A hit-and-run investigation in Lake Wales took an unexpected turn on Thursday, with six residents arrested on environmental and felony offenses. The incident began when deputies arrived at 4336 SR 60 East to investigate a vehicle crash, only to discover the property littered with solid waste, debris, and dozens of discarded tires.
The results prompted a call to the PCSO’s Environmental Crimes Unit. After searching the grounds, detectives discovered a massive pile of home rubbish, old furniture, children’s toys, and construction supplies.
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Investigators also uncovered toilets, twelve decomposing waste tires, and open containers of standing water. A fire pit with a diameter of more than eight feet was discovered on the site, containing charred remains of household waste.
Authorities identified the residents as Charles Cory Stewart, Mya Bass, Leigha Bass, Catherine Cantrell, Barbara Ann Busbee, and Nicholas Davis.
All six people were arrested and charged with operating an unpermitted landfill, inappropriate waste tire storage, and maintaining a nuisance property that endangers public health. They were also charged for burning illegal items and keeping an open fire greater than eight feet without the necessary permit.
Two of the residents face extra criminal charges. Charles Stewart, 34, was charged for driving without a license.
Stewart and 23-year-old Mya Bass were also charged with possessing methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia, as well as resisting arrest.
