Early yesterday morning at approximately 1:20 AM, our officers arrested a 16-year-old from the Orlando area for stealing from unlocked vehicles and for stealing a vehicle from the Lake Whistler Estates subdivision.

Other criminals working with him also stole items from unlocked vehicles and stole an additional vehicle from the same subdivision. Unfortunately they eluded capture.

The Auburndale Police Department encourages everyone after exiting your vehicle, to lock your doors, and avoid being the victim of a crime of opportunity. Unlocked vehicles are low hanging fruit for criminals and the first defense against a vehicle burglary is to lock your doors.

The Haines City Police Department is looking for the public’s help in locating a man and woman responsible for stealing electronics from a local retailer to the tune of more than $3,500.

The two pictured subjects visited Walmart on U.S. 27 on at least five separate locations, removing devices from high-priced items such as security cameras, thermostats and GPS devices. The two then left the store without paying before leaving in a white Kia Soul.

Anyone with information who wants to REMAIN ANONYMOUS and be eligible for a CASH REWARD is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477) or log onto www.P3tips.com to submit your tip via the web. For a secure and password protected mobile app for your smart device, go to the app store and download the free “P3tips” mobile app. No caller ID, no recorded lines, no tracking cookies, no saved IP addresses. Anonymity is GUARANTEED.

ROAD CLOSURE ALERT

On Thursday, January 2, 2020, Polk County Roads & Drainage will be closing a section of Lake Ariana Boulevard for the installation of new water and drainage systems. The closure will extend from Deen Boulevard to Denton Avenue. This closure is expected to last around 30 days, pending completion of the installations.

Traffic will be detoured along Denton Avenue and Deen Boulevard to Berkley Road (CR 655) to bypass the work zone. Residents in the area of the closure will be accommodated. For more information, contact Bill Skelton with the Polk County Roads & Drainage Division at 863-535-2200.

SANITATION ALERT

Our Sanitation Division will be picking up Christmas Trees throughout the week. Place your tree by the curb and our claw truck will come to pick it up. Please remember to remove all ornaments and accessories from the tree.

If you have any questions, please contact Public Works at 863-965-5511.