News Update for 2/2/26

A circuit court judge has ruled Britney Lee Andrus competent to be sentenced following her conviction in the 2022 murder of an elderly Sebring man. Andrus had been evaluated after concerns were raised about her mental health while in jail, but a court-appointed psychologist determined she understands the proceedings. She was convicted of second-degree murder, burglary with assault and battery, and grand theft auto. Sentencing is now scheduled for March 3rd.

A Highlands County judge has sentenced Noel Joseph Cardona to life in prison following his conviction for lewd and lascivious molestation of a child. A jury found Cardona guilty last August in a case involving a young girl during a sleepover, along with a separate battery charge against another child. Judge David Ward also designated Cardona a sexual predator, citing the seriousness of the crime under Florida law.

A public safety concern at Camp Florida Resort in Lake Placid has been resolved after residents reported stray bullets entering the RV park from a nearby homemade shooting range. According to the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office, deputies investigated complaints of ricocheting rounds that struck vehicles, buildings, and occupied RVs. Sheriff Paul Blackman says the property owner was unaware the range posed a risk and agreed to immediately stop shooting, relocate the range, and reinforce safety measures. The range has since been redirected away from the resort, and officials confirm it is now considered safe.

This week, February 2nd through the 6th, Highlands County residents serviced by Florida Waste Solutions can place bulk waste curbside for collection. Bulk items include large household goods like couches, mattresses, and furniture, while yard waste and bulk waste alternate every other pickup week. Residents can view the full 2026 collection calendar online and report missed pickups through the county’s website. For appliance or tire pickup, residents should contact Florida Waste Solutions directly.