A town investigation says former Howey‑in‑the‑Hills Police Chief Michael Giddens resigned after findings he had a sexual relationship with a suspect’s estranged wife. The report has been sent to state reviewers.

A Windermere man faces aggravated-assault and child-abuse counts after deputies say he struck an 11-year-old on an e-bike and smashed the child’s phone during the confrontation.

Deltona is preparing a parcel‑based fire assessment to shore up its fire and EMS budget if a statewide property‑tax amendment passes in November. The city hired a consultant last year and will follow public‑notice rules before charging property owners.

Low‑90s heat gives way to an afternoon window of storms; heavy downpours and gusts possible.

Ormond Beach‑based Security First is cutting select homeowners rates by about 5.6% and launching a disappearing deductible that reduces deductibles by 20% per claims‑free year.

Florida’s back-to-school tax holiday runs July 20–Aug 20 and covers clothing under $100, school supplies under $50 and laptops under $1,500.

A judge recommended more than $1 million for Jeff Abramowski after DNA cleared him — but he says the state still hasn’t paid. The award, expungement and paperwork are pending.

Orlando police arrested a 42-year-old man after a months-long ICAC probe tied abusive files to a Google account; he faces dozens of counts, authorities say.

The Florida Supreme Court on July 16 rejected Jermaine Foster’s bid for a new trial, leaving two death sentences in place. The ruling defers to the trial judge’s credibility findings.

Grand Roopram Roti has opened in Orlando with Surinamese roti wraps, curries and turmeric-fried chicken, bringing Hindustani‑Surinamese flavors to Rosemont. The family chain traces back to Paramaribo and has Netherlands locations.

Seven Lake County eateries were cited in the week of July 6–12; Salt Shack on the Lake logged the most high‑priority violations. State records list the full breakdown.

The Florida Chamber says the state’s GDP hit $1.89 trillion, which would rank Florida 14th worldwide if treated as a country. Different data sources change the placement.

Orange County and Orlando are activating photo‑enforced school‑zone cameras this summer; warnings start soon and $100 notices will follow.