A Highlands County Sheriff’s Office deputy was arrested Monday morning after a minor crash at Sebring Parkway and Kenilworth Boulevard, officials said. Deputy Lars Kirkegard allegedly left the scene and was later charged with DUI and leaving the scene of a crash involving property damage. The Florida Highway Patrol made the arrest around 10 a.m. He has been placed on unpaid administrative leave pending criminal and internal investigations. Officials say all suspects are presumed innocent.
A 27-year-old man was arrested Sunday night after deputies say he crashed into a fence on Dressel Road and ran from the scene. Highlands County K-9 units searched the area, and K-9 Gentry located Joaquin Soto-Olivas hiding in a field near Old Bombing Range Road. Deputies say Soto-Olivas had an active burglary warrant out of Manatee County and now faces charges including DUI, resisting an officer, leaving the scene of a crash, and driving without a valid license.
A Gibsonton man is facing multiple felony charges after Highlands County investigators say he took thousands from homeowners while operating without a contractor’s license. Deputies say 48-year-old Justin Hoover, doing business as J&J Screens, was tied to at least 18 complaints involving unfinished storm repair jobs and missing deposits. Hoover was arrested on charges including unlicensed contracting, grand theft, and fraud. Authorities are reminding residents to verify contractor licenses before hiring for home repairs.
Gary Brown has prefiled to run for the Highlands County School Board District 5 seat following Nicole Radonski’s resignation. Brown currently serves as director of operations and student affairs at Heartland Christian Academy and says his campaign will focus on fiscal responsibility, teacher retention, and age-appropriate curriculum standards. Brown joins Savannah Casto in the race ahead of qualifying week in June.