Tavares

Deputies: Brother-in-law accused of killing Eustis woman, held on federal immigration warrant

TAVARES, Fla.—An arrest warrant has been obtained for the brother-in-law of a Eustis woman found murdered in May. Monica Islam, 44, was found shot to death near Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch Road outside of Mount Dora around 7:30 a.m. May 2 after vanishing from Shell, 1701 South Bay Street, Eustis around 6 a.m. the same morning. According to the missing person report obtained by Inside Lake, Islam’s daughter, Rimi Islam, reported her mother missing around 8:30 a.m. May 2. She told Eustis Police Department they left their home around 5:30 a.m. and arrived at Shell shortly after. She […]

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Eustis man sentenced to 15 years in prison in ‘23 drug trafficking case

TAVARES, Florida— A man arrested many times for multiple felonies but seldom convicted in past cases, was convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to 15 years in prison stemming from a 2023 case, according to the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. Emmanuel Cazeau, now 41, of Eustis, was pulled over in June 2023 by Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies for a minor traffic offense as he pulled out of Circle K, at the corner of County Road 44 and County Road 473 in unincorporated Leesburg, according to an arrest affidavit. Deputies asked for consent to search Cazeau’s vehicle, which

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VIDEO: DeLand man uses skid steer to break into building at Tavares Public Works Complex, takes joyride in city truck

TAVARES, Fla.—A DeLand man was nabbed Thursday morning driving a stolen City of Tavares truck, following a break-in at the city’s Public Works Complex. According to a Tavares Police Department report, TPD responded to the Public Works Complex, 920 Captain Haynes Road after an employee reported that when he arrived shortly after 5:45 a.m. Thursday, he found Lake Technical College’s doors open, and two vehicles and a building had been broken into. Officers obtained surveillance video that showed Ronald Carlton Harmon, 43, just before 11:30 p.m. Wednesday night on the complex property. More than an hour later, he is seen

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Law enforcement recruit dies during first night of class, Tavares police say

TAVARES, Fla.— Tavares Police Department is investigating the death of a law enforcement recruit who suffered a medical emergency Monday night. “Morlon Jenkins, 42, experienced a medical emergency during the first night of the Florida Law Enforcement Academy at the Institute of Public Safety, a campus of Lake Technical College in Tavares,” TPD Det. Courtney Sullivan said in an email. Around 7:15 p.m., Jenkins began experiencing a medical emergency during physical training required by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Lake Technical College (LTC) said in a statement. Instructors immediately called emergency services, Sullivan said, and he was transported to

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Man wanted for capital sexual battery of a child, Tavares police say

TAVARES, Fla.— Tavares Police Department is asking for the public’s help locating a man wanted for capital sexual battery on a child under 12. Orlando De La Rosa Jimenez, 30, is the subject of an investigation that started earlier this week and frequents Tavares and may have ties to other local cities, TPD Det. Courtney Sullivan said. Limited information has been released because it’s an active investigation, she said. Multiple law enforcement agencies are assisting TPD in locating Jimenez, Sullivan said, including federal authorities. If you see Jimenez, do not approach him, call 911.

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Suspected vehicle located in fatal Tavares hit-and-run

TAVARES, Fla.—The vehicle believed to be involved in a hit-and-run that killed a bicyclist earlier this month has been located, according to Tavares Police Department. Frank Carrasquillo, 49, was riding a bicycle when he was hit and killed shortly before 9 p.m. July 13 in the 600 block of East Alfred Street, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake, the day after the crash. The driver fled the scene and police have located a grey Honda Odyssey, believed to be involved. It had damage consistent with evidence found at the scene, Sullivan said. The minivan was found in unincorporated

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LCSO: “Pastor Pete” strikes again

UMATILLA, Fla.— A local man well-known in the community and to law enforcement has been arrested again, accused of battering an elderly woman at a group home in unincorporated Umatilla. Earlier this month, Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a group home in unincorporated Umatilla on a report of a sex offense complaint but the incident was later was found to be a battery, according to a probable cause affidavit. For safety reasons, the responding deputy transported two women, one a victim and the other a witness, to Umatilla Police Department to be interviewed. During the interview, both women

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Name of hit-and-run victim released, Tavares police still investigating

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department has released the name of the man killed in a hit-and-run crash Sunday night. Frank Carrasquillo, 49, was riding a bicycle when he was hit and killed shortly before 9 p.m. Sunday night in the 600 block of East Alfred Street, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. The driver fled the scene. Police are asking anyone with information or surveillance footage to call TPD’s non-emergency number at 352-343-2101, option 4.

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Tavares police investigating hit-and-run that killed bicyclist Sunday night

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating a crash that killed a man on Alfred Street Sunday. TPD responded to the 600 block of East Alfred Street at 8:50 p.m. and found a bicyclist suffering from injuries sustained in a hit-and-run, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. The bicyclist succumbed to his injuries, and his name has not been released pending notification of next of kin, Sullivan said. Investigators are continuing to canvass the area for witnesses and video, Sullivan said. If you have information or surveillance footage, call TPD’s non-emergency number at 352-343-2101, option 4.

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Tavares deaths believed to be murder-suicide

TAVARES, Fla.—The deaths of two Tavares residents are believed to be the result of murder-suicide, Tavares Police Department said Thursday morning. TPD responded to the home Tuesday on Landing View in Etowah to conduct a well-being check and found Randy Rice, 70, and Karen Knight, 72, a married couple, both deceased in the home, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. Rice and Knight had both sustained gunshot wounds, and a firearm was found in Rice’s hand. “Based on the preliminary investigation and physical evidence, detectives believe this to be an isolated incident and are investigating it as a likely

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Update on Tavares death investigation expected Thursday

TAVARES, Fla.— Tavares Police Department continues to investigate after the bodies of two adults were discovered in a quiet neighborhood Tuesday afternoon. Inside Lake, the first to report the bodies of two adults were discovered in a Tavares home, asked TPD for more information Wednesday morning, “We have no updates right now; however, we will likely release something tomorrow morning,” TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. Tuesday night, Sullivan said the bodies of two adults were found at the home on Landing View in the Etowah neighborhood, and evidence on the scene indicated the deaths were an isolated incident.

Update on Tavares death investigation expected Thursday Read More »

2 found dead in Tavares, police conducting death investigation

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after two people were found dead Tuesday afternoon, Inside Lake has learned. Details were limited Tuesday night; TPD Det. Courtney Sullivan, who also serves as one of the department’s public information officers, said two adults were found deceased in a home, and detectives are at the home on Landing View, located in Etowah conducting a “death investigation.” “Evidence indicates it’s an isolated incident,” Sullivan told Inside Lake. This is a developing story.

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VIDEO: Tavares woman flees police with 2 children, drives through 2 fences, over boat and into home

TAVARES, Fla.— A situation that started as an argument last week ended in a trip to jail for a Tavares woman after she fled from police, drove through two fences, over a boat and finally into a house — all with two young children in the vehicle, according to documents obtained by Inside Lake. On June 1, Tavares Police Department responded to a verbal disturbance involving an “ex-girlfriend,” later identified as Myesha Mosley, 22. Prior to their arrival, officers were informed Mosley had left the location in her ex-boyfriend’s black Chevy Trax with her two children, including one she shares

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Adult son of Tavares city councilman arrested again, bond set at $400K

TAVARES, Fla.—The adult son of a Tavares city councilman was arrested again Wednesday after a Tavares Police Department detective found video evidence of child sex crimes on his phone, according to a probable cause affidavit. Cole Singer, who turned 22-years-old earlier this month, was picked up Wednesday afternoon on a warrant for four charges – lewd and lascivious battery, lewd and lascivious molestation, lewd and lascivious conduct and production of child pornography, stemming from an incident in 2021. Cole Singer’s father is Troy Singer, a Tavares city councilman who has served on the council since he was appointed in 2016,

Adult son of Tavares city councilman arrested again, bond set at $400K Read More »

Mulch fire causing smoky conditions in Tavares

TAVARES, Fla.—A mulch fire at the Lake County Solid Waste Facility is creating a lot a smoke in the Tavares area and Lake County Fire Rescue officials are telling residents to keep their doors and windows closed. LCFR and the Solid Waste Department are working to break up the mulch pile and remove fuel sources, LCFR said, and the Florida Forestry Service has created a precautionary barrier around the fire that was caused by recent rain and extreme heat. The smoke may continue for several days and businesses and residents should keep doors and windows closed. Individuals with certain respiratory

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Tavares cleaning company eases the burden for cancer patients

TAVARES, Fla.— A local cleaning company is continuing its mission of giving back to residents who are fighting cancer—and to them, the mission is personal. For the third year running, Bright Side Services Inc. of Tavares has partnered with Cleaning for a Reason, a non-profit organization that pairs residents who are undergoing cancer treatment with local cleaning companies that donate two free house cleaning sessions. Founded by Debbie Sardone of Buckets & Bows Maid Service in Texas, cleaning companies from across the country participate, including Tavares-based Bright Side Services Inc., owned by Michelle and Mike Krueger. They have participated in

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Mom accused of kidnapping daughters from Sorrento foster home pleads no contest, sentenced to prison

TAVARES, Fla.—The mom accused of kidnapping her two daughters from a Sorrento foster home in January 2024 pleaded no contest last month to her charges and was sentenced to three years in prison, followed by five years of probation, according to Lake County Clerk of Court online records. Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives began investigating the case after Tilli and Natalia Williams’ foster mother reported them missing around 7 a.m. Jan. 25, 2024. Authorities quickly named their mother, Dixie K. Williams, as a suspect and issued an Amber Alert. They were found the next day in Lincoln Parish, Louisiana after

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LCSO deputy shot in rescue attempt of murdered deputy returns to light duty

TAVARES, Fla.—Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stefano Gargano returned to temporary light duty Monday, a little more than nine months after he was shot multiple times. On Aug. 2, 2024, Gargano was shot, suffering traumatic injuries, during a rescue attempt of Master Deputy Bradley Link. Link and K9 Master Deputy Harold Howell, along with several other deputies, were performing a well-being check at the home Julie and Michael Sulpizio shared with their adult daughters, Savannah and Cheyenne Sulpizio, located 38144 Brookside Drive in unincorporated Eustis, following a Baker Act of Julie Sulpizio. After finding two dead dogs in the yard,

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6th Annual Lake County Back the Blue & Red Walk scheduled for Saturday

TAVARES, Fla.—For the sixth year running, public safety and its supporters will join forces for the annual Lake County Back the Blue & Red Walk. Scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday at Wooton Park in Tavares, this is one of many law enforcement-related events around Lake County held in May during Law Enforcement Appreciation Month and last year, Organizer Shannon Cook added firefighters to the appreciation walk. The walk began in 2019 to show support for law enforcement during a time when the “defund the police” movement was making its way across the country, Cook said, representatives from several law enforcement

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Tavares police investigating single-vehicle fatal crash

TAVARES, Fla—Tavares Police Department is investigating a single-vehicle crash that killed a Tavares man Tuesday morning. A passerby located a 2020 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck off State Road 19 at South Eichelberger Road just before 6 a.m. and called TPD. Officers responded and found the driver, Anthony Torres, 64, deceased on the scene; he was not wearing a seatbelt. The crash is still under investigation, but TPD believes Torres was traveling southbound on State Road 19, left the roadway and struck a tree, TPD Detective Caitlin Diaz said in an email. It is unknown what time the crash occurred, the

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Competency review hearing scheduled for matriarch accused of ambush attack on deputies

TAVARES, Fla.—A competency review hearing for the lone survivor of a family deputies say plotted to kill them last year is scheduled for next month. Julie Ann Sulpizio was declared incompetent to stand trial in February for charges stemming from the August 2024 ambush attack outside Eustis that killed Lake County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Bradley Link and wounded K9 Master Deputy Harold Howell and Deputy Stefano Gargano. According to Circuit Judge Brian Welke’s order to transport and notice of hearing, the court has been noticed Sulpizio “is competent to proceed, or otherwise no longer meets criteria for continued commitment…”

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Adult son of Tavares city councilman arrested on 2 dozen child pornography charges, house they share searched in quest for more evidence

Publisher’s note: There was a discrepancy between this article and online Lake County Jail records regarding Cole Singer’s bond and the number of charges he is facing. This article has been updated to include an explanation from Tavares Police Department. TAVARES, Fla.—The 21-year-old son of a Tavares city councilman was arrested on a warrant for two dozen counts related to child pornography during a search warrant at the home they share Monday. Arrest warrant in hand, Tavares Police Department executed the search warrant at the home of Cole Singer, who lives with his parents in Tavares, after a TPD investigation

Adult son of Tavares city councilman arrested on 2 dozen child pornography charges, house they share searched in quest for more evidence Read More »

Bail bond agent cheated her client’s mom, Tavares police say

TAVARES, Fla.—A well-known and longtime Tavares bail bond agent found herself on the other side of the law Tuesday when Tavares Police Department arrested her for allegedly cheating her client’s mom out of $900 – and the cash exchange was captured on a parking garage surveillance camera. Jeannie “Red” Hayden is accused of taking the cash in March and leaving the client sitting in jail. According to a report from TPD, on March 27, the client’s mother contacted TPD following a call from another Tavares bail bond agent to TPD that morning. The agent initially told TPD Hayden “scammed” his

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Hundreds flood downtown Tavares to celebrate Xavier Saturday night

TAVARES, Fla.—Hundreds of people flooded downtown Tavares Saturday night to join Xavier Williams’ family to celebrate his life at a candlelight vigil held in his honor. Xavier died March 21 after fighting for his life for nearly a month before succumbing to injuries police say his mother and her boyfriend inflicted on him. Lake County Sheriff’s Office Chaplain Joshua Douglas opened the vigil and shared a few stories about Xavier and the boy he was. A natural talent for understanding electronics, Douglas told attendees about a broken iPad that stumped both Apple and Verizon, but Xavier saved the day and

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Turn Tavares blue for Xavier: Candlelight vigil scheduled for 7 p.m.

TAVARES, Fla.— The family of Xavier Williams and community members are scheduled to gather tonight to honor and celebrate the life of Xavier, the boy police say was savagely abused and murdered by his mother and her boyfriend. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Wooton Park in downtown Tavares and attendees are encouraged to wear blue – Xavier’s favorite color. Parking is available at the Parking Garage, 200 North Sinclair Avenue. “Xavier’s family warmly invites everyone in our community to join them in this moment of remembrance and gratitude for your overwhelming support during this time,” Tavares

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Mom and boyfriend now facing murder charges in death of boy, 10

TAVARES, Fla.—The couple accused of abusing and torturing a Tavares boy to death is now facing additional charges, principal to second-degree murder and two counts of principal to aggravated child abuse, the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office said Monday. While law enforcement and prosecutors continued to work toward securing justice for Xavier Williams and his little brother Monday, his friends and classmates expressed their feelings with a message.   Xavier, 10, died Friday from injuries he suffered at the hands of his mother, Kimberley Mills, 37, and her boyfriend, Andre Walker, 36, according to Tavares Police Department. The couple

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Police identify Tavares boy who died from alleged abuse, candlelight vigil scheduled in his honor

TAVARES, Fla.—The boy police say died Friday from savage abuse at the hands of  his mother and her boyfriend has been identified and a candlelight vigil has been scheduled to honor and celebrate his life. Xavier Williams, 10, died Friday from injuries he suffered from the abuse after spending nearly a month in the hospital. His mother, Kimberley Mills, and her boyfriend, Andre Walker brought Xavier to the hospital in cardiac arrest and covered in burns and bruises in February. The vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 29 at Wooton Park in Tavares. “Xavier’s family warmly invites everyone in

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Community mourns loss of Tavares boy, a victim of “unimaginable abuse”

TAVARES, Fla.—Less than a full day after Tavares Police Department announced the death of a little boy they say suffered “unimaginable abuse,” a memorial is growing at the home where he suffered the abuse. The home is adorned with balloons, stuffed animals and flowers left by community members expressing their sorrow and condolences for the boy who was just 10 years old. The boy, whose name has not been released, attended a local elementary school and by all accounts, according to TPD, his mother, Kimberley Mills, kept the abuse hidden from everyone, including adults and children he interacted with at

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Little boy savagely abused by mom and boyfriend dies from his injuries

Update: Tavares Police have identified the boy as Xavier Williams. Police identify Tavares boy who died from alleged abuse, candlelight vigil scheduled in his honor – Inside Lake TAVARES, Fla.—The boy who was savagely abused by his mother and her boyfriend has died. The 10-year-old boy was a “victim of unimaginable abuse and neglect at the hands of those who were meant to care for him,” Tavares Police Department Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said in an email. “This innocent child’s life was marked by unspeakable suffering, and his loss has deeply shaken our community and everyone involved in this

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No bond for boyfriend accused of savagely abusing girlfriend’s sons

TAVARES, Fla.—The man accused of savagely abusing both his girlfriend’s sons was denied bond Tuesday by Lake Circuit Judge Brian Welke. Andre Walker, 36, is accused of abusing the 10-year-old son of his girlfriend, Kimberley Mills, 37, leaving him in critical condition. Tavares police say Mills, “was methodical in what her children wore and what they said to others to ensure that absolutely no one would learn of what she was doing to her children behind closed doors.” “Our department has been working closely with the State Attorney’s Office on this case since day one. We prepared for today and

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Both brothers are victims of mom and boyfriend in savage child abuse case, Tavares police say

TAVARES, Fla.—A mom and her boyfriend are each facing more charges as one boy they are accused of abusing continues to fight for his life. Kimberley Mills, 37, has been in the Lake County Jail since early Sunday morning after bringing her 10-year-old son to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares Saturday night while the child was in cardiac arrest, and covered in burns and bruises. Her boyfriend, Andre Walker, 36, accompanied Mills to the hospital but they soon disappeared when they found out hospital staff called law enforcement. Mills returned to the hospital with the boy’s brother, and Walker’s whereabouts were

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Man wanted in connection with Tavares child abuse case in custody

TAVARES, Fla.—The man wanted in connection with a severe child abuse case has turned himself in, sources told Inside Lake Monday. Andre Dwayne Walker, 36, turned himself in at the Lake County Jail Monday afternoon. Walker is facing a charge of accessory after the fact – aggravated child abuse after a 10-year-old boy was brought to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares Saturday night by Walker and the boy’s mother with severe injuries consistent with child abuse, Tavares Police Department said. The boy’s mother, Kimberley Mills, 37, was arrested for aggravated child abuse and is being held in the Lake County Jail

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Tavares boy clinging to life, mom arrested for abuse, man wanted for accessory after the fact

TAVARES, Fla.—A young boy is clinging to life in an Orlando hospital with signs of severe abuse, his mother is being held in jail on no bond, and police are searching for a man who disappeared from the hospital while the boy was being treated Saturday night, Tavares Police Department said Sunday. Shortly before 9:30 p.m., Kimberley Leonie Mills, 37, and man later identified as Andre Dwayne Walker, 36, arrived at AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares with a 10-year-old boy who was suffering from a critical health event, and had numerous burns and bruising in various stages of healing, in addition

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Charge dismissed against dentist in 2023 golf course altercation, “Stand Your Ground” motion granted

TAVARES, Fla.—An aggravated battery charge a Leesburg dentist was facing has been dismissed after a Lake County Circuit judge granted a motion, based on Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law filed by his defense attorney last year. Dr. Eddie Orobitg was arrested following an altercation on the Harbor Hills golf course in unincorporated Leesburg in April 2023, accused of beating another man with a golf club. The altercation began when Orobitg yelled at Dr. Joseph Sivak and his wife as they walked on the 11th fairway, approximately 60 yards away from where Orobitg was golfing with his minor son, according to

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Mount Dora man killed in single-vehicle Tavares crash

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after a man was found deceased in his crashed vehicle by a passerby early Wednesday morning. At 12:50 a.m., a 911 caller reported he was walking and saw overturned truck in an open construction field in the area of Dead River Road and Sierra Drive approximately 50 yards from the roadway. Police are unsure how long the 2018 Chevrolet pickup truck was there before it was discovered, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said, and are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact them. The driver, Michael Winterbottom, 63, of Mount

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Motorcyclist and passenger fighting for their lives after Tavares crash Friday morning

TAVARES, Fla.—A motorcyclist and his passenger are fighting for their lives after crashing into the back of a pickup truck Friday morning, according to Tavares Police Department. According to witnesses, shortly before 9:30 a.m., a 61-year-old Tavares man driving a white 2015 Chevy Silverado was on State Road 19 southbound stopped at the light at Dead River Road.  A 74-year-old man, who has a home in Leesburg and Michigan, was riding a 2003 Harley-Davidson motorcycle southbound on State Road 19 and failed to slow as he approached the light, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. The motorcycle slammed into

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Rhythm on Ruby scheduled for Saturday afternoon

TAVARES, Fla.—The City of Tavares annual Rhythm on Ruby street party is scheduled to run from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday and will feature live bands, food and fun. There will be two stages of live music, food trucks, vendors, and showcases, along with a roaming photo booth and roaming artists that will provide free photos and drawings to attendees. Street performers will also provide entertainment, including stilt walkers, aerial performances and an instrument balancing act. Parking is available at the Parking Garage, 200 North Sinclair Avenue and bring a chair, seating is limited. For more information, visit City

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Orlando man convicted of Umatilla murder, sentenced to life in prison

TAVARES, Fla.—One of the men accused of murdering a Umatilla man in 2022 will spend the rest of his life in prison, according to Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson’s Office. “The actions of this defendant were calculated, deliberate, and devoid of remorse,” said Walter Forgie, Chief Assistant State Attorney. “Justice demands accountability for such actions.” Undray Benson, 53, of Orlando was found guilty in the first-degree murder of Antwain “Lil Daddy” Hart, 31, Thursday following a bench trial, and he was sentenced to life in prison by Judge James Baxley. Only Inside Lake was on the scene Nov.

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Man accused of syphoning gas in Eustis gets free ride to Tavares Thursday night

EUSTIS, Fla.—A boat owner timed a trip to get dinner just right when he spotted a man syphoning gas out of his boat as he drove by a Eustis storage facility Thursday night. Around 5:15 p.m. Thursday, the boat owner was driving by Campus Storage, 36622 County Road 19A when he saw a man at the rear of his boat syphoning gas. He circled back around to the storage facility and the man was gone, he told Eustis Police Department. He checked his boat and found the motor cover lifted and the fuel line removed and dripping gas, according to

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2 Paisley residents killed after speeding car slams into them on CR 42 Friday night

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—A Paisley man and woman were killed Friday night after a speeding Mustang slammed into them head-on, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 46-year-old Paisley man was driving a 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 westbound on County Road 42 approaching Lazy Lake Road, near Paisley, when a 2015 Ford Mustang traveling eastbound attempted to pass another vehicle in a curve, shortly after 7 p.m., FHP said.  The Mustang hit the Mirage head-on, killing the driver of the Mirage, and his passenger, a 56-year-old Paisley woman. The Mustang left the roadway and entered the tree line and the driver,

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2 killed, Tavares man airlifted following head-on crash in no-passing zone near Paisley Friday

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—Two people are dead after a speeding car crashed into them head-on in a no-passing zone near Paisley Friday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly after 7 p.m., a 26-year-old Tavares man was speeding eastbound in a 2015 Ford Mustang on County Road 42 when he attempted to pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone near Lazy Lake Road, FHP said. He crashed into a 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 traveling westbound on County Road 42, killing the driver and a passenger. The pair had not been identified at press time and County Road 42 remains closed

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Mount Dora double-slaying suspect competent to proceed, judge orders

TAVARES, Fla.—The suspect in a brutal 2022 Mount Dora double murder is now competent to proceed, according to an order signed by Lake Circuit Judge Cary Rada last month. 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 allegedly murdering the couple, Williams stole their green Kia Soul and was still driving it when she was apprehended by a Savannah Police Department officer at a Georgia Amtrak

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Shot fired at LCSO sergeant in Tavares, suspect identified and arrested

TAVARES, Fla.—A man who allegedly fired a shot at a Lake County Sheriff’s Office sergeant’s patrol vehicle early Thursday morning and fled the scene has been identified and arrested. Shortly before 2:15 a.m. Thursday, the LCSO sergeant was patrolling the area of Wells Avenue in Tavares when he was flagged down by a citizen who told him a black male on a bike was rummaging through vehicles in the area. The sergeant canvassed the area and found two males and a female in front of the Peninsular Masonic Lodge, 1234 Wells Avenue. One of the men was on a e-bike,

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Tipster, “alarmed” by threats against officers, alerts Tavares police

TAVARES, Fla.—A transient Mount Dora woman is in the Lake County Jail on no bond after making multiple threats against three Tavares Police Department officers and one Mount Dora Police Department officer on Facebook Wednesday. A tipster reached out to TPD on its Facebook page just before 9:45 p.m. Wednesday and stated, “Someone I know has made some alarming threats against your officers on Facebook. I would like to remain anonymous, but here are the threats on Facebook. Her name is Ernesta Presy.” The tipster followed the message with 11 screenshots from Presy’s Facebook page. A tip also came into

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Accused Montverde child murderer appears in court Thursday

TAVARES, Fla.—The woman accused of brutally torturing and murdering her boyfriend’s daughter appeared in court Thursday. Only Inside Lake was in the courtroom as Circuit Judge Heidi Davis questioned Tyshael Martin, 35, about retaining an attorney. Martin, who still does not have an attorney of record, more than two months after her arrest, told Davis she has retained Sean Landers, but he has not filed a notice of appearance yet due to him being out of town. Assistant State Attorney Thomas Wieczorek asked the court to keep Martin’s case on the docket for November for both a pre-trial conference to

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Motorcyclist killed in Eustis crash Monday

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is investigating a crash that killed a motorcyclist before daybreak Monday. The motorcyclist was riding a 2001 Suzuki motorcycle northbound on U.S. Highway 441, north of David Walker Drive around 6:30 a.m. when he was struck by a black GMC pickup truck attempting to make a left turn into Eustis Village shopping plaza, EPD Capt. Ken Toler told Inside Lake. The plaza contains Publix, Sonic and numerous other restaurants and retail businesses. The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased on the scene; his name has not been released, pending notification of next of kin. The driver of the

Motorcyclist killed in Eustis crash Monday Read More »

Tragic discovery: Tavares couple found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning from generator following Hurricane Milton

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after a man and woman were found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in their home Tuesday, and police believe a generator is to blame. TPD received a call requesting a well-being check around 1:45 p.m. on Perry Leintz, 67, and Constance Albrecht, 87, at their home at 24 Holly Drive in the Tiki Village Mobile Park off Dead River Road, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. Road patrol officers responded to the home and found the couple deceased, and a generator in their shed that was connected to the home. “There were

Tragic discovery: Tavares couple found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning from generator following Hurricane Milton Read More »

Mount Dora man sentenced to three decades in prison for attempted murder

TAVARES, Fla.—A man convicted of shooting a woman twice in Mount Dora last year has been sentenced to 30 years in prison, 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. There were two bullet holes through her driver’s side window,

Mount Dora man sentenced to three decades in prison for attempted murder Read More »

Police: Tavares tax preparer scammed and stole from her clients

TAVARES, Fla.—A tax preparer has bonded out of jail for the third time in a little over three months and police say she scammed at least three of her clients. Shaqueena Fabra Lister, 34, of Tavares is accused of stealing nearly $25,000 from three of her clients who utilized her business, World Wide Taxes, 1020 East Alfred St., Tavares, according to several probable cause affidavits. Between April and June, three victims reported to Tavares Police Department they used Lister to file their taxes but never received their refunds. In one case, a man told police he paid Lister $1,200 in

Police: Tavares tax preparer scammed and stole from her clients Read More »

More details released in DUI manslaughter of Tavares toddler; fundraiser set up to help family

TAVARES, Fla.—More details have been released in the death of a 2-year-old boy Monday night and a fundraiser has been set up to help his family. Asher Lepping, 2, was out riding his blue toddler tricycle with his sister near a cul-de-sac in his Oak Bend neighborhood while his parents watched, shortly after 7:15 p.m. Monday; Asher’s mom, Kyrsten Lepping heard a vehicle speeding and observed a silver Toyota Tacoma speeding as it turned onto the street. Asher’s mom and dad yelled at the truck to slow down, and the truck struck Asher, dragging the toddler and his tricycle several

More details released in DUI manslaughter of Tavares toddler; fundraiser set up to help family Read More »

Toddler hit and killed by truck in Tavares Monday night as neighbors screamed to slow down, Driver, 19, arrested for DUI manslaughter

TAVARES, Fla.—A 2-year-old Tavares boy was hit by truck Monday night and the 19-year-old driver has been arrested for DUI manslaughter. Witnesses told police Joshua Aidan Montero, of Sanford, was driving a silver 2017 Toyota Tacoma “recklessly” prior to the crash around 7:30 p.m. Monday. “Neighbors observed the vehicle driving recklessly prior to turning on the Black Dog Court,” Tavares Police Department Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. “When he turned onto Black Dog Court, people yelled to slow down, and he ultimately hit a 2-year-old boy.” The boy’s name has not been released. Neighbors immediately rendered aid

Toddler hit and killed by truck in Tavares Monday night as neighbors screamed to slow down, Driver, 19, arrested for DUI manslaughter Read More »

LCSO deputy released from the hospital Monday

TAVARES, Fla.—Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stefano Gargano has been released from the hospital. More than 100 fellow law enforcement officers, friends and family members lined the sidewalk to welcome Gargano as he was released from HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford, exactly one month after he was shot while attempting to rescue Master Deputy Bradley Link Aug. 2 from a home outside of Eustis. He was escorted to Lake County by multiple law enforcement agencies across Central Florida under a bright blue sky and fluffy white clouds. Gargano was shot multiple times, as he and a team entered

LCSO deputy released from the hospital Monday Read More »

Injured K9 deputy releases first public statement

TAVARES, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office released a video of K9 Master Deputy Harold Howell leaving the hospital, along with his first statement to the public Wednesday. “Hello all— it is bittersweet to finally be home after this event. I would like to thank my Lake County Sheriff’s Office family for their unending love and support,” Howell said. He also had a message for the community that has rallied behind him, Deputy Stefano Gargano and the family of fallen Master Deputy Bradley Link. “To everyone in Lake County, as well as state and even nationwide—I have seen and heard your

Injured K9 deputy releases first public statement Read More »

Matriarch now facing charges in “horrific nightmare” ambush of deputies

TAVARES, Fla.—Julie Sulpizio, the woman who set Friday night’s tragic events in motion, has been arrested and is a facing a litany of charges. Sulpizio is facing charges of principal to premeditated murder of a law enforcement officer, seven counts of attempted murder, battery on law enforcement officer, battery by strangulation, and two counts of battery. She was arrested Monday afternoon at AdventHealth Waterman and transported to the Lake County Jail in Master Deputy Bradley Link’s patrol truck and cuffed with his handcuffs, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said at a press conference following her arrest. Link’s unit, Agriculture and

Matriarch now facing charges in “horrific nightmare” ambush of deputies Read More »

Suspects named in deputy ambush

TAVARES, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has released the names of the suspects who shot three deputies Friday night. Michael Sulpizio, 49, Savannah Sulpizio, 23, and Cheyenne Sulpizio, 22, were all found dead by LCSO’s SWAT team after they made entry at the home where Deputy Bradley Link, 28, lay wounded after all three suspects opened fire on deputies Friday night, LCSO Lt. John Herrell said. Deputies responded to a home on Brookside Drive in the Orlando Hills neighborhood in unincorporated Eustis, on a report that Julie Sulpizio, 48, attacked a resident at that home. Deputies took Julie into custody

Suspects named in deputy ambush Read More »

Father of young girl found dead in Montverde last month arrested on unrelated charges

TAVARES, Fla.—The father of a young girl found dead in Montverde last month was arrested last week on unrelated charges out of Polk County, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office online booking records. Lojuan Jamario Sessions, 26, father of 9-year-old Jamaria Sessions, was picked up at his job in Eustis Wednesday by Eustis Police Department on two warrants for violating probation, stemming from a 2019 Polk County case. In January 2019, Sessions was accused of fleeing from a Haines City Police Department officer after the officer found a bag of drugs, later determined to be amphetamine, in plain view in

Father of young girl found dead in Montverde last month arrested on unrelated charges 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 »

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 »

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 »

Lake County Golden Triangle Rotary awards scholarships for 2024-25 school year

MOUNT DORA—The Rotary Club of Lake County Golden Triangle awarded $26,000 in scholarships to 13 central Florida residents who are pursuing higher education degrees in the 2024-25 academic year. The awards are based on criteria including scholastic ability, responsibility toward education and financial need with a special emphasis on community service Morris W. Dunbar established a Nursing Scholarship in honor of his wife. The recipient is Reyna Green, a Mount Dora High School graduate, studying at the University of South Florida. The Richard Earhart Endowment provides a scholarship to students from Mount Dora. The recipient is Kari Martinez, a Mount

Lake County Golden Triangle Rotary awards scholarships for 2024-25 school year 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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

Man Shot in November Pleads No Contest to Lying to Mount Dora Cops

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—A man who was a victim of a shooting, has pleaded no contest to a charge of filing a false report after Mount Dora Police Department determined he and his ex-girlfriend lied about the location where he was shot in November, according to a probable cause affidavit. Around 3:30 p.m. Nov. 13, shots rang out at Rosewood Condominiums in Tavares, terrifying parents and a school bus full of children that had pulled into the parking lot; Rosewood has been the site of several shootings and violent crimes in recent years. “This occurred during a time frame when children

Man Shot in November Pleads No Contest to Lying to Mount Dora Cops Read More »

PHOTO: Marilyn M. Aciego/Inside Lake

Incident with Barricaded Mount Dora Man Ends Peacefully

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—An incident with a barricaded subject in Mount Dora came to a peaceful end about seven hours after it started Sunday night. A man, who has not been identified publicly, was having a mental health crisis and barricaded himself in a building at Hammock Oaks Apartments, 3550 Lake Center Drive, Mount Dora, shortly before 5 p.m. Sunday. Mount Dora Police Department responded to the scene and Tavares Police Department and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office assisted, City of Mount Dora Spokesperson Misty Sommer said, and some residents were evacuated from their homes. The ordeal lasted until nearly midnight

Incident with Barricaded Mount Dora Man Ends Peacefully Read More »

PHOTO: Marilyn M. Aciego/Inside Lake

Barricaded Subject Forces Mount Dora Residents Out of Their Homes

Update: Incident with Barricaded Mount Dora Man Ends Peacefully – Inside Lake MOUNT DORA, Fla.—At least three law enforcement agencies are on scene at a Mount Dora apartment complex due to a barricaded subject. Mount Dora Police Department, Tavares Police Department and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to Hammock Oaks Apartments, 3550 Lake Center Drive, Mount Dora in reference to a subject having a “mental health crisis,” shortly before 5 p.m. TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. Some residents were evacuated from their homes,” City of Mount Dora Spokesperson Misty Sommer said. “We believe he’s isolated,

Barricaded Subject Forces Mount Dora Residents Out of Their Homes Read More »

Missing Person Advocate Says Law Enforcement Turned on Her in Missing Mount Dora Mom Case

TAVARES, Fla.—There has been another twist in the case of missing Mount Dora mom Nicole Baldwin. Early Friday morning, Mount Dora Police Department and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement executed a search warrant for electronics at the Tavares home of Terri Rogers, the woman who has organized search parties for Baldwin and gathered information in the case. Rogers’ involvement in the case began about a week after Baldwin went missing, partially because Baldwin’s case is what Rogers calls “eerily similar” to her missing niece’s case. Rogers is the aunt of Tonya Whipp, a woman who has been missing in

Missing Person Advocate Says Law Enforcement Turned on Her in Missing Mount Dora Mom Case Read More »

Woman Found on Tavares High Campus Last Year Accused of New Crimes Involving Minor

TAVARES, Fla.—A woman arrested last year after being found on the Tavares High School campus has been arrested again, this time for crimes involving a minor. Dakota Marie Adams, 21, was first arrested Aug. 25, 2023, after a Lake County Sheriff’s Office school resource deputy received a tip she was on the THS campus in the middle of the school day. The SRD located Adams and she said was 19 years old and a senior at the school. She also told the SRD she did not have her license, but he found it in her wallet, and she was arrested

Woman Found on Tavares High Campus Last Year Accused of New Crimes Involving Minor Read More »

Embattled Tavares Condo Complex Site of 2 Serious Incidents New Years Day

TAVARES, Fla.—Two separate incidents at an embattled condominium complex kept Tavares Police Department busy in the early hours of the new year Monday. In the first incident, TPD responded to Rosewood Condominiums around 2:30 a.m. Monday in reference to a kidnapping, and when they arrived, they found four males walking northbound on West Rosewood Lane. The males were identified as Keshaun Terrell Pearce, 21, Omar Torray Alexander-Graham, 17, and Korrell D’Mon Walker, 17. The fourth male was visibly upset and crying and looked, “as if he was begging for help,” the arresting officer noted in a report. He was separated

Embattled Tavares Condo Complex Site of 2 Serious Incidents New Years Day Read More »

Tavares Police Identify Pedestrian Killed on U.S. Highway 441 Friday Night

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department has identified the man killed on U.S. Highway 441 Friday night. According to witnesses and TPD’s preliminary investigation, around 8 p.m., Renald Guay, 67, of New Hampshire, was standing in the median of U.S. Highway 441, also known as Burleigh Boulevard, near Lake Eustis Drive, when he began to jaywalk across the highway, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. He was struck by a white 2014 Lincoln SUV traveling in a southbound lane and being driven by Merle Somers, 50, of Tavares. Somers and her passenger were not injured.  “The vehicle occupants remained on scene

Tavares Police Identify Pedestrian Killed on U.S. Highway 441 Friday Night Read More »

Missing Kayaker Found Alive on Lake Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla.—The missing kayaker authorities were searching for on Lake Eustis has been found alive, according to Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri. “His kayak capsized and the (Lake County Sheriff’s Office) Marine Unit found him floating in the middle of the lake,” Capri told Inside Lake. LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One, also searched for the man, along with Eustis Fire Department. Previous story: Authorities Searching for Missing Kayaker on Lake Eustis – Inside Lake

Missing Kayaker Found Alive on Lake Eustis Read More »

Authorities Searching for Missing Kayaker on Lake Eustis

Update: Missing Kayaker Found Alive on Lake Eustis – Inside Lake EUSTIS, Fla.—Authorities are searching for a missing kayaker on Lake Eustis. The man, who was not publicly identified, was last seen Thursday afternoon when he launched the kayak from his home on Lake Eustis, according to Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri. Eustis Fire Department is searching the water with its boat, along with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit and LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One. Residents near the lake are being asked to look around their property for any sign of the man and call 911 if they find

Authorities Searching for Missing Kayaker on Lake Eustis Read More »

Tavares Police K9 Bruce Sniffs Out Trafficking Amount of Deadly Drug Early Tuesday Morning

TAVARES, Fla.—Not even a month on the job and Tavares Police Department’s K9 Bruce has his first trafficking arrest under his collar. Around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, a TPD road patrol officer was patrolling the area of Burleigh Boulevard (U.S. Highway 441) and Sinclair Avenue when she spotted a black Dodge Challenger and ran a check on the license plate, according to an arrest affidavit. The license plate came back invalid, and not assigned to a vehicle, giving the officer probable cause for a traffic stop. The officer stopped the car and found the driver, Larry Wallace Taylor, 48, of Apopka,

Tavares Police K9 Bruce Sniffs Out Trafficking Amount of Deadly Drug Early Tuesday Morning Read More »

Tavares Police Searching for “Missing and Endangered” Teen

Update: Lindsey Carpenter has been found safe.  TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is searching for a “missing and endangered” teenager who was last seen Wednesday night. Lindsey Carpenter, 14, was seen leaving her home in the Etowah subdivision off Ann Rou Road around 9:15 p.m. Wednesday; TPD believes she may have gotten in a maroon SUV, possibly a Chevy Tahoe. Carpenter is considered “missing and endangered” due to pre-existing medical conditions and she does not have her medication. Carpenter is described at a white female, 5 feet, 5 inches tall, 150 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last

Tavares Police Searching for “Missing and Endangered” Teen Read More »

Tavares Police Investigating After Receiving Multiple Calls of Shots Fired at Rosewood Condos Friday Night

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after receiving multiple calls about five to six shots being fired around 9 p.m. Friday in a condominium complex that has been the site of several shootings in the past, the latest one just four days ago. TPD responded to Rosewood Condominiums but did not find any victims or shell casings Friday night, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. Just four days ago, shots were fired in Rosewood Condominiums as schoolchildren were arriving at home on the bus around 3:30 p.m. Monday. A short time after Monday’s shooting, a victim with

Tavares Police Investigating After Receiving Multiple Calls of Shots Fired at Rosewood Condos Friday Night Read More »

Benefit for LCSO Deputy Diagnosed with Cancer Scheduled for Saturday

EUSTIS, Fla.—An event to benefit a Lake County Sheriff’s Office school resource deputy who was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year is scheduled for Saturday. What started as chest pain in 2022 turned into a terrifying diagnosis last summer for LCSO Cpl. Adam Tytler. In November 2022, Tytler went to a cardiologist for ongoing chest pain, and after a EKG showed his heart was in good shape, the cardiologist told him the pain was likely gastrointestinal. The next month, on Christmas Eve, Tytler discovered a swollen lymph node on his neck and by February the lymph node had not gotten

Benefit for LCSO Deputy Diagnosed with Cancer Scheduled for Saturday Read More »

Man Pleads Guilty to 2022 Murder of Leesburg Girlfriend

TAVARES, Fla.—In an unexpected twist Monday, a Leesburg man accused of gunning down his girlfriend last year pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon the same day jury selection for his trial was set to begin. Alphonza Bryant, 41, was sentenced to 45 years in prison for killing Melissa Keonna Smith, 37, in the laundry room of her Leesburg home on Aug. 8, 2022. Bryant was captured on video approaching Smith’s home, brandishing a firearm, and “engaging in a verbal altercation off-camera that culminated in a single gunshot,” Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney

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Multiple Shots Fired at Tavares Condo Complex, Police Searching for Witnesses

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after multiple shots were fired at Rosewood Condominiums Monday afternoon. TPD officers responded to the call just after 3:30 p.m. when children were playing outside and a busload full of children were pulling into the parking lot, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. “This occurred during a time frame when children were being dropped off,” Sullivan said. “This is a residential neighborhood.” Police were searching for a victim and evidence, and a short time after the shots were fired, a victim with a gunshot wound arrived at AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares;

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Motorcyclist Killed in Tavares Crash Friday Identified

TAVARES, Fla.—The motorcyclist killed in an early morning crash Friday has been publicly identified. Russell Pratt, 42, of Leesburg, was riding a 2019 Harley-Davidson northbound on U.S. Highway 441 and police believe he lost control of the bike west of Lakeshore Boulevard just before 1:45 a.m. Friday. The crash remains under investigation by Tavares Police Department. Pratt was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where he was pronounced deceased, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. The crash closed the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 441 for several hours and did not involve any other vehicles. Numerous people shared their

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Leesburg Motorcyclist Killed in Early Morning Tavares Crash

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating a crash that killed a motorcyclist early Friday morning. A 42-year-old Leesburg man riding a 2019 Harley-Davidson crashed shortly before 1:45 a.m. on U.S. Highway 441, west of Lakeshore Boulevard. The man was transported to an area hospital where he later he died; he was not wearing a helmet. The crash closed the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 441 for several hours and did not involve any other vehicles. Details of how the crash occurred are still under investigation, but police believe the man was riding northbound on U.S. Highway 441 when he lost

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Legal Troubles Escalate for Accused Mount Dora Child Abuser

TAVARES, Fla.—A man first arrested nearly two years ago for breaking his 8-month-old daughter’s leg is back in the Lake County Jail for failing to appear at a mandatory court date, according to documents in the case against him. Dominic Ralston’s new legal troubles began in July when Circuit Judge James Baxley ordered him to appear in court Aug. 28. On Aug. 27, his attorney, Jaimie Washo Spivey, filed a motion to withdraw from his case stating in part, “The undersigned attorney has reached out via text to the Defendant numerous times since January 2023 and has not received any

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Names of Tavares Weekend Crash Victims Released

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department has released the names of the two men involved in a deadly single-car crash early Saturday morning. TPD believes Anthony Petchonka Jr., 24, of Tavares was driving a 2003 black Acura coupe when he crashed shortly before 2:30 a.m. near the intersection of Dead River Road and Baytree Boulevard. The impact ejected Petchonka Jr., and his passenger Jordan Debitetto, 22, of Astatula. Inside Lake originally reported Debitetto was from Apopka, as listed on his driver license, but TPD has since discovered he lives in Astatula, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. Petchonka Jr. was pronounced

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Single-Car Crash Kills Tavares Man and Sends Apopka Man to the Hospital Early Saturday

TAVARES, Fla.—A Tavares man was killed in a single-car crash early Saturday morning and his passenger is in critical condition at a local trauma center, according to Tavares Police Department. TPD traffic homicide investigators responded to the scene near Dead River Road and Baytree Boulevard overnight and TPD released preliminary information Saturday morning. TPD believes the 2003 black Acura coupe being driven by a 24-year-old Tavares man was traveling on Dead River Road when it crashed shortly before 2:30 a.m. Saturday, ejecting both the driver and his 22-year-old male passenger of Apopka. The crash killed the Tavares man, and the

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