A Lake Wales man, Andrew Joseph McHaffie, was arrested for stealing a woman's phone and making unauthorized transactions, escalating to felony charges due to his criminal history.

Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit swiftly rescued an injured 18-year-old from the water after a jet ski accident, providing first aid until further medical treatment arrived.

Two men were arrested by Polk County Sheriff's Office in separate incidents for lewd conduct and marijuana possession at county parks.

A Polk County man received an 18-year sentence for meth trafficking after pleading guilty, highlighting Operation Take Back America's federal efforts against crime.

Daniel Velazquez was arrested in a Hernando County drug sting, where over 380 grams of fentanyl were seized. He tried to flush evidence and was bitten by a K-9. His girlfriend, Jahira Rodriguez, was also arrested for her involvement.

A man in Winter Haven was arrested for attempting murder with a machete during a tool dispute. He also faced drug charges and had a prior criminal history.

A man in Hernando County is charged with arson for a house fire in Spring Hill, also hindering firefighter efforts during a brush fire. No injuries reported, but the home was lost.

The U.S. Attorney's Office in Florida is intensifying efforts against human trafficking with legal action, education, and collaboration with federal and local agencies, as part of a national prevention initiative.

Tampa Fire Rescue responded to a severe fire in a residential area, evacuated an occupant, and saved pets, with no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Pedestrian Michael Arndt was fatally struck by an allegedly impaired driver in Madeira Beach; the driver, Vanessa Downs, is charged with DUI Manslaughter.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is seeking help to find missing endangered adult James Harris, who has dementia, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, last seen on January 22, 2026.

Jaureecio Thornton, 26, was arrested by Hillsborough County deputies for multiple felony warrants and found with a loaded gun, drugs, and stolen cards.

A contractor struck a water main in Clearwater, causing reduced water pressure and potential for a boil water notice. Repair crews are assessing the damage.