A $1,000 reward is offered for the arrest of the two swan-nappers, who were caught on camera.
Category: Crime / Justice
Posted inPublic Safety
2025: A Year Without Murders in Lakeland — Until Tuesday
In 2024, Lakeland saw six murders; in 2023, there was just one.
Posted inCrime / Justice
Police to Replace China-Made Drones with American Gear
The move comes after the Florida Legislature banned drones made in ‘foreign countries of concern.’
Posted inCrime / Justice
Four Lakeland Police Officers Resign Under Cloud
All four were in the street crimes unit, which proactively pursues drug dealers and gang members.
Posted inCrime / Justice
Lakeland Couple’s Murderer Labeled Schizophrenic
The psychiatrist said Marcelle Waldon’s actions showed ‘purposeful steps’ to conceal his crime
Posted inPublic Safety
Lakeland Boy, 6, Dies After Unintentional Shooting
Family members say Major Smith was on the autism spectrum. He found a gun in a car outside a Lakeland home.
Posted inCrime / Justice
Lakeland School Employee Accused of Inappropriate Relationship With Student
The man was in charge of an in-school suspension program at Kathleen High School when the relationship started.
Posted inCrime / Justice
Supporters Rally Around Lakeland Woman Accused of Insurance Company Threat
Crowdfunding campaign has raised more than $62,500; two legal experts say police were obligated to charge her.
Posted inPublic Safety
High-Profile Polk Case Resulted in a Policy Change for Local Prosecutors
The State Attorney’s Office gives greater scrutiny before charging juveniles with lying about sex assaults; Polk Sheriff procedures are unchanged.
Posted inTransportation
Avelo Adds Flights Between Lakeland and Nashville
Airport director: In airline’s first five months here, 60% of passengers are tourists and 40% are locals.
