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A woman testified before House Ethics Committee investigators that she witnessed former Rep. Matt Gaetz engaging in sexual acts with a 17-year-old girl. This revelation comes amidst allegations of sex trafficking involving Gaetz, who has been nominated to be attorney general in the upcoming Trump administration. Despite the serious allegations, Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing.
New Florida legislative leaders, House Speaker Danny Perez and Senate President Ben Albritton, have initiated a surprising focus on the state's insurance industry and affordability crisis. Their populist messaging marks a significant shift from traditional Republican orthodoxy, as they call for more accountability from insurance companies regarding claims and pricing.
A recent review has determined that three Pinellas County deputies acted lawfully when they shot Jeremy Reed during a domestic incident on November 8, 2024. The deputies opened fire as Reed approached family members while armed, an action that led to his arrest on aggravated assault charges. The St. Petersburg Police Department conducted the investigation, emphasizing the importance of independent reviews in use-of-force incidents.
A former Hernando County deputy has resigned amid allegations of stealing money from a police organization. This incident opens up a criminal investigation, raising concerns about trust and accountability within local law enforcement. The case highlights the importance of integrity among public officials in the community.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he aims to appoint a replacement for U.S. Senator Marco Rubio by early January. This decision is significant for Floridians as it will determine the state's representation in the Senate following Rubio's departure.
Sarasota's Celery Fields, a prime bird-watching destination attracting over 100,000 visitors annually, is at the center of community debate due to plans for a redevelopment project involving 170 homes. Local organizations, particularly the Audubon Society, are raising concerns that such development could jeopardize the ecological integrity and appeal of this significant natural area.
Florida Highway Patrol is on the lookout for a woman who fled the scene after crashing her Chevrolet Tahoe into a parked Honda Fit, which subsequently collided with a Pasco County home, resulting in the death of a 37-year-old man. Witnesses describe the suspect as a disoriented woman in her mid-30s with reddish-blond hair. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact them or Crime Stoppers.
Tampa police have confirmed that two separate death investigations near the Courtney Campbell Causeway are unrelated, following the recovery of two bodies just days apart. The first body, found on a Tuesday, was identified as a Hispanic man in his 30s, while the second, discovered on Sunday, was that of a teenage boy. Authorities have indicated that there are no signs of foul play in either case.
The Tampa Police Department is conducting investigations into two unrelated deaths discovered in the waters near the Courtney Campbell Causeway. The first body, recovered on November 17, 2024, is that of a deceased black male believed to be in his mid-teens, with no apparent signs of trauma. Authorities are working to identify the individuals involved and notify their next of kin.
Three gang members have been sentenced to prison, while 19 others are facing federal charges in a significant check fraud conspiracy that impacted 200 victims in Polk County. This operation, linked to the Trap Boys gang, highlights the ongoing issues of crime and public safety in the region.