For Dugout Mug inventor, major-league dream turns into the American dream
Randall Thompson never made it to the major leagues, but this former Toronto minor leaguer's idea has. Dugout Mugs popped into Randall's head while sitting on the bench coaching at his alma mater, Florida Tech.
Neighbors grab burglary suspect who attacked Winter Haven homeowner, hold him down until police arrive
Neighbors rushed to help a Winter Haven homeowner who had been attacked by an alleged burglar, holding down the suspect until police arrived.
Valrico man killed in three-vehicle crash, deputies say
Polk County deputies said a 63-year-old man from Valrico was killed following a crash in Lakeland.
It’s back: Sun ‘n Fun makes its return to Lakeland
After a cancellation last year and a postponement this year, Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo organizers are making up for lost time.
Science teacher brings Florida aesthetic to jewelry making
An elementary school teacher is using her love for science -- and her dog -- to create beautiful pieces inspired by Florida's natural beauty.
Father of 2-year-old beating victim wants harsher charges for suspect
Jayden Hines, 2, was pronounced dead at Lakeland Regional Medical Center early Friday morning after suffering blunt-force trauma to multiple areas of his body, according to police.
Sunday morning storms cause damage throughout Tampa Bay
People are cleaning up after strong storms Sunday morning caused damage throughout Tampa Bay. In some areas, strong winds tore off roofs and knocked down trees and powerlines.
Wrong-way driver arrested for DUI after almost crashing into state trooper
Efrain Caamano Fernandez is facing DUI charges after nearly hitting a state trooper head-on while traveling the wrong way on US-98 just north of Van Fleet Drive early Sunday morning.
Lakeland police find man's body while searching for missing person
Officers in Lakeland discovered the body of a 42-year-old man inside a vehicle after he was reported missing on Saturday.
Lakeland man beat child to death for urinating on couch, police say
Police arrested Alegray Jones, 30, after they say he killed his girlfriend’s two-year-old son while she was at work on Friday.
Take a ride on the wild side this weekend at Bone Valley ATV Park
If you like heading off the beaten track for some fun, Polk County might have just the thing for you.
Pennsylvania quadruple-murder suspect was hiding out in Lake Alfred, FBI says
How well do you know your neighbors? People in a quiet Lake Alfred neighborhood were surprised to find out who was living -- or allegedly hiding out -- there.
Doctors donate time to provide free medical services to Polk County’s uninsured
Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine Healthcare have helped more than 30,000 patients since 2001 with medical services from colonoscopies to cancer treatments.
Polk County COVID-19 vaccine distribution
After several different phases of COVID-19 vaccine rollout, all adults in Polk County are now eligible for the vaccine.
Polk man accused of pointing weapon at Tire Choice employees
A Polk County man was arrested after he was spotted in Winter Haven, on an overpass, carrying what appeared to be a rifle, but it turned out to be a pellet gun, police said.
Business boom at Lakeland Linder airport continues
The numbers are in, and they are big. According to a recent study, Lakeland Linder International Airport has an economic impact of $1.5 billion on the area.
Goodwill burglary suspect arrested after trying to run away from Polk County deputy, officials say
A Lakeland man faces charges after burglarizing a Goodwill store and trying to flee from a deputy, according to the sheriff’s office.
Sun 'n Fun returns to the skies over Lakeland after last year's cancellation
After being canceled last year because of COVID-19, the Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo is being reborn. The fly-in returns next week at Lakeland Linder International Airport.
‘OnStar is a beautiful thing’: Polk woman tries to steal vehicle from dealership during test drive, police say
Winter Haven police arrested a woman who is accused of pretending to be interested in purchasing a car, but instead drove away and never returned during a test drive.
Florida couple charged with $5.8-million COVID relief fraud
A Polk County couple is accused of fraudulently collecting $5.8 million in COVID-19 relief money and using it to buy a luxury car, Louis Vuitton merchandise, and more, then flaunting it on Facebook.