Lakeland health officials warn of COVID case increase

As a result of rapidly rising number of cases, Lakeland commissioners are crafting a strongly worded resolution urging people to wear a mask, and take precautions against the virus. They plan to vote on it next Tuesday.

Polk COVID vaccine line gets 100 calls per second

The Health Department’s Nicole Riley says Polk County has about 1,500 appointment slots. But with nearly 145,000 eligible resident 65 and over, demand has overwhelmed supply.

PCSO: 3 suspects arrested after Lakeland shooting, crime spree

Polk County deputies have arrested Gardell Young Jr., 42, William Kirkland, 37, and Seth Edward Deming, 38, after they say the three men shot one person and threatened to shoot a family during a 24-hour crime spree in Lakeland.

Short chase ends with crash along I-4 in Lakeland

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a trooper spotted a “reckless vehicle” speeding along westbound I-4 near Lakeland. As the trooper began pursuing the vehicle, it crashed just west of the Route 33 exit, but kept going until it crashed again at the Socrum Loop exit three miles away.

Polk County seniors wait for vaccine updates

Lucy and Ernie Geist are not kids anymore. She is 78, and he is 81, which means they are in one of the most vulnerable groups for severe illness due to COVID-19.