DATE: 05/29/2026
TIME: 07:37 AM
LOCATION: SR-78 (Pine Island Road) / Piney Road
CASE #: FHP26ON0249504
INVESTIGATOR: Trooper Jorge
VEHICLE 1: Gray Mazda SUV
DRIVER 1: Male / Age 78 / Nort Fort Myers / No seatbelt / Trauma serious injuries
VEHICLE 2: White Ford Taurus
DRIVER 2: Female / Age 63/ North Fort Myers / Seat belted / Transported non trauma
VEHICLE 3: White Lexus Sedan
DRIVER 3: Male / Age 26/ Labelle / Seat belted / Not Injured
SYNOPSIS:
Vehicle 1was traveling west on SR-78 (Pine Island Road) and was stopped on the westbound left-turn lane, yielding to a flashing yellow left-turn arrow.
Vehicle 2 was traveling east on SR-78 on the eastbound left lane.
Vehicle 3 was traveling east on the right eastbound lane, adjacent / behind Vehicle 2.
Driver 1 failed to yield to Vehicle 2 and initiated a left turn.
Subsequently, the front right of Vehicle 1 collided with the front left of Vehicle 2. The impact caused Vehicle 2 to be redirected right, and the right side of Vehicle 2 collided with the front of Vehicle 3.
The crash remains under investigation.
Friday, May 29, 2026
Janice McMahan Dies At 80
Janice S. McMahan, a devoted public servant and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, in Labelle, Florida. Born on February 26, 1946, in Washington, DC, Janice dedicated her life to serving others with grace and commitment.
Janice enjoyed a distinguished career spanning five decades. She spent 25 years as an Administrative Assistant for the Federal Government, where her professionalism and dedication left a lasting impression on colleagues and superiors alike. Following this, she continued her exemplary service as Administrative Assistant to the city manager of Daytona Beach Shores for another 25 years, retiring in 2023. Her tireless work ethic and warm spirit earned her the respect and admiration of many throughout her years of service.
A former resident of Ormond Beach, Florida, Janice was deeply intertwined with the local community. Her life was marked by a quiet strength and an unwavering dedication to her family and friends.
Janice is survived by her beloved sons, Darren (Angie) McMahan and David McMahan, who carry forward her legacy of kindness and resilience. She was also the proud grandmother to Shane McMahan, Justin McMahan, and Taylor Rittenhouse, as well as a great-grandmother to two dear children whose lives she enriched with her love. Her sister, Roberta Reynolds, along with four nieces—Lisa Jung King, Christina Reynolds, Diane Jung Sothoron, and Victoria Reynolds—and seven nephews—Scott Hazen, Garit Preble, Richard Reynolds, Mathew Hazen, Stephen Hazen, Joseph Preble, and Dana Preble—survive her, remembering her fondly as a guiding and loving presence.
Janice was preceded in death by her devoted spouse, James McMahan; her brother, Gary Preble; and her parents, Robert and Cecile Preble.
A life characterized by service, devotion, and love, Janice S. McMahan’s memory will continue to inspire all who knew her. She remains in the hearts of her family and the many friends who were blessed to know her.
Memorial contributions in honor of Janice may be made to the American Cancer Society, reflecting her enduring commitment to causes close to her heart.
Janice enjoyed a distinguished career spanning five decades. She spent 25 years as an Administrative Assistant for the Federal Government, where her professionalism and dedication left a lasting impression on colleagues and superiors alike. Following this, she continued her exemplary service as Administrative Assistant to the city manager of Daytona Beach Shores for another 25 years, retiring in 2023. Her tireless work ethic and warm spirit earned her the respect and admiration of many throughout her years of service.
A former resident of Ormond Beach, Florida, Janice was deeply intertwined with the local community. Her life was marked by a quiet strength and an unwavering dedication to her family and friends.
Janice is survived by her beloved sons, Darren (Angie) McMahan and David McMahan, who carry forward her legacy of kindness and resilience. She was also the proud grandmother to Shane McMahan, Justin McMahan, and Taylor Rittenhouse, as well as a great-grandmother to two dear children whose lives she enriched with her love. Her sister, Roberta Reynolds, along with four nieces—Lisa Jung King, Christina Reynolds, Diane Jung Sothoron, and Victoria Reynolds—and seven nephews—Scott Hazen, Garit Preble, Richard Reynolds, Mathew Hazen, Stephen Hazen, Joseph Preble, and Dana Preble—survive her, remembering her fondly as a guiding and loving presence.
Janice was preceded in death by her devoted spouse, James McMahan; her brother, Gary Preble; and her parents, Robert and Cecile Preble.
A life characterized by service, devotion, and love, Janice S. McMahan’s memory will continue to inspire all who knew her. She remains in the hearts of her family and the many friends who were blessed to know her.
Memorial contributions in honor of Janice may be made to the American Cancer Society, reflecting her enduring commitment to causes close to her heart.
Thursday, May 28, 2026
How CIA Officer David Rush Made Off With 303 Gold Bars
Former CIA Official Arrested for $40M Gold Theft
David Rush, a former CIA officer who held a senior executive-level management position with top secret SCI clearance. He worked for the agency for 17 years.
Rush was arrested on May 19, following an internal CIA investigation that identified potential violations of law. CIA Director John Ratcliffe referred the case to the FBI.
An FBI search of his Virginia home on May 18 turned up roughly 303 one-kilogram gold bars worth over $40 million, $2 million in U.S. currency, and dozens of luxury watches, many of them Rolex.
From November 2025 to March 2026, Rush requested and received a "significant quantity of foreign currency and tens of millions of dollars in gold bars" from the U.S. government, claiming they were needed for work-related expenses. When the CIA investigated, it was unable to locate the gold bars or any record of how Rush had used them.
David Rush, a former CIA officer who held a senior executive-level management position with top secret SCI clearance. He worked for the agency for 17 years.
Rush was arrested on May 19, following an internal CIA investigation that identified potential violations of law. CIA Director John Ratcliffe referred the case to the FBI.
An FBI search of his Virginia home on May 18 turned up roughly 303 one-kilogram gold bars worth over $40 million, $2 million in U.S. currency, and dozens of luxury watches, many of them Rolex.
From November 2025 to March 2026, Rush requested and received a "significant quantity of foreign currency and tens of millions of dollars in gold bars" from the U.S. government, claiming they were needed for work-related expenses. When the CIA investigated, it was unable to locate the gold bars or any record of how Rush had used them.
The most puzzling aspect is how a senior CIA official could request and receive tens of millions in gold bars with no documented justification, and how the agency only caught on after he made repeated, escalating requests. It raises serious questions about internal oversight at one of the country's most secretive agencies.
Rush was charged with one count of stealing public money and is currently being held in jail. A detention hearing is scheduled for June 5 in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Rush is accused of getting hired and promoted at the CIA by lying repeatedly on applications — falsely claiming to be a Navy pilot and to hold advanced degrees. Court documents note that his false claims were easily dispelled by investigators, raising questions about why the CIA failed to detect them before hiring and promoting him over nearly two decades.
Specifically: Rush claimed to be a Navy Reserve captain and Air Force test pilot, fraudulently collecting $77,000 in military leave pay for 744 hours of paid time off but he had actually been honorably discharged a decade earlier in 2015 as a lieutenant, three ranks lower.
Court documents also allege he falsely claimed to have earned degrees from Clemson University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute on government job and clearance applications.
Rush was charged with one count of stealing public money and is currently being held in jail. A detention hearing is scheduled for June 5 in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Rush is accused of getting hired and promoted at the CIA by lying repeatedly on applications — falsely claiming to be a Navy pilot and to hold advanced degrees. Court documents note that his false claims were easily dispelled by investigators, raising questions about why the CIA failed to detect them before hiring and promoting him over nearly two decades.
Specifically: Rush claimed to be a Navy Reserve captain and Air Force test pilot, fraudulently collecting $77,000 in military leave pay for 744 hours of paid time off but he had actually been honorably discharged a decade earlier in 2015 as a lieutenant, three ranks lower.
Court documents also allege he falsely claimed to have earned degrees from Clemson University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute on government job and clearance applications.
Grace Taylor Dies At 89
Grace Taylor, affectionately known as "Granny Grace," passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, in Lake Placid, Florida, at the age of 89. Born on October 2, 1936, in Dothan, Alabama, Grace lived a life marked by sweetness, kindness, and an unwavering loyalty that defined her role as a loving wife and cherished matriarch.
Grace's presence was a warm embrace to all who knew her. She was a truly sweet and protective soul, whose kindness radiated in every interaction and whose loyalty was beginning to a steadfast bond with her family and friends. Her heart was most deeply felt through her exceptional talents in the kitchen—she was an excellent cook whose meals were as nourishing to the spirit as they were to the body. Beyond her culinary artistry, Grace delighted in the simple joys of life, including the pleasures of shopping and the special ritual of getting her hair, nails, and toes done, moments that reflected her graceful nature and zest for self-care.
She was the devoted wife of Herbert O'Neil Taylor, now lovingly remembered after his passing. Her legacy continues vibrantly in the lives of her beloved children: Sheree Taylor Humphries, April T. Etherton (and her husband Malcolm), and Beth Alison Bowers (with her husband Kenny). Grace was also a treasured grandmother to Shelley Jones (and Jason), Jodi Etherton, Kenny Bowers IV (with Perla), Savannah Bowers, and Waylon Bowers. Her loving presence extended even further through the generations to her great-grandchildren—Kaelyn, Leilah, Xavier, Elijah, Aria, Tylee, Isabella, Sophie, Milo, and Lily—who each carry forward her spirit.
The family will gather to honor Grace’s life with a graveside service on June 2, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Ortona Cemetery, located at 8898 Florida 78, Moore Haven, FL 33471. This service will be a heartfelt occasion for those who loved her to celebrate a remarkable life well-lived.
Grace Taylor’s passing marks the end of a chapter filled with unwavering love, gentle kindness, and cherished memories. As we bid farewell to Granny Grace, we hold close the many ways she enriched our lives—through the warmth of her kitchen, the sparkle of her well-tended nails, and the infinite kindness of her heart. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever inspire and comfort her family and all who were fortunate to know her.
Grace's presence was a warm embrace to all who knew her. She was a truly sweet and protective soul, whose kindness radiated in every interaction and whose loyalty was beginning to a steadfast bond with her family and friends. Her heart was most deeply felt through her exceptional talents in the kitchen—she was an excellent cook whose meals were as nourishing to the spirit as they were to the body. Beyond her culinary artistry, Grace delighted in the simple joys of life, including the pleasures of shopping and the special ritual of getting her hair, nails, and toes done, moments that reflected her graceful nature and zest for self-care.
She was the devoted wife of Herbert O'Neil Taylor, now lovingly remembered after his passing. Her legacy continues vibrantly in the lives of her beloved children: Sheree Taylor Humphries, April T. Etherton (and her husband Malcolm), and Beth Alison Bowers (with her husband Kenny). Grace was also a treasured grandmother to Shelley Jones (and Jason), Jodi Etherton, Kenny Bowers IV (with Perla), Savannah Bowers, and Waylon Bowers. Her loving presence extended even further through the generations to her great-grandchildren—Kaelyn, Leilah, Xavier, Elijah, Aria, Tylee, Isabella, Sophie, Milo, and Lily—who each carry forward her spirit.
The family will gather to honor Grace’s life with a graveside service on June 2, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Ortona Cemetery, located at 8898 Florida 78, Moore Haven, FL 33471. This service will be a heartfelt occasion for those who loved her to celebrate a remarkable life well-lived.
Grace Taylor’s passing marks the end of a chapter filled with unwavering love, gentle kindness, and cherished memories. As we bid farewell to Granny Grace, we hold close the many ways she enriched our lives—through the warmth of her kitchen, the sparkle of her well-tended nails, and the infinite kindness of her heart. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever inspire and comfort her family and all who were fortunate to know her.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Hendry County Arrests - DUI, Probations Violations
ARREST BLOTTER
05/18/2026 – 05/24/2026
Felony/DUI Arrest
Jose Armando Cruz, 27, LaBelle was arrested on May 19, 2026, by Det. T. Lewis on charges of Homicide
Lidell Bush, 48, LaBelle was arrested on May 19, 2026, by Det. J. Goldberg on charges of Possession of Firearm by Florida Convicted Felon
16-year-old Male, LaBelle, was arrested on May 19, 2026, by Det. J. Goldberg on charges of Possession of Firearm by Florida Delinquent - Adult Felony
Aaliah Renee Quintanilla, 19, LaBelle was arrested on May 20, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff K. Rollins on Outstanding Warrant for Lewd and Lascivious Behavior
Savon Devonte Davis, 28, LaBelle was arrested on May 21, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Conant on charges of Introduction of Contraband into Detention Facility
Shanie Lee Cox, 32, LaBelle was arrested on May 22, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff K. Rollins on charges of Child Neglect and DUI
James Leroy Powers, 21, LaBelle was arrested on May 22, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff J. Crawford on charges of Felony Probation Violation
Cruz Iran Hernandez, 29, LaBelle was arrested on May 22, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff B. Dibernardino on charges of DUI
Julio Cesar Gomez Borges, 58, Lehigh Acres was arrested on May 24, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff C. Link on charges of DUI
Carlton Moore Henderson, 50, LaBelle was arrested on May 24, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff F. Mazzella for 2 counts of Felony Probation Violation
Jesus Rubio Hernandez, 25, LaBelle was arrested on May 4, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff C. Link on charges of DUI, DUI-Refusal to Submit to DUI Testing and Operating a Motor Vehicle without Valid DL
16-year-old Male, Clewiston was arrested on May 24, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff M. Leavens on charges of Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony and Possession of Firearm by Person under 18 years of age.
05/18/2026 – 05/24/2026
Felony/DUI Arrest
Jose Armando Cruz, 27, LaBelle was arrested on May 19, 2026, by Det. T. Lewis on charges of Homicide
Lidell Bush, 48, LaBelle was arrested on May 19, 2026, by Det. J. Goldberg on charges of Possession of Firearm by Florida Convicted Felon
16-year-old Male, LaBelle, was arrested on May 19, 2026, by Det. J. Goldberg on charges of Possession of Firearm by Florida Delinquent - Adult Felony
Aaliah Renee Quintanilla, 19, LaBelle was arrested on May 20, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff K. Rollins on Outstanding Warrant for Lewd and Lascivious Behavior
Savon Devonte Davis, 28, LaBelle was arrested on May 21, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Conant on charges of Introduction of Contraband into Detention Facility
Shanie Lee Cox, 32, LaBelle was arrested on May 22, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff K. Rollins on charges of Child Neglect and DUI
James Leroy Powers, 21, LaBelle was arrested on May 22, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff J. Crawford on charges of Felony Probation Violation
Cruz Iran Hernandez, 29, LaBelle was arrested on May 22, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff B. Dibernardino on charges of DUI
Julio Cesar Gomez Borges, 58, Lehigh Acres was arrested on May 24, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff C. Link on charges of DUI
Carlton Moore Henderson, 50, LaBelle was arrested on May 24, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff F. Mazzella for 2 counts of Felony Probation Violation
Jesus Rubio Hernandez, 25, LaBelle was arrested on May 4, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff C. Link on charges of DUI, DUI-Refusal to Submit to DUI Testing and Operating a Motor Vehicle without Valid DL
16-year-old Male, Clewiston was arrested on May 24, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff M. Leavens on charges of Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony and Possession of Firearm by Person under 18 years of age.
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