A Georgia woman pleaded no contest in a multi‑state refund‑fraud case that prosecutors say used fake rug returns at TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods. Sentencing is set for Aug. 3.

A Hillsborough County complaint says David Nolan‑Hersey lost two fingers after a bite at an APD‑licensed group home developed into necrotizing fasciitis. The suit names the provider and alleges delayed care.

A new Florida law forces listing sites to display realistic tax estimates or link buyers to county tax tools, aiming to prevent surprise bills after closing.

A Lakeland man was arrested after police say he used flashing lights and a siren to bypass traffic on the Clearwater Memorial Causeway and was charged with impersonating an officer.

UF field tests suggest routine fungicide sprays can loft bacterial spot across tomato rows, prompting UF/IFAS trials of new sprayer setups and timing.

Sarasota police are investigating the death of a man found near Central Avenue early Tuesday; detectives say the incident appears isolated.

Seniors at the Hampton Apartments in Clearwater say they endured more than two weeks without central air-conditioning before management confirmed repairs Monday.

A person was killed after a tree fell onto a Zephyrhills home Monday afternoon. Pasco deputies say the incident does not appear criminal and an investigation is under way.

A man was critically injured Monday after being struck by lightning at a Lake Jovita home in Dade City. Pasco County Fire Rescue says bystanders performed CPR before crews arrived.

Highs near 94°F Tuesday with a heat index up to 104°F and scattered afternoon storms. Brief heavy downpours possible where storms form.

Center Connect is planning a 63,225-square-foot open-air marketplace at the Marketplace at Nocatee, slated to open in 2028. The Hub will center dining, shopping and live entertainment around a courtyard with golf-cart parking.

An en banc Eleventh Circuit opinion says Alabama’s total residential ban on certain convicted parents faces strict‑scrutiny review and has been remanded for narrower review.

FDOT has begun building pedestrian overpasses on the Suncoast Trail at SR 52 and SR 54 to reduce dangerous highway crossings; the Touchpoint Drive trailhead is closed during construction.