An execution date has been set for Michael L. King in the 2008 North Port murder of Denise Amber Lee. Her family continues to press for better 911 training and oversight.

Tom Dundon agreed to sell a 12.5% stake in the Carolina Hurricanes at an implied $2.66B valuation, reports say, with three unnamed minority partners joining the ownership group.

Crews are installing bollards in Ridgewood Park as the West River BUILD project moves into the street. The work marks early visible progress on the Riverwalk expansion.

Deputies say a staged pickup with simulated cash led to the arrest of a 40-year-old accused of an alleged $50,000 fraud against an 81-year-old Lithia woman.

Officer Mathew Bennett was named March's Officer of the Month after a sweep near 50th Street that resulted in 30+ arrests and seizures of guns and narcotics.

A Sarasota testing lab agreed to pay $980,000 after prosecutors said it paid marketers for Medicare referrals. The company voluntarily self‑disclosed and cooperated.

Seven people were arrested in Martin County after a statewide takedown of an organized retail‑theft ring accused of stealing health and beauty products. Authorities say the stolen items were fenced online.

Lawmakers unanimously approved a measure to criminalize adults who involve children in animal cruelty; the bill now heads to the governor and would take effect Oct. 1, 2026.

A Pinellas Park SWAT search of Kevin's Motel on March 4 led to four arrests and the seizure of meth, fentanyl and prescription pills.

Hillsborough deputies arrested 29-year-old Lavardis Howard after a search turned up guns, a reportedly stolen pistol, drugs and ammunition during a Grant Park probe.

House passes CS/HB 725 to require campuses to publish political-activity rules; critics say the law could deter voter outreach and student speech.

Morning fog and sticky conditions give way to highs near 87°F; showers and thunderstorms likely after 1 p.m.

SB 1134 would bar counties and cities from funding DEI programs and could force the closure of local offices and sponsorships. Local leaders warn of broad fallout.