Trucks Crash At SR80 And Birchwood Port LaBelle

LABELLE, FL. -- Two pickup trucks crashed at the corner of SR80 and Birchwood Parkway this afternoon. 

The FHP is investigating.

Photo credit: Mary Tyner

Glades Sheriff Arrest Joshua Kolotka

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- On April 24, 2024, at approximately 3:03 pm, Glades County Sheriff’s Office deputies were investigating a recovered stolen boat located at the Old Caloosa Lodge area in Lakeport. 

During this time the alleged suspect of the theft was identified as W/M Joshua Kolotka, age 33. When the deputies began canvassing the area in search of the alleged suspect, they observed Joshua Kolotka exiting a residence dressed as a woman in an attempt to disguise himself. 

The deputies were able to apprehend Joshua Kolotka and he was arrested for two Okeechobee County warrants, along with the theft of a John Deere Gator and the stolen boat. It should also be noted that numerous other items were located on-scene. These items were possibly stolen from the same area. 

The Glades County Sheriff’s Office is also working with the Seminole Police Department to identify some of the stolen items from other theft cases in that area.

Mosquito Spraying Begins April 29

Hendry County will be conducting adult mosquito control operations commencing Monday, April 29th and continuing throughout the county as mosquito population levels warrant.

These operations will continue throughout the remainder of the year. The treatments will be performed during evening hours, weather permitting. The insecticide to treat for adult mosquitoes is approved for application by the Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Florida.

This operation will be conducted by Clarke.

Please see below the 2024 treatment schedule.

Monday/Wednesday:
Montura Ranch Estates
Flaghole

Tuesday:
Mid-County/Pioneer Plantation/Everhigh Acres/LaDeca
Fort Denaud/Phillips Road/Murray Road
Captain Hendry
North LaBelle/Caloosa Estates/Caloosa Shores/Ft. Denaud Acres /Northwest Hendry County

Wednesday/Monday:
South US29/Sears Road
Felda
North US27/CR720 Vicinity
Hookers Point

Thursday:
South LaBelle/LaBelle Acres (Case and Evans Road)/LaBelle Ranchettes (alphabet roads)
Double J Acres
Wheeler Estates
Davis-Pratt Park
Port LaBelle (Includes Oak Haven and Units 1-3 and 6-9) Excluding Unit 4 (Eucalyptus Village) and Unit 5 (Laurel Oaks)
Banyan Village

When aerial adult mosquito control operations are planned, public notices will be issued to inform residents and landowners. Residents who live in these areas and/or charged for Hendry County Mosquito Control MSBU services on their property tax bill and have questions or concerns regarding mosquito control operations should call Clarke at 1-800-443-2034 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday

Youth Programs In June At Firehouse Theatre

LABELLE, FL. -- The Firehouse Community Theatre is excited to announce two youth programs this summer.

Auditions will be held on Saturday, June 1st at 11am and Monday, June 3rd at 5pm at the theatre.

Auditions are open for children ages 7-17, no prior experience required.

Please contact the theatre if you have any questions. 863-675-3066 (leave a message and someone will contact you)

Elinor June Oxer Jones Dies At 88

Elinor June Oxer Jones age 88, of LaBelle, Florida passed away at her home on April 20, 2024. 

Elinor was born in Miami, Florida on June 12, 1935, to the late Van Tuyl and Clara Braden Oxer, she enjoyed sewing, crocheting, gardening and she loved all animals and all children. 

Elinor was a 65+ year member of First Baptist Church of LaBelle. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother who will be dearly missed by her entire family that loved and cared for her. 

Elinor leaves fond memories with her son; Gregory Lane Jones and his wife Robin Glenda Jones, their children; Tara Nicole Jones and Jason Andrew Jones and their grandson Welen Gregory Jones, daughter: Donna Ellen Jones and her children; William Donald Menard and his wife Tiffany, their sons; William Colton Menard, and Waylon Elloit Menard, son; Justin Roger Jones, son; Jerry Jones and his wife Becky, and their children; Nevaeh, Alex Jones and his wife Rhonda Jones, Holden Jones and his wife Nora Jones, and their children; Weston, Annabell Jones, Jace, Savanah along with many extended family members, family and church friends. 

Elinor was the last one in her family. 

Elior's life will be celebrated with a service on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, starting at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of LaBelle, where friends may gather and share memories of Elinor. 

Elinor will be laid to rest next to her parents and her baby brother in Woodlawn Park North Cemetery and Mausoleum located at 3262 S.W. 8th Street Miami, Florida 33135.

Work Starting On Wheeler Road April 29

LABELLE, FL -- Please be advised that beginning on Monday, April 29, 2024, Hendry County’s contractor Thompkins Contracting, Inc. will be commencing roadwork and construction services on Wheeler Road from 13th Place to north of 23rd Terrace in the Wheeler Estates Community of western Hendry County, FL.

The project is expected to be complete within 300 days.

Operations will occur Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Flagmen will be present to direct traffic. The speed limit will be reduced through the project area.

Motorists should expect lane closures and possible delays throughout the duration of the project and allow extra time for their commute.

Motorists and pedestrians should use extra caution when traveling through the work zone.

Please note that this schedule is tentative and subject to change. The Hendry County Engineering Department will notify of any changes.

Residents or motorists with any questions or concerns can contact the Hendry County Engineering Department at 863-675-5222.

Florida Keys' Watercolor Kapers by Bob Kranich

Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers
by Bob Kranich

Robert’s Best, (Part 7, Excerpt 92)

This is a new story. Robert’s Best is a sail boat. Grandfather Roberts is going to sail it on the Intercostal waterway from Texas to Key West, Florida. That will be an adventure. Then his grandchildren and their parents will come to Key West on a visit. There will be a lot of funny happenings until the criminals from a previous story get into action. A side note is that a 1935 antique Chris-Craft Model 557 Cabin Cruiser is going to play an important part in the rest of the story. Grandfather Roberts is on his trip to Key West, Florida in his sail boat via the Intercostal Waterway. Getting ready to start his third day.

Roberts’ Best

“Why thank you, Jack, Mary. There is one thing I want to ask you. Where is the best place to get fuel?”

“That’s easy. Just go up river under the railroad bridge. It’s on the same side as we are now. You can’t miss it, about a quarter of a mile. We’re going to turn in. Have a good night, Tom,” Jack said as he extended his hand.

“Thanks for everything,” I replied.

The next morning I didn’t wake up as early as I usually did. It had been a long day sailing the Gulf. It was morning, about eight, when I finally stirred. I cooked up some breakfast, cleaned up, untied, and slowly moved the Roberts’ Best away from the dock and out into the river. Jack and Mary came up out of their cabin as I went by. I waved, and they acknowledged.

The fuel station was just where they had said. Under the railroad bridge up the river a quarter of a mile, and on starboard side, there it was, “Fuel and Supply.” I was in luck. No one was at the pumps, so I eased right up to the dock.

A young man came out from the dock office and over to the pump,. “Need to fill’er up, Sir, I know it won’t take much. Sailboats never do.”

“Yes, thanks,” I said.

“It only took eight gallons, Sir. That will be four dollars and twenty cents.”
I counted it out, “Thank you, Sir,” he said. “If you want to come up for supplies you can tie up to that dock right there. Sir, if I may ask, where you heading?”

“Well, Sonny, I’m new to this Intercostal Waterway, but I left Galveston two days ago. I’m heading to Key West. I came by way of the Gulf. Now I would like to turn up the Waterway and miss the lower part of Louisiana's Delta,” I answered.

“Sir, ever considered a guide? I’ve been around these here parts all my life. Been on boats since I was twelve. I could guide you to New Orleans. I want to go there to visit my Grandma.”

“Got any references? How much you charge? I never thought about it, but it is an interesting thought,” I said.

“Yes, Sir, my boss said he would vouch for me and give me some time off. He will refer me. Tie up over there, and let’s go see him. He’s right there in the main office and store.”

I moved the boat over to the other dock and tied up, then walked over and took a good look at the kid. He was clean-cut with decent clothes, blue jeans and t-shirt, average height and good build.

“Ready to go up and talk to my boss, Sir?”

“Son, what’s your name? I’m Tom Roberts.”

“Nicolas LeBlanc, Sir.”

We went inside the office and store. It had some of everything… snacks, literature, and lots of boat accessories, even a VHF radio section.

“Boss, this is Tom Roberts. He might let me guide him up to New Orleans. Then I can visit Grandma. Can you give me a reference?”

“Nice to meet you, Tom. What you traveling in?” he said as he extended his hand.

“Got me a twenty-eight foot sail’n sloop. Wife and I used to sail on Lake Houston. This Gulf and Intercostal is new to me. I’m heading to Key West.”

“So you want a reference for this young feller, hun? He’ll probably get you lost off’n some bayou!”

“Now, Uncle Louis, don’t say that. Tell him the truth.”

Nicolas’ Uncle Louis broke out in a big spasm of loud laughter. When he finished he said, “Tom, he’ll do you real good. He’s my nephew and he’s been around boats since he was little, probably twelve I would guess. In fact he’s guided about three different trips this last year. If he keeps this up I may start a guide service.”

I said, “I thought there was something unusual about both last names being the same.”

“ Yes, I’m his uncle.”

“Well Louis, what should I pay? What’s the going rate?” I asked.

“What do you charge Nicolas?’ Uncle Louis asked.

“Not much, fifty dollars a day and feed me. It shouldn’t take us mor’n two, three days to get up to Orleans,” Nicholas answered.

Louis broke out laughing again, “The fifty dollars a day won't hurt you, Tom. But he’ll eat you out of house and boat!”

“Uncle Louis,” Nicholas scolded.

“It’s a deal,” I said. “When can you start?”

“If it’s all right with you Uncle Louis, right now. I’ve got a suitcase packed in the back of my car.”

“Yes, kid. It’s ok. Go on. Get out of here. But hurry back, and say hi to Grandma for me.”

“Tom, I’ll meet you at the boat. Got to get my suitcase,” Nicholas said excitedly.

As we went downstream under both the railroad lift bridge and the two highway spans, Nicholas said, “Just as soon as we turn to port into the Waterway, keep a sharp lookout. There is a ferry crossing coming up. They will give us a visual signal or a horn if we can proceed.”

Blat! Blat, Blat! Three high-pitched blasts emitted from the ferry at the dock on the port side.

“That’s the all clear, Tom. Let’s move!” Nicholas exclaimed.

“Nicholas, thanks a lot! You’ve already helped me. I would have never known what to expect next.”

“Tom, next we’ve got the Bayou Boeuf Locks in a half-mile. They're twelve hundred feet long! We better hang our fenders over the side because the sides of the lock are rough! Let me contact the lockmaster on VHF, Tom.”

“Lockmaster, this is Roberts’ Best, twenty-eight foot sail’n sloop.

Request permission to enter locks.

Await instructions...over”

“Lockmaster, Bayou Boef, proceed.

Ready for you, float the chamber...over.”

“Lockmaster, thank you. Roberts’ Best proceeding...over.”

“Tom, we’re to motor through.”

“Nicholas, what is this lock for?” I questioned.“We’re not going up or down in water elevation.”

“Tom, it’s to keep flood waters out of the Waterway at certain times of the year.”

“Well, that‘s two you got me through. What’s next, Nicholas?”

“Tom, sit back and prepare to enjoy the most scenic section on the Louisiana Waterway. We’re entering majestic nature at its best, cypress trees with Spanish moss, and for the next ten miles have your camera ready for our nation’s bird, the eagle.”

From the Author:

My second full-length book , Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers is composed of 336 pages. There are 12 stories running from 6 pages to as many as 72 pages. It is fully illustrated with 88 watercolors and sketches. The watercolors I made roaming around Key West after I finished my 750 mile hike from Georgia to Key West. (See book or Don Browne’s SouthWest Florida Online News records, A Walk Across Florida.) As you read these stories you will experience Key West, the Keys, and the Caribbean. These stories span the time of the early 1800’s to 1969. bkranich.wixsite.com/bobkranich

Linda Lou Noland Dies At 79

Linda Lou Noland, age 79, of Belle Glade, Florida passed away on April 16, 2024, in her daughter’s home in Okeechobee, Florida.

Linda was born in Bassett, Arkansas on January 1, 1945, to the late E.E. and Hazel Busey Jones. Linda managed the Kentucky Fried Chicken in Pahokee, Florida for over 20 years before retiring. She was a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary. She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and other family members.

Linda leaves fond memories with her children; Tammy Nyland and her husband Harold of Maine, Krystal Noland Cahill and her husband William of Okeechobee, Florida, her grandchildren; Regina Gagnon of Maine, Titus Noland of Florida, Mercedes Mason of Florida, Thomas Rudd of Florida, brother; Michael Jones of Florida and many extended family members.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, E.E. and Hazel Jones, brothers; William and Edward Jones, sisters; Gail Bennett and Joevelyn Faulk, grandsons; Anthony Butler and James M. Booth, and one granddaughter; Courtny Rudd.

Graveside celebration of Linda’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 23, 2024 in Ridgelawn Cemetery in Clewiston, Florida. She will be laid to rest next to her parents and sister.

Akin-Davis Funeral Home – Clewiston is in charge of arrangements.

Glades Commission Meets Monday

MOORE HAVEN, FL -- Please be advised that the Glades County Board of County Commissioner’s meeting is every 2nd Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m. and every 4th Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 22, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. Attached, you will find a copy of the Agenda.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. An Ordinance creating a new Section to Chapter 78 – Traffic and Motor Vehicles, authorizing the immediate establishment of a “NO TRUCKS ALLOWED ZONE” on Walter Greer Road in Muse, from its intersect with County Road 731

2. Proposed Ordinance amending Glades County Tourism Development Council

CONSENT AGENDA

3. County Warrants

4. Local Law Enforcement Trust Fund Request

5. Federal Equitable Sharing Fund (DOJ) Request

BUSINESS AGENDA

6. Request approval of BA 23-24-12 and accompanying Resolution 2024-07 appropriating grant funding in the amount of $82,365.60 to the Sheriff’s Office related to the Law Enforcement Salary Assistant Grant for quarter 3 (Jan – Mar)

7. A Resolution to appoint and/or reappoint members to serve staggered two-year & four-year terms on the Glades County Tourist Development Council

8. Request to consider authorizing the expenditure over $50,000 for the emergency road repair for CR74

Man Arrested In LaBelle Burglary, Theft

ONE SUSPECT ARRESTED ON BURGLARY CHARGES

LABELLE, FL. -- Monday, April 15, 2024, at approximately 3:00pm, Hendry County Deputies responded to a residence at the end of Phillips Road, after receiving a call reporting a Burglary in Progress. The caller reported that they were holding three suspects at gunpoint and were requesting law enforcement.

Upon the arrival of HCSO Deputies, they located the victims in the rear of the property holding one man at gunpoint. Deputies placed the suspect into custody and secured him in the rear of a patrol vehicle.

Relatives of the homeowner were checking on the property when they found the front door of the residence open and could hear voices coming from the back of the property. As they made their way around the home, they encountered two men and a female. Next to them was a truck and trailer, along with metal siding from the metal building in the backyard. Deputies also found tools and cutting equipment laying on the ground.

Two of the suspects, identified as a white male and while female fled on foot into a heavily wooded area. Hendry County Deputies set up a perimeter and K9’s responded to attempt to track the suspects.

Currently, HCSO is still working to positively identify the two suspects.

Isai Obed Vazquez, 30 years of age was arrested on charges of Burglary of Dwelling, Grand Theft, Criminal Mischief $1,000 or more, and on an Outstanding Warrant from Lee County. Vazquez is currently being held at the Hendry County Jail with No Bond.

Detectives are asking residents if they see anything suspicious or have any information on the two suspects that ran to please contact them at 863-674-5600.

Obituaries - Christopher J. Martin, Cathleen Mae Williams

Christopher J. Martin, age 70 of LaBelle, Florida passed away at home after a lengthy illness on April 10, 2024.

Christopher was born on February 9, 1954, in Hoboken, New Jersey to the late Raymond John and Georgette Winkler Martin. He worked for many years running the family owned marina and RV resort in Fort Lauderdale and later a RV park in Sebring before retiring.

Christopher leaves fond memories with is family: Andrea Martin, Richard Martin, Victoria Martin, Danielle Grossman and Tanya Canales along eight grandchildren and many extended family members and close family friends.

Celebration of Christopher’s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 2024 at Fort Denaud Cemetery where Chaplain Angel Ramos will preside. Christopher will be laid next to his wife Paula Lynn Martin.

Akin-Davis Funeral Home – LaBelle is entrusted with these arrangements.

Cathleen Mae Williams age 75, of LaBelle, Florida passed away on April 7, 2024 in Fort Myers, Florida.

Cathleen was born on May 25, 1948 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to the late Lloyd and the late Yvonne M. Essig Phinney. 

Cathleen married William Lundy Williams and he preceded her in death on January 16, 2013. 

Cathleen worked for many years for the Hendry County School Board as a paraprofessional mainly working at LaBelle Elementary School. Cathleen retired from working full time in 2014. Cathleen was a member of the First Christian Church of LaBelle for many years. 

Cathleen enjoyed crocheting, gardening, cooking, her Breakfast Group with the retired employees of the school. She was a long time member of the Red Hat Society. Cathleen was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend who will be dearly missed by everyone who loved and cared for her.

Cathleen leaves fond memories with her children; Steven Williams and his wife Teresa of LaBelle, Florida, Shelburn Williams and his longtime companion Ester of LaBelle, Florida, six grandchildren and five great grandchildren, she also leaves fond memories with her brother; Lester Phinney and his wife Thelma of Tennessee, and brother in law; Matt McKinney.

Cathleen was preceded in death also by her son; Billy Williams, his brothers; Douglas Phinney, David Phinney, and sisters; Shirley McKinney and Sandy Searcy.

Celebration of Cathleen's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2024 at Akin-Davis Funeral Home where Pastor W.T. "Bill" Maddox, Jr will preside. Visitation will be on Thursday evening from 5-7 pm also at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle. Cathleen will be laid to rest next to her husband and her son in Fort Denaud Cemetery.

Clewiston Man Dies In Crash

CLEWISTON, FL. --  At 6:46 am Wednesday, A Pickup truck / sedan crash on 4/17/24, on County Road 833, Hendry County. Sedan driver was pronounced deceased on scene. The crash remains under investigation.  

From the FHP report:

Vehicle 1 (sedan) driven by male, 39 from Clewiston was traveling north on Country Road 833 (Sam Jones Trail), north of Country Road 846.

Vehicle 2 driven by female, 36 from Sebring was traveling south on Country Road 833 (Sam Jones Trail), north of Country Road 846.

Vehicle 1 entered the southbound lane of travel / path of Vehicle 2. The driver of Vehicle 2 veered right in an attempt to avoid.

The front of Vehicle 2 collided with the right side of Vehicle 1.

Driver 1 was pronounced deceased on scene.

The crash remains under investigation.

13-Year Old Jailed For Dodge Charger 3:40 AM Joy Ride

IMMOKALEE, FL. -- On 4/17/24, at 3:40 am, the Florida Highway Patrol initiated a traffic stop on a Dodge Challenger for failing to maintain a single lane on Immokalee Road, near Wilson Boulevard, Collier County. 

As the trooper approached the Dodge, the driver accelerated from the traffic stop and turned off the vehicle lights. 

The trooper pursued the Dodge, which eventually stopped on Immokalee Road at Quarry Drive. 

The driver, a 13-year-old juvenile, was placed under arrest without incident for fleeing and eluding, and no driver’s license and is in the process of being booked into the Collier County Jail.

Contractor's Needed For Hendry County Repair Program

LABELLE, FL. -- Hendry county's State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) provides funding yearly for owner occupied housing rehabilitation, and seeks licensed building contractors to remodel up to a dozen homes this year. 

The maximum amount available for remodeling each home to building code standards is $50,000.

Rehabilitation may include electrical, structural, doors, windows, etc. to alleviate code violations, health and safety issues, and any disability access issues in the home.

Qualified contractors will bid for each home remodel. Bids will be reviewed and recommendations made based on the lowest responsible bid. The construction period is from 60 to 120 days.

To obtain more information about getting on the contractor list, contact Regina Singer at the Hendry County Housing Office at 133 N. Bridge St. (United Way Building) in LaBelle. or for any questions the Director is at 863-675-5297.

(File Photo by Don Browne)

Hendry Sheriff Arrests This Week

ARREST BLOTTER
04/08/2024 – 04/14/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

Donovan Lavell Willaims, Jr., 29, LaBelle was arrested on April 8, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on charges of Felony Failure to Appear and Withholding Support

James Daniel White, 38, LaBelle, was arrested on April 8, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff J. Newbern on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine

Joseph Bryon Boone, 18, Ft Myers, was arrested on April 9, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Barrira on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription and Possession Marijuana under 20 grams

Jason Scott Wheatley, 46, Clewiston was arrested on April 9, 2024, by Deputy Busbin on charges of Felony Burglary and Trespassing

Daylan Little Jeremiah Hall, 30, Clewiston was arrested on April 11, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Blanco, on charges of Battery, Battery by Strangulation and Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Theron Ulrick Hubbard, 46, Clewiston was arrested on April 11, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff K. Barrientos on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams

Devonte Jamar Davis, 18, Clewiston was arrested on April 12, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. DiBernardino on charges of Possession of Synthetic Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Jose Ignacio Carrizalez, 26, Clewiston was arrested on April 12, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez on charges of Felony Probation Violation and Felony Failure to Appear

Richard James Lee, Jr., 38, Cocoa, was arrested on April 13, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. DiBernardino on charges of Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – 3rd or Subsequent Arrest, Possession of Concealed Weapon by Florida Convicted Felon and Possession of Weapon by Other State Felon

Larry Donnell Jackson, 30, Clewiston was arrested on April 13, 2024, by Cpl. S. Rivera on charges of Obstructing Officer without Violence, 2 counts Felony Probation Violation, Felony Failure to Appear and Withold Support

Facebook Comments On Derek Weber Arrest

 

LABELLE, FL. -- Facebook commentary are beginning to bring some awareness to the weekend arrest of Port LaBelle resident and home owner Derek Weber and the plight of his dogs which were sent to the LaBelle Animal Control.

Immokalee Truck Driver Dead In Glades Crash

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- Two semi-truck / trailer crash on 4/14/24 at 11:30 pm on US 27 at Shady Acres Lane, Glades County. Driver of Semi-Truck – Trailer (Vehicle 1) pronounced deceased on scene. The crash remains under investigation.

From the FHP report:

Vehicle 1 (Semi Truck - Trailer) was traveling north on US-27, north of Shady Acres Lane.

Vehicle 2 (Semi Truck - Trailer) was traveling north on US-27 in front of Vehicle 1.

Vehicle 2 slowed for traffic.

Vehicle 1 failed to sufficiently slow. The front of Vehicle 1 collided with the rear of Vehicle 2.

Driver 1, 65 years old from Immokalee was pronounced deceased on scene.

Derek Weber Arrested After Driving Through Garage Door

PORT LABELLE, FL. -- Derek Evan Weber was arrested Sunday after driving an SUV through a Lee County Deputy's garage door in a Port LaBelle neighborhood on Springview Circle in Hendry county. Weber lived across the street from the victim's home. 

An incident took place Saturday breaking patrol car windows and damaging the home owner's vehicle. The video above was possible after law enforcement secretly installed security cameras Saturday after the first incident in order to catch any illegal acts that might occur at the home, which then took place Sunday when the vehicle crashed through the garage door..

Among many felony charges, he was arrested for firing a 9mm handgun in a residential area and into the home during the incident.

Felony Charges filed against Weber today are: 

Premeditated murder
Burglary
Damage of property
Criminal mischief
Firing a weapon from a vehicle
Firing a weapon into a building
Firing a weapon in or on residential property
Displaying a firearm during a felony
Aggravated assault with a weapon

Editor's Note: After noting Weber's name has been removed or redacted from Hendry county tax appraiser property owner records, (which is usually the case of those working in law enforcement or investigations in order to protect their privacy) the Lee County Sheriff's office says he did not work for them. The question has been asked of the Hendry Sheriff's office of Weber's employment but no reply has been received.

Video: Courtesy Facebook and Lee County Sheriff's Office (the broadcast was cut off abruptly before the end from the Sheriff's office)

Daniel De Jesus Baltzar Mota Jailed On Weapons Charge

LABELLE, FL. -- Daniel De Jesus Baltzar Mota was arrested Sunday and booked into the Hendry County Jail.

He faces charges of firing a weapon from a vehicle under Florida Statute 790.15.

His last known address is shown as 12047 Hawthorne Lake Dr. Fort Myers, Fl. 33913.

UPDATE: Mota was released on $15,000 bail Sunday.

Photo: Hendry Sheriff's Office

Lee Sheriff's Deputy Home Targeted By Neighbor

 

PORT LABELLE, FL -- This morning before noon several loud gunshots rang out on Springview Crcle in Port LaBells reportedly by someone possibly connected to a  home across the street from a Lee County Deputy.

UPDATE: The arrest report indicate Derek Weber did fire a handgun and return fire was made by the victim, a Lee County Deputy who was home at the time. A motion activated camera system captured the vehicle driving into the garage door and retreating but does not show any shooting.

A news conference was scheduled by the Lee County and Hendry County Sheriff Monday morning.

Neighbors say they have noticed some mental health issues, and suspect he may be suffering from PTSD. Saturday, windows were broken and tires slashed in a 2023 Lee County Sheriff patrol car parked at the home on Springview Circle and two family car's tires slashed, but no action was taken by law enforcement at the time because of lack of a witness. 

Weber was interviewed on Saturday but declined fingerprinting and DNA swabs. Weber claimed he was walking from 7 to 8 am and didn't see that tire were damaged at his neighbor's house.

Law enforcement installed security cameras and were able to get video of the Sunday crash into the garage.

UPDATE: Spent firearm casing indicate Weber fired 8 times, and the victim Deputy fired 7 times. In an interview Weber indicated confusion as he said a while tattooed male shot at him. But, when asked if that's who shot at him said no, and refused to answer more questions. Other neighbors interviewed said they had previously noticed confusion in his speech.

The deputy's home is showing garage door damage and Sunday afternoon at 7 p.m., men were trying to board up the garage, while Lee county law enforcement and Hendry county law enforcement were still on the scene while police tape surrounded the home and blocked the street.

UPDATE: The victim's garage has been boarded up with help from friends and co-workers. The builder of the home has volunteered to install new doors without charge.

The Lee deputy with the damaged home has owned the home in the Laurel Oaks neighborhood for about five years. The home across the street is owned by the suspect and has lived there about two years.

UPDATE: Derek Evan Weber, 32 of 4553 Springview Cir., LaBelle has been arrested and booked into Hendry County Jail today. He is the apparent suspect of damaging the home of a Lee county deputy, and a shooting incident on Springview Circle involving a Lee county deputy living across the street from his home.

Weber was captured on video Sunday driving an SUV through his neighbor’s garage door. He also started shooting as he was backing out of the driveway, about 10 rounds with a 9mm handgun, allegedly at the victim.

Weber's name has been removed from public records such as Hendry county property appraiser's ownership records and his home blurred on Google maps. Usually, this is a request by those employed past or present in law enforcement, firemen, EMS personnel, judges, investigative personnel, or other categories such as victims of major crimes. It is not known at this time why Weber's name has been redacted.

Weber's home was recently put up for sale at $279,900 and a sale is pending. He lived there for two years. Records indicate it was built in 2006 and was bought two years ago for $300,000. Editor's Opinion: Weber may be in financial distress as he signed a $3000,000 VA no down payment loan two years ago, and presumably the lender is welling to accept less than the full balance to avoid foreclosing on the home.

Weber's dogs have been placed with LaBelle Animal Control.

 Photo by Don Browne: Crime scene Sunday evening

Suspect Caught - Gunshots Reported In Port LaBelle Residential Area

PORT LABELLE, FL -- Hendry county deputies responded Sunday morning to reports of gunshots on Springview Circle in the Hendry county community of Laurel Oaks. The very loud sounds appeared to be from a shotgun one observer noted.

Information is sparse at this time, although it has been reported there is no danger to residents of the area and a suspect is in custody.

The Laurel Oak Property Owners Association voted in February to add a deed restriction of no firearm discharge anywhere in the community, although state law already prohibits that in residential communities. 

Cape Coral Dragon Boat Club

Cape Coral now boasts its very own dragon boat club – the Cape Coral Dragon Boat Club (CCDBC). Paddlers gather and hone their skills at the Cape Coral Burnt Store Boat Ramp, located at 230 Burnt Store Rd. S.

CCDBC is dedicated to expanding access to this exciting paddling sport throughout Southwest Florida. Unlike many other metropolitan areas across the country, the region currently has limited opportunities for dragon boat enthusiasts. 

The club aims to collaborate with local organizations and government bodies to introduce dragon boat racing to people of all ages and abilities. Through accessible public programs, CCDBC strives to create a truly inclusive environment where everyone can experience the joys of dragon boating.

For individuals with disabilities, dragon boating offers a unique path to improved fitness, social interaction, and a sense of accomplishment.

According to the International Dragon Boat Association, dragon boat racing boasts over 90,000 participants in the United States and Canada alone, with a staggering figure of over 300,000 across Europe. With origins dating back over 2,000 years to China, dragon boat racing has become a global phenomenon with tens of millions participating worldwide.

Individuals and groups interested in learning more or trying out dragon boat racing are encouraged to contact the club through the recruiting tab on their website at https://www.capecoraldbc.com

Stabbing At LaBelle Park - School Locked Down

STABBING AT LABELLE NATURE PARK

LABELLE, FL. -- Earlier today, April 11, 2024, Hendry County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a stabbing in the LaBelle Nature Park area.

A city worker/victim reported to deputies that while working in the Nature Park trimming the trails, he came up on a subject. As the victim contacted the unidentified subject. As the he city worker approached the man, he asked the subject what he was doing. The victim reported that the subject was standing in front of him and had concealed his hand behind his lower back. It was at this time the subject made an upward slashing movement at the victim. The victim was able to block the knife attack but did receive an approximate 3” laceration to his arm. He was treated at the scene by EMS.

It was reported that the subject ran toward the Captain Hendry House. The victim described the subject as a white male, approximately 5’10” wearing dark blue shorts, dark colored shoes and no shirt, a full scraggly beard and dirty in appearance.

Road Patrol deputies responded to the area, setting up a perimeter and saturating the neighborhood with patrol. As of now the subject has not been located.

Hendry County Sheriff’s Office K9 units did respond to the scene as well to assist with the tracking of the subject.

In an abundance of caution Upthegrove Elementary School was placed on a precautionary lockdown

UPDATE: April 14, 2024 - The LaBelle Nature Park has been closed and signs have been put up to keep people out of the park.

$150,000 To Improve Low Income Learning Opportunities

LABELLE, FL. -- City of LaBelle has been selected to join the Municipal Action Cohort: Connecting Adults to Postsecondary and Workforce Success.

This new peer-learning cohort is led by the National League of Cities (NLC) and CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning) to accelerate city efforts to design, develop, and launch an initiative to connect adults to postsecondary educational opportunities that lead to good jobs.

The Connecting Adults to Postsecondary and Workforce Success initiative will work with municipalities teams, led by the City of LaBelle’s Mayor Julie Wilkins, to spur innovative and scalable city-supported solutions to holistically support adults through the completion of credentials and on the path to high quality jobs.

In 2022, Hendry County and FutureMakers Coalition at Collaboratory was chosen by CivicLab as one of five rural partnerships across the U.S. to participate in a two-year initiative to improve higher education and workforce systems. 

Supported by Ascendium Education Group, FutureMakers Coalition received training, technical assistance and direct financial support valued at $150,000 to develop and implement system-level strategies that create pathways to prosperity for low-income learners.

This previous collaboration through the CivicLab’s Building Rural Learning Systems work was the foundation to bring partners together to apply for the NLC’s opportunity including the City of Labelle, Hendry County EDC, Hendry County School District Adult Ed, FGCU, FSW and CareerSource SWFL.

Hendry County Arrests This Week

ARREST BLOTTER
03/11/2024 – 03/18/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

Jacob Salomon Hopper, 22, Orlando was arrested on April 1, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez on charges of Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Marijuana

Javier Jerome Williams, 37, Clewiston was arrested on April 1, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez

Elijah Zachary Pope, 36, Clewiston was arrested on April 2, 2024, by Sgt. K. Barrientos on charges of Possession Controlled Substance without Prescription and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Noah Michael Brisco, 32, Pompano Beach was arrested on April 2, 2024, by Sgt. K. Barrientos on charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Joeneather Singletary, 37, Clewiston was arrested on April 2, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff H. Carranza on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Driving While License Suspended/Revoked

Martira Herrera, 25, Lake Placid was arrested on April 2, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff J. Keith on charges of Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – Habitual

John Chezem, 38, LaBelle, was arrested on April 2, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff N. Todd on charges Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – Habitual Offender, Flee & Eluding LEO, Possession Controlled Substance without Prescription, Reckless Driving, Trespassing, Attached Tag not Assigned and Felony-FTA

Marlon McCants, 23, Mobile, Al, was arrested on April 3, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff A. McCarty on charges of Possession of Marijuana over 20 grams

Michael Richard Husa, 47, LaBelle was arrested on April 3, 2024, b Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on charges of Failure to Comply with Sexual Offender Registration Violation and County Ordinance Violation

Jeremiah Jesus Vasquez, 41, LaBelle was arrested on April 3, 2024, by Det. R. Louis-Pierre on charges of Felony Burglary, Grand Theft, Felony Criminal Mischief, Resist Officer – Obstruction without Violence, Grand Theft and Trespassing

Lindsy Brooke Herndon, 37, Immokalee was arrested on April 4, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff G. Willis on charges of Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription, Possession of Drug Equipment

Danielle A. Pent, 36 LaBelle was arrested on April 3, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff O Gonzalez on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Marijuana u/20 grams, Driving While License Suspended/Revoked and Possession of Drug Equipment

14-year-old male, LaBelle, was arrested on April 4, 2024, by Det. J. Goldberg on charges of Aggravated Batter with a Deadly Weapon, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill, Grand Theft of Motor Vehicle, Flee & Eluding LEO and Reckless Driving

Aundra Tyrone Williams, Jr., 34, Clewiston was arrested on April 4, 2024, by Sgt. K. Barrientos on charges of Felony Battery on LEO and Resist Officer with Violence

Shawntira Kuanshay Carter, 23, Clewiston was arrested on April 4, 2024, by Sgt. K. Barrientos on charges of Felony Battery on LEO and Resist Officer with Violence

Byron Decosta Eastmond, 35, South Bay, was arrested on April 4, 2024, by Sgt. K. Barrientos on charges of Felony Battery on LEO and Resist Officer with Violence

Ruby Mae Dunlap, 69, Miami, was arrested on April 5, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff N. Todd on charges of Smuggling Contraband into Correction Facility, Petit Theft, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams

Amanda McGriff, 40, Clewiston was arrested on April 5, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff H. Carranza on charges of Throwing a Deadly Missile into a Vehicle

James Anthony Wilson, 33, Clewiston was arrested on April 5, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff H. Carranza on charges of Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill and Felony Criminal Mischief

Aundra Tyrone Williams, 34, Pahokee, was arrested on April 6, 2024, by Sgt. K. Barrientos on charges of Violation of Open Container Ordinance, Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams, Possession of Synthetic Marijuana, Disorderly Intoxication Resist Officer without Violence and Use/Possession/Mfg, Paraphernalia to Transport Drugs

Normalinda Chairez, 23, Clewiston was arrested on April 6, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff A. McCarty on charges of Felony Battery by Person Detained in Jail Facility

Yunior Medina Alfonso, 45, Miami was arrested on April 6, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Blanco on charges of Flee & Eluding Failure to Obey LEO Order to Stop

Jason Anthony Wilson, 33, Clewiston was arrested on April 7, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez on charges of Violation of Conditional Release, Tampering with Physical Evidence and Tampering with Proceedings

Earth Day At Seminole Reservation

BIG CYPRESS RESERVATION, Fla. – Earth Day festivities will take place at the Seminole Okalee Indian Village & Venue in Hollywood, Florida and at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the Big Cypress Reservation on Tuesday, April 16 (9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) and Thursday, April 18 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), respectively. Both events are free.

For those looking to tour the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum during the event on April 18, there will be free admission. This is limited to self-guided tours.

Attendees at both events will be able to enjoy Earth Day the Native way with Indigenous entertainment, gardening workshops, earth friendly craft activities, Seminole frybread vendors, artist soundscapes and non-profit partner educational activities.

Aztec dancing from the Ameyal Mexican Cultural Organization, Hula dancing with Polynesian Proud Productions, presentations from NASA, workshops with plant experts Tree Amigos Growers and a drone obstacle course will also be featured.

For more information, please visit https://www.ahtahthiki.com/earth-day-2024/.

According to earthday.org, Earth Day aims to “build the world's largest environmental movement to drive transformative change for people and the planet.” The movement's mission is “to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide.”

FWC Everglades Wildlife Watch

Calling all wildlife watchers! The FWC needs participants for innovative new photo project

We’ll say it; we need your help! The Everglades is a big place, and it can be challenging to create and analyze reliable data about its wide variety of wildlife. That’s where you come in.

The Everglades Wildlife Watch is a new Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) volunteer program and participatory science project based in south Florida, hosted on the Zooniverse platform. Focused on improving our understanding of wildlife patterns on the FWC’s wildlife management area system, this project combines in-the-field volunteering with online participation to give us a region-wide idea of the species that call south Florida home.

Visit: Zooniverse.org/Projects/FWC/Everglades-Wildlife-Watch

Throughout the region’s 17 wildlife management/wildlife and environmental areas, volunteers are setting and maintaining trail cameras. As those cameras collect photos, the images are uploaded to our Everglades Wildlife Watch Zooniverse project, where anyone can jump online and classify photos. Just follow the link, create a free account and start identifying the wildlife in the photos from your own home. If you get one wrong, don’t sweat it. With consensus analysis, your identifications will be combined with others to give us the most accurate picture of wildlife activity in these areas. With your help, we will be able to sort through more photos than we ever could alone and gain a better understanding of how animals are using our WMAs.

Once photos are analyzed and the wildlife has been identified, the data is sent to our area biologists so they can better manage each WMA or WEA. The results will also be uploaded to our interactive Data Dashboard, where you can see what kind of wildlife has been spotted on our cameras around the region and learn more about each species.

The FWC oversees more than 6 million acres of public land established as WMAs. These lands are managed to protect fish and wildlife resources and provide wildlife-based recreation. Visit MyFWC.com/WMAs to learn more about Florida’s public lands or plan your next outdoor adventure with the WMA Recreation Finder.

Former Deputy Tyler Williams Charged By US Attorney

Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Tyler Williams (29, Labelle) with deprivation of civil rights under color of law. Specifically, Williams is charged with unreasonable use of force and obstruction of justice. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison on the use of force charge, and up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the obstruction charge. Williams is a former deputy sheriff from the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office in Florida.

The indictment alleges that on or about July 4, 2023, Williams, while acting under color of law as a deputy sheriff with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office, willfully deprived the civil rights of a man by throwing him to the ground and injuring him. Williams then wrote a false justification for the use of force on the man in an incident report, obstructing justice.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

According to Hendry county records Tyler served with the Hendry Sheriff's office in the period of March to August 2023 when he wrote 13 traffic citations for which the defendants had to show up in court. The court dismissed ten cases. Two had adjudication withheld, and one was found guilty.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Tampa Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick L. Darcey and Jesus M. Casas.

Late Public Notice For Glades 'No Trucks Ordinance" ?

MOORE HAVEN, FL. --Glades county voted on a no trucks allowed ordinance for various streets in Glades County at a meeting this morning. It appears this notice of meeting did not go out to media ahead of time for the public to get the notice. (While the law allows public meetings to be publicized in this case on the county website, we normally receive a courtesy notice at least a day ahead of each meeting.)

Glades County Board of County Commissioner’s meeting is every 2nd Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m. and every 4th Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m.

The next meeting is scheduled for today, April 9, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. (Editor's comment: We received the notice by email at 8:15 a.m. Tuesday April 9. I am guessing this might be a controversial set of ordinances.)

PUBLIC HEARINGS

5. An Ordinance creating a new Section to Chapter 78 – Traffic and Motor Vehicles, authorizing the immediate establishment of a “NO TRUCKS ALLOWED ZONE” on Loblolly Bay Road in Muse, which runs from its intersect with Kirby Thompson Road to its intersect with Summerall Road.

6. An Ordinance creating a new Section to Chapter 78 – Traffic and Motor Vehicles, authorizing the immediate establishment of a “NO TRUCKS ALLOWED ZONE” on Everett Street in Muse, which runs from its intersect with Mitchel Avenue to its intersect with Crescent Avenue.

7. An Ordinance creating a new Section to Chapter 78 – Traffic and Motor Vehicles, authorizing the immediate establishment of a “NO TRUCKS ALLOWED ZONE” on Mitchel Avenue in Muse, which runs from its intersect with Wren Street to its intersect with Everett Street.

8. An Ordinance creating a new Section to Chapter 78 – Traffic and Motor Vehicles, authorizing the immediate establishment of a “NO TRUCKS ALLOWED ZONE” on Wren Street in Muse, which runs from its intersect with Fernwood Lane to its intersect with Mitchel Avenue.

9. An ordinance creating a new Section to Chapter 78 – Traffic and Motor Vehicles, authorizing the immediate establishment of a “NO TRUCKS ALLOWED ZONE” on C.R. 731 in Muse, from its intersect with C.R. 74 to its intersect with Walter Greer Road.

10. An ordinance creating a new Section to Chapter 78 – Traffic and Motor Vehicles, authorizing the immediate establishment of a “NO TRUCKS ALLOWED ZONE” on Pollywog Crossover Road in Muse, from its intersect with Fire Tower Road to its intersect with Walter Greer Road.

Health Alert For Lake Okeechobee

Moore Haven, FL -- The Florida Department of Health in Glades has issued a Health Alert for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in Lake Okeechobee. This is in response to water samples taken on April 2, 2024.


The public should exercise caution in and around two locations of Lake Okeechobee. One area is located to the southeast of Dupree Bar and the other area is located northeast of Indian Prairie Canal.

Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions:

Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom.
Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae or discolored or smelly water.
Keep pets away from the area. Waters where there are algae blooms are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should have a different source of water when algae blooms are present.
Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate the toxins.
Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts and cook fish well.
Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.

What is blue-green algae?

Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria that is common in Florida’s freshwater environments. A bloom occurs when rapid growth of algae leads to an accumulation of individual cells that discolor water and often produce floating mats that emit unpleasant odors.

Some environmental factors that contribute to blue-green algae blooms are sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions and excess nutrients. Blooms can appear year-round but are more frequent in summer and fall. Many types of blue-green algae can produce toxins.

Is it harmful?

Blue-green algae blooms can impact human health and ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic animals.

For additional information on potential health effects of algal blooms, visit floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/aquatic-toxins.

Find current information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications for harmful algal blooms and beach conditions by visiting ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov. Protecting Florida Together is the state’s joint effort to provide statewide water quality information to prioritize environmental transparency and commitment to action.

What do I do if I see an algal bloom?

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection collects and analyzes algal bloom samples. To report a bloom to DEP, call the toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903 or report online.

To report fish kills, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute at 1-800-636-0511.

Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center, call 1-800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist immediately.

Contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with blue-green algae contaminated water.

Aerial Photo by Don Browne

Walmart Store Selling Counterfeit Brand Products?

 

LABELLE, FL. -- A recent purchase from the LaBelle, Fl. Walmart store brough an unexpected surprise this week.

We bought a name brand product off the shelf at the local Walmart store west of LaBelle, a pair of Dr. Scholl's "Prevent Pain" shoe inserts expecting nothing out of the ordinary for a well known brand.

But, upon opening the package discovered what seemed to be a really shoddy product coming apart at it's glued seams. 

Upon a closer examination of the package the inserts came in, found printed "instructions" for the product on the box and upon reading them were totally surprised to see a sentence that made no sense at all, and was clearly an obvious mistake by whom ever manufactured the packaging for this well-known product brand.

It reads, "If the insole doesn't fit without" 

Photographs were sent and a phone call was made Dr. Scholl's main offices to inquire about counterfeit products and we were told only that Walmart is an authorized seller of their products but they would send our information to someone to check out.

Our conclusion: Either Dr. Scholls is manufacturing and selling defective products and packaging, or Walmart is selling a counterfeit product at it's store, cheating it's customers. 

Photos by Don Browne - defective shoe insert and mistakes on printed packaging

Obituary - Wayne L. Wilkins 1949-2024

Wayne LaViere Wilkins, age 74 of LaBelle, Florida passed away at Hope Healthcare Services in Lehigh Acres, Florida on April 1, 2024, after a courageous battle.

Wayne was born in Miami, Florida on November 14, 1949, to the late Mansol and Delores Moore Wilkins, he married Juile Craichy on July 17, 1995, in the LaBelle Assembly of God Church. 

Wayne owned and operated Heartland Building Company for many years before joining with Rocktide Construction. 

Wayne attended LaBelle Assembly of God for almost 30 years, a former Boy Scout Master, enjoyed working, building things, doing landscaping, gardening and riding his motorcycle, he was a former member of the Sons of the American Legion and Lions Club. Wayne loved to help when there was a need. He loved his community.

Wayne will be dearly missed by his family and everyone who knew and loved him.

Wayne leaves fond memories with his wife; Julie C. Wilkins of LaBelle, Florida, children; Chassey and her husband Ken, Kristopher and his wife Genifer, Matthew, Coby, Montana and her husband Ustacio, Jacqueline, four grandchildren, one great grandchild. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, and three siblings.

Celebration of Wayne's life will be celebrated on April 12, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at Christ Central Church located at 813 East Hickpochee Avenue, LaBelle, Florida with Pastors Clifford Avery, Mitchell Wills and Frank Dana presiding, visitation will be one hour before the celebration service also at Christ Central Church.

Viewing
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Friday, April 12, 2024
Christ Central
813 E Hickpochee Ave
LaBelle, Florida

Celebration of Life
5:30 pm
Friday, April 12, 2024
Christ Central
813 E Hickpochee Ave
LaBelle, Florida

Road Work On Hendry County Road 78

LABELLE, FL. -- Please be advised that beginning on Monday, April 8, 2024, Hendry County’s contractor, EHC, Inc., and their subcontractor, Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC, will be conducting roadwork and paving services on CR78 from Kirby Thompson Road to Fort Denaud Bridge Way.

Operations will occur through the week.

Flagmen will be present to direct traffic. The speed limit will be reduced through the project area.

Motorists should expect lane closures and possible delays throughout the duration of the project and allow extra time for their commute.

Motorists and pedestrians should use extra caution when traveling through the work zone.

Please note that this schedule is tentative and subject to change. The Hendry County Engineering Department will notify of any changes.

Residents or motorists with any questions or concerns can contact the Hendry County Engineering Department at 863-675-5222.

Hendry County Arrests This Week Include 4 Children

ARREST BLOTTER
03/25/2024 – 03/31/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

Jeffrey Brian Brown, 24, LaBelle was arrested on March 25, 2024, by Det. L. Whelpley on charges of Sexual Assault on Victim under the age of 12

Delaney Ann Robinson, 29, LaBelle was arrested on March 25, 2024, by Sgt. C. Geraci on charges of Battery on LEO

Robert Michael Strasburg, 35, LaBelle was arrested on March 25, 2024, by Sgt. C. Geraci on charges of DUI and Obstruction without Violence

Edgar Noel Barrios, 36, LaBelle was arrested on March 25, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff G. Willis on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Narcotic Paraphernalia and Indecent Exposure

Marcus Lazar Hardy, 29, South Bay was arrested on March 25, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on charges of Felony Failure to Appear

10-year-old male, Clewiston, was arrested on March 25, 2024, Deputy Sheriff W. Vargas on charges of Threats by Intimidation

Ralph Jerome Garvin, 46, LaBelle was arrested on March 26, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff S. Monteiro on charges of Grand Theft of Motor Vehicle, Grand Theft, Driving While License Suspended and Petit Theft

Anthony Raymond Kats, 37, LaBelle was arrested on March 27, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Dibernardino on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

10-year-old male, LaBelle was arrested on March 27, 2024, by Det. K. Rosado on charges of Purchase of Firearm by Minor, Possession of Firearm on School Property, Possession of Marijuana over 20 grams and Unlawful Possession of Firearm by a Minor

10-year-old male, LaBelle was arrested on March 27, 2024, by Det. K. Rosado on charges of Sale of Firearm by Minor, Possession of Firearm on School Property, Theft of a Firearm and Unlawful Possession of Firearm by a Minor

Ane Marie Lang, 41, Alva was arrested on March 27, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on warrant for Felony Failure to Appear

Anthony Cortez Dotson, 32, Clewiston was arrested on March 27, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff J. Windham on charges of Felony Failure to Appear and Possession of Synthetic Marijuana

Rashuan Royce Jim, 28, Miami was arrested on March 28, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff K. Barrientos on charges of Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Synthetic Marijuana

12-year-old male, Clewiston was arrested on March 28, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff C. Thimothee on charges of Battery on School Official, Felony Criminal Mischief and Obstruction without Violence

Ricot Exdcellent, 37, Orlando was arrested on March 28, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on charges of Felony Failure to Appear

Stephen Martin Billings, 32, Clewiston was arrested on March 28, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Coronilla on charges of Possession of a Concealed Firearm by Convicted Felon, Tampering with Evidence and Possession of a Concealed Weapon by Convicted Felon

Danielle Nicole Williams, 31, Clewiston was arrested March 29, 2024, by Deputy O. Gonzalez on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Robert Kevin Robbins, 61, LaBelle was arrested on March 29, 2024, by Deputy Sherif O. Gonzalez on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Kimberly Faith Casten, 47, LaBelle was arrested on March 29, 2024, by Cpl. L. drew on charges of Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Jessie Lee Lorenzo Stephens, Jr., 28, LaBelle was arrested on March 30, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Barrira on charges of Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration Laws and Contempt of Court

Javier Jose Fundora, 30, Clewiston was arrested on March 30, 2024, by K9 Deputy L. Dominguez for Felony Failure to Appear

Yoandry Primella Rivas, 39, Clewiston was arrested om March 30, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Dibernardino on charges of Batter on LEO, Resist Arrest with Violence, Deprived Means of Protection/Communication, Touch/Strike to Harm Police Animal, False ID given to LEO and Misuse of 911

Javier Francisco Finez Martaines, 32, Tampa was arrested on March 30, 2024, by Ag. Deputy B. Maynard, Jr. on charges of Possession of Cocaine and No Valid DL

Florida Key's Watercolor Kapers by Bob Kranich

Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers

by Bob Kranich

Robert’s Best, (Part 6, Excerpt 91)

This is a new story. Robert’s Best is a sail boat. Grandfather Roberts is going to sail it on the Intercostal waterway from Texas to Key West, Florida. That will be an adventure. Then his grandchildren and their parents will come to Key West on a visit. There will be a lot of funny happenings until the criminals from a previous story get into action. A side note is that a 1935 antique Chris-Craft Model 557 Cabin Cruiser is going to play an important part in the rest of the story. Grandfather Roberts is on his trip to Key West, Florida in his sail boat via the Intercostal Waterway. Getting ready to start his second day.

Roberts’ Best

I woke up to the tune of my alarm. I had slept very well except for a couple of times when a boat went by too fast and it’s wake put my boat to rocking. I had coffee and breakfast just as the sky started to lighten announcing the start of my day. I motored back to the flashing green channel marker and made my turn. Now I needed to hold this bearing. I wanted to clip the south shore of Marsh Island, not run into it or miss it entirely!

I immediately lost sight of land. At the max I was probably six to seven miles out in the Gulf. This was new for me. At the end of the third hour I could see land fast coming up on my port side. I thought, I couldn’t be this close to Marsh Island so soon. I hastily consulted my charts and guide. No it was the forward part of Louisiana’s heel. You can see it on any map. Louisiana kind of resembles a pirate’s boot.

I kept my bearings but stayed out far enough to be clear of the shore waves. My maps told me on shore here was a wildlife area preserve, and it sure looked that way, no houses, piers, commercial buildings or any other signs. The interesting part was that the shore and sea birds were plentiful and beautiful.

During the fourth hour I was to keep my lookout for Marsh Island. It too appeared to be some kind of nature preserve. It was very green with huge flocks of birds. I was keeping off just enough and knew that I had about fourteen miles to the Lower Atchafalaya River channel markers.

There they were! It had been sixty-five miles, and I hit them right on the money! Thank You Lord! Then I realized I wouldn’t be the only one turning up the river. Here came a commercial fishing boat. I found out that Morgan City is home to hundreds of fishing and work boats.

I dropped sails and started my trusty two-cylinder diesel. This trip of meandering the ten miles up the Atchafalaya River was really educational. The channel was well-marked and I want to thank the Good Lord and Louisiana State. If it wasn't for the markers a boater could lose their way. There were bayous, canals, rivers, lakes, and all kinds of water highways coming and going! There is a complete maze of ways to travel by boat all across the southern part of Louisiana. All of this was fifteen miles inland from the Gulf.

I also had to keep out of the way of the fishing and work boats as they came and went. This is where my VHF radio came in handy, really essential. I kept it on whatever channel it seemed every captain was using. The boat captains would call me by boat name and keep me posted on just what they were going to do.

Just a sort distance from downtown Morgan City the Intercostal Waterway came into the Atchafalaya River, on my port side. You can’t miss the Morgan City waterfront because it has a huge concrete seawall to keep out the river’s floodwaters. They have painted Morgan City right on the wall in large letters.

Right at the spot the Intercostal Waterway leaves the river was the Morgan City Public Docks. They were right under the two highway bridge spans.

I backed the Roberts’ Best up right next to the dock. There were a series of pilings running along-side the dock. The dock looked like it would accommodate a boat of up to at least fifty feet. When one does this docking you need to put out fenders over the side so the fenders rub the dock and pilings instead of your boat.

I looked up. A man and a lady were lounging on deck chairs on a wide part of the pier. They looked about in their fifties. He was wearing a captain’s hat.

“Oh, hi, I’m new at this. Left Galveston two days ago. I haven’t been on the Intercostal before. Took the Gulf both days and came in from Sabine Pass this afternoon.”

“Hey! That was a good day’s sailing. We’re heading the way you’ve come from. But we’re just coasting along on the Waterway. Tell you what, we got in here last night, and we’ve been walking around the town today. We know a good Cajun eating place. Matter-of-fact, we’re just getting ready to go to the Cajun Kitchen. How about coming along? It’s only about a couple of blocks. By the way, I’m Jack Smith, and this is my wife and First Mate, Mary.”

“What a nice invite. I’m Tom Roberts. Nice to meet you both, Jack, Mary. I’m sure ready to eat some good Cajun food!”

On the walk over to the Cajun Kitchen, I found out Jack had a home construction business in Pensacola, Florida. They had left the business in their son-in-law’s hands and were on the second week of a month’s water-cruise vacation.

We walked into the Cajun Kitchen and guess what, a Cajun band was getting ready to rock the rafters. There was a small dance floor in front of the stage the band was on. The band consisted of two fiddles, an electric guitar, and a washboard man.* There was a lady up front with a microphone preparing to sing.

As we sat down at a table, she said, “We’re going to have a fais-dodo. So let’s dance!” The music started, but no one jumped up to dance.

“Stop the music!” she said, kind of loud. “We need some dancers. It’s easy. You, Sir,” she pointed at me.

“Me? Ma’am,” I said as I looked around for someone else she might be talking to.

She stepped off the stage, grabbed my hand and pulled me up. She was real pretty, so it didn’t take much pulling on her part.

“Now watch my feet. Left, right, left, kick with the right. Right, left, right, kick with the left, and repeat.”

The next thing I knew was, I was dancing, and the whole restaurant got up and did a fais-dodo.
After the dance, she said, “Thank you, Sir,” as she went back up on stage and began to sing and rock to their Cajun music.

My two new friends and I sat down and had some great shrimp gumbo.

On the way back to their boats, Jack started laughing, “Tom, I didn’t know what you were going to do at first when that Cajun beauty grabbed you.”

“Jack, I sure have got more than I expected on this trip. You know, it’s just started. I’m heading down to the Keys.”

On their way back to the boats, Jack said, “Tom, if you need anything when you get to the Pensacola area, just call us. Here is my card.”

From The Author:

My second full-length book , Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers is composed of 336 pages. There are 12 stories running from 6 pages to as many as 72 pages. It is fully illustrated with 88 watercolors and sketches. The watercolors I made roaming around Key West after I finished my 750 mile hike from Georgia to Key West. (See book or Don Browne’s SouthWest Florida Onlinw News records, A Walk Across Florida.) As you read these stories you will experience Key West, the Keys, and the Caribbean. These stories span the time of the early 1800’s to 1969. bkranich.wixsite.com/bobkranich

Mario Terga Dies At 96

Mario Terga 

1928-2024

Gathering for Family and Friends
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston
438 E. Sugarland Highway
Clewiston, Florida

Funeral Liturgy
12:00 pm
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston

Laid to Rest
Ridgelawn Cemetery
520 Ridgelawn Road
Clewiston, Florida

Arrest After Wild Pursuit And Crash

Collier / Lee County – State Road 82 – Felony Arrest

​IMMOKALEE, FL. -- On 3/31/24, Florida State Troopers responded to a BOLO ( Be On the Look Out) for a black BMW, near Lake Trafford Road and Summer Glen, Collier County. The black BMW was known to have recklessly fled from State Troopers and other agencies over the past few months.

State Troopers located the BMW near the Collier / Lee County Line, attempted to stop it, but once again the BMW fled the stop.

State Troopers pursued the BMW, which eventually crashed into a pickup truck located in the 7-11 gas station, at State Road 82 and Blackstone, Lee County.

The driver of the BMW, identified as BiJaun Wayne Edwards, age 24, of Cape Coral, exited the BMW, entered the occupied pickup truck that he had just crashed into, and began to throw money at the occupants, telling them not to say anything.

Inside the BMW, troopers located approximately 40 Oxycodone pills, several pounds of marijuana, a Glock firearm, and thousands of dollars in cash. 

Edwards was placed under arrest for aggravated fleeing, reckless driving, hit and run with property damage, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, probation violation, possession of marijuana over 20 grams, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting without violence and booked into the Lee County Jail.

UPDATE:

BiJuan Wayne Edwards was charged with the following:Flee/Elude Police (Aggravated Fleeing with Injury or Damage)
Flee/Elude Police (Flee Elude High Speed or Disregard for Persons or Property)
Possession of Weapon or Ammo by Convicted Felon
Hit and Run-Leave the Scene of a Crash Involving Damage to Property-3 Counts
Moving Traffic Violation-Reckless Driving/Damage Person or Property-3 Counts
Burglary Occupied Conveyance Unarmed
Resist Officer-Obstruct without Violence-3 Counts
Moving Traffic Violation-Driving while License Suspended, Revoked, Canceled or Disqualified causing Serious Bodily Injury or while Fleeing or Eluding
Obstructing Justice-Tampering with or Harassing a Witness/Withholding Testimony or Information from Official Investigation-2 Counts
Trafficking Drugs-4 Grams or Less, Controlled Substance
Marijuana Possession with Intent to Sell, Manufacture or Deliver
Out of County Warrant-Miami Dade County

Photo Credit: FHP

Triple Homicide Suspect Anne Lang Caught - Court Denies Bail

LABELLE, FL. -- Anne Marie Lang, 41 has been captured by Federal Marshals in Lakeland, Polk County after skipping a court trial appearance on March 19, 2024, charges including multiple homicides and DUI.

She skipped out on bail of  $50,000 for each of three Manslaughter counts and $20,000 for each of three Vehicular Homicide count on a pre-trial release bond.

Around The Clock Bail Bonds of Fort Myers received a March 19 notification from the court of the Bond Forfeiture since they couldn't produce her for the court appearance. 

Originally arrested in March, 2021, she was released in June, 2021. She was recharged March 27, 2024 for failure to appear in court.

Her last known address was Brynwood Lane, in Fort Myers.

For a period of time, her case details were removed from online court records and her photo removed from the Hendry Sheriff's jail and arrest record, while law enforcement was searching for her armed with a fugitive arrest warrant.

In a January 20, 2021 crash, Lang was driving her 2011 BMW east on State Road 80, in the vicinity of Hendry County Road 78A, in excess of 100 mph.

A 2009 Chevrolet attempted to back from 5411 State Road 80 and entered the path of the BMW.

The front of the BMW collided with the rear of the Chevrolet and resulted in the death of the Chevrolet driver, Enedino Galindo, age 42 of Labelle and two teen daughters, ages 13 and 15 of Labelle.

Lang failed to show up for her trial on the charges in Hendry County and a failure to appear warrant for her arrest was issued. 

After her capture, Judge Elizabeth V. Crier denied bond for her at a hearing March 27. 

Mara Marzano is representing the State of Florida and Lee Hollander of Naples representing Lang.

The next status hearing is April 1 at 1:30 before Judge Elizabeth Crier via ZOOM.

Original Arrest Story on Southwest Florida Online

Agness Creola King Tanner Dies At 80

 Agness Creola King Tanner age 80 of Felda, Florida passed away at Clewiston Nursing and Rehabilitation Center with her family at her side on March 28, 2024.

Creola was born on December 9, 1943,  in Immokalee, Florida to the late Joseph Sherwood and Agness Thelma Williams King. Creola married Trammel Eugene Tanner, he preceded Creola in death on September 17, 2022. Creola worked for many years as a Paraprofessional for the Collier County School Board. Creola was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and sister who will be dearly missed by her entire family and all of her friends.

Creola leaves fond memories with her son; Bruce Tanner and his wife Mona of LaBelle, Florida, five loving grandchildren, six adorable great-grandchildren, one brother; Michael King, two sisters; Estelle White of Felda, Florida and Judy King along with all of her church friends and family friends. Creola was also preceded in death by her daughter, Tammela Jean "Tammy" Tanner Ayala.

Creola’s life will be celebrated on April 3, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Fort Denaud Cemetery with Mr. Matt Howard officiating, visitation will be thirty minutes before the celebration of life also at the Fort Denaud Cemetery. There will be a celebration of Creola's life held later at her church - Felda Baptist Church.  Creola will be laid to rest next to her loving husband Trammel in Fort Denaud Cemetery.

Celebration arrangements are being held by Akin-Davis Funeral Home – LaBelle.