2 Correctional Officers Break Into Winter Haven Home: Police

WINTER HAVEN, FL — Two Hardee County correctional officers broke into a Winter Haven woman's home and face charges of unarmed burglary of an occupied dwelling and battery, according to the Winter Haven Police Department.

Police said on Tuesday morning, 20-year-old Vickearia Harrieth and 22-year-old Alyssia Garza-Helmsenter, both correctional officers, broke into the victim's home at Briarcrest Apartments in the 200 block of Avenue K Southeast.

Authorities said Harrieth and Garza were arrested at the apartments, but law enforcement officials are searching for three other people involved in the burglary who got away.

Lawrence Horton II, 28, of New Port Richey, is one of the three suspects police are searching for, officials said.

Police said Horton carried a handgun during the incident and pushed the victim as he continued to search the apartment for the victim's boyfriend. who was not home at the time of the incident.

Horton faces charges of armed burglary with assault, authorities said.

The two other suspects police are searching for are 20-year-old Marques Horton of Winter Haven, and 32-year-old Lakeisha Brown of Davenport, said deputies.

A warrant has been issued for Marques Horton and Brown on charges of burglary of an occupied dwelling, officials said.

The Hardee Correctional Institution has not responded to Patch's inquiry about the employment of Harrieth and Garza-Helmsenter.

If you have information that can help police find the suspects or if you have further information about the burglary call Detective Emily Lozado at 863-595-1721.

Callers wishing to remain anonymous can call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477).