Arrest made in 95-year-old's death

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An arrest was made in connection to the death of a 95-year-old man, according to the Highlands County Sheriff's Office.

Investigators said the body of Dominic Demundo, 95, was found during a welfare check around 2 p.m. Tuesday on Wellington Drive. Investigators said they suspected a person or people Demundo recently befriended, some of whom had done work around his home.

Tuesday night, detectives identified a female person of interest in the case and Wednesday, they arrested her.

Lace Melitta Heflin, 37, of Sebring, was arrested at a financial institution after her car was spotted outside. Detectives said Heflin had someone else's wallet on her at the time of the arrest. She also had cocaine and drug paraphernalia, according to the arresting lieutenant.  

 A Highlands County Sheriff's Office Patrol Lieutenant spotted a vehicle that was thought to be connected with Heflin at a local financial institution earlier today. When detectives entered the facility, the subject was discovered in possession of a concealed ladies wallet that did not belong to her. A search subsequent to this arrest resulted in additional charges of possession of cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Highland's County Chief Deputy Mark Schrader said Wednesday the investigation was still ongoing and search warrants were pending against Heflin. For now, she was charged with theft and possession charges unrelated to Demundo's death. 

Investigators asked anyone who knows people who recently became acquainted with Demundo to contact the Highlands County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit at 863-402-7250 and speak with Detective Jody Stowers.

Anyone with information who wants to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477) or visit www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com.