The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit and the State Attorney’s Office say two sex offenders have recently been sentenced to prison in separate cases. Jamarkis Lamon Allen received 15 years for unlawful sexual activity with a minor and aggravated battery stemming from a 2024 case, and was designated a sexual offender. Timmy Allen Carter, already designated a sexual offender following a 2022 conviction, was sentenced to 49 months for violating probation and failing to comply with registration requirements.
The Florida Highway Patrol has released details of a fatal pedestrian crash that happened Tuesday night on U.S. 27, north of Dasher Road. Troopers say a 25-year-old Sebring man was driving south when his Kia Optima struck a 77-year-old Lake Placid man who was attempting to cross the highway. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver was not injured, and the crash remains under investigation.
Barktoberfest is set for this Saturday at Stuart Park in Lake Placid, bringing local animal rescues together for a day of pet adoptions and family activities. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include a pet costume contest, blessings, microchipping, demonstrations, vendors, food trucks and more. Leashed pets are welcome, and attendees who bring a USA-made pet food donation will receive a free raffle ticket. Proceeds benefit local animal rescue groups in Highlands County.
County officials are reminding residents that October 5 is the deadline to register to vote in the upcoming General Election. Residents who are not registered, or who need to update their voter information, are encouraged to complete the process before the deadline. Voter registration information and online registration are available at RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov.