Polk County commissioners voted 4-1 to accept an appeal and reopen review of an 856‑acre PH Citrus sand mine near Lake Wales, reigniting a fight between neighbors and developers. The decision follows a de novo hearing held March 17.

Six Central Florida restaurants were ordered closed last week after state inspectors found rodent activity, insect infestations and sewage problems.

Troopers say a speeding driver ran a red light with seven juveniles aboard — two were found in the trunk with an open container. The driver now faces DUI and culpable‑negligence charges.

An Ohio man who pleaded guilty in his infant son's death was arrested in Daytona Beach during spring break and is being held pending extradition to Ohio.

Orlando has banned public feeding of Lake Eola’s swans and removed coin‑operated feeders after this winter’s avian‑flu losses. The city says swans will be fed via floating dispensers while staff finalize a new care plan.

Body-cam footage shows Joseph Davis, wanted for years, arrested in St. Petersburg after living under a fake name and a five‑year relationship. He faces theft and stalking charges and an Oregon warrant.

Downtown Orlando will host the Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival on April 25, 2026, marking its 10th anniversary with music, vendors and a scholarship gala.

Patchy fog and mid-60s Thursday morning in Orlando; mostly sunny with a high near 83°F and a slight chance of afternoon showers. High rip current risk at central Atlantic beaches — avoid the surf.

A man drove through a gate onto the tarmac at Daytona Beach International Airport and tried to get into a plane; deputies say he was intoxicated and is now in custody.

Clermont opened a 20‑acre Public Safety Training Facility at 400 12th St., consolidating fire and police training and bringing Lake County’s only ISO‑1 training site to town.

A federal jury convicted a Melbourne man after prosecutors say he helped move four kilograms of cocaine into Brevard County; sentencing is set for June 23.

Shipley Do‑Nuts’ Semoran shop reopens March 27–28 under new owner Virentes Hospitality with live music, giveaways and a donation to Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando. First-in-line guests can win free donuts for a year.

Thousands showed up at a Central Florida job fair even as employers pause hiring and national payrolls fell. Local workforce centers point to training and targeted follow-ups as ways to compete.