January 1, Florida Sheriff Slams Lake Brawl Chaos

Wyatt’s Take

• A lakeside fight shocks families and children in Polk County.
• Sheriff Judd cracks down on disruptive boaters after years of warnings.
• Eight arrests highlight the growing lawlessness on local waterways.

A wild fight broke out by Lake Winterset in Florida, leaving families horrified and a man needing CPR. Video shows punches thrown and people scrambling as the brawl spilled from the water onto shore.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd was furious after seeing the footage and is stepping up efforts to shut down unruly gatherings. He warned that lawbreakers won’t get another chance to test his patience.

“If you want to go knuckle-busting and create permanent brain injuries or the ability to have a permanent brain injury… you have to do it on your own property without creating a disturbance to your neighbors,” Judd said.

Eight people, mostly in their late teens and early 20s, along with a 40-year-old, were arrested on charges of rioting, affray, trespass, and disorderly conduct. The sheriff explained that two feuding groups, once friends, let their issues explode into violence after a bar fight earlier this year.

Boaters have ignored clear trespassing signs and made life tough for locals with loud music and rowdy parties. Judd said a legal loophole allowed offenders to stand in the water but step onto land to start trouble.

“You put one toe on that land this weekend, you’re going to jail. You stand in the water and put your finger up on that dry land, and you’re going to go to jail.”

The sheriff promised to push for stricter noise rules and warned offenders to have bail money ready if they cross the line again.

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Wyatt Matters

Violence and disrespect on public waterways make it harder for local families to enjoy simple pleasures. Strong leadership and accountability are needed to keep neighborhoods safe and peaceful for everyone.