A Highlands County judge has halted the August 4th recall election for Avon Park Mayor Garrett Anderson, Deputy Mayor Jim Barnard, and Councilwoman Brittany McGuire. Circuit Judge Peter Estrada ruled the recall petition was legally insufficient, saying it failed to identify any specific laws or city charter provisions the officials allegedly violated. As a result, the city clerk and Supervisor of Elections have been ordered not to conduct the recall election.
The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help identifying a man connected to a fraud investigation. Surveillance video from June 19th was captured at the CVS in Lake Placid. Residents are encouraged to visit the HCSO Facebook page to view the video and contact authorities if they have any information. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Heartland Crime Stoppers.
Highlands County commissioners have approved several zoning changes that could bring new housing and commercial growth to Sebring. The projects include land rezoned for up to 72 residential units near Muriel Avenue, duplex development off Memorial Drive and Valerie Boulevard, and a new commercial site on State Road 66 for offices and vehicle storage. County leaders say the changes support future growth and development across the area.
A Polk County man is facing multiple felony charges after deputies say he groomed a Pennsylvania teenager online, drove to pick her up, and brought her back to Florida. Investigators say the 28-year-old admitted he knew the girl was underage and had a sexual relationship with her. Sheriff Grady Judd is reminding parents to closely monitor their children’s online activity following the arrest.