Sebring Police say multiple people are now facing charges following the chaotic May 23 incident outside Back Alley Bar & Grill that was captured in widely shared social media videos. Police say 20-year-old McKaeyla Hood will face three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of aggravated assault after investigators reviewed surveillance and cellphone footage from the scene. Three other women are also facing battery-related charges, with investigators saying more arrests could follow.
The Highlands County School Board approved staffing and salary cuts Tuesday, despite learning the district will receive an extra $1 million in state funding. Superintendent Brenda Longshore urged the board to pause the cuts until an outside efficiency study could be completed, but board members said future budget and rising insurance costs remain a major concern. The board unanimously voted to eliminate two curriculum specialist positions and cut deputy and assistant superintendent salaries by 2%.
Drivers in Avon Park should prepare for delays starting Monday, June 1, as part of Lake Lotela Drive will temporarily close for culvert replacement work. The closure impacts the stretch between East Pinecrest Drive and Hollyhurst Drive beginning at 7 a.m., with construction expected to last about seven days. A detour will be posted, and city officials are encouraging drivers to plan alternate routes while roadway improvements continue in the area.
The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam involving fake dental bills designed to steal banking information. Deputies say a local resident received a suspicious bill for just over $146 from what appeared to be a legitimate company. After calling the number listed, scammers allegedly began asking for bank account information. Fortunately, the resident verified the company directly and learned the bill was fake. Deputies warn never give out banking information to unsolicited callers or emails.