News Update for 05/05/26

A local call to give back is happening later this month. Lakeshore Mall in Sebring will host a Volunteer Fair on Saturday, May 23rd from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free event will feature multiple Highlands County non-profit organizations looking to connect with volunteers and share ways to get involved year-round. Organizers say it’s a great opportunity to learn about community needs, ask questions, and make a difference. For local groups, table reservations are required by May 18th.

American Legion Post Number 69 in Avon Park will host a Memorial Day ceremony at 1 p.m. on May 25th. The event includes a JROTC color guard presentation, national anthem, speakers, and a tribute honoring 29 local veterans who passed this year. Featured guests include state and national Legion leaders. The event is open to the public, with food served afterward. A blood drive will also run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on site.

A Frostproof man is trading hard seltzers for handcuffs after getting caught on camera mid-snack run. The property owner, who was out of town, alerted the Polk County Sheriff’s Office after spotting the intruder on camera. Deputies responded and found 48-year-old Michelangelo Alfieri hiding behind a camper. Investigators say he had stolen vodka seltzers from the home. Alfieri now faces a felony burglary charge, along with misdemeanor counts of trespassing and theft, and remains in custody.

A Polk County man is facing child abuse and hate crime charges. Deputies say Andre Brown Jr. was arrested after allegedly attacking a five-year-old boy he was watching in Davenport. Investigators say Brown became angry over the child’s sexual orientation, repeatedly slammed him to the ground, and struck him with a belt. The boy suffered visible injuries, including a fractured wrist. Authorities say Brown admitted to the assault, leading to additional hate crime charges.