Polk

Polk County Law Firm Owner Accused of Misappropriating $1.8 Million from Client Trust for Gambling Spree

by

Lakeland, FL — A lawsuit recently filed in Polk County alleges that the owner of a local law firm misappropriated approximately $1.8 million from a client’s trust fund, subsequently losing the funds through extensive gambling activities. The civil suit targets Gregory Winters, proprietor of Winters Law Firm, accusing him of breach of fiduciary duty, among other serious charges. The plaintiff, identified as 60-year-old Maria Lopez, entrusted Winters in 2019 with the management of her late husband’s estate. The funds, intended to secure her financial future, were instead covertly diverted for Winters’ personal use, specifically large-scale … Read more

Judge Rules Against Polk Lawyers’ Attempt to Mandate Judicial Election

by

BARTOW, Fla. — A lawsuit aiming to compel a judicial election in Polk County was dismissed by a judge. This legal action, initiated by two local attorneys, was founded on the allegation of irregularities concerning a vacancy on the bench. The motion was brought forth after Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Keith Merritt to a judgeship following the retirement of Judge Robert Griffin. The plaintiffs argued that this appointment was irregular as they believed the position should have been filled through an election, thereby giving the public an opportunity to weigh in. Legal representatives for the … Read more

Polk County Declares Disaster Ahead of Tropical Storm Beryl’s Expected Escalation to Hurricane

by

Polk County, Texas is bracing for the impact of Tropical Storm Beryl, which is predicted to escalate into a hurricane as it approaches the Texas coastline. In anticipation of the severe weather threat, a disaster declaration was signed by County Judge Sydney Murphy on Saturday. The proclamation comes as Beryl is tracked moving toward the area with increasing strength, expected to hit early Monday, July 8, 2024. This preemptive measure aims to prepare and protect the community which is still recuperating from previous storm damages earlier in April. According to the declaration, Beryl is likely … Read more

Polk County Supervisors Set to Vote on $60,000 Settlement in Explosive Libel Case against Fellow Officials

by

POLK COUNTY, Iowa – Polk County supervisors are expected to vote on a proposed $60,000 settlement to resolve a unique and explosive case brought by Supervisor Matt McCoy against four fellow supervisors and County Administrator John Norris. The settlement, recommended by Polk County Risk Management, would cover McCoy’s current and future legal costs. According to the resolution, the settlement is seen as the best way to resolve the claims without the expenses and risks of continued litigation. Supervisors have announced plans to release a joint statement following the meeting on Tuesday. McCoy’s lawsuit is one … Read more