Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the city government have let down the victims, survivors, Pulse families and the community since the beginning, but it continues still today, ten years later, with unanswered questions, unfulfilled public records requests, and a push for a memorial that resembles some kind of tourism lure and a museum, instead of a solemn, peaceful memorial. At every step, Mayor Dyer and other local politicians have sought the spotlight when talking about Pulse. Grief is not a press release. It is a scar. And the victims, survivors and families truly carry that scar.

In fact, Pulse Families and Survivors for Justice, a grassroots collective of those affected both directly and indirectly by the mass shooting at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida on June 12, 2016 that is made up of survivors, families of those murdered, and members of the local LGBTQ+ community, has been working to raise public awareness and serve as a watchdog over the city and mayor. Their goal is to “develop a people’s history of the Pulse shooting that is told by the families, survivors, and local advocates, is supported by documented facts, and is not a sanitized narrative that serves the special interests of local law enforcement, politicians, nonprofits, area tourism, and the nightclub owner Barbara Poma.”

The groups has been resisting the City of Orlando’s corruption, lies, and coverup, as well as their revictimizing Pulse Memorial Committee process and the exploitative “First Response Collecting” among many other issues. Because of their work and public records requests, so much has been exposed including:

City of Orlando Lied, Hid Pulse Photos of Blocked Door from Public for 9 Years

PULSE Survivors Call Out The City of Orlando

City of Orlando, Mayor Buddy Dyer Exposed for Pulse Scandals

Is City of Orlando Obstructing Justice by Preventing Pulse Building Inspection?

The City of Orlando and Mayor Buddy Dyer simply can’t be trusted with the narrative of this devastating tragedy. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer refused to step down from his role on the defunct and corrupt OnePULSE Foundation Chairman’s Ambassador’s Council despite calls from a community coalition that said there were clear conflicts of interest.

Buddy Dyer’s city government allowed Pulse to operate as a death trap. Illegal, unpermitted renovations completed at Pulse left patrons trapped inside the building, obstructed their escape to safety, and caused additional injury, according to Pulse Families and Survivors for Justice. Dyer’s Chief of Staff Heather Fagan and his official spokesperson Ashley Papagni lied for years and prevented the truth from coming out. Dyer’s City Clerk’s office under Stephanie Herdocia and now-deptuy clerk Danielle Abdul-Nabi hid records, prevented their release and even attempted to charge Pulse advocates hundreds of thousands of dollars for public records – yes, hundreds of thousands of dollars. All involved should resign in shame.

Pulse survivor Jorshua N. Hernández Carrión sent these questions directly Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Chief of Staff Heather Fagan, Public Information Manager Ashley Papagni, and Commissioner Patty Sheehan – but he only received an empty response from Fagan with no answers, nor any offer of help to find the answers:

The City has the answers to these questions. Only the City can provide those answers to us. We desperately need closure on these issues pertaining to the City. Please, don’t let us go another year without providing us answers to these questions:

Building Inspections: When was the last time the PULSE had a building inspection by the City? Not an exit check or Fire Department inspection, but a full building inspection?
We have not seen a single record of an actual building inspection done on Pulse and the 2004 record says there was a “hold with override” put on the last entry in its permitting records.

We know that the City called off the inspection that was to be done by Fire Marshal Tammy Hughes, specifically to document code violations. Who made the decision to not inspect PULSE and to call this inspection off?

Why did the City, after it purchased the building and before the 2025 site visits, not allow victim advocates to pay for an independent building inspection for us to have proper documentation?

OPD Investigation: When the Orlando Police Department conducted its involuntary manslaughter investigation into the Pomas for the unpermitted renovations and code violations at PULSE, why did they not record its interviews with city staff? They recorded interviews with survivors/families.

What questions were asked?

If there are no recordings, are there transcripts of those interviews?

Since the Pomas employed OPD officers for years and had a close relationship with the City, even having a BBQ restaurant inside City Hall and working directly with the City’s former Chief Protocol Officer Earl Crittenden as Chairman of the onePULSE Foundation, why didn’t the OPD refer this investigation to the FDLE or another law enforcement agency due to obvious conflicts of interest. This investigation had to do with code violations that the City never enforced. The City was essentially investigating itself. Isn’t this a serious ethics violation? Why does the City think that this investigation isn’t biased and can be trusted by survivors?

Exits and Safety Statements:

In 2016, the City: Claimed that there were “no obstructed exits” and “no obstructed aisles.” Stated: “we don’t believe there were any life/safety issues inside the building that would prevent people from getting out of the building or rescuers from getting in.”
“We have no indication that exits were blocked at the time of the incident.”

But photographs and the experiences of survivors tell a different story as does the City’s own records. How can the City reconcile its prior statements with its own evidence, made public nine years after the shooting?

Walls and Escape Routes: In 2016, the City stated, “we understand, a wall was removed which would have made it easier for people to move around.” But, walls were also added around designated exits that were not actual exits at all because they led to areas enclosed by an illegal, unpermitted fence that violated city code. Why did the City choose to spotlight a removed wall, but not mention the narrow corridors around designated exits that hindered victims’ ability to escape by forcing them through narrow passageways?

Conditional Use Permit and Nightclub Operations: Did PULSE operate as a nightclub in violation of its conditional use permit?

Did PULSE’s conditional use permit allow it to operate as a nightclub, with a dancefloor, and entertainment venue that charged nightly covers? Or, did the conditional use permit restrict the Pomas to operating PULSE as a restaurant with a martini bar with a specific floor plan that was not in compliance at the time of the shooting? The OPD investigation determined that PULSE was in violation of its conditional use permit, even as the Office of the Mayor denied it.

Did altering the approved floor plan through unpermitted renovations violate Pulse’s conditional use permit?

Did the City’s zoning law differentiate a nightclub/dancehall from a restaurant (eating and drinking establishment)? Are these two different uses, as stated in the City’s code and by City zoning officials?

Why did PIO Ashley Papagni state that nightclubs and restaurants are the same use and both were considered eating and drinking establishments, in direct contradiction to written statements made by the City’s zoning and development officials?

Outdoor Patio Permit: Did Rosario Poma pull a permit for the outdoor patio? If not, then why did code enforcement claim that Pulse had the permit and why did they close the complaint made against the nightclub for this violation? Does the City admit that its Permitting Division made mistakes when it came to enforcing compliance at PULSE? Why did the City allow PULSE to operate with so many violations for 12 years? The City’s code enforcement is known for its heavy use of citations and fees for code violations, but for some reason PULSE owners never received a single citation. Why?

Why did Timothy Johnson receive a promotion after the shooting; after Fire Marshal Tammy Hughes indicated in text messages that “TJ” was going to have to answer some tough questions as to why he allowed the violations at Pulse?

Fence and Emergency Exits: Did the PULSE fence violate city codes in terms of placement and height? Did the fence have the proper emergency hardware on its gates, as photographed by the City? Why wasn’t the lack of emergency hardware ever cited by the Fire Department?

The City claims that Pulse had six “exits,” but four emptied into fully-enclosed areas; areas enclosed by the unpermitted fence. Therefore, these were not real exits. Does the City admit there were only two doors that actually provided unobstructed egress and led directly outside? The main entrance, where the shooter entered, and the double door exits in the South side of the building?

Occupancy and Over Capacity: Does the City have any documented evidence that PULSE was not over capacity on the night of the shooting?

Will the City admit that the legal capacity limit was 299 and that the FBI validated at least 304 victims/survivors, showing that it was over capacity.

Does the City acknowledge that there were additional survivors who did not apply for financial assistance through the City’s oneOrlando Fund who take this number even higher?

Before it became PULSE, Lorenzo’s restaurant had a maximum capacity of 75. The Pomas did not expand the building legally and the building maintained the same square footage. How did the City come up with the 299 capacity? Where is the occupancy load evaluation for this and did the Fire Department use the nightclub’s unpermitted building plans and furnishings (i.e. stripper stages) when calculating this? Will the City finally provide this documentation to survivors?

Police Response: At what exact time did police enter the building? Did the first police officers on scene, including Det. Adam Gruler, act in accordance with nationally-established Active Shooter Protocol?

Records and Evidence Handling: Did the Office of the Mayor try to destroy evidence of PULSE’s permitting records, code violations, or anything else pertaining to the building—including, “wiping the City’s backup server” as alleged by Commissioner Shan Rose?

These 49 questions about Pulse Orlando were also posed to the City of Orlando in regards to the issues around the Pulse nightclub, the City of Orlando, unpermitted renovations, and code violations, and all questions were based on public records that were uncovered:

Pulse Families and Survivors For Justice also released first responders audio recordings that the city never released to the public.

So when you remember Pulse in Orlando, look to victims, survivors and families. This is about them:

Akyra Monet Murray

Alejandro Barrios Martínez

Ángel Luis Candelario Padró

Anthony Luis Laureano Disla

Antonio Davon Brown

Brenda Lee Márquez-McCool

Christopher Joseph Sanfeliz

Cory James Connell

Christopher Andrew Leinonen

Juan Ramón Guerrero

Darryl Roman Burt II

Deonka Drayton

Eddie Jamoldroy Justice

Edward Sotomayor Jr.

Enrique L. Rios

Eric Ivan Ortiz-Rivera

Frank Hernández Escalante

Franky Jimmy De Jesús Velázquez

Geraldo A. Ortiz Jiménez

Gilberto Ramón Silva Menéndez

Jason Benjamin Josaphat

Javier Jorge-Reyes

Jean Carlos Méndez Pérez

Luis Daniel Wilson León

Jean Carlos Nieves Rodríguez

Jerald Arthur Wright

Joel Rayón Paniagua

Jonathan Antonio Camuy Vega

Juan Chavez Martinez

Juan Pablo Rivera Velázquez

Kimberly Jean Morris

Leroy Valentín Fernández

Luis Daniel Conde

Luis Omar Ocasio-Capo

Luis Sergio Vielma

Martin Benítez Torres

Yilmary Rodríguez Solivan

Mercedez Marisol Flores

Amanda Lizette Alvear

Miguel Ángel Honorato

Oscar Ambiorix Aracena-Montero

Paul Terrell Henry

Peter González-Cruz

Rodolfo Ayala Ayala

Shane Evan Tomlinson

Stanley Almodóvar III

Simón Adrián Carrillo Fernández

Tevin Eugene Crosby

Xavier Emmanuel Serrano Rosado

The post When Remembering Pulse, Look to Victims, Survivors, Families Not the City of Orlando appeared first on West Orlando News.

The caller told dispatchers there were a total of four people inside their vehicle, including a child. They remained on the line while Totherow continued following them northbound on Park Road and onto the Interstate 4 eastbound on-ramp.

Totherow continued to follow and discharge his firearm before ultimately continuing eastbound on I-4 as the victims exited onto County Line Road.

Deputies located the victims shortly after and confirmed their vehicle had been struck by gunfire multiple times. Through investigative efforts, detectives identified Totherow as the shooter.

Detectives located Totherow and took him into custody. A firearm was recovered from his vehicle. During an interview, Totherow admitted to firing multiple rounds at the victims’ vehicle and stated he intended to kill the driver.

According to local law enforcement, Totherow was charged with: Attempted Murder in the First Degree Premeditated Firearm – Discharge, Aggravated Battery Great Bodily Harm Firearm – Discharge (x4), Discharge Firearm from a Vehicle, Shooting at Within or Into a Vehicle, Armed Possession of Controlled Substance, and Driving While License Canceled, Suspended, or Revoked.

“This reckless and violent behavior put multiple innocent lives at risk on our roadways,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Thanks to the quick actions of our Communications Center and the coordinated response of our deputies and detectives, this suspect was taken into custody before anyone was killed. We will not tolerate violence in our community.”

The post Dangerous I-4 Road Rage Shooting Targeted Car with Child appeared first on West Orlando News.

75% of seniors in the U.S. want to age in the comfort of their own homes, but maintaining that independence isn’t easy.

The cost of living has skyrocketed about 25% in the last six years, and research from the University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation found that more than half of older adults have not taken steps to continue living in their homes – such as installing a walk-in shower or moving their bedroom to the first floor.

Even for those who prepare for the years ahead, unexpected life events can disrupt their carefully crafted plans. Hospitalization takes a major emotional, physical and financial toll on those 65 and older and often makes it harder for them to return to life as they know it; studies show it can lead to increased mobility challenges and anxiety levels. The impact can grow with readmissions, which are common. Around 20% of seniors return to the hospital within a month even if their first visit to the emergency room wasn’t for a life-threatening problem.

It’s imperative that older adults understand the risks of hospitalization and how to minimize the potentially life-altering effects.

Emergencies are unpredictable but how you respond to them doesn’t have to be. Communicate with your friends and family about who can serve as a temporary caregiver if you’re ever recovering from a hospital stay. By deciding who can complete necessary tasks – like buying groceries or prescriptions – you can focus on getting better.

Continue this proactive approach by reducing obstacles in your home. Secure any rugs, add grab bars to your bathroom and organize your cabinets so that items you regularly use are on lower shelves. With the CDC estimating that about 3 million seniors land in the emergency room every year due to falls, these simple changes can help keep you safe during what can be a vulnerable time.

Once you’re back home, make exercise a priority. Dedicate time every day for physical activity that’s appropriate for your recovery – whether it’s tai chi, shoulder rolls or walking in place – and gradually build up your routine. By making a promise to yourself to stay active, you’re building a stronger and brighter future; research indicates that exercise can reduce your chances of developing mobility issues post discharge.

Senior Resource Alliance – which operates in Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Brevard counties – is doing its part to help older adults stay independent by preventing unnecessary readmissions through a partnership with AdventHealth in Central Florida. We connect people who have chronic health disease and have left the hospital to a network of resources, including food delivery, transportations services, medication reminders, and light housekeeping assistance. 94% of participants did not have to return to the hospital during the 30-day intervention period.

The success of this program underscores the need to develop a plan that’s both personalized and actionable. Identify a support system that you can rely on, understand how to address your needs and take charge of your senior years.

If this seems daunting, assistance is only a phone call away. Dial Senior Resource Alliance’s Elder Helpline at 407-514-1800 to get connected to multiple programs – like caregiving services, evidence-based fall prevention courses, chronic disease management workshops and tai chi classes – all at no cost.

Let us join your journey to independence.




Karla Radka is the President & CEO of Senior Resource Alliance, the local resource for accessing the many services and programs of the state and federal government, available to senior citizens, their caregivers and family members. SRA also is an objective clearinghouse for information and services offered by local, state, and national organizations. The nonprofit has been serving the community since 1985.

The post Seniors: Preserve Independence as You Age, Intentionally appeared first on West Orlando News.

And for that, a Seminole County jury convicted 29-year-old Lenell Barnes III of burglary of a structure with more than $1,000 in losses, a first-degree felony punishable by up to life in prison.

Prosecutors Joan Jean, Niko Smith and Domenick Leo presented jurors with store security video and testimony from police officers that proved Barnes was the ski-masked burglar who broke into Casa Leon Jewelers around 11:17pm on April 27, 2024. Carrying a hammer and yellow duffel bag, the burglar discovered the jewelry cases had been emptied by store staff and quickly fled in the truck.

At a hearing, prosecutors successfully argued that Barnes should be sentenced as a Habitual Violent Felony Offender, a designation based on his criminal record that enables longer minimum sentences. Barnes’ prior convictions included aggravated assault, attempted armed robbery, attempted carjacking, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, records show. Barnes committed the April 2024 jewelry store burglary within five years of his release from prison from a previous offense.

“The conduct of crashing a vehicle into the side of a building to effectuate a burglary is a gross disregard for the safety and sanctity of the community,” Assistant State Attorney Domenick Leo said in a sentencing brief. “Further, leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase on a busy road … is the essence of what the public needs to be protected from.”

Circuit Judge Melanie Chase sentenced Barnes to 15 years in state prison for the burglary and five years for possession of burglary tools. The sentences will run concurrently.

Lake Mary Police arrived at the store within minutes in response to a store alarm triggered by broken glass. A store manager immediately provided security video showing the suspect arriving and leaving in the truck. Police alerted other agencies to be on the lookout for the truck.

Orlando Police soon spotted the truck, and Barnes led them on a high-speed chase through Pine Hills before getting out of the vehicle and running on foot. An Orlando officer testified that as they were pursuing Barnes, he tossed away several items including a yellow duffel bag, a hammer, and a glove the same color the burglar wore in store security video. Surveillance video of the chase from a sheriff’s helicopter was instrumental in proving the case to the jury, Smith said.

A Lake Mary detective who questioned Barnes at Orlando Police headquarters following his arrest testified that he was wearing the same clothes as the burglar in the video – including red patterned underwear that showed above his pants.

“This case is a great example of inter-agency cooperation between the Lake Mary Police Department, the Orlando Police Department, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office,” Leo said. “The fact that law enforcement was able to locate the defendant within 40 minutes of the commission of the crime and come testify in trial in a neighboring county is a testament to the importance of positive relationships among all our law enforcement partners.”

The post Burglar Sentenced for Failed Jewelry Heist in Central Florida appeared first on West Orlando News.

Members from the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), and social services organizations One More Child, Heartland for Children, and the Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking, were also embedded with detectives and investigators during the entirety of the investigation.

The portion of the investigation focusing on illegal acts related to prostitution and human trafficking resulted in 247 arrests. Nineteen suspects were arrested for a multitude of felonies related to traveling to meet a minor for sex and other similar crimes.

According to law enforcement, the 127 suspects who travelled to commit prostitution were screened by detectives and the social services organizations to determine if they were being trafficked or exploited by others, and were offered services by the social services organizations at the operation. During this investigation, seven possible human trafficking victims were identified.

There were 108 suspects arrested for soliciting a prostitute and traveling to the undercover location to negotiate having sex in exchange for money. Twelve other suspects were arrested for aiding/abetting, transporting, or deriving proceeds from prostitutes.

Overall stats during Polk Around and Find Out operation:

• Detectives charged a total of 439 charges: 298 felonies, 141 misdemeanors.
• The suspects’ prior criminal histories included a combined total of 1028 charges: 400 felonies, 519 misdemeanors

Some interesting notes from the operation according to local law enforcement:

• 34 are here illegally (from 10 different countries: Cuba, El Salvador, Argentina, Russia, Mexico, India, Venezuela, Haiti, Italy, France, Bahama, Honduras, Bolivia, Romania, Colombia, Jamaica, Ecuador, Canada)
• 167 are from outside Polk County, from 11 different states and Puerto Rico, and 18 different countries.
• 22 said they were receiving government assistance (total of $15,188 per month)
• The youngest suspect is 18; the oldest is 68 years old.
• 4 firearms were brought to the location by different suspects
• 21 people were charged with possession of narcotics

One suspect was arrested and charged with offering to commit prostitution. After she was released from jail on bond, she continued to advertise her services, traveled to an undercover location, and was arrested again. Two suspects who were men brought children to the undercover location after agreeing to pay an undercover detective posing as a prostitute, for sex. They were both charged with child neglect.

The post Central Florida Operation Led to 266 Arrests appeared first on West Orlando News.

During the search, detectives uncovered multiple firearms, including a Glock 22 and two AR-15-style rifles, along with a semi-automatic shotgun. They also located 1.25 pounds of cannabis, a trafficking amount of oxycodone, a quantity of cocaine and drug paraphernalia.

According to local law enforcement, the arrests were:

30-year-old Jayshod Nereus, who had an outstanding warrant for reckless driving, now faces additional charges, including armed possession of cocaine, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of a short-barreled rifle.

26-year-old Janos Borgella is charged with armed possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, armed trafficking in oxycodone (25–100 grams), among other charges.

32-year-old Ira Strappier was also taken into custody on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear.

The post Guns, Drugs Found in Central Florida Home appeared first on West Orlando News.

The event runs from 6pm to 10pm and is designed as a joyful, inclusive space for women, trans, and non-binary communities to dance, connect, and let loose without the pressure, chaos, or late-night burnout of traditional nightlife.

With growing conversations around wellness-driven nightlife, safer social spaces, and millennial nostalgia, Earlybirds Club taps into several timely lifestyle and culture trends, garnering national attention on The New York Times, The Kelly Clarkson Show, NPR, and more.

Created as a joyful alternative to traditional nightlife, Earlybirds Club offers a welcoming space where attendees can “come as they are” and feel completely safe to let loose without pressure or pretense. Guests can expect wall-to-wall hits from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s, featuring pop, hip-hop, R&B, new wave, and house favorites designed to keep the dance floor moving all night long.

More than just a dance party, Earlybirds Club is intentionally designed as a safe and inclusive space for women, trans, and non-binary communities, something organizers say is needed now more than ever, while welcoming people of all backgrounds and identities to attend.

Earlybirds Club also gives back to local communities. Ten percent of the proceeds from every event are donated to organizations that uplift women. The Orlando event will benefit GO-NOW, which aims to achieve and protect the equal rights of all women and girls in all aspects of social, political, and economic life.

WHEN: Friday, June 5, 2026
6pm – 10pm

WHERE: The Beacham
46 N Orange Ave
Orlando, FL 32801

TICKETS: $30.00 + fees & taxes – available for purchase online

The post Signature Early Evening Dance Party Comes to Orlando appeared first on West Orlando News.

Further investigation revealed the subject had entered the financial institution and attempted to withdraw funds under a false identity and using false documents.

The subject completed a withdrawal form in the amount of $8,400, signing the document with a fictitious name, according to local law enforcement. She then presented the completed form to a teller along with a U.S. passport identification card bearing her photograph but the name of another individual.

The subject was identified as 45-year-old Idania I. Diaz Onieva, of Hialeah, Florida.

She was taken into custody and incarcerated at the St. Lucie County Jail. She faced charges including: Fraud – Possession of Similitude Card, Fraud – Impersonation, Use/Possess Identification of Another, Larceny – Grand Theft, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

The post Florida Woman Arrested for Fraudulent Bank Withdrawal appeared first on West Orlando News.

This investigation resulted in the seizure of 40 kilos of cocaine, approximately $1.13 million in cash, and a stockpile of firearms were located. In total, nine members of the organization were arrested and charged with various crimes, including trafficking in cocaine and money laundering.

Since August of 2025, the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation and its state and federal partners have been investigating a drug trafficking organization since the drugs were coming from Puerto Rico.

The group of traffickers, comprised Michael Hernandez Maldonado and his close associates, received the kilos of cocaine through the mail and distributed them throughout Central Florida. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office announcement, those arrested include: Michael Hernandez Maldonado, Paola Sierra, Marcos Hernandez Ocquendo, Eliezer Negron Alvarado, Antonio Martinez, Louis Luna, Luis Adorno Rosa, Kevin Castro Delgado, and Leslie Sierra.

This Central Florida investigation was the result of successful collaboration of MBI, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations.

The post Multiple Arrests from Central Florida Drug Trafficking Investigation appeared first on West Orlando News.

In her May 27th letter to Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd, Karen Castor Dentel wrote: “As a result, we are uncertain how to proceed.” The full letter can be viewed below.

The issue on the local level involves District 3 Commissioner Mayra Uribe submitting her resignation letter as required by law in order to qualify as a candidate for Mayor. Florida’s “Resign-to-Run” law (F.S. 99.012) requires certain elected officials who seek another elected office to submit a resignation, if the terms or parts of the terms of both offices run concurrently with each other. The SOE also noted that Florida law (F.S. 100.111) separately outlines the mechanisms to determine how vacancies are filled:

• If a vacancy occurs with 28 months or more remaining in the term, an election to fill the vacancy is held at the next scheduled general election.
• If a vacancy occurs with fewer than 28 months remaining in the term, the Governor has the authority to either: appoint a replacement to fill the remainder of the term; or call for a Special Election to fill the remainder of the term.

Karen Castor Dentel is making it clear that it is her opinion that local Supervisors of Elections do not have the authority to call for a special election when a vacancy occurs with fewer than 28 months remaining in the term. While Orange County Charter contains provisions related to vacancies, the Supervisor of Elections says they are preempted by Florida’s Election Code to the extent that they are inconsistent with the Florida Statutes.

Orange County District 3 Commissioner Mayra Uribe’s resignation letter was received by Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel’s office on May 27, 2026, with an effective date of December 7, 2026.

In her response to Commissioner Uribe’s resignation, the SOE Karen Castor Dentel acknowledged Uribe’s request that the vacancy be the subject of a special election in 2026, but made it clear she could not move forward with an election, writing: “because your effective date of resignation would occur with fewer than 28 months remaining in your term, pursuant to Section 100.111, Florida Statutes, this office cannot proceed with an election absent direction from either the Governor’s Office or a court of competent jurisdiction.”

A posted “fact sheet” from the Orange County Supervisor of Elections on the resign-to-run law and vacancy timelines states:

“If the vacancy is determined as occurring with fewer than 28 months remaining in the term, the District 3 Commission race remains a part of the 2028 election cycle. Under that circumstance, State law gives the Governor the authority to either appoint a replacement or call for a special election to fill the remainder of the term. Should the Governor’s Office direct the Orange County Supervisor to hold a special election in lieu of appointment and should that instruction be received prior to the commencement of qualifying on June 8, 2026, the special election for that office would also run concurrently with the August 18 Primary and November 3 General Elections.  If such a direction is not received, the office will be filled per the Governor’s subsequent appointment or later call for a separate special election.”

Because of the timeline question, Democratic Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel’s office admitted it is not sure how to proceed and it is seeking guidance from the Republican Governor Ron DeSantis’ Secretary of State to determine what happens next – including a possible special election.

In her letter, the Supervisor of Elections wrote: “If the Governor’s office or your office provides direction that an election is to be held, we will promptly notice the race for the purposes of qualifying beginning June 8, 2026, for this year’s primary and general elections. Because the qualifying period begins in less than two weeks, we would appreciate your earliest consideration and will proceed as directed.”

The SOE office admits this is not to be deemed a legal opinion and is encouraging candidates or officeholders to obtain independent counsel regarding these provisions.

Here is the letter from Orange County Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel to Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd:

The Orange County Supervisor of Elections clarified the Uribe resignation is different than another resign-to-run vacancy and timeline involving the Orange County Clerk of Courts, who is also running for Mayor.

Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell submitted her official resignation to qualify to run for Mayor. But because of the Clerk’s effective date, there will definitely be a special election for this office according to the Supervisor of Elections.

Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell’s letter was received on May 26, 2026 with effective resignation date of August 31, 2026. Because this vacancy will occur with 28 months or more remaining in the term, a special election will be held to fill the remainder of the term. The special election will run concurrently with the August 18th primary and November 3rd general elections.

RELATED ARTICLES:

Orange County Commissioner Decides on Resignation Despite Pressure

Orange County Supervisor of Elections ‘Uncertain How to Proceed’

Orange County Clerk Resigns, Special Election Set

The post Supervisor of Elections Clarifies Resign-to-Run Timelines in Orange County appeared first on West Orlando News.

Segari stated, “so if we all get our guns and use our second amendment right…and you see somebody with a MAGA hat, ‘pew pew’ that’s what we do, that’s the way, it’s the only way.”

While saying “pew pew,” Segari used hand gestures mimicking the firing of a gun.

She further stated, “Put them back in their basements, make them scared again to be racist, homophobic, and terrible just awful [expletive],” and “MAGA people deserve to be terrified and scared to walk in the streets because they should know that real Americans are gonna [mouths expletive] kill them.”

When Segari posted the video, she included a caption: “#seemagapewpewmaga starting a new trend, hope it catches on. Please spread the word. Share this video. Repost it. Use the hashtag all over the internet. Let’s go guys. It’s time to fight back in a potentially effective manner.”

The next day, Segari posted another video on TikTok, in which she stated, “See MAGA pew pew MAGA, see MAGA pew pew MAGA, see MAGA pew pew MAGA so these [expletive] know we ain’t here to play” while again using hand gestures to mimic the firing of a gun.

A federal jury found Segari guilty.

41-year-old Desiree Doreen Segari, of Sarasota, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Katheryn Kimball Mizell to 14 months in federal prison for interstate communication of a threat to injure.

This Florida case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Sinacore. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. Segari was indicted on September 18, 2025.

The post Florida Woman Going to Prison for Making Political Threats on Social Media appeared first on West Orlando News.

“I am Tiffany Moore Russell and I currently serve as the Orange County Clerk of the Courts,” the resignation letter stated. “I am writing to notify you that this letter will serve as my official “Resign-to-Run” notice to seek the office of Orange County Mayor. The effective date of my resignation is Monday, August 31, 2026.”

According to Orange County Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel, because this vacancy will occur with 28 months or more remaining in the term, a special election will be held to fill the remainder of the term. The special election will run concurrently with the August 18th primary and November 3rd general elections.

In her response to Clerk Tiffany Moore Russell, the Supervisor of Elections said her office will take the steps necessary to include this election with those already scheduled, with qualifying occurring from noon on June 8, 2026, through noon on June 12, 2026.

There are already five candidates running for Orange County Clerk of Courts, as Tiffany Moore Russell has been campaigning for Mayor and her intentions were clear.

Current candidates include: former Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh, Roberta Walton Johnson, former County Commissioner Emily Bonilla, Maribel Gomez Cordero, and Terrell Thomas.

There is still a question surrounding Commissioner Mayra Uribe’s resign-to-run vacancy and timeline, as she is also running for Mayor. Commissioner Uribe’s effective date is December 7, 2026. The Supervisor of Elections is seeking guidance from the state on how to proceed because it occurs with fewer than 28 months remaining in the term, the Governor has the authority to either appoint a replacement to fill the remainder of the term or call for a special election to fill the remainder of the term, according to Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel.

Here is the resignation letter submitted by Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell:

Here is the response letter from Orange County Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel:

RELATED ARTICLES:

Supervisor of Elections Clarifies Resign-to-Run Timelines in Orange County

Orange County Commissioner Decides on Resignation Despite Pressure

Orange County Supervisor of Elections ‘Uncertain How to Proceed’

The post Orange County Clerk Resigns, Special Election Set appeared first on West Orlando News.

The Florida legislation, SB 484: Data Centers, will protect ratepayers, empower local communities, increase transparency and security, and strengthen infrastructure and environmental standards:

• Protects Ratepayers
  • Prohibits utilities from passing data center costs, including electricity costs, onto residential and small business customers.
  • Requires large-scale users to pay their full cost of service.
  • Prevents financial risk from being shifted to the public.
• Empowers Local Communities
  • Preserves local authority over zoning, permitting, and land use.
  • Allows communities to set stricter standards or deny projects.
  • Ensures data centers are properly classified and regulated.
• Increases Transparency and Security
  • Requires public disclosure of data center development deals after the exemption period.
  • Establishes clear definitions in law to prevent loopholes.
  • Prohibits utilities from serving data centers owned or controlled by foreign countries of concern.
• Strengthens Infrastructure and Environmental Standards
  • Creates a dedicated permitting process for large-scale data centers.
  • Allows use of reclaimed water as part of permitting.
  • Requires major modifications to be treated as new applications.

“I signed legislation to protect our citizens and communities from hyperscale data centers. These are much-needed protections for taxpayers and our natural resources,” said Governor Ron DeSantis in Lakeland when he signed the bill. “SB 484 ensures that local governments maintain the authority to reject data center development in their communities, prevents data center costs from being passed on to consumers, including electricity costs, and protects Florida’s water resources from data center consumption.”

Will these protections from harm caused by data centers be enough in Florida, or will consumers and voters demand more?

The post New Florida Law Protects Communities from Harm Caused by Data Centers appeared first on West Orlando News.

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa is one of the largest casinos in the United States with an array of slot machines, and the Central Florida casino offers a variety of slots including some of the most popular machines.

At the Hard Rock Tampa, slot games like Lightning Link, Dragon Link, Dancing Drums, Buffalo Gold and The Vault. There is also a smoke-free slot area for guests who prefer to play in an ultra-fresh environment. The casino said the entire selection of slots is equipped with cutting edge technology to keep you continuously entertained 24/7.

There have been other recent slot winners at the Central Florida casino including:

Small Bet Won Big on Slot Machine at Hard Rock Tampa

$5 Bet Won Big on Slot Machine at Florida Casino

Winner Took Home Big Slot Jackpot from Florida Casino

Million Dollar Slot Jackpot Won in Florida

Man Won Big on Slot Machine at Hard Rock Tampa

Big Slot Jackpot Won at Hard Rock Tampa

The post $12.50 Bet on Slot Machine Won Big at Florida Casino appeared first on West Orlando News.

When deputies arrived at Atomic Smoke Shop on West Hillsborough Avenue, they discovered the front window had been shattered.

Surveillance footage showed a suspect breaking the glass, forcibly entering the business, and stealing nearly $5,000 worth of merchandise, then exiting the broken window with the items in a backpack.

During the investigation, the teen suspect was identified.

Detectives arrested 17-year-old Cayden Goldberg. He faced felony charges including: Burglary of an Unoccupied Structure (x2), Grand Theft Third Degree While Wearing a Mask ($750–$5,000), and Criminal Mischief ($1,000 or more)

“Our deputies acted swiftly to identify the suspect and hold him accountable,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We remain committed to protecting our local businesses and ensuring those who break the law face consequences.”

The post Teen Arrested in Smoke Shop Burglary in Central Florida appeared first on West Orlando News.

The call was received by the Polk County Sheriff’s Emergency Communications Center at about 6:41am. The caller provided a tag number for the white Ford van that was traveling on US 27 near Sand Mine Road in the Davenport area.

A PCSO deputy located the van at a fire station at 50945 US 27, with a man was standing outside of the van while a woman could be heard screaming from within.

The man was identified as 44-year-old David Benjamin Ritchie, of Clermont.

Inside of the vehicle was a female adult relative of Ritchie’s.

According to local law enforcement, the victim told the deputy that she willingly spent the night with Ritchie in the van, but when she woke up, he refused to take her home or let her out of the van, and he also threatened to give her a black eye.

David Ritchie was taken into custody and transported to the Sheriff’s Processing Center where he was charged with: Kidnapping and Assault.

According to PCSO, Ritchie also had active arrest warrants out of Lake County for: Battery by Strangulation, Aggravated Battery on a Pregnant Woman, and Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

The post Central Florida Man Arrested after Screams Heard from Back of Van appeared first on West Orlando News.

Back on October 12, 2022, deputies from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) responded to the AdventHealth hospital in Ocala.

Officials learned from medical staff that a juvenile child had indicated they were raped and needed medical treatment. Law enforcement made contact with the juvenile’s parent, who stated they were made aware of the incident earlier that morning.

The complaint indicated the victim sent them a message stating they needed to go to the hospital because of an incident involving the defendant. The victim was transported for a forensic interview at the child advocacy center.

During the forensic interview, the victim disclosed that one night, in the weeks prior, the victim was inside their room due to a headache. While in bed, the defendant had entered the room and sat next to the victim. The victim repeatedly told Erick Rico Beauvil to leave, but the defendant refused. After refusing to leave, Beauvil overpowered and sexually battered the victim.

Probable cause was developed for the defendant’s arrest, and he was subsequently arrested and charged.

Jurors found Beauvil guilty of Sexual Battery by Defendant under 18 Years of Age with a Victim 12 Years or Older.

This case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorney Katrina Self and Certified Legal Intern Delaney Kastensmidt.

The post Florida Man Sentenced for Crime Against Child appeared first on West Orlando News.

The FDLE Biology Special Projects Unit and Othram Inc. assisted in the processing of DNA evidence through grant funds from the Federal Bureau of Justice Administration’s Missing and Unidentified Human Remains Program. Through this processing, potential leads were found.

The results were used to identify the victim as 78-year-old Jacquelyn Cirone. There were no apparent signs of trauma.

Detectives also determined that Rebecca Vaughn, a family member caring for the victim disposed of her remains in the woods after her death.

64-year-old Rebecca Vaughn was charged with the following: Unlawfully hold or move a dead human body in unapproved conditions, Failure to report death to Medical Examiner or Law Enforcement, and Tampering with physical evidence.

“This case is the result of relentless investigative work and a critical partnership with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The actions taken in this case show a complete disregard for human dignity, and we will ensure those responsible face the full consequences.”

The post Central Florida Woman Arrested after Extensive Investigation of Human Remains appeared first on West Orlando News.

On February 15, 2023, Johnson was arrested by detectives with the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO). Detectives from SCSO’s Special Investigations Squad executed a search warrant at the premises off NE 12th Drive in Oxford, Florida. Officials were aware of ongoing narcotics sales at the property and conducted an investigation that led to the execution of the narcotics search warrant.

While detectives responded to conduct the search warrant, members of the Special Investigations Squad conducting surveillance made contact with Johnson during a traffic stop. In the defendant’s possession was a key chain that held the key to a fifth-wheel camper and the shed on the property that was the target of the search warrant. Utilizing the defendant’s camper key, detectives made entry into the fifth-wheel.

Upon entering, law enforcement located numerous bags and boxes containing various illicit narcotics that appeared to be prepackaged for sale. During the search, detectives also located a loaded Ruger firearm with additional 9mm ammunition.

A criminal history check revealed that Clyde Johnson is a convicted felon and registered sexual offender. The defendant was arrested and charged.

This Florida drug case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Elizabeth Hart and Reagan Chapman.

The post Convicted Felon Busted for Trafficking Narcotics in Florida appeared first on West Orlando News.

“This arrest involves very disturbing crimes that exploit and victimize the most vulnerable,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister.

Detectives discovered over 1,000 files of child sexual abuse material and five files of bestiality on the cellphone of 29-year-old Mateusz Antolak.

Antolak was arrested and charged with: Unlawful Use Of Two Way Communications Device, Solicitation Or Possession Of Child Pornography 10 Or More Images And Content Of Images (x100), and Film, Distribute, Or Possess Image Or Video Of Sexual Activity With An Animal (x5).

“We will continue to identify those who engage in these horrific acts and do everything we can to make sure they are held fully accountable,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister.

This remains an active investigation, according to local law enforcement.

The post Central Florida Man Arrested on 100 Counts of Charges appeared first on West Orlando News.

In the courtroom of Orange County Judge Lisa T. Munyon, prosecutors Richard Buxman and Kenneth Nunnelley presented the case against DeMorris Hunter for the 2002 murder of 38-year-old Theresa Ann Green, securing a guilty verdict.

“These past two weeks have been grueling for the family and friends of the victim,” said Bill Gladson, the State Attorney for the Fifth Judicial Circuit. “Reliving the events that occurred on the night Green’s life was taken has been nothing short of tragic. I believe this is why the jurors have recommended the most appropriate punishment for the defendant, which is the death penalty.”

On May 26, 2002, Hunter and the victim were both guests at a party hosted by a couple in their apartment building. They left the party together, and witnesses saw them fall down the stairs before entering the victim’s apartment. Hours later, Hunter returned to the apartment and asked a neighbor for a favor. He gave the neighbor keys to a white van and requested that he follow him while he drove the victim’s car, dropping it off in a parking lot.

Officers with the Orlando Police Department received a missing persons report for Green. Shortly later, authorities with the Sanford Police Department located the victim’s car at a Walgreens and discovered her deceased body inside the trunk. The Medical Examiner’s Office determined the victim’s death to be a homicide by manual strangulation.

During the investigation, law enforcement was able to confirm the victim was last seen alive with the defendant. At the time they spoke to the defendant, Hunter was serving a 110-year sentence for another murder that occurred in Oakland, California.

“At only 13 years old, I was robbed of my mother’s presence, her support, and her irreplaceable love. While other children were leaning on their mothers for guidance, I was forced to navigate the most formative years of my life in the shadow of her absence,” stated Octavius Hayes, son of the victim. “Every milestone I have reached since then has been bittersweet, marked by the hollowed space where she should have been standing…. I ask this court to recognize the permanence of this loss, and the exhaustion of a lifetime spent seeking justice.”

The Orange County case was presented by Chief of Homicide Prosecution Richard Buxman and Assistant State Attorney Kenneth Nunnelley, who have worked tirelessly to pursue justice on behalf of the victims and the people of the state of Florida.

The post Jury Decides Death Penalty Case with Deceased Body Found in Trunk appeared first on West Orlando News.

The transaction was brokered by Chuck Mayhugh and Chase Mayhugh of Mayhugh Commercial Advisors, who represented the seller. The property traded at approximately $23 psf which translates to a overall purchase price of $55 million, setting a record on a per-acre basis for a tract exceeding 25 acres in the region. This transaction represents more than a land sale, it signals continued institutional demand and long-term confidence in the Fort Myers market.

The new Costco location is expected to deliver significant job creation, increased tax revenue for Lee County, a major retail anchor driving daily traffic, and rising property values and commercial activity in surrounding corridors. With pricing at approximately $23 per square foot, the transaction establishes a new benchmark for large-scale land sales in Southwest Florida, particularly for infill sites with strong infrastructure and regional accessibility.

Costco selected this location after evaluating multiple sites across the Fort Myers market, ultimately choosing it for its superior infrastructure, high visibility, and ability to support a modern, high-efficiency retail layout. The site offers:

• Oover 1,100 feet of frontage on Colonial Boulevard
• More than 3,100 feet along Plantation Road
• Approximately 700 feet on Metro Parkway
• Combined traffic counts exceed 100,000 vehicles per day, providing the scale and accessibility required for a high-volume retail destination.

“Costco’s site selection process is extremely thorough, and infrastructure was the defining factor here,” said Chuck Mayhugh. “This property offered the roadway network, access, and scale needed to support their long-term vision. It stood out clearly against competing sites.”

Unlike older, more congested locations, the new development will feature: multiple ingress and egress points, improved traffic circulation and safety design, enhanced fueling station capacity, and potential signalized access and dedicated turn lanes.

“This site allows Costco to build a next-generation store designed around efficiency and safety,” said Chase Mayhugh. “The ability to control access from Colonial, Plantation, and Metro Parkway creates a significantly better customer experience and operational flow.”

While Costco initially sought a smaller footprint of approximately 25 to 30 acres, the seller required the full 55-acre parcel to be sold as a single transaction, declining multiple offers from developers and retail strip centers.

This approach ensured unified control of the site, a cohesive, master-planned development, and maximized long-term value for both buyer and seller.

“We had strong interest from multiple groups looking to break the property up,” added Chuck Mayhugh. “But selling it as one site allowed for a much more strategic outcome and ultimately attracted a world-class buyer like Costco.”

The post 55-Acre Site Acquired in Large, High Value Southwest Florida Land Sale appeared first on West Orlando News.

This Central Florida case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Orlando Police Department, the Winter Garden Police Department, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the Apopka Police Department, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Highway Patrol.

The convictions and sentences are:

• 32-year-old Victor Manuel LaFontaine Ruiz, of Poinciana: Gun trafficking conspiracy, and Brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence (17 years, 4 months)
• 33-year-old Jose Emanuel Maldonado Rodriguez, of Kissimmee: Gun trafficking conspiracy, and Possession of machinegun (5 years, 6 months)
• 37-year-old Freddie Geovani Cruz Batiz, of Kissimmee: Gun trafficking conspiracy, and Possession of machinegun (7 years, 3 months)
• 31-year-old Jomar Manuel Lopez Montanez, of Kissimmee: Gun trafficking conspiracy, and Felon in possession of a firearm (7 years, 8 months)
• 30-year-old Derrick Yamil Rivera Robles, of Kissimmee: Gun trafficking conspiracy, Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting, and Possession of machinegun (3 years, 10 months)
• 24-year-old Leonardo David Joseph Guerra, of Orlando: Gun trafficking conspiracy, and Possession of a firearm by an illegal alien (4 years)
• 28-year-old Jincheng Shi, of St. Cloud: Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting, and Possession of a firearm as an alien admitted under a non-immigrant visa (7 years)

According to court documents, from at least as early as September 2023 onward, Lafontaine and Maldonado operated a gun trafficking ring involving hundreds of firearms, machineguns, machinegun conversion devices, and high-capacity magazines needed for fully automatic weapons. This operation did not involve any federally licensed firearms dealers. Instead, Lafontaine and Maldonado obtained firearms parts, including from Shi, a Chinese national who was admitted to the United States under a non-immigrant visa in 2022, which places him in a prohibited class of persons not legally allowed to possess firearms. Lafontaine and Maldonado assembled, manufactured, and modified semi-automatic and automatic firearms using a “ghost gunner” machine and specialized “endmill” drilling devices at a workspace on Maldonado’s property in Kissimmee.

From there, Lafontaine and Maldonado, along with assistance from Batiz, sold firearms, including fully automatic weapons and machinegun conversion devices (“chips” or “buttons”) that are used to convert semi-automatic weapons into machineguns. They sold those items to illegal aliens and convicted felons such as Lopez Montanez, Rivera Robles, and Joseph Guerra, who were often brokered such transactions on behalf of other unknown customers.

Lafontaine sold Lopez Montanez, a convicted felon, two firearms falsely branded to appear as though they were legitimate firearms manufactured with engraved fake sequential serial numbers. When Lopez Montanez was stopped by law enforcement, he fled and attempted to hide the weapons that were eventually recovered.

Law enforcement executed five search warrants at various locations associated with this conspiracy. Federal agents recovered five AR-style pistols with sequential and identical serial numbers at Maldonado’s residence (depicted below), along with at least three machinegun conversion devices, machinery used to assemble, modify, and manufacture the firearms and machine guns sold through this operation.

At Lafontaine’s residence, agents recovered a completed rifle, gun parts, gun manufacturing and modification equipment, and drug distribution paraphernalia with a blender and fentanyl, packaged for sale.

At Batiz’s residence, agents recovered a handgun and an AR pistol, four machinegun conversion devices, along with drug paraphernalia.

At Shi’s residence and storage facility, eight handguns, three rifles, and eight AR-style receivers were recovered, as depicted in a photo:

The seven members of a gun trafficking scheme were sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Roy. B. Dalton. Six of the individuals pleaded guilty. Jincheng Shi was convicted by a jury. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Felicetta and Dana Hill. It is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect local communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

The post Seven Sentenced in Central Florida Gun Trafficking Scheme appeared first on West Orlando News.

Florida is one of only a few states with multiple federally designated Sentinel Landscapes and is tied for the most in the nation. Through strategic investments in Northwest Florida and the Avon Park Air Force Range region, Florida has expanded conservation partnerships among state, federal and private entities to support national defense, sustain rural economies and protect natural resources.

The acquisition will help maintain compatible land use near nine military installations and training ranges in the region while preserving working forests and natural resources in a rapidly developing area.

Here is the conservation easement that secured over approximately 10,023 acres in Gulf County within the Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape provided by the DEP:

“The continued success of Florida Forever reflects Florida’s commitment to forward-thinking policy and strong partnerships that deliver lasting results,” said DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “By preventing incompatible development and preserving mission-supportive landscapes, these efforts help strengthen military readiness while maintaining the character and ecology of surrounding communities.”

Since its designation in 2022, more than 83,000 acres have been protected within the Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape. Recent additions include Shoal River Headwaters State Park, Sandy Creek State Forest and Telogia Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Beyond Northwest Florida, nearly 35,000 acres have been protected within the Avon Park Air Force Range Sentinel Landscape between Orlando and Lake Okeechobee. An additional 25,000 acres have been conserved through partnership with the U.S. Department of War’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program.

“The Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape has been key in mission assurance, increased readiness and overall sustainability of Naval Air Station Whiting Field’s aviation pilot training,” said Randy Roy, Naval Air Station Whiting Field Community Planning and Liaison Officer. “Through this partnership, employment of Readiness Environmental Protection Integration and partner match funding, NAS Whiting has been able to safeguard over 20,000 acres from incompatible development which has been critical in supporting the busiest aviation complex in the world.”

Through the Florida Forever Program, the state conserves land that provides environmental, recreational and preservation benefits, including water quality and quantity safeguards; resilience from storm impacts; habitat and species protections; national security and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Since 2019, the state has committed more than $1.5 billion to the Florida Forever Program. This funding has enabled DEP to acquire over 500,000 acres for conservation, 55% of which are conservation easements.

PHOTO: Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape | Lauren Yoho/Wildpath

The post More Than 10,000 Acres Conserved in Northwest Florida appeared first on West Orlando News.

FDLE agents, along with the FDLE Special Operations Team and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant at Rookey’s residence and seized numerous electronic devices for digital forensic analysis.

The investigation into Rookey was launched when the Broward County Sheriff’s Office (BSO) received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Rookeywas possessing, viewing, and transmitting CSAM via Snapchat. BSO identified Rookey by his IP address and determined that jurisdiction belonged to FDLE Florida Keys.

That led to the discovery of communications in which Rookey was buying/selling CSAM and animal sexual abuse materials as well as soliciting minors to send him CSAM. In many of the communications, Rookey was posing as an underage girl.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that Jacob Rookey, of Cudjoe Key in the lower Florida Keys, was arrested and if convicted as charged, he faces up to 100 years in the Florida Department of Corrections. Jacob Rookey was charged with seven counts of promotion of animal sexual abuse material, three counts of promotion of AI-generated sexual images, three counts of possession of AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM), two counts of solicitation of child sexual abuse material and one count, each, of promotion of child sexual abuse material, possession of child sexual abuse material and transmission of child sexual abuse material by electronic device.

“Trading in material that involves the sexual exploitation of children and animals is what keeps the sick market for this material alive,” said Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier. “We will seek the maximum punishment under the law for predators who perpetuate this abusive trade.”

MCSO arrested Rookey and transported him to the Monroe County Jail. This arrest is the result of FDLE’s statewide initiative to locate and arrest criminals targeting children and sharing files depicting the sexual abuse of children. Homeland Security Investigations and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) assisted in the investigation.

“Preying on our community’s most innocent and vulnerable will never be okay in Florida. FDLE will investigate these vile crimes and work with Attorney General James Uthmeier’s statewide prosecutors to ensure you do not have the opportunity to victimize our children ever again,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass. “We urge parents and guardians to talk to your children and learn more about what they are putting online. Prevention is the best way to deter crime. Visit the Secure Florida website, which is maintained by the FDLE Cyber Crime and Telecommunications Bureau.”

The investigation is ongoing, and more charges may be filed as needed. This case will be prosecuted by Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Jillian Tate in the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit of Florida.

The post Florida Police Employee Faces 100 Years for Charged Crimes appeared first on West Orlando News.

While officers were on scene investigating that attack, Pincomb attacked another woman with a knife.

During the investigation, detectives uncovered Pincomb armed himself and sexually battered multiple women over the course of several months, escalating in violence.

Anyone with any information regarding this suspect is asked to please call JSO’s Special Assault Unit at 904.630.2168.

Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Special Assault Unit detectives arrested 31-year-old Brett Pincomb for Armed Sexual Battery, Kidnapping, and Attempted Murder.

The post Florida Man Attacked Multiple Women appeared first on West Orlando News.

Positive identification of the remains had not been determined at the time of the announcement, but the body was in the possession of the Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office.

No other information was provided on the human remains found recently in the waterways in the area of I-275 and 4th Street North in Central Florida.

This is an active investigation, according to local law enforcement.

The post Human Remains Recovered in Central Florida Waterways appeared first on West Orlando News.

Marchlewski was arrested in May of 2023 following a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) investigation after law enforcement officials received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

The tip indicated an online user had uploaded files containing child pornography. During their investigation, officials determined Marchlewski, a registered sex offender, was the owner of the accounts that contained child sexual abuse material. After obtaining a search warrant, detectives responded to Marchlewski’s residence, where they made contact with the defendant and seized his cellular device.

A forensic examination of the Lake County defendant’s device was conducted, revealing the files containing the child pornography.

In the courtroom of Judge Brian Welke, jurors found Marchlewski guilty on all 15 counts of Possession of Child Pornography (10 or More Images). Marchlewski was consecutively sentenced to 15 years in prison on each charge, a 225-year sentence.

“Of the disturbing videos this defendant possessed of very young children being sexually abused, one was less than two years old – just a toddler. The mere thought of someone abusing a toddler, or any child, for their own sexual gratification is sickening,” said Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson. “My office remains unwavering in combatting child sexual exploitation and abuse. Whether you are the pedophile producing the material or the deviant viewing and sharing it, we will charge you and make sure you are punished to the fullest extent possible by law.”

Assistant State Attorneys Tyler Duffy and Karli Hurbanis successfully prosecuted this Central Florida case.

The post Florida Man Sentenced to 225 Years in Prison appeared first on West Orlando News.

On December 1, 2023, the victim reported to the Clermont Police Department that while parked inside their vehicle with Gajraj, a white Camry pulled up with the driver exiting and immediately fired over 20 gunshots at the victim.

The victim was able to reverse their car and flee the area. After dropping Gajraj off, the victim responded to the police station to report the incident. The victim further stated to law enforcement that they believed Pirela was the shooter due to Pirela sending threatening messages to the victim via social media.

Officials made contact with Gajraj, who initially denied speaking with Pirela regarding her whereabouts or the shooting that had just occurred. Cell phone records were obtained by authorities. The records exposed that both Pirela and Gajraj had communicated about setting up the victim, as well as Gajraj telling Pirela where she and the victim were currently located. Both Pirela and Gajraj were arrested and charged accordingly.

Co-defendant Gajraj cooperated with the State and testified against Pirela at his jury trial. Gajraj entered a plea in March and was sentenced to three years in prison, followed by six years of probation for her role in the crime.

26-year-old Brandon Pirela was recently sentenced to 25 years in the Florida Department of Corrections after being found guilty of Attempted First Degree Murder with a Firearm and Conspiracy to Commit Murder following a jury trial.

This Central Florida case was investigated by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant State Attorneys Eddie Moffitt and Monica Bodnar successfully prosecuted this case.

The post Man Sentenced for Ambush Shooting in Central Florida appeared first on West Orlando News.

The Florida Senator was recently joined by law enforcement and local officials in Miami to announce the introduction of the PRESS Act. The act criminalizes the intentional importation of pill press machines and unlisted precursor chemicals with the intent to manufacture illicit drugs.

“We are turning the corner in the fight to end the opioid crisis. Overdose deaths are on the decline and President Trump closed the border—making it more difficult for cartels to smuggle drugs into our country. However, thousands of Americans continue to die from opioid poisoning and counterfeit pills containing lethal doses of fentanyl play a major role in overall deaths,” said Republican Florida Senator Ashley Moody. “To stop the manufacturing of these murder pills, I am sponsoring the PRESS Act. My bill will outlaw the importation of this pharmaceutical equipment by anyone who intends to create counterfeit pills.”

Pill press machines are often imported into the country by drug cartels piecemeal and then assembled domestically to produce counterfeit pills that are then sold to Americans and often laced with deadly fentanyl.

The PRESS Act gives federal prosecutors the tools needed to charge foreign entities who import unlisted precursor chemicals and pill press machines with the intent to manufacture illicit drugs.

The bill adds criminal penalties for the unlawful importation of pill presses:

• No more than eight years for the illicit manufacturing or distribution of a tableting machine, encapsulating machine, press punch, die system, gelatin capsule, or related equipment and unlisted precursor chemical;
• Not more than 15 years for violations involving more than 1,000 kilograms.

Rep. Addison McDowell introduced an identical measure in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Having lost my little brother to a counterfeit pill likely produced using precursors smuggled across the border from China, it has been my top priority in Congress to combat the fentanyl crisis and make sure our law enforcement has the tools and resources they need to bring this crisis to a halt,” Rep. Addison McDowell said. “I commend Sen. Moody’s leadership on bringing up the PRESS Act in the Senate, and I look forward to seeing this legislation make it to the President’s desk.”

In 2025, the DEA seized more than 45 million fentanyl pills, and more than 9,000 pounds of fentanyl powder, removing at least an estimated 347 million potentially deadly doses of fentanyl from our communities. DEA intelligence indicates a shift in cartel operations, with increased trafficking of fentanyl powder and domestic production of fentanyl pills.

Counterfeit pills are pressed to look like legitimate prescription opioids using imported tableting machines, punches, and die-molds. These table-top pill press machines can produce up to 5,000 pills per hour, with larger floor models producing 15,000 pills per hour. China and Central American cartels skillfully smuggle pill press parts through U.S. ports and customs, often labeling them as “furniture parts” or “machine spare parts.” These parts are then reassembled as unregistered pill presses and used to mass produce counterfeit pills.

As Florida’s Attorney General, Senator Moody issued many warnings and public awareness materials about the dangers of using counterfeit pills.

The post Florida Senator Acts to Stop Manufacturing of ‘Murder Pills’ appeared first on West Orlando News.

Florida Republicans like Governor Ron DeSantis said the facility was necessary for immigration enforcement and to assist the federal government. Florida Democrats have been against “Alligator Alcatraz” from the start, trying to force oversight and ultimately the closure of the detention center.

“I visited ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ to conduct oversight and seek answers about the future of this facility, the conditions people are currently being held in, and where detainees may be transferred if the facility closes,” said Rep. Maxwell Frost, an Orlando Democrat. “During the visit, I noticed it is very apparent operations are winding down. Staff even used terms like ‘decompressing’ and ‘winding down’ and they are currently not accepting any new detainees. I even saw flights taking off to transfer detainees to other detention facilities. But what stuck out to the most to me is on my past visits, the processing center was full of staff and detainees and this time it was completely empty—which clearly shows this facility is no longer operating at the capacity it once did.

The Florida Democrat also took on Governor Ron DeSantis and President Donald Trump’s administration for sending conflicting messages about Alligator Alcatraz’s closure. “They don’t want to admit the truth: this facility should have never opened in the first place, and it will forever be a stain on Florida’s history,” Democratic Rep. Maxwell Frost added.

He also said the civil rights, human rights, and environmental violations must be addressed even after a closure.

“While the closure of this facility would be an important step, shutting the doors alone is not enough,” Rep. Frost said. “We must ensure that people are not simply transferred from one abusive or unsafe situation to another. Most importantly, there must be accountability for the civil and human rights violations, accountability for the environmental destruction inflicted on one of the most sacred ecosystems in the world, and accountability for the misuse of taxpayer dollars to subject our immigrant neighbors to this failed experiment in suffering.”

The post Push for Accountability for Violations at Detention Facility in Florida appeared first on West Orlando News.

“I signed the Foreign Interference Restriction and Enforcement Act to strengthen Florida’s defenses against foreign adversaries,” said Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. “This legislation combats hostile foreign influence in Florida by establishing new restrictions on agreements and partnerships involving countries of concern such as Iran and Cuba, as well as penalties for violations. The bill also strengthens ethics and disclosure requirements for elected officials and government employees, because public officials should be serving Floridians—not foreign adversaries.”

According to Republicans, HB 905 further strengthens Florida law by:

• Prohibiting public officials, public employees, local government attorneys, and candidates from accepting gifts or benefits from foreign countries of concern or designated foreign terrorist organizations.
• Expanding ethics training to help identify and report foreign influence campaigns, including tactics associated with the Chinese Communist Party’s United Front strategy.
• Ending sister city agreements and linkage institute partnerships involving foreign countries of concern and repealing the Florida-China Linkage Institute.
• Requiring the Florida Department of State to maintain and publish a list of foreign consulate offices and sister city and sister state affiliations in Florida.
• Prohibiting charitable organizations from accepting contributions or support from designated foreign terrorist organizations.
• Authorizing local governments and tax collectors to revoke business tax receipts for businesses operating in Cuba in violation of federal law.
• Creating criminal penalties for knowingly submitting false declarations related to unlawful business activity involving Cuba.
• Prohibiting pre-planned adoption agreements and surrogacy contracts involving citizens or residents of foreign countries of concern.
• Enhancing criminal penalties for crimes committed to benefit foreign governments or foreign terrorist organizations.

Since taking office, the Governor has signed a series of measures to combat foreign influence and protect Florida’s institutions, economy, and critical infrastructure.

In 2021, he signed HB 7017 to increase transparency surrounding foreign donations to Florida universities and the Combating Corporate Espionage in Florida Act to strengthen penalties for trade secret theft tied to hostile foreign actors.

In 2023, Florida enacted SB 264 to prevent hostile foreign governments and entities affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party from purchasing farmland or land near military bases and critical infrastructure. Florida also restricted certain government contracts involving foreign countries of concern, blocked foreign-controlled companies from accessing sensitive personal information, and banned TikTok and other foreign-controlled applications from state devices and networks.

Additionally, Florida launched the SecureFlorida Portal and established the Office of SecureFlorida within the Florida Department of Commerce to strengthen oversight of foreign influence and property ownership. Florida has also continued strengthening protections for higher education and charitable organizations through SB 846 and SB 700.

The post New Florida Law Protects Against Foreign Influence, Hostile Actors appeared first on West Orlando News.

The resignation letter was received by Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel’s office on May 27, 2026, with an effective date of December 7, 2026. Commissioner Uribe included a request that the office she will vacate be filled by way of election, as the Orange County charter intends to fill the vacancy.

That could be accomplished by scheduling a special election for Orange County District 3 Commissioner for the upcoming August 18th Election Day, with the ultimate winner taking office December 8th. There are already seven candidates running for District 3 Commissioner, as Uribe has been running for Mayor.

However, Democratic Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel is not sure how to proceed and instead admitted it is seeking guidance from the Republican Governor’s Secretary of State.

“Our office is aware that, prior to the 2021 amendment to Section 99.012, Florida Statutes, the relevant authorities uniformly interpreted vacancies under Section 100.111, Florida Statutes, as requiring an election when the resignation letter was received 28 months or more from the expiration of vacancy. Our office is also aware, however, that at least one court has interpreted the post-amendment statute based instead on the effective date stated in the resignation letter. As a result, we are uncertain how to proceed and have asked the Secretary of State for guidance,” stated Dan Helm, Candidate Services Administrator for the Orange County Supervisor of Elections, in an email to District 3 candidates.

“If the Governor’s office or Secretary of State provides direction that an election is to be held, we will promptly notice the race for the purposes of qualifying beginning June 8, 2026, for this year’s primary and general elections. We appreciate your patience as we seek guidance from the Secretary of State.”

It is interesting that in Democratic Orange County, the Democrat in charge of local elections is seeking guidance from Republicans in Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration, at the same time Democrats attack everything DeSantis does.

It is even more interesting that the Supervisor of Elections would admit in writing that the office is “uncertain how to proceed” and it may lead many in the community to question the SOE in the future. The Orange County SOE should have been more prepared for this scenario, knowing the Commissioner’s campaign for Mayor and the numerous candidates running for the District 3 seat already.

The Orange County Supervisor of Elections office explained the justification of the decision to reach out to the state.

“Supervisor Castor Dentel does not have the legal authority to call or schedule a special election in this circumstance,” the SOE office stated to West Orlando News. “While the Orange County Charter does contain provisions outlining methods for filling vacancies, legislative changes adopted by the Florida Legislature in 2021 revised prior provisions related to vacancies and special elections, including matters involving charter counties. As a result, those local charter provisions are currently preempted by state law and are not enforceable. Therefore, the ability to call for a special election or make an appointment for the remainder of the term is the responsibility of the Governor.”

“Supervisor Castor Dentel remains committed to ensuring voters have their voices heard and that elections are administered transparently and in accordance with the law. However, the factors surrounding this circumstance are governed by state law and are outside the authority of the Supervisor of Elections Office.”

It should be expected that the best way to fill a County Commissioner seat is to hold an election and let people vote for their representation, and with the upcoming elections in August there should be no question on how to proceed. The people of District 3 in Orange County deserve to vote for their Commissioner.

One candidate who has been actively running for District 3 Commissioner reacted to the email from Dan Helm. He expects the election to be held in 2026.

“As ONLY candidate for Orange County Commission – District 3 (nonpartisan) who stepped forward early to recognize and acknowledge what the law clearly states, today’s email from the Orange County Supervisor of Elections sent to all candidates, represents a major victory in helping ensure this race occurs in 2026,” candidate Randy Ross. “Exactly as originally explained by the Orange County Supervisor of Elections, likely under the guidance and interpretation of the Florida Secretary of State. I appreciate everyone at every level of government who took the time to review, clarify, and help guide this process forward. I especially want to thank my personal advisors. Transparency, consistency, and confidence in our election laws matter. Now, let’s hope the process continues exactly as the law suggests.”

Another candidate currently running in District 3 is not ruling out a special election being called, but she does not believe it will happen in August. Former State Senator and Commissioner Linda Stewart said she does not think the election will be August 18th, but that it is possible one could be called at another later time, possibly in November even. She argued Governor DeSantis is in no rush to respond or make a decision though. No matter what happens, Linda Stewart is continuing her campaign for Orange County Commissioner in District 3.

RELATED: Orange County Commissioner Decides on Resignation Despite Pressure

Commissioner Mayra Uribe also explained to West Orlando News why this was the best decision, despite pressure from special interests.

ALSO:

Orange County Clerk Resigns, Special Election Set

Supervisor of Elections Clarifies Resign-to-Run Timelines in Orange County

The post Orange County Supervisor of Elections ‘Uncertain How to Proceed’ appeared first on West Orlando News.

“It is my intent to qualify as a candidate for Orange County Mayor,” the current Commissioner for District 3 wrote in the letter. “As County Mayor, we can bring the needed change to our local government in transportation, housing and affordability.”

As the letter states, the resign-to-run resignation letter is pursuant to Section 99.012 of the Florida Statutes, and her effective date of December 7, 2026 is before the start date for the term of Mayor, which is December 8th. Because of the timing, Commissioner Uribe requested a special election be set to fill her seat.

“I respectfully request that the provisions of the Charter are recognized and that a special election will be held,” Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe concluded.

Her decision to continue serving until December 7th led many Democrats and political special interests to attack the candidate and pressure her to resign on an earlier effective date. They argued that the December 7th date will result in Republican Governor Ron DeSantis appointing a replacement to serve until 2028. But the pressure did not work.

“I need to continue to serve on the Commission consistent with Florida general law and the Charter for several reasons,” Mayra Uribe told West Orlando News. She explained several reasons:

“First, the County Budget process for this summer is up for final approval in August. I am concerned about an attempt by the current administration to raise taxes again in the form of a stormwater utility fee increase. Now is not the right time. This happened in 2024, when I was the only Commissioner to vote against a tax increase that was placed on the County Agenda for the County Budget, at the last minute.”

“Second, it has been my observation that the last months of a two-term mayor involve many key votes – prompted by special interests — that can burden future Commissions, and tie their hands of use of public tax dollars. The basis of the resign-early-argument injects partisanship into this race; which our Charter leaves out.”

“Much work remains with the Budget to prevent raising taxes in this current climate. And much remains to safeguard with our local tax dollars from being misspent on special interest projects without being properly vetted. I need to remain on the BCC thru December 7, 2026.”

Commissioner Uribe also took on those attempting to pressure her, saying the whole hyperpartisan attack was concocted by special interests.

“The partisan memo from an ‘out-of-town lawyer’ circulated stating I should resign this month versus later this year ignores the governance issues. Moreover, it is premised on the belief that any appointment would be wrong. That is a false choice. Because if I resigned early, an appointment would be made anyway. This memo, the lack of courtesy, and then threats suggest more is at play. Given this, I have concluded that special interests have concocted this. I had my own lawyer review that memo, and the operative terms of Sec. 99.012, resign-to-run law, and Sec. 114.04 for the filling of vacancies. I have been instructed by my attorney that I should serve until December 7, 2026, and I agree.”

RELATED: Orange County Supervisor of Elections ‘Uncertain How to Proceed’

The Orange County Supervisor of Elections office said it was “uncertain how to proceed” on the important election decision after the Commissioner’s resignation letter.

ALSO:

Orange County Clerk Resigns, Special Election Set

Supervisor of Elections Clarifies Resign-to-Run Timelines in Orange County

The post Orange County Commissioner Decides on Resignation Despite Pressure appeared first on West Orlando News.

Deputies made contact with Jacob McClain, who advised that he was upset at the juvenile victim and the eyewitness because they were playing rough. He advised that he was making them do physical exercise as punishment and admitted to shooting in the direction of the victim because he was not running as he was instructed.

According to law enforcement, McClain openly admitted that he frequently disciplines the children by shooting a BB gun toward them as a scare tactic, but stated he does not hit them.

While speaking to the juvenile victim, he told deputies that McClain shot the BB gun over his back and hit a nearby trash can while he was doing pushups. He advised that he had been shot at previously and hit with projectiles that did not puncture his pants or skin. During this incident, the victim was not struck by the projectile, but he began crying because he was afraid that McClain was going to shoot him with the BB gun.

Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 30-year-old Jacob McClain for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Child Abuse, and Violation of Probation. According to local law enforcement, he was transported to the Marion County Jail and held without bond. His active felony probation was also violated.

The post Florida Man Arrested for Shooting BB Gun at Juvenile appeared first on West Orlando News.

“The facility does not allow in-person visitation. Every inmate is afforded one free video visit and two free phone calls per week except for if placed some type of restriction,” states the Jackson County site.

The facility apparently has tablets for inmates to use. Books, games, movies, and music can be purchased by the inmate from tablets, and over 300 versions of bibles from all religions and other religious materials are available free from the tablets.

Inmates at this correctional facility are only allowed certain items to be dropped off to them: one pair of work boots (no steel toe) for trustees only and approved through a request, and one pair of eye glasses. According to Jackson County, these items will only be accepted after the inmate fills out a request and it is approved by the Operations Captain or his or her designee.

The chief of corrections at this Florida facility has said that fentanyl and meth are among the drugs being smuggled to inmates. It is a difficult situation to fight and apparently information usually comes from other inmates about what is going on.

The Jackson County Correctional Facility is located in Marianna in North Florida. The Correctional Facility has a staff of approximately 43 full-time certified correctional officers.

The post Inmates Denied In-Person Visitation at Florida Correctional Facility appeared first on West Orlando News.

In Florida, the vast majority of Brightline train fatalities are typically classified as incidents involving pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, or trespassers. Around 200 fatalities have been attributed to Brightline trains in Florida, according to reports.

Brightline is struggling in Florida and news of deaths involving the trains do not help.

In this incident, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office and Brightline investigators were on the scene of the fatal crash involving a bicyclist and Brightline train at Monterey Road and Dixie Highway locally. Officials warned of delays in that area and told drivers to seek alternative route as they investigated.

Local law enforcement did not release any additional details at the time.

The post Brightline Train vs. Bicyclist in Florida appeared first on West Orlando News.

The 11-month-old infant was rescued after a months-long investigation conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Brazilian Federal Police.

FDLE agents initiated an undercover human trafficking operation to identify persons actively producing and selling CSAM. During this operation, a social networking account published a post offering a baby for sexual purposes. Agents made contact with the account holder, later identified as Alves da Costa, and arranged for the transport of the baby to Tampa from Brazil. The suspect ultimately backed out of the planned meeting.

FDLE agents continued to work with HSI on continued efforts to locate the child and identify Alves da Costa. HSI then contacted the Brazilian Federal Police who were able to locate Alves da Costa.

The law enforcement operation connected to the investigation resulted in the death of the suspect, 29-year-old Huilzivan Alves da Costa, of Mato Grosso in Brazil.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution was set to be the prosecutorial entity in this investigation. The investigation remains active, according to law enforcement.

The post Florida Investigation Ended with Rescue of 11-Month-Old appeared first on West Orlando News.

“Florida’s coastline is one of our state’s greatest natural and economic assets, supporting millions of residents, tourism, commercial fisheries and critical infrastructure,” said DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “Understanding the seafloor and the features that shape our coast helps us make smart decisions about protecting communities, strengthening resilience and investing taxpayer dollars where they will have the greatest impact.”

FSMI uses advanced technologies to capture detailed bathymetric data across shallow and deepwater environments. Airborne LiDAR systems measure water depths using laser pulses, while vessel-based multibeam sonar maps deeper waters in high resolution.

High-resolution seafloor data supports a wide range of coastal management decisions, including identifying offshore sand sources for beach nourishment, improving storm surge and flood modeling, and guiding the protection and restoration of coral reefs and seagrass beds.

“Through FSMI, we have mapped more than 75,500 square kilometers using LiDAR and more than 64,000 square kilometers using sonar technologies,” said Florida Geographic Information Officer Kimberly Jackson. “Before this initiative began, only about 25,600 square kilometers of Florida’s seafloor had been mapped. Today, we have mapped more than 14 times that amount, giving Florida an unprecedented understanding of its underwater landscape.”

Early analysis of the data is already revealing new insights about Florida’s unique continental shelf, including ancient shorelines, buried river channels, karst formations and offshore sand resources.

Scientists have also identified previously unknown mesophotic coral reefs, an ecosystem that thrives in deeper waters with lower light levels than Florida’s shallow reefs. DEP is collaborating with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to further study these reefs through remotely operated vehicle dives and scientific sampling to better understand their ecological importance and how they may contribute to Florida’s marine biodiversity.

FSMI data is being integrated with inland elevation datasets through collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Coastal National Elevation Database Applications Project. This effort will create a seamless statewide digital elevation model extending from Florida’s uplands to offshore bathymetry, giving planners and decision-makers a more complete view of the state’s landscape to guide resilient and cost-effective investments.

Check online for more information about the Florida Seafloor Mapping Initiative.

PHOTO 1: These previously unknown mesophotic coral reefs located more than 50 kilometers offshore of Pensacola exist well outside of Florida’s Coral Reef along the Atlantic Coast, offering new insights into deepwater habitats and helping guide reef protection and coastal planning.

PHOTO 2: These newly discovered paleoriver channels near Miami help explain patterns in sediment movement, habitat distribution and coastal erosion, giving scientists and planners critical information to guide future beach restoration, habitat protection and resilient infrastructure projects.

The post Florida Seafloor Mapping Initiative Reached Major Milestone appeared first on West Orlando News.

“The Film Incentive Program reflects Orange County’s commitment to growing our creative economy and positioning our region as a premier destination for the entertainment industry,” said Democratic Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. “We look forward to welcoming productions that will showcase everything Orange County has to offer.”

The program is open to production companies seeking to film in Central Florida, as the Orlando region continues to strengthen its position as a competitive destination for film and television production. Eligible projects include feature films, television series, streaming productions, and commercials. Film incentive requirements include both a minimum direct spend in Orange County and a cap: commercials require a $250,000 minimum spend with a 10% rebate capped at $50,000; and TV and film productions have a $400,000 minimum spend with a 20% rebate capped at $1 million.

The Film Incentive Program is designed to promote tourism in Orange County through hotel occupancy, other local economic activity, workforce development, and enhance regional visibility through film, television and digital media production. Eligible applications will be evaluated by a three-member selection committee who will score using a hybrid scoring model that prioritizes hotel room nights, tourism value, and economic impact.

Film and TV productions generate a significant local economic impact. Visitors and production crews often stay longer than typical tourists, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, and small businesses. The average salary for a film production job is $105,000 per year, creating high-wage employment opportunities for creative professionals in Central Florida.

The latest Film Incentive Program application portal is accepting submissions until May 28, 2026 for the next batch of available funding. The first incentive is expected to be awarded in June 2026.

“We are thrilled to open the portal and begin accepting applications for this exciting program,” said Jen Pennypacker, Film Incentive Program Administrator. “Orange County is ready to compete for the best productions in the industry. Between our competitive incentive offering, diverse filming locations, experienced local workforce, and world-class infrastructure, we have everything a production needs to succeed — and we look forward to proving it.”

Orange County will track the number of hotel room nights resulting from productions, local
spending, and job creation to measure the return on investment. Data will help guide
future funding decisions and ensure the program’s continued growth, according to officials.

Check out more information on the Orange County film incentive program and guidelines online.

The post Orange County Offers Competitive Film Incentive appeared first on West Orlando News.

A Brevard County jury recently convicted 51-year-old Jeremy D. Priest of trafficking fentanyl and cocaine in 2021 based on evidence presented by Assistant State Attorneys Rebecca Price and Bernadette Serafinowicz. The prosecutors also convinced the jury that Priest should be sentenced as a Habitual Felony Offender, a status that allows the court to increase the maximum prison terms in Florida.

Circuit Judge Kathryn Speicher sentenced Jeremy Priest to 30 years in state prison followed by lifetime probation. He received credit for 1,341 days already served in jail awaiting trial.

“We thank the jury for their decision,” Price said. “It allowed us to remove Mr. Priest and his dangerous drugs from the community and keep people safer.”

Jeremy Priest became a target of the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in 2021 when its Special Investigations Unit started looking into “drug distribution activities occurring throughout the premises” at his home on St. Charles Avenue just south of Kennedy Space Center.

Deputies executed a search warrant there, where they met Priest, a six-time convicted felon. They also found 523 grams of fentanyl, 45.6 grams of cocaine, $11,182 in cash, and a loaded Glock 9mm handgun stashed throughout the home.

That 2021 trafficking case was the first of two pending against Priest. Agents searched his home again in 2023 and seized fentanyl while Priest was free on bond awaiting trial.

The post Central Florida Drug Dealer Sentenced for Trafficking appeared first on West Orlando News.

According to the Central Florida casino, a lucky guest placed a $125 bet on a Dragon Link slot machine and won $1,249,569.44 a few weeks ago.

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa is one of the largest casinos in the United States with an array of slot machines, and the Central Florida casino offers a variety of slots including some of the most popular machines.

There was another million dollar slot jackpot won at the Hard Rock Tampa recently.

At the Hard Rock Tampa, slot games like Lightning Link, Dragon Link, Dancing Drums, Buffalo Gold and The Vault. There is also a smoke-free slot area for guests who prefer to play in an ultra-fresh environment. The casino said the entire selection of slots is equipped with cutting edge technology to keep you continuously entertained 24/7.

The post Another Million Dollar Jackpot at Florida Casino appeared first on West Orlando News.

Local deputies were contacted by the store owner, who reported noticing a pattern of unusually high refund amounts occurring. The suspicious transactions ranged from $400 to $1,500. The total amount of fraudulent charges was approximately $7897.81.

During the investigation, deputies reviewed surveillance footage and identified Johnson, who was employed as an assistant manager at the time, as the employee conducting each of the fraudulent returns. According to the evidence, Johnson was making false sales and then processing the returns at his register; at the payment terminal he used his phone to transfer the refunded money into his personal account.

The store owner also reported that Johnson unexpectedly quit his job shortly after the fraudulent transactions.

Deputies arrested Justin Johnson and charged him with grand theft more than $5k less than $10k, and defraud to obtain property less than $20k.

“This was a clear case of an employee abusing his position for personal gain,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. “I’m proud of the quick work by our deputies and grateful to the business owner who reported the suspicious activity. We will always stand with our local businesses and hold offenders accountable.”

The post Assistant Manager Arrested in Refund Fraud Scheme at Central Florida Store appeared first on West Orlando News.

On February 14, 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration executed a search warrant for a residence belonging to Henderson and recovered more than one and a half pounds of multi-colored fentanyl.

The indictment also notifies Henderson that the United States intends to forfeit assets, which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.

If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.

This Florida drug case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Lasry. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Andrejko.

The post Florida Man Indicted for Possession of More Than Pound of Fentanyl appeared first on West Orlando News.

Brevard County prosecutors convicted George McFatten III of battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting an officer with violence at a jury trial. At his sentencing hearing, Circuit Judge Charles Crawford sentenced McFatten to seven years in state prison.

The stunned couple called police one night in December 2023 when McFatten entered their pool enclosure in their southwest Palm Bay yard while muttering something about “Jeremiah.” McFatten, a registered sex offender with a record of violence, was nine miles from his own address in northwest Palm Bay. He left the patio but refused to leave the property and headed for the shed.

When police arrived, they found McFatten trying to close the shed door with straps. McFatten threw chains at police from the shed, then fought with officers who had to taser him several times before wrestling him to the shed floor.

At trial, Assistant State Attorneys Dakota Fraley and Jay Fowler presented testimony from a Palm Bay officer who was bitten by McFatten during the struggle and was later treated at the hospital. Jurors watched police body camera video of a nude McFatten throwing chains, fighting police, and refusing to cooperate.

“The officers did a great job of taking care of a dangerous situation and were harmed by the defendant in the process,” Fowler said. “Our community is safer today because of their efforts to take this offender off the streets.”

The post Florida Man Injured Officer on Rampage Wearing No Clothes appeared first on West Orlando News.

According to local law enforcement, HCSO’s 911 Dispatch Center received a call from a person who saw an unresponsive woman by a bridge on Paul Buchman Highway near Tollar Road in Plant City last month.

When deputies arrived, they found a deceased adult female with upper body trauma in a known transient camp.

This remains an active investigation, according to the last update from local law enforcement.

The post Woman Found Deceased by Bridge in Central Florida appeared first on West Orlando News.

According to the indictment and criminal complaint, on March 25, 2026, Parker crashed his Ford Mustang through a closed gate into a restricted area at Daytona Beach International Airport. Once inside, Parker drove towards one of the runways and exited his car. He proceeded to run around on foot, urinate on the taxiway, and chase after taxiing aircraft. After climbing into several empty planes and attempting to enter the cabin of a running aircraft, Parker was apprehended by security personnel.

According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s office, witnesses reported Parker’s Mustang entered the taxiway and nearly struck an Embry-Riddle plane that was taxiing. Parker then got out of Mustang and tried to enter the occupied plane, but was unsuccessful. As Parker ran to other aircraft in the area, an airport operations technician chased him down, pulled him out of a plane and sat him on his truck’s tailgate. However, Parker jumped off the tailgate and ran toward another plane before he was once again apprehended and placed in handcuffs.

According to local law enforcement, Parker indicated he was intoxicated on alcohol and drugs and did not remember what led to the incident. At the time, Parker was booked into the Volusia County Branch Jail facing charges of: Aircraft Piracy (Attempted), Burglary of a Conveyance, Felony Trespass (Airport), Exposure of Sexual Organs (two counts), Criminal Mischief, DUI Property Damage, Refusal to submit to testing.

If convicted on all counts of the indictment, Bryan John Parker faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.

This Central Florida case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, the Transportation Security Administration, and the Federal Air Marshal Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard Varadan.

The post Man Indicted for Entering Daytona Beach Airport Secure Area appeared first on West Orlando News.

Paul Tudor Jones II is a nationally recognized investor, philanthropist, and conservationist who has been a driving force behind Everglades restoration efforts for more than three decades. He founded Tudor Investment Corporation in 1980 and later co-founded the Robin Hood Foundation to combat poverty. In 1993, he co-founded The Everglades Foundation, where he has served as Chairman of the Board, leading science-based efforts to restore the historic “River of Grass,” reduce nutrient pollution, and protect Florida’s water systems. His environmental leadership has supported the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan and earned national recognition, including the Audubon Medal.

Nathaniel P. “Nat” Reed (1933–2018) was a lifelong Floridian and influential conservation leader who helped shape modern environmental policy at both the state and national levels. Serving as Assistant Secretary of the Interior under Presidents Nixon and Ford, he played a key role in landmark legislation including the Endangered Species Act and the Clean Water Act. In Florida, Reed was instrumental in halting projects that threatened the Everglades, including the proposed jetport in Big Cypress and the Cross Florida Barge Canal. Over decades of service, he helped build bipartisan support for Everglades restoration and advised multiple governors on environmental policy.

George Barley (1934–1995) was a businessman and environmental visionary whose leadership helped launch the modern Everglades restoration movement. A Florida native and Harvard graduate, Barley co-founded The Everglades Foundation in 1993 to advance science-based solutions for protecting South Florida’s ecosystem. He advocated for restoring natural water flows and holding polluters accountable, bringing together stakeholders to address growing environmental challenges. His legacy continues to shape restoration efforts following his untimely passing in 1995.

Mary Barley is a conservationist who continued her husband George Barley’s work advancing Everglades restoration following his passing. A founding director of The Everglades Foundation, she served as Board Chair from 1995 to 2002 and later as Vice Chair, remaining actively involved for more than three decades. She has been a consistent advocate for reducing nutrient pollution, restoring natural water flows, and supporting major restoration efforts, including the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. She has also served on boards such as the World Wildlife Fund and was inducted into the Everglades Coalition Hall of Fame in 2025.

“Their courage shaped not only the growth of our organization, but also the impact we continue to make every day in the effort to restore America’s Everglades,” said Eric Eikenberg, CEO of The Everglades Foundation.

The Governor’s Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the state of Florida and its citizens, and the recent recipients have done that.

“Today, I was proud to recognize Paul Tudor Jones and Mary Barley, as well as the legacies of Nathaniel P. “Nat” Reed and George Barley, for their leadership in protecting and restoring Florida’s Everglades,” said Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. “Thanks to their efforts, future generations will have the priceless opportunity to enjoy our state’s natural treasure.”

The Governor’s Medal of Freedom was established in 2020 under Section 14.35, Florida Statutes, which allows the Governor to recognize any person who has made an especially meritorious contribution to the interests and citizens of the state, its culture, or other significant public or private endeavor. The legendary Florida State University football coach Bobby Bowden was the inaugural recipient of the Governor’s Medal of Freedom on April 7, 2021. Other recipients include Felix I. Rodríguez-Mendigutía, Barbara Nicklaus, Benjamin Ferencz, Jimmy Buffett, Lincoln Díaz-Balart, Bob Graham, Buddy MacKay, John Thrasher, and Charles Canady, who have each been recognized for their lasting contributions to the state of Florida and beyond.

The post Florida Everglades Champions Awarded One of Highest Honors in State appeared first on West Orlando News.

Rep. Angie Nixon, Tsi Day Smyth, Matt Grocholske, and Ashe were arrested at Governor Ron DeSantis’ office for protesting against “unconstitutional, partisan gerrymandering” of Florida congressional maps, but all were released.

The new congressional maps in Florida give a political advantage to Republicans over Democrats.

“I will not allow our rights and representation to be taken away in silence,” Democratic Rep. Angie Nixon said. “At a time when people need their leadership to step up and govern, Gov. DeSantis and the Republican-controlled legislature in Florida are playing politics with people’s lives. I was arrested today along with outraged constituents demanding action instead of doing the job taxpayers send them to Tallahassee for.”

The Florida Democrat called for the legislature to revisit the Constitution they claim to uphold so that we can have representative maps.

“My commitment has always been to the people of my district and to the Constitution I swore to uphold, not to any political party or agenda,” Rep. Angie Nixon said. “I will continue to honor that commitment by fighting against injustice, defending our democracy, and demanding action on the issues that matter most to the people we serve.”

According to her Senate campaign, Angie Nixon is a Florida State Representative, union organizer, and mother born and raised in Jacksonville who has spent her career fighting for hardworking Floridians. In the State House, she expanded childcare, took on corporate price-gouging, and now she led the fight against Governor DeSantis’ unfair voting maps.

Angie Nixon is running for U.S. Senate as a progressive Democrat to lower costs, raise wages, and “build a people-powered government that puts families first, not greedy billionaires.”

The post Democratic Candidate Arrested at Florida Governor’s Office appeared first on West Orlando News.