A Sebring Police corporal is on administrative leave after being linked to a vandalism incident at the Blue Lagoon Saloon. Security video shows Dakota Bond letting air out of a motorcycle tire and stealing a valve stem cap, while Corporal Zackery Thompson appeared to act as a lookout. Both face possible charges of culpable negligence and petit theft, now under review by the State Attorney’s Office. The motorcycle’s owner says the tire went flat while riding on U.S. 27, putting him in danger. Police Chief Karl Hoglund says the officer’s actions do not reflect the department’s values, and an internal affairs review will follow the state’s investigation.
The American Legion Post 69 in Avon Park continues to raise money to honor veterans this Christmas. So far, they’ve collected more than $24,000—enough to place wreaths on 1,000 graves at Lakeview Memorial Gardens, surpassing their original goal. Now, they’re pushing ahead to raise another $10,000 to cover 600 more veterans at Bougainvillea Cemetery. The wreaths come through Wreaths Across America, a national program that honors fallen heroes. Post 69 is keeping the effort alive with monthly barbecues and a Poker Run November 15th. Volunteers will place the wreaths December 13th. Details on how to get involved can be found at alpost69avonpark.com.
Florida officials are expressing shock and grief after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University. Gov. Ron DeSantis, Sen. Rick Scott, and several members of Congress offered condolences to Kirk’s family and condemned the violence. Lawmakers across the political spectrum joined in, with Democrats and Republicans alike calling the attack a tragic reminder that political violence has no place in America.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier calls it a "big win" for gun rights in the state. An appeals court ruled Florida’s longtime open carry ban is unconstitutional. The decision stems from a 2022 arrest in Pensacola. It cites a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that reshaped how Second Amendment cases are reviewed. The decision could clear the way for open carry in Florida for the first time in nearly 40 years.