San Martin Boulevard will drop to one lane on March 30 as the city relocates pipes under Riviera Bay; expect delays through October 2026.

Willy Ritch, who led Maine’s anti‑public‑utility campaign in 2023, appears on a Pinellas group’s site backing Duke Energy — raising questions about outside influence in a local utility fight.

A North Port High School teacher was arrested March 26 after police say he engaged in sexual activity with a minor. The district and police say the investigation is ongoing.

FDOT says the 1960s northbound span of the Howard Frankland Bridge has been demolished while crews finish express lanes, a shared‑use path and final touches ahead of a summer 2026 wrap.

A federal judge in Florida stripped Vladimir Volgaev of U.S. citizenship after finding he hid a years‑long firearm‑parts smuggling scheme and lied during naturalization.

A woman is in critical condition after a hit-and-run on Gulf Boulevard in St. Pete Beach; deputies later arrested a 43-year-old after locating a 2019 Escalade.

Applebee’s corporate will acquire a 57-unit Tampa franchisee after a Chapter 11 filing that lists roughly $22 million in liabilities and multiple local closures.

Hillsborough detectives say three people were arrested after roughly $75,000 in high-end liquor was recovered from a Tampa distributor. Charges include grand theft and dealing in stolen property.

A morning fire at a Citgo on West Busch Boulevard closed lanes and slowed traffic; firefighters reported no injuries and investigators are on scene.

Three Pensacola residents were indicted on federal charges including bank fraud, passport fraud and aggravated identity theft; a jury trial is set for May 4, 2026. The case follows a multiagency investigation.

Manatee County deputies say Amado Sanchez is wanted on weapons and cocaine charges; the sheriff's office posted a bulletin asking for tips.

A Hillsborough County deputy was arrested in Port Richey on March 24 and charged with domestic aggravated battery. The sheriff suspended him without pay as criminal and internal probes continue.

Pasco County wants to renew a one‑mill property tax that funds salary supplements for teachers and staff. The school board has asked the county to put the question on the November ballot.