A Winter Haven man was arrested after an undercover Polk County sting in which he allegedly agreed to pay $100 to have sex with a 14-year-old, deputies say.

Hot, humid Saturday with highs near 94°F and a heat index up to 106°F. Afternoon storms possible inland.

A state data snapshot shows Florida Poly alumni earn a median $93,600 five years after graduation — the highest among Florida public universities and a win for focused STEM training.

Hillsborough’s TPO voted 8‑6 to remove a long‑disputed I‑275 widening between Hillsborough and Bearss avenues from the five‑year TIP, pausing a costly, contested expansion. Construction remains unfunded.

St. Petersburg is lining up free America250 events — fireworks at the Pier, youth art displays and a July 1 flag‑raising at City Hall.

Jon Vigue, formerly of Wild Adventures, will lead Busch Gardens Tampa Bay as the park moves ahead with a $100M overhaul.

Aerial video shows HCSO aviation tracking a motorcycle that crossed into Manatee County; the rider, identified as Dantonio Brown, was arrested and faces charges.

Sheriff Bob Gualtieri will brief reporters Wednesday on an adoptive parent's arrest tied to child‑pornography and imagery depicting sexual activity with animals.

Quaker Steak & Lube’s Clearwater location will shut after business on July 5, closing a longtime home for car shows and bike nights.

A 73‑year‑old 7‑Eleven clerk in Largo was hospitalized after an alleged assault in the store restroom; police arrested a 56‑year‑old woman. Barnes says she hopes for more compassion.

A Lakeland man surrendered after barricading himself in a shed on June 11 when deputies warned a K9 would enter. Deputies seized a shotgun and drug items; he was booked on nine charges.

A Tampa police detective was arrested after an ICAC tip led investigators to alleged messages, money transfers and a drug delivery involving a 16‑year‑old. The department says the probe remains active.

Tarpon Springs' St. Nicholas Cathedral launched a $6M restoration campaign to tackle water damage and preserve stained glass, chandeliers and historic interior art.