle. She was transported to a local hospital, where she was later

Amazon delivery driver dies after being found unresponsive near Fruitland Park Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 11, 2026

Gas leak prompts evacuations, road closures in Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla. — Eustis Fire Department is responding to a gas leak late Tuesday morning in the area of Key Avenue and South Grove Street that has prompted evacuations and road closures. Residents in the area have been evacuated, according to the fire department. The following roads are closed: South Center Street from Lemon Avenue to Fernshaw Avenue Key Avenue from South Grove Street to South Mary Street EFD said updates will be provided as they become available.

Gas leak prompts evacuations, road closures in Eustis Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 11, 2026

Amazon driver found unresponsive near Fruitland Park

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after an Amazon driver was found unresponsive inside a delivery vehicle Monday evening near Fruitland Park. Shortly before 7:30 p.m., deputies responded to the area of Clark Road in unincorporated Fruitland Park after receiving a report of an Amazon delivery vehicle running while stationary for an extended period of time, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. When deputies arrived, they found the driver unresponsive inside the vehicle. The driver was transported to a local hospital, Earley said. The driver’s name has not been released. Lake

Amazon driver found unresponsive near Fruitland Park Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 10, 2026

Man shot, killed after trying to force way into Leesburg home, LCSO says

LEESBURG, Fla. — A man was shot and killed Sunday night after deputies say he became involved in a physical altercation with a homeowner while attempting to force his way into a residence where his ex-girlfriend was visiting, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to a home on Highland Drive in Mid Florida Lakes in unincorporated Leesburg around 9:20 p.m. after a report of a shooting. The preliminary investigation indicates the man arrived unannounced at the residence where his ex-girlfriend was visiting. He became involved in a physical altercation with the homeowner and tried to force his

Man shot, killed after trying to force way into Leesburg home, LCSO says Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 10, 2026

Clermont man killed after Porsche strikes trees, overturns

CLERMONT, Fla. — A Clermont man was killed early Sunday after his car ran off the road, struck a curb and two trees, then overturned, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 36-year-old was driving a 2007 Porsche Boxster northbound on Greater Hills Boulevard near Charter Oaks Trail in unincorporated Clermont shortly before 2:15 a.m. when he ran off the road, FHP said. The Porsche struck a curb and two trees before overturning and landing on its roof. The man was transported to Orlando Health South Lake Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The crash remains under investigation.

Clermont man killed after Porsche strikes trees, overturns Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 9, 2026

Eustis father arrested in connection with DeLand double murder investigation

EUSTIS, Fla. — A Eustis father is behind bars, accused of helping his teenage son evade law enforcement following a double murder in DeLand, DeLand Police Department announced Friday. Daytron W. Etkins, 41, was arrested shortly after 6:45 a.m. Friday at his Bates Avenue home. Detectives also executed a search warrant at the residence with the assistance of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, according to DeLand police. Etkins is charged with accessory after the fact in connection with an investigation involving his 17-year-old son, Keyan Rundell. Rundell is accused of murdering Dustin Rose, 19, and Samson Campbell, 18. Police said

Eustis father arrested in connection with DeLand double murder investigation Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 7, 2026

Former Fruitland Park church overseer arrested on 21 additional voyeurism charges during court hearing

TAVARES, Fla. — A former Fruitland Park church overseer arrested in June on video voyeurism charges is now facing 21 additional counts, including six involving minor victims, after being arrested during a court hearing Tuesday. Charles “Bart” Lucas, 59, was arrested during a previously scheduled hearing Tuesday morning and booked into the Lake County Jail on $67,500 bond, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office records. Lucas now faces a total of 26 counts of video voyeurism, including seven involving victims younger than 16. He previously pleaded not guilty to the original five charges. According to Lake County Clerk of Court

Former Fruitland Park church overseer arrested on 21 additional voyeurism charges during court hearing Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 4, 2026

Eustis releases bodycam footage, report in officer-dragging incident

EUSTIS, Fla. — Eustis Police Department has released a report and body-worn camera footage from three officers involved in an early Saturday morning incident in which two officers were dragged by a fleeing suspect. One officer continues to recover while another has returned to work, according to EPD Chief Craig Capri. Shakoi Donovan, 28, is facing numerous charges, including attempted murder of a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, fleeing to elude, two counts of resisting an officer with violence, four counts of resisting an officer without violence and two counts of violation of probation. After

Eustis releases bodycam footage, report in officer-dragging incident Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 4, 2026

Eustis, Leesburg men killed in separate out-of-county crashes

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Two Lake County men were killed Friday in separate crashes in Marion and Hillsborough counties, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 6 a.m., a 42-year-old Eustis man was driving a pickup truck southbound on Interstate 75 when he drifted across all three lanes and struck a guardrail near mile marker 366 in Marion County, FHP said. The pickup overturned, ejecting the driver into the northbound lanes. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. In a separate crash shortly before 11 p.m. Friday in Hillsborough County, a 42-year-old Leesburg man was struck and killed while attempting

Eustis, Leesburg men killed in separate out-of-county crashes Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 3, 2026

Eustis police searching for suspect wanted for attempted murder of officer

EUSTIS, Fla. — Eustis Police Department is searching for a suspect accused of attempting to kill a law enforcement officer during an early Saturday morning incident. Shakoi Donovan, 28, is wanted on charges of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, fleeing to elude, resisting with violence and resisting without violence, according to EPD. The incident occurred around 2:45 a.m. near East Quayle Avenue and South Eustis Street. Police have not released any details about what led to the charges. Multiple agencies joined in the search for Donovan following the incident on the

Eustis police searching for suspect wanted for attempted murder of officer Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 1, 2026

Juvenile female shot in chest near Groveland; LCSO investigating

GROVELAND, Fla. — Two people shot early Sunday, including a juvenile female who was struck in the chest, have been released from the hospital as Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives continue to investigate the shooting. Shortly before 12:45 a.m., deputies responded to a report of a person shot in the 12000 block of Bay Lake Road. After interviewing multiple witnesses, deputies determined the shooting occurred in the area of Bay Lake Road and Prospect Ranch Road. The juvenile female, whose name and age have not been released, was transported to Orlando Health South Lake Hospital by a friend after suffering

Juvenile female shot in chest near Groveland; LCSO investigating Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 29, 2026

Mount Dora police searching for missing autistic, non-verbal man

Update: Vasilios Stewart has been located. MOUNT DORA, Fla. — The Mount Dora Police Department is asking for the public’s help locating a missing 21-year-old autistic man. Vasilios Stewart is 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighs approximately 270 pounds and has brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen near 11th Avenue and Carol Lane wearing a red Snoopy T-shirt. Stewart is autistic and non-verbal. Anyone who sees Stewart or has information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the Mount Dora Police Department immediately at 352-735-7130 or call 911.

Mount Dora police searching for missing autistic, non-verbal man Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 27, 2026

Man accused of abandoning starving dog at Lake County Animal Shelter

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to include a statement from a Lake County spokesperson regarding the Lake County Animal Shelter. Viewer discretion advised: This story contains images that some readers may find disturbing. TAVARES, Fla. — A man is facing animal cruelty and abandonment charges after investigators say he surrendered his starving dog to the Lake County Animal Shelter as a “found dog” earlier this year, according to a probable cause affidavit. On Jan. 25, Edualdo Rodriguez, 55, surrendered the severely emaciated male American bulldog as a “found dog,” but a Lake County Sheriff’s Office investigation found Rodriguez

Man accused of abandoning starving dog at Lake County Animal Shelter Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 23, 2026

Eustis man arrested in Volusia Operation Tor/Pedo

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A Eustis man was arrested during a Volusia Sheriff’s Office undercover operation earlier this month targeting individuals who use the internet and apps to exploit children, according to Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood. Colton James Gregory, 19, is accused of chatting with what he believed to be a 14-year-old child on July 11 and driving to Volusia County to meet the child, according to a charging affidavit. Using an online platform, Gregory allegedly made sexually explicit comments to a detective posing as a child. Most of the messages contained in the affidavit are too vulgar for publication,

Eustis man arrested in Volusia Operation Tor/Pedo Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 20, 2026

Investigation sustains allegations against former Howey police chief over relationship with fraud suspect’s wife

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla. — A Lake County Sheriff’s Office internal affairs investigation sustained allegations that former Howey-in-the-Hills Police Chief Michael Giddens violated department policy after engaging in a sexual relationship with the wife of a man he was investigating for felony fraud, according to documents released by the town Thursday. The investigation began after the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills received an anonymous complaint alleging Giddens had engaged in an inappropriate sexual relationship with the woman while he was investigating her husband in 2025. Giddens was a lieutenant at the time of the relationship and was appointed police chief in October 2025. Because

Investigation sustains allegations against former Howey police chief over relationship with fraud suspect’s wife Read More »

Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 17, 2026

Tavares K9 Bruce leads officers to meth trafficking arrest, $601K bond

TAVARES, Fla. — A traffic stop for a stop sign violation led to the arrest of a Leesburg man on trafficking and other drug charges Sunday night, according to an arrest affidavit. Joshua D. Franklin, 41, was arrested for trafficking methamphetamine over 28 grams, possession of cocaine with intent to sell and possession of drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop. According to the affidavit, a Tavares K9 officer stopped Franklin’s silver passenger car around shortly before 8 p.m. after seeing it fail to stop behind the stop bar at the intersection of U.S. Highway 441 and Sinclair Avenue. Franklin denied

Tavares K9 Bruce leads officers to meth trafficking arrest, $601K bond Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 13, 2026

Mount Dora man dies after crash on U.S. Highway 441 in Tavares

TAVARES, Fla.— A Mount Dora man was killed late Thursday afternoon after attempting to cross several lanes of traffic and colliding with a truck near AdventHealth Waterman, according to Tavares Police Department. Shortly after 5:30 p.m., William Pyle, 84, of Mount Dora, was pulling onto U.S. Highway 441 from Waterman Way in a 2016 Nissan Sentra when he failed to obey a right-turn-only sign and attempted to cross the northbound lanes to turn left into the southbound lanes. The Nissan was struck by a 2018 GMC pickup truck traveling in the inside northbound lane, driven by Charles Green, 39, of

Mount Dora man dies after crash on U.S. Highway 441 in Tavares Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 10, 2026

Grand jury indicts man in killing of Eustis woman; prosecutors seek death penalty

TAVARES, Fla. — A Lake County grand jury has indicted Shahidul Islam in the 2025 killing of Monica Islam, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. Islam, 44, is charged with premeditated first-degree murder with a firearm in Monica Islam’s May 2, 2025, death. Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson announced the indictment alongside Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia and Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell at a press conference Tuesday afternoon. According to the State Attorney’s Office, Islam was transferred back to Lake County after being sentenced in his most recent federal criminal case for unlawful reentry into the

Grand jury indicts man in killing of Eustis woman; prosecutors seek death penalty Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 8, 2026

Crimeline tip leads to arrest of Leesburg man accused of sexual act involving dog

LEESBURG, Fla. — A 19-year-old Leesburg man was arrested Wednesday after investigators say he recorded and posted a Snapchat video depicting a sexual act involving a dog. Isaiah Chaitram Nimnauth is facing charges of animal cruelty: sexual contact with animal and unlawful use of a two-way communications device. According to an arrest affidavit, a Lake County Sheriff’s Office detective received a Crimeline tip June 24 reporting a Snapchat video allegedly showing Nimnauth engaging in a sexual act with a dog. The detective reviewed the video before identifying Nimnauth through the Snapchat account and confirming his residence through Florida driver’s license

Crimeline tip leads to arrest of Leesburg man accused of sexual act involving dog Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 1, 2026

Howey-in-the-Hills searching for new police chief after resignation

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla. — The Town of Howey-in-the-Hills is searching for a new police chief after former Chief Michael Giddens resigned last month while under investigation. Giddens submitted his resignation June 3 and Town Manager Sean O’Keefe provided Inside Lake with a copy of his resignation letter. The town has posted the police chief position and is accepting applications. O’Keefe said the town’s investigation remains ongoing with assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. In his resignation letter, Giddens wrote that his “private life is being targeted by anonymous individuals driven by personal and political agendas,” and after 32 years in

Howey-in-the-Hills searching for new police chief after resignation Read More »

Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 1, 2026

Astor man killed in head-on crash on State Road 40

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A 30-year-old Astor man was killed in a head-on crash with a truck Wednesday morning in Volusia County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 5:30 a.m. on State Road 40 west of Check Station Road. Troopers said the Astor man was driving a 2004 Buick Rendezvous eastbound on State Road 40 when, for unknown reasons, the SUV traveled onto the south shoulder of the roadway. The driver then overcorrected to the left into the westbound lane and into the path of a 2017 Ford F-350 pulling a trailer. The front of the

Astor man killed in head-on crash on State Road 40 Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 1, 2026

Minneola woman killed after SUV catches fire in Sumter County crash

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. — A 21-year-old Minneola woman was killed in a fiery crash early Tuesday morning in Sumter County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The woman was driving a Mazda CX-9 westbound on County Road 478 when she failed to negotiate a curve west of County Road 747, around 4 a.m., troopers said. The SUV traveled off the roadway, struck a fence and then collided with a tree and caught fire. The driver suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, FHP said. The crash remains under investigation.

Minneola woman killed after SUV catches fire in Sumter County crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Minneola / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 30, 2026

Three years later, Bryson Leverette’s killing remains Lady Lake’s only unsolved homicide

LADY LAKE, Fla. — Nearly three years after 20-year-old Bryson “Swift” Leverette was gunned down outside a Lady Lake home, investigators are again asking for the public’s help in solving the town’s only unsolved homicide. Leverette was fatally shot and another person was wounded around 12:45 a.m. June 30, 2023, as they were leaving a home at 104 Caroline Ave. in the Skyline Hills area, according to the Lady Lake Police Department. Investigators said the victims were ambushed by multiple suspects armed with several firearms. The suspects fled the area in unknown vehicles, and no arrests have been made. “Three

Three years later, Bryson Leverette’s killing remains Lady Lake’s only unsolved homicide Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 29, 2026

Nude woman exits “suspicious” vehicle before driver crashes into fire hydrant last week, police say

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — An Orlando man is facing multiple charges after police say he crashed into a fire hydrant, ran from officers and discharged a firearm while intoxicated last week. Around 5 a.m. June 20, Mount Dora police officers observed a suspicious vehicle near Limit Avenue and North Unser Street while Lake County dispatch received a 911 call about the same vehicle “parked under suspicious circumstances” at a nearby business on U.S. Highway 441, according to an arrest affidavit. The caller told dispatch a nude woman exited the vehicle before it abruptly drove away. Officers later determined the woman

Nude woman exits “suspicious” vehicle before driver crashes into fire hydrant last week, police say Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 28, 2026

Fruitland Park church overseer arrested in hidden camera investigation

LEESBURG, Fla. — A Fruitland Park man was arrested Friday after an investigation uncovered digital files involving females, including videos investigators say were recorded with a concealed camera inside a church bathroom and a room where adolescent girls were changing following a baptism service, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Charles Barton “Bart” Lucas, 59, was arrested on five counts of video voyeurism. Four counts involve adult victims and one involves a victim younger than 16, according to an arrest affidavit. He was released from the Lake County Jail on $25,000 bond. The investigation began after suspicious material was

Fruitland Park church overseer arrested in hidden camera investigation Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 20, 2026

Two Lake County men arrested in separate Florida Keys incidents

MONROE COUNTY, Fla. — Two Lake County men were arrested Wednesday in unrelated incidents in the Florida Keys, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. A 50-year-old Umatilla man was arrested in Marathon after deputies say he followed customers around a Publix while armed with a knife, causing alarm among shoppers. According to the sheriff’s office, deputies were called to the store around 7 p.m. after multiple customers and an employee reported John Paul Roberts was making eye contact with customers and following them around the store and out to their vehicles for unknown reasons. Roberts had a knife sheathed

Two Lake County men arrested in separate Florida Keys incidents Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Umatilla / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 18, 2026

4th arrest made in pair of Eustis shootings, more charges filed against adult suspects

EUSTIS, Fla. — A fourth arrest has been made in a pair of Eustis shootings last week and additional charges have been filed against the adult suspects, according to Eustis police. Von’tayvian Silas-Edwards, 15, was arrested late Tuesday afternoon and charged with principal to shooting into an occupied dwelling. His arrest follows the Friday arrests of Elijah Hood, 18, on a charge of principal to shooting into an occupied dwelling, and Malachi Aiden Hughes, 15, and Jordan Larry Hayes, 18, on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and shooting into an occupied dwelling stemming from the shootings at

4th arrest made in pair of Eustis shootings, more charges filed against adult suspects Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 16, 2026

Lady Lake police seek information on vehicle involved in fatal crash

LADY LAKE, Fla. — Lady Lake police are asking for the public’s help following a fatal pedestrian crash early Tuesday. Shortly before 3:30 a.m., the driver of a gray 2023 Toyota Tacoma was traveling on U.S. Highway 27 near Hartsock Mill Road when she saw a man wearing dark clothing and standing in the middle southbound lane, according to Town of Lady Lake Communications Director Elisha Pappacoda. There are no streetlights in the area, Pappacoda said. The driver attempted to avoid the man but was unable to and struck him. She stopped and called for help while her passenger checked

Lady Lake police seek information on vehicle involved in fatal crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 16, 2026

Collision with guardrail and trees kills Lady Lake man, seriously injures woman

LADY LAKE, Fla. — A Lady Lake man was killed Sunday evening and his passenger was seriously injured when their SUV struck a guardrail and several trees, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred on Griffin Avenue near Grays Airport Road. FHP said an 81-year-old Lady Lake man was driving a 2026 Subaru Forester eastbound on Griffin Avenue, shortly before 7 p.m. when he failed to negotiate a right-hand curve, The SUV left the roadway and collided with a guardrail before striking several trees, according to FHP The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger, a

Collision with guardrail and trees kills Lady Lake man, seriously injures woman Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 14, 2026

Man dead, 3 seriously injured in fiery wrong-way crash near Clermont

. CLERMONT, Fla. — A wrong-way driver was killed and three other men were seriously injured in a fiery head-on crash Sunday morning near Clermont, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred at 6:20 a.m. on State Road 33 near Bakers Lane in unincorporated Clermont. FHP said a 24-year-old Orlando man was driving a 2026 Toyota Camry northbound in the southbound lane of State Road 33 when he collided head-on with a 2016 Dodge Journey. The impact caused the Dodge to catch fire, according to FHP. The driver of the Toyota was pronounced dead at the scene. His

Man dead, 3 seriously injured in fiery wrong-way crash near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 14, 2026

Fatal crash shuts down SR 33 near Clermont

CLERMONT, Fla. — A fatal crash has shut down State Road 33 in unincorporated Clermont, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 6:30 a.m. near Bakers Lane. At least one person was killed. State Road 33 is closed in both directions between Laws Road and Ott Williams Road as troopers investigate. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes. This is a developing story.

Fatal crash shuts down SR 33 near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 14, 2026

Teen dispute at Carver Park led to pair of Eustis shootings Thursday night, police say

EUSTIS, Fla. — A dispute between two groups of teenagers at Carver Park escalated into two shootings less than two hours apart Thursday night, resulting in the arrests of two suspects and more charges are expected, according to Eustis police. Malachi Aiden Hughes, 15, and Jordan Larry Hayes, 18, were arrested on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and shooting into an occupied dwelling following shootings at 701 E. Hazzard Ave. and 1502 E. Lakeview Ave. No one was injured in either shooting. According to arrest affidavits, witnesses told investigators the conflict began earlier Thursday at Carver Park,

Teen dispute at Carver Park led to pair of Eustis shootings Thursday night, police say Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 12, 2026

LovExtension: 25 years of quietly changing lives

By Trent Shipton, Special to Inside Lake TAVARES, Fla. — For 25 years, LovExtension has quietly changed lives one grocery bag, one roll of toilet paper and one act of kindness at a time. On Thursday afternoon, Bay and Lake Pharmacy had the privilege of attending the organization’s 25th anniversary celebration, and what we witnessed was nothing short of extraordinary. Behind the mission are two remarkable women whose compassion has inspired an army of volunteers dedicated to serving others. During a tour of the facility, we learned the staggering scope of their work. LovExtension currently serves nearly 1,700 clients throughout

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Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Features, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Trent Shipton / June 11, 2026

Groveland man charged with cocaine trafficking after multi-agency drug raid

GROVELAND, Fla. — A Groveland man is facing a cocaine trafficking charge after a multi-agency narcotics investigation led to search warrants at a duplex on Blue Street Tuesday morning. Detectives with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Bureau and the Groveland Police Department executed narcotics search warrants at 745 and 747 Blue St. on Tuesday after determining narcotics were allegedly being distributed from both apartments, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team was used to secure the duplex while detectives from LCSO, Clermont, Eustis, Groveland and Leesburg searched both residences. During the

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Clermont, Eustis, Groveland, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 11, 2026

Head-on crash kills Leesburg man in Marion County, Eustis woman critically injured

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Leesburg man was killed and a Eustis woman was critically injured in a head-on crash Wednesday afternoon on County Road 42 in Marion County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 30-year-old Leesburg man was driving a sedan westbound near Southeast 105th Avenue when he crossed the center line and collided head-on with a pickup truck around 1:45 p.m., FHP said. The impact scattered debris across the roadway, and a second sedan struck the debris. The Leesburg man was pronounced dead at the scene. One of his passengers, a 27-year-old Eustis woman, suffered critical injuries

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 3, 2026

Murder suspect returned to Lake County more than a year after woman’s death

TAVARES, Fla. — The man accused of killing his sister-in-law last year is back in Lake County and in the custody of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Shahidul Islam, 43, was extradited from federal custody to Lake County Sunday, LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said. He is being held on no bond in the Lake County Jail. LCSO detectives obtained an arrest warrant more than a year ago after Monica Islam, 44, was found murdered in unincorporated Mount Dora after being reported missing from Eustis. She was found shot to death near Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch Road on May 2,

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 2, 2026

LCSO executes narcotics search warrant at Tavares home

TAVARES, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office executed a narcotics-related search warrant Tuesday morning at a residence in Tavares. The warrant was executed at a home in the 100 block of Bloxham Avenue, according to LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon. Few details were immediately available Tuesday. Vachon confirmed the operation was a narcotics search warrant but no additional information was released.

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Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 2, 2026

Eagle One helps track Clermont man to Eustis after fleeing traffic stop

EUSTIS, Fla. — A Clermont man with multiple outstanding warrants out of Georgia was arrested Monday night after allegedly fleeing from a traffic stop and traveling through several Lake County communities before hitting stop sticks in Eustis, according to an arrest affidavit. Brandon Stuart Brown, 32, is facing charges of fleeing to elude, attaching tag not assigned, driving while license suspended, canceled or revoked as a habitual offender and operating an unregistered motor vehicle. Around 10 p.m., a Lake County Sheriff’s Office corporal observed a dark-colored Chevrolet Tahoe traveling north on U.S. Highway 27 near State Road 19 with no

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Clermont, Eustis, Groveland, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 26, 2026

Man sentenced to 25 years for shooting at deputies, officers in Mount Dora; murder case still pending

Editor’s note: The video below contains graphic images and language. Viewer discretion is advised. TAVARES, Fla. — The man accused of shooting at Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Mount Dora Police officers in 2022 when he was just 18 years old, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for his Lake County crimes, according to court records, but his legal troubles are far from over. Jonny Ze Guiseppe Santiago, now 22, pleaded no contest last week to two counts of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer, fleeing and eluding and discharging a firearm from a vehicle after

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Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 25, 2026

Umatilla honors historic undefeated Bulldogs with monument dedication

UMATILLA, Fla. — It was 70 years in the making. Umatilla High School’s Bulldog football team was honored Wednesday with a monument dedication ceremony marking its undefeated 2025 season — the school’s first undefeated season in 70 years. The monument, purchased by the City of Umatilla, was manufactured by Set in Stone Monuments, owned by UHS alumnus Colton Hartog. Hartog was on hand for the dedication, along with Umatilla Vice Mayor Zack Durbin, UHS Head Football Coach Eric Samuels, UHS Principal Brent Frazier, the UHS Marching Band, UHS Cheerleaders and the UHS Bulldog football team. The Bulldogs outscored their opponents

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Inside Scoop, Umatilla / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 21, 2026

Dad sentenced to 12 years in 2022 crash that killed two sons, injured third

TAVARES, Fla. — The man who was drunk and behind the wheel when he killed his two sons on Easter Eve 2022 has been sentenced to 12 years in prison. David Shawn Pelfrey, 25, of Fruitland Park, was picked up on a warrant in February 2024, nearly two years after the crash that killed his sons, Damian, 4, and Dominic, 2, and seriously injured their brother, Daylen, 1. Pelfrey was charged with DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide and operating a vehicle without a driver’s license causing death; he was scheduled to stand trial May 11 and pleaded no contest

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Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 17, 2026

From pandemic frustration to a new model: How Ultimate Health Direct Primary Care is redefining healthcare in Lake County

LEESBURG, Fla. —When access to healthcare became increasingly difficult in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, and frustrations with insurance-driven care reached a boiling point, Amanda Gaskin made a decision that would change not only her career, but the way many Lake County residents experience medicine. She walked away from the traditional model and built her own. What started in 2021 as a leap of faith has since grown into a thriving business rooted in Leesburg. Ultimate Health Direct Primary Care offers a different approach to healthcare, one that prioritizes time, access and relationships over insurance approvals and rushed appointments. “I was

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Inside Business, Leesburg / By Staff Report / May 16, 2026

Pedestrian critically injured in Lady Lake crash

LADY LAKE, Fla. — A St. Augustine man is in critical condition after he was struck by a car on U.S. Highway 27/441 in Lady Lake Wednesday morning. Anthony Heine, 36, was hit by a black Hyundai Sonata around 5 a.m. while crossing U.S. Highway 27/441 in the crosswalk at Wales Plaza, Town of Lady Lake Communications Director Elisha Pappacoda said. The driver of the Hyundai, Eunice Young, 65, of Lady Lake, told Lady Lake Police Department officers she was traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 27/441 and had a green traffic light when she “suddenly felt a severe impact” and

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Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 13, 2026

Motorcyclist killed in crash on SR 44 near Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a Eustis motorcyclist Saturday afternoon. Shortly after 4:30 p.m., a 23-year-old man was riding a 2000 Harley-Davidson motorcycle eastbound on State Road 44 approaching Brantley Branch Road in unincorporated Eustis, above the posted speed limit, according to FHP. He lost control of the motorcycle, swerved left and collided head-on with a 2008 Toyota Tundra that was attempting to turn westbound onto State Road 44 from Brantley Branch Road. The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased on the scene. He was not wearing a helmet. The driver of the Toyota,

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 9, 2026

Howey-in-the-Hills police chief on leave amid investigation

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla. — Howey-in-the-Hills Police Chief Michael Giddens has been placed on administrative leave, Inside Lake has learned. Giddens was placed on administrative leave after Town Manager Sean O’Keefe received an email Monday that prompted an investigation, he told Inside Lake. The contents of the email are part of the investigation and are not being released because the investigation is active, O’Keefe said. Florida law limits the release of certain information related to active investigations. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating, while the town conducts its own investigation, O’Keefe said. “There’s a lot yet to be determined,” O’Keefe

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Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 7, 2026

Police: Eustis man beat, robbed 65-year-old during yard work

EUSTIS, Fla. — A 23-year-old Eustis man is behind bars after police say he struck a 65-year-old man in the back of the head and robbed him late last month. Calvin Llweely Graham was arrested Wednesday after Eustis Police Department officers spotted him riding a bicycle in the area of Palmetto Street and East McDonald Avenue, EPD Chief Craig Capri said. Graham fled when he saw officers, but after a short pursuit, he was apprehended. On April 29, EPD responded to Wall Street on a report of a robbery. The 65-year-old victim told police he was doing yard work on

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Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 7, 2026

Tavares woman facing 31 animal cruelty charges after emaciated cattle investigation

TAVARES, Fla. — A Tavares woman is facing 31 animal cruelty charges following an investigation by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office that began in April. Lori Ann Gonzalez, 62, was arrested Wednesday and released from the Lake County Jail on $77,500 bond early Thursday morning, according to LCSO online booking records. A livestock welfare complaint led authorities to a pasture in unincorporated Tavares, where cattle were found severely emaciated, launching an animal neglect investigation, LCSO Public Information Officer Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake last month. Lake County Agricultural/Marine Unit and Animal Enforcement officers responded to 28304 Atlantis Road on

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Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 7, 2026

Precautionary boil water notice issued for part of Mount Dora

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — A precautionary boil water notice has been issued after a contractor struck a water main in Mount Dora Wednesday. A contractor with WIRE3 hit a water main located Morningside Drive and Sylvan Point Drive Wednesday afternoon, causing a break, according to Misty Sommer, City of Mount Dora Public Information officer. The break has been repaired, and the city has issued a precautionary boil water notice for Morningside Drive from Sylvan Point Drive to U.S. Highway 441, including Pineway Court, Sunset Circle, Hannah Drive, and Sussex Drive, Sommer said. The system is currently being flushed, and water

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Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Staff Report / May 6, 2026

Overnight lane closures planned on 441 in Tavares, Leesburg this week for resurfacing projects

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Motorists traveling on U.S. Highway 441 in Tavares and Leesburg should expect overnight lane closures this week as the Florida Department of Transportation continues resurfacing projects in both cities. The closures are scheduled for the week of May 3 through May 9 as part of roadway improvement projects aimed at rehabilitating asphalt surfaces and maintaining safe, reliable travel lanes. Pedestrian curb ramps will also be upgraded where needed to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act standards. In Tavares, crews are resurfacing U.S. Highway 441 from Lakeshore Boulevard to Lake Eustis Drive. In Leesburg, the project includes

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By Staff Report / May 3, 2026

Man shot twice after entering Mount Dora-area home, deputies say

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a man was shot twice Saturday morning in unincorporated Mount Dora. Shortly after 8:45 a.m. Saturday, deputies and officers with Mount Dora Police Department responded to 30203 Cheval Street on a report of a verbal dispute. When law enforcement arrived, they found a man had been shot twice by the homeowner, LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley said. Deputies determined the man is currently going through a divorce with a female resident of the home. Investigators said he knocked and banged on the front door and windows before entering through

Man shot twice after entering Mount Dora-area home, deputies say Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 2, 2026

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