A Highlands County Jury convicted Jacob Knowles of seven counts of Sexual Battery. Knowles sexually abused the young girl for several months at her home and other locations. Knowles faces life in prison when sentenced. State Attorney Brian Haas thanks Assistant State Attorney Courtney Lenhart and the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office for their hard work obtaining justice in this case.
Dwyane Rowland schemed to steal a house that was not his. The Texas man noticed that there was a man with a similar name in Polk County who owned a home. Rowland traveled here from Texas and attempted to move into the home, even employing a locksmith in an effort to get the locks changed. Thankfully, observant neighbors knew something wasn’t right and called the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Rowland was convicted by a Polk County Jury of Grand Theft, Burglary and False Information to Law Enforcement. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 14th, 2022. State Attorney Brian Haas thanks Assistant State Attorney Eric Ebbole and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for their work on this case.
Assistant State Attorney Paul Wallace was recognized at the State Attorney’s Annual Years of Service Ceremony this year for Forty-Years of Service. Wallace, Director of the Homicide Division, is one of the most meticulous, well prepared prosecutors in the state. Wallace was selected as the Gene Barry Award winner in 2019, this is the most prestigious award a prosecutor can receive from the Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association. Wallace’s experience not only helps in the courtroom, but he’s also able to share knowledge he’s obtained from previous cases with younger colleagues. The State Attorney’s Office is truly grateful for all of his time, dedication and perseverance.
Polk County Man, Elijah Stansell, was Convicted by a Polk County Jury of First-Degree Murder. Stansell, along with three other co-defendants, drove to the victim’s home to confront her son. When the victim returned home, she confronted the defendant who was driving the getaway van. As he was fleeing the area, the defendant drove his van directly towards the victim; severely injuring her. The victim subsequently died from her injuries. Stansell will be sentenced later this year to a mandatory life in prison sentence. State Attorney Brian Haas thanks Assistant State Attorney Bonde Johnson and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for their work on this case.