Federal money is flowing to support local immigration enforcement as public opposition plays out in the streets. The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office has received more than two hundred thousand dollars in grants for detention support, transportation, and equipment tied to ICE-related cases. Sheriff Paul Blackman says the funding does not authorize patrols or raids. Even so, the issue is clearly resonating locally—about one hundred protesters recently gathered at a busy Sebring intersection, voicing concerns over ICE activity and its impact on the area’s agricultural workforce. Organizers say the demonstration was peaceful.
Former state Representative Anthony Sabatini, a controversial and outspoken attorney, is seeking to become Lake Placid’s next town attorney. Sabatini was fired from his city attorney position in Treasure Island after four months, citing unprofessional conduct. His past support for Kyle Rittenhouse and clashes with judges has drawn national attention. Outgoing town attorney Bert Harris called Sabatini’s record “shocking,” as council members question his candidacy. The Town Council will review his application at today’s meeting and decide whether to move forward or reopen the search.
Former Lake Placid Middle School principal Hiliary Hathaway has pre-filed to run for the District Four seat on the Highlands County School Board. The seat is currently held by Reese Martin, who has not yet announced whether he will seek reelection. Hathaway is a third-generation Lake Placid resident with decades of local education experience and currently serves as director of finance for Hardee County Schools. District Four represents Lake Placid-area schools, while other board members are still weighing their election plans.
A travel baseball game at Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes Complex erupted into violence Saturday evening. A 21-year-old umpire and his father were attacked after the umpire issued a verbal warning to a coach. Police say the father of a player pushed and punched the umpire’s father, the coach struck the umpire from behind, and the player’s 17-year-old son kicked the umpire while he was on the ground. Winter Haven police arrested all three, charging them with battery on a sports official. Authorities condemned the attacks, saying parents’ tempers have no place at youth sports.