Avon Park teachers are reeling after a school custodian was arrested for allegedly stealing their credit card information and going on a spending spree. Deputies say 42-year-old Elizabeth Ortiz Suarez used staff cards to pay her water bill, shop online, and even try to fund her son’s jail commissary account. A search of her phone reportedly uncovered photos of multiple teachers’ cards, leading to numerous fraud and identity theft charges. Suarez remains behind bars as the investigation continues.
A Sebring man is facing serious charges after allegedly stealing an acquaintance’s identity to hijack a U-Haul truck. Deputies say Darren Spivey used the victim’s driver’s license and personal info without permission, snapping photos while the man was reportedly drunk and completing the rental at a contactless kiosk. Spivey, who has a criminal history including grand theft and burglary, now faces multiple charges and remains in custody. Authorities say the case highlights the dangers of identity theft and impersonation for financial gain.
Sebring residents are invited to share in the community spirit this Friday, December 5th, as the Rotary Club hosts its Annual Circle of Cans fundraiser on Circle Park Drive. The event, previously cancelled to avoid conflict with a local ordinance, has now been approved and is moving forward with strong support. Collection stations will operate from 7 AM to 2 PM, gathering donations for local families. No road closures are planned, but drivers may experience brief delays as volunteers work to make a difference
Sebring veterans now have expanded, local access to healthcare with the opening of the new Veterans Affairs medical clinic on New Life Way, a long-awaited facility designed to serve more than 5,000 veterans each year. The clinic offers enhanced primary care, expanded mental health services, and faster access to coordinated care—a major step forward for veterans in rural communities. A ribbon cutting held yesterday morning celebrated the milestone, with leaders noting this modern facility finally delivers the personalized healthcare veterans deserve, without long drives out of the county.