Deputies say callers posing as an FTC agent convinced a Charlotte County resident to withdraw nearly $50,000; a driver was arrested during a planned second pickup. The case remains under investigation.

A 3-year-old was shot in the forearm after finding a loaded handgun left in a bed in Tampa; police arrested a 30-year-old and charged him in the shooting.

A Minnesota man who posed as “Julia” was convicted after prosecutors say he tricked a Bradenton widower into sending money; the judge ordered jail time and $31K restitution.

Three Pasco County campuses were placed on controlled campus status Wednesday while police investigated an unrelated incident nearby. Officials say the move was precautionary and updates are pending.

A 25-year-old Myakka City woman is recovering after her car struck an alligator and flipped. A GoFundMe has raised funds to help cover medical and living costs during recovery.

Hillsborough detectives have named 18‑year‑old Marcus Cooley wanted on attempted felony murder and other gun charges. Officials ask anyone with tips to contact HCSO.

Deputies say a man shoved a convenience-store employee and stole cigarettes at 8458 N. Dale Mabry Hwy on April 12, leaving the worker with a broken wrist. He was arrested and booked on robbery and felony battery counts.

A Sarasota vet tech was convicted after prosecutors say venomous snakes and a monitor lizard were found emaciated and dying; he was jailed and must register on the animal abuser registry.

New video shows the moments before Pinellas Park officers shot 39‑year‑old veteran Ryan LeCompte after a hours‑long standoff. An independent use‑of‑force task force is investigating.

State investigators halted admissions at a Tampa 30‑bed mental‑health facility after a death in care; records show staff used a prone restraint.

A 60-year-old Wimauma man faces multiple felony counts after deputies say he fired at four people fishing on Lake Wimauma Monday night; no one was hurt.

Two dogs fought inside a Palm Harbor Walmart Tuesday, injuring three employees and two dog owners. Animal Control and deputies responded and one person was taken to the hospital.

Prosecutors filed notice to seek the death penalty for Diana Cullom after medical examiners determined her 4‑year‑old son was suffocated. A status hearing is set for April 20.