ReportWire

Tag: APP Public Safety

  • U.S. measles count nears 1,200 cases as the Texas outbreak continues to slow

    [ad_1]

    The U.S. logged fewer than 30 measles cases this week as Ohio health officials confirmed three outbreaks in two counties were over.

    What You Need To Know

    • There are 1,168 confirmed measles cases in the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday

    • Health officials in Texas, where the nation’s biggest outbreak raged during the late winter and spring, said they’ll now post case counts only once a week

    • Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs

    • The best way to avoid measles is to get the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine

    There have been 1,197 confirmed measles cases this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday. Health officials in Texas, where the nation’s biggest outbreak raged during the late winter and spring, confirmed two cases in the last week.

    There are three other major outbreaks in North America. The longest, in Ontario, Canada, has resulted in 2,083 cases from mid-October through June 10. The province logged its first death June 5 in a baby who got congenital measles but also had other preexisting conditions.

    Another outbreak in Alberta, Canada, has sickened 868 as of Thursday. And the Mexican state of Chihuahua had 2,179 measles cases and four deaths as of Friday, according to data from the state health ministry.

    Other U.S. states with active outbreaks — which the CDC defines as three or more related cases — include Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota and Oklahoma.

    In the U.S., two elementary school-aged children in the epicenter in West Texas and an adult in New Mexico have died of measles this year. All were unvaccinated.

    Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is preventable through vaccines, and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000.

    How many measles cases are there in Texas?

    There are a total of 744 cases across 35 counties, most of them in West Texas, state health officials said Tuesday.

    Throughout the outbreak, 96 people have been hospitalized.

    State health officials estimated less than 1% of cases — fewer than 10 — are actively infectious. Fifty-five percent of Texas’ cases are in Gaines County, where the virus started spreading in a close-knit, undervaccinated Mennonite community. The county has had 411 cases since late January — just under 2% of the county’s residents.

    The April 3 death in Texas was an 8-year-old child, according to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Local health officials said the child did not have underlying health conditions and died of “what the child’s doctor described as measles pulmonary failure.” A unvaccinated child with no underlying conditions died of measles in Texas in late February; Kennedy said the child was 6.

    How many measles cases are there in New Mexico?

    New Mexico held steady Friday with a total of 81 cases.

    Seven people have been hospitalized since the outbreak started. Most of the state’s cases are in Lea County. Sandoval County near Albuquerque has six cases, Eddy County has three, Doña Ana County has two. Chaves, Curry and San Juan counties have one each.

    An unvaccinated adult died of measles-related illness March 6. The person did not seek medical care.

    How many cases are there in Oklahoma?

    Oklahoma stayed steady Friday with a total of 16 confirmed and three probable cases.

    The state health department is not releasing which counties have cases.

    How many cases are there in Arizona?

    Arizona has four cases in Navajo County. They are linked to a single source, the county health department said Monday. All four were unvaccinated and had a history of recent international travel.

    How many cases are there in Colorado?

    Colorado has seen a total of 14 measles cases in 2025, which includes one outbreak of eight related cases.

    The outbreak is linked to a Turkish Airlines flight that landed at Denver International Airport in mid-May, and includes four cases in Arapahoe County, three in El Paso County and one in Denver, plus a person who doesn’t live in Colorado.

    Other counties that have seen measles this year include Archuleta and Pueblo.

    How many cases are there in Illinois?

    Illinois health officials confirmed a four-case outbreak on May 5 in the far southern part of the state. It grew to eight cases as of June 6, but no new cases were reported in the following week, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

    The state’s other two cases so far this year were in Cook County, and are unrelated to the southern Illinois outbreak.

    How many cases are there in Kansas?

    Kansas has a total of 76 cases across 11 counties in the southwestern part of the state, with three hospitalizations. All but two of the cases are connected, and most are in Gray County.

    How many cases are there in Montana?

    Montana had 20 measles cases as of Tuesday. Twelve were in Gallatin County, which is where the first cases showed up — Montana’s first in 35 years.

    Flathead and Yellowstone counties had two cases each, and Hill County had four cases.

    There are outbreaks in neighboring North Dakota and the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan.

    How many cases are there in North Dakota?

    North Dakota, which hadn’t seen measles since 2011, was up to 34 cases as of June 6, but has held steady since. Two of the people have been hospitalized, and all of the people with confirmed cases were not vaccinated.

    There were 16 cases in Williams County in western North Dakota on the Montana border. On the eastern side of the state, there were 10 cases in Grand Forks County and seven cases in Cass County. Burke County, in northwest North Dakota on the border of Saskatchewan, Canada, had one case.

    Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.?

    Measles cases also have been reported this year in Alaska, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.

    Earlier outbreaks in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania were declared over by health officials after six weeks of no new cases. Tennessee’s outbreak also appears to be over.

    Cases and outbreaks in the U.S. are frequently traced to someone who caught the disease abroad. The CDC said in May that more than twice as many measles have come from outside of the U.S. compared to May of last year, and most of those are in unvaccinated Americans returning home. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles.

    What do you need to know about the MMR vaccine?

    The best way to avoid measles is to get the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old.

    Getting another MMR shot as an adult is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says. People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective vaccine made from “killed” virus should be revaccinated with at least one dose, the agency said.

    People who have documentation that they had measles are immune, and those born before 1957 generally don’t need the shots because so many children got measles back then that they have “presumptive immunity.”

    Measles has a harder time spreading through communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — due to “herd immunity.” But childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.

    What are the symptoms of measles?

    Measles first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body, causing a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes and a rash.

    The rash generally appears three to five days after the first symptoms, beginning as flat red spots on the face and then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may spike over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC.

    Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to dangerous complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.

    How can you treat measles?

    There’s no specific treatment for measles, so doctors generally try to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications and keep patients comfortable.

    [ad_2]

    Associated Press

    Source link

  • Citrus County Fire Rescue unveils new fire safety trailer

    [ad_1]

    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — Citrus County Fire Rescue has announced the arrival of a state-of-the-art fire safety trailer, replacing the original unit that served the community for over 30 years.

    “While the old trailer helped educate thousands of school-aged children on life-saving fire safety practices, the new trailer — manufactured by Lion — brings a modern, immersive experience designed to better prepare residents for real-life emergencies,” Citrus County Fire Rescue said in a news release.

    You can read the rest of the release below.

    Fire safety trailers are interactive and highly realistic training tools that simulate common home fire scenarios in a safe and controlled environment. The new trailer features two main training zones:

    Bedroom Emergency Scenario

    Children learn critical survival skills such as:

    • Feeling a heated door to determine fire on the other side
    • Blocking smoke from entering by sealing the bottom of the door
    • Listening for a smoke alarm
    • Practicing safe escape through the E.D.I.T.H. (Exit Drills In The Home) window

    Kitchen Emergency Scenario

    Trainees are challenged with a realistic kitchen fire, including:

    • Smoke and flames from the oven, stove, and microwave, and a toaster that simulates appliance fires
    • Heat intensifying with overhead heaters
    • A trash can ignition and smoke detector activation
    • Using a laser training extinguisher to knock down the fire
    • Turning off appliances to prevent reignition

    If the fire isn’t quickly controlled, participants experience a safe evacuation simulation, reinforcing the urgency of acting fast and smart in real emergencies.

    Advanced Emergency Communications Simulation

    The trailer also includes interactive phones that, when dialed to 911, play a recorded dispatcher’s voice. Instructors can communicate live with participants through these phones, simulating real emergency calls and helping trainees practice proper communication with emergency dispatchers.

    Storm Simulation Experience

    In addition to fire scenarios, the trailer features immersive storm simulations including hurricane, tornado, flood, and earthquake conditions. This unique feature helps participants recognize the signs of severe weather, understand associated risks, and learn important safety measures to protect themselves and their families.

    “This new fire safety trailer is more than just an upgrade — it’s a powerful step forward in fulfilling our mission of exceptional service through prevention, response, and education,” said Fire Chief Craig Stevens. “By providing realistic, hands-on learning experiences, we’re equipping our community — especially our youngest residents — with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe. This trailer helps us deliver on our vision of reducing risk and making Citrus County a safer place to live, work, and visit.”

    The trailer will be used throughout Citrus County at schools, community events, and public safety demonstrations. It represents the continued commitment to proactive fire prevention and safety education.

    For more information or to request the fire safety trailer at an event, contact Citrus County Fire Rescue’s Administration Office at 352-527-5406 or submit your request online.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Crews investigate cause of three-story house fire in New Port Richey

    [ad_1]

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Crews responded to a Thursday afternoon fire in the Gulf Harbor southeast neighborhood in New Port Richey.

    The location was near the 5000 Block of West Shore Drive.

    The fire was at a three-story home and was called in just before 2 p.m.

    “As (Polk County Fire Rescue) battled the heavy smoke and flames, conditions intensified, resulting in a near-total collapse of the second and third floors and the roof,” officials said in a news release.

    One woman and one child were home at the time of the fire but made it out safely. No injuries were reported.

    Sky 9 image

    Firefighters were able to keep the fire from spreading to other homes.

    Crews monitored the scene overnight.

    The cause of the fire is still under investigation.


     

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • 18-year-old charged with murdering 81-year-old Bartow man

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office on Monday identified a suspect accused of stabbing an 81-year-old man at an independent living facility.

    • ABOVE: Spectrum News speaks with neighbor about what happened
    • BELOW: Watch Sheriff Grady Judd’s Monday news conference

    Moses Ojeda, according to Sheriff Grady Judd, stabbed Patrick Benway a total of 113 times in the Sunday incident on Blue Bird Avenue.

    Benway was living in a group home managed by “ET Home Care, LLC” along with three other roommates. One of those roommates, Ojeda, had just moved in a day prior after being released from a local hospital, the sheriff’s office said.

    Ojeda told detectives that he did not have any problems with the victim and described him as a good person.

    During the investigation, Ojeda confirmed to investigators that he entered the victim’s bedroom where he was lying in bed and stabbed him multiple times.


    A news release stated: “The victim did not physically resist but did ask, according to Ojeda, ‘Why would you want to do this to me?’ before succumbing to his injuries. Ojeda stated he has no regrets and he wanted to kill him because he was “already dying.”

    The release said Ojeda told deputies that he cleaned the knife used and put it back in the kitchen, then removed his blood-stained clothing and placed it in a laundry basket.

    “All of the evidence gathered by detectives was consistent with the suspect’s statements regarding his stabbing the victim,” the release said.

    He was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence.

    “This was a senseless and tragic act of violence. Our detectives, forensic investigators, and Bartow Police Department officers worked diligently to take Ojeda into custody and gather evidence to hold him accountable,” Judd said.

    LANDLORD REMEMBERS VICTIM

    Adrena Thornton fought back tears as she remembered Benway, her tenant.

    Thornton has provided care for people with mental and physical disabilities since 2015. She said she had never had any issues at her assisted living group homes until Sunday.

    “It’s like the devil showed up at the door and rocked everybody’s world and took an innocent man’s life,” she said.

    Benway started living at the facility in February, Thornton said.

    “He was very happy with where he was at,” she said. “My mama had just talked to him the day before and he was just, he was just real happy.”

    Thornton said Benway had several doctor’s appointments lined up and was on track to getting back on his feet.


    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones, Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • 6 face charges in Secret Cove double-murder, Polk sheriff’s office says

    [ad_1]

    LAKELAND, Fla. — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office said six people face charges in a double murder that happened in Secret Cove on Monday.

    What You Need To Know

    • APRIL 12, 2025: Vehicle crashes into Lakeland home; 2 killed

    • Polk County Sheriff’s Office announces six arrests in case; four of them charged with two counts each of first-degree murder

    • The incident happened when a car crashed into a home in what authorities said started as a drug transaction

    • ABOVE: Sheriff’s office releases video from scene

    The incident happened when a car crashed into a home in what authorities said started as a drug transaction.

    Four of the suspects were each charged with two counts of felony murder and other crimes. The other two suspects were charged with various crimes involved with the case, the sheriff’s office said.

    According to a news release, 19-year-old Davin Boutwell drove a white Mercedes to the Secret Cove neighborhood to conduct a drug transaction there. A 17-year-old met Boutwell at his car. Anthony Scott Roush, 18, and a 15-year-old stood by, and Kristian Xavier Guzman, 23, was in a getaway car.

    “During the brief meeting, Boutwell was shot through the chest (from back to front),” the release stated. “The Mercedes sped away down the road and fatally struck 38-year old Nathaniel Jones, Jr. on his electric bike, and then crashed into a residence on Pirates Way. Boutwell and Jones were deceased when first responders arrived.”

    Detectives determined that the robbery of Boutwell was planned, the release said.

    Roush and Guzman were charged with two counts of felony murder, as were the 17-year-old and the 15-year-old. Spectrum News is not naming the latter two suspects because of their age.

    Jessica M. Chambers, 19, and Isabella Brooke Farley, 21, were charged with accessory after the fact and conspiracy to commit armed robbery, among other charges.

    “What happened on Pirates Way was unusual and tragic,” said Sheriff Grady Judd said. “The six suspects we now have locked-up will be held accountable for their role in these murders.”

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Pasco EMT who died in 2023 to be honored at national ceremony

    [ad_1]

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A Pasco County first-responder is being honored at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.

    Jason Tucker was a firefighter and EMT with Pasco County Fire Rescue. He was with the department for 19 years when he died from brain cancer in 2023.

    He was 53.

    Tucker is one of 140 fallen firefighters being honored nationally in Maryland.

    Career-long colleague and friend Chris Kempton said Tucker loved his job.

    “He loved the people that he loved, and had a love for the job that had made me, working with him, a better fireman,” Kempton said. “Because I looked at him and tried to emulate things that he said and did throughout his entire career.”

    Kempton said he and others will watch at the fire station as Tucker is honored.

    “He lived in the moment and that’s just how he was,” Kempton said. “He lived in the moment and he loved, the people that he loved, he loved unconditionally.”

    Public tributes including a candlelight service Saturday and a memorial service Sunday will be streamed.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Crews monitoring 40-acre Pasco County brushfire, which is now contained

    [ad_1]

    HOLIDAY, Fla. — Crews continue to monitor a brushfire near Key Vista Park in Pasco County. 

    The fire is 100 percent contained, it was announced Friday.

    Key Vista Park is closed due to the fire and portions of Anclote Gulf Park are also closed. That is according to Pasco County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources.

    The fire, which started at about 1 p.m. Thursday, covers about 40 acres off Baillies Bluff Road. Officials said one injury was reported but did not release any details.

    Pasco County Fire Rescue is monitoring the area and Florida Forestry Service firefighters will be back at the scene on Friday to mop up hot spots. The Pasco County Sheriff”s Office helicopter provided more than 100 water bucket drops on Thursday. 

    FFS said nearby roads were closed, and that smoke was generally heading towards the Gulf.

    Florida Forestry Service says it took water from a nearby retention pond to put on the brush fire.

    No structures are in danger.

    Thursday’s wildfire comes as a number of Bay area counties are under burn bans.


     

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Cleveland’s lead poisoning rate remains high despite new laws

    [ad_1]

    CLEVELAND — Cleveland’s lead poisoning rate is more than double the rate in peer cities like Detroit, Toledo, Akron and Cincinnati, according to data from the city’s department of public health. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Over the past five years, city leaders have worked to address Cleveland’s lead crisis through legislation and executive orders that require property owners to register their properties as lead safe, but regardless, the rate of lead poisoning has hovered around 20% since 2019

    • In a Health and Human Services Committee Monday morning, the city’s director of Building and Housing said her team has worked through their backlog of 1,200 applications from landlords seeking to certify their properties and is now focusing on inspections and enforcement, issuing 278 civil tickets and filing 250 criminal cases against landlords who aren’t complying with the city’s lead safe laws

    • Several agencies across the city, like the department of Community Development and the Cleveland Lead Safe Coalition are also working with property owners to help finance lead remediation projects, but council members are asking them to get money out the door more quickly, especially as the first deadline for some federal grant funding is coming up at the end of May
    • City leaders and community partners are continuing the debate over how to amend the current lead safe laws to help better reach their goals

    “What’s going on in Cleveland is our lead poisoning rate is the highest in the country,” Dr. Dave Margolius, the city’s public health director, said. “You know, nearly one in five children are testing positive for lead poisoning.”

    Margolius said lead is a neurotoxin that causes irreversible brain damage to babies who are exposed to it. The department reports more than 1,300 children tested for elevated blood lead levels in 2024.

    Over the past five years, city leaders have worked to address Cleveland’s lead crisis through legislation and executive orders that require property owners to register their properties as lead safe. Regardless, the rate of lead poisoning has hovered around 20% since 2019. 

    “It’s really hard to get that that number to budge because there are so many old homes in the city of Cleveland built before lead paint was outlawed,” Margolius said.

    Enforcement updates

    In a Health and Human Services Committee Monday morning, the city’s director of Building and Housing, Sally Martin O’Toole, said her team has worked through their backlog of 1,200 applications from landlords seeking to certify their properties and is now focusing on inspections and enforcement.

    In partnership with the law department, the department of Building and Housing has issued a batch of 278 civil tickets to property owners who haven’t complied with the city’s lead safety requirements, and filed 250 criminal lawsuits against non-compliant landlords in homes of kids who have been poisoned. 

    Martin O’Toole said this first round of tickets were issued to owners who applied for the Lead Safe Certificate, submitted failing dust swipes and never followed through with remediation.

    “Soon, now that we have completed our rental registration process for the year — it closed on March 31 — we’re going to begin enforcement on those on the rental registry who have not attempted to obtain their lead safe certification,” Martin O’Toole said.

    As of Monday, Martin O’Toole estimated up to 50% of all rentals in the city have been certified as lead safe, though council member Rebecca Maurer said that number is uncertain because it’s difficult for the city to know how many properties aren’t on the rental registry.

    Getting money into homes

    Lead remediation projects can be expensive. Several agencies across the city, like the department of Community Development and the Cleveland Lead Safe Coalition, are also working with property owners to help finance those projects. The Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition has fundraised around $100 million. In a presentation Monday, the group reports they have spent about $20 million so far — $7.7 million of which was given directly to property owners for remediation.

    The city has also received about $17 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development but have yet to spend more than $13 million of that funding, which is set to expire at different points of 2025. The first deadline is approaching on May 30.

    Representatives from the Department of Community Development said they have asked HUD to extend the deadline on those grants but haven’t yet gotten approval.

    As the federal government under President Donald Trump makes cuts to the department of Housing and Urban Development and the Environmental Protection Agency, Margolius said he’s concerned. 

    “There were estimates maybe 15 years ago that in order to get all the lead out of Cleveland, it would cost $2 billion, $3 billion,” he said. “We’ve raised $100 million, which a lot of people thought the work is done. We’ve got $100 million. But $2 billion compared to $100 million? So, we know we need a federal investment. Our city government, we can’t do this alone. We need help from every level of government and the private sector to help get the lead out of these homes.”

    Council member Rebecca Maurer said all partners need to be working more quickly to get money into homes and neighborhoods. 

    “There’s a question of how easily are we getting money out the door,” Maurer said. “Think about it like a spigot. Is the is the water flowing right? And it’s been really ratcheted down, for a long time.”

    What’s next

    City leaders continue to debate the best approach to improving Cleveland’s housing health, and there are many programs and organizations working to address the crisis in what Council member Maurer calls the “lead safe ecosystem.”

    One of those groups, the Lead Safe Advisory Board (LSAB), which Maurer co-chairs, is meant to review citywide lead safety efforts and their effectiveness, providing recommendations for changes and improvements.

    Scott Kroehle, who sits on that board, said they’re hoping to take a more active role in informing council’s decisions. He said he thinks they should take a stronger approach to enforcement and helping property owners do the expensive work to remediate lead risks.

    “You can give a violation notice, but if it’s a $40,000 job to replace the windows and doors and the person is making $600 a month in rent, it’s not going to happen anytime soon, no matter how much you wish it,” Kroehle said. “So, we really have to be looking at both sides of that equation, both the enforcing what needs to be done and also, getting it done.”

    City leaders and community partners are continuing the work and debate over how to amend the current lead safe laws to help better reach their goals.

    [ad_2]

    Nora McKeown

    Source link

  • Division of Liquor Control urges caution ahead of high school spring events

    [ad_1]

    OHIO — Senioritis may be hitting seniors in college, but high schoolers also have some spring events to tide them over before they graduate or head into summer break. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Ohio officials are aiming to combat underage drinking at major high school events
    • Prom and graduation season are right around the corner

    • Last year there were 393 alcohol-related vehicle crashes involving youth

    Graduation season is nearly upon Ohio, along with prom, and the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Liquor Control is joining the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Ohio Investigative Unit to urge liquor permit holders, families, schools and communities to maintain safety through these events. 

    Many associate these events with underage drinking, and the division is pushing for steps to be taken to prevent potential alcohol-related incidents.

    The division said liquor permit holders are on the “front lines” to ensure that alcohol sales comply with the law, starting with checking IDs and refusing to sell to those under 21-years-old.

    “We rely on permit holders across the state to help us keep alcohol out of the hands of minors,” Division of Liquor Control Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said. “Their vigilance and adherence to the law are essential to the health and safety of our communities, especially our youth.”

    Permit holders are urged to:

    • Verify all IDs for alcohol purchases carefully
    • Provide training to employees to uphold liquor laws confidently and consistently
    • Report suspicious activities or attempted illegal purchases to local authorities

    The division also encourages community members, schools and parents to collaborate in order to reduce risks.

    Last year, according to data from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, there were 393 alcohol-related vehicle crashes involving youth between April to early June. It was a 10% decrease from the same time period in 2023.

    “As a parent, you cannot provide alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. While you may think you are providing a safe environment, you are committing a crime by providing alcohol to underage youth. This can result in injuries or death, jail time, fines and even civil suits,” OIU Executive Director Jamie Patton said.

    Schools and communities are encouraged to plan and promote alcohol-free events.

    “We applaud the work of parents, schools and businesses in stepping up to make this prom and graduation season a safe and memorable time for Ohio’s students,” DeGenova said. “Together, we can celebrate their achievements while protecting their well-being.”

    To report a bar, store or carry-out that sells liquor or beer to underage youth, call #677 or visit oiu.ohio.gov.

    [ad_2]

    Madison MacArthur

    Source link

  • Ohio among the worst states for puppy mills, report shows

    [ad_1]

    OHIO — Ohio once again ranked high in terms of having the most “problem puppy mills” and “puppy sellers” in the U.S., according to a new report.

    What You Need To Know

    • The “Horrible Hundred” report lists states with the most problem puppy mills to bring awareness

    • Ohio came in at second place for the second year in a row

    • Violations included improper housing, incomplete health records, as well as reports of injuries and abuse

    The report dubbed the “Horrible Hundred” by the Humane World of Animals is published annually to help warn consumes about common problems at puppy mills, as well as stronger humane law enforcement. The report lists 100 problem puppy mill breeders and dealers throughout the U.S.

    Puppy mills are breeding facilities that put out puppies for trade, and they often live in horrible conditions.

    Ohio came in at No. 2 for having 16 dealers. According to the report, the breeders were from Coshocton, Holmes, Muskingum, Richland, Tuscarawas and Wayne counties.

    Some of them are repeat offenders and have been listed on the “Horrible Hundred” list before, including a breeder in Dundee, Ohio (2024), one in Sugarcreek (2024), one in Millersburg (2016, 2017 and 2023) and more.

    Also, some of the breeders are on the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s searchable list for High Volume Dog Breeders.

    The full list of the 16 dealers can be found here.

    Violations included improper housing, incomplete health records, as well as reports of injuries and abuse.

    Ohio came in second place on last year’s “Horrible Hundred” list as well, with 20 dealers.

    According to Ohio law, effective in 2019, it is illegal for owners, managers or employees of a pet store to negligently display, offer for sale, deliver, barter, auction, broker, give away, transfer or sell any live dog from a pet store to a person, unless the dog was obtained from these sources:

    • An animal rescue for dogs
    • An animal shelter for dogs
    • A humane society
    • A dog broker, provided that, if the dog broker originally obtained the dog from a breeder, the breeder is a qualified breeder
    • A qualified breeder.

    Additionally, they cannot give away a dog that is:

    • A dog that is less than eight weeks old
    • A dog without a health certificate signed by an accredited veterinarian
    • A dog that does not have a permanent implanted identification microchip that is approved for use by the director of agriculture under rules adopted under section 956.03 of the Revised Code
    • A dog to a person who is younger than eighteen years of age as verified by valid photo identification

    More information about the Ohio law can be found here.

    The full report can be found here. 

    [ad_2]

    Lydia Taylor

    Source link

  • Report highlights efforts to stem drug overdoses, interrupt supply chain

    [ad_1]

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center (ONIC) has now released their first strategic report related to illicit drugs in Ohio.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ohio’s Narcotics Intelligence Center released a report on illicit drugs in Ohio

    • The report included data, strategies and more

    • They say 27,752 people in Ohio died from unintentional drug poisonings between 2017 and 2022

    “Maintaining pressure on drug traffickers is crucial. They adapt as laws change, and we must continue to adapt our strategies in order to bring them to justice,” ONIC Executive Director Cynthia Peterman said in a Department of Public Safety press release. “The ONIC is committed to working with our local, state, and federal partners to operationalize our strategies and enhance the safety and security of all Ohio residents.”

    According to the release, 4,625 people in Ohio die a year on average from unintentional drug poisonings. That’s 27,752 people between 2017 and 2022.

    They also state that, during that time, fentanyl was a factor in 77% of the deaths. They say often fentanyl was mixed with other drugs.

    “Under the leadership of Governor Mike DeWine, ONIC is taking a strategic and targeted approach to reduce overdose deaths by disrupting the drug supply using accelerated intelligence and enhanced partnerships,” the release reads. “The ONIC operates intelligence units and digital forensic laboratories in four locations across the state: Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, and Toledo. The ONIC collaborates with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to leverage the very best technologies and analysis available to detect, identify, and intercept dangerous drugs from hitting our streets.”

    The report also included a map showcasing the illegal drug supply chain and how these substances make their way to Ohio. 

    A map showcasing the drug supply chain, how fentanyl and other drugs make their way to Ohio. (Courtesy ONIC)

    Thanks to this collaborative work, they say unintentional overdose fatalities have decreased by 14% between 2021 and 2023.

    Despite this progress, ONIC highlights the work ahead of them over the next few years.

    “Analysts from ONIC believe that over the next five years, Ohio will almost certainly confront a complex, volatile, and unpredictable drug landscape,” the release reads. “Combinations of potent drugs will very likely be responsible for most drug poisoning deaths across Ohio.  Drug traffickers will likely leverage technology such as encryption and cryptocurrency to conceal incriminating evidence about their illicit activities.”

    The report contains other information including percantages of counterfeit tablets containing fentanyl, the cost of certain illicit substances and more.

    You can take a look at the full 48-page report here:

    [ad_2]

    Cody Thompson

    Source link

  • Mentor Police Department launches website

    [ad_1]

    MENTOR, Ohio — The Mentor Police Department announced the launch of a new website called “Citizen Connect.” 

    The department said this website aims to improve transparency and keep the community informed about local police-related incidents. 

    On the website is an interactive map of reported incidents, which can be narrowed by timeframe and type of incident. The department defines “incident” as a call for service or an officer-initiated call, which could be criminal or civil. 

    The incidents are not pinpointed directly on the address where it occurred for privacy reasons. Instead, the pinpoint of the incident is near the location it was called from. 

    To explore Citizen Connect, click here.

     

    [ad_2]

    Lydia Taylor

    Source link

  • A vehicle involved in a shooting call crashes into several others, killing 3

    [ad_1]

    Three people were killed and several injured in a crash after reports of people shooting at each other from two vehicles near Roxboro Road Sunday evening in Durham County, the Durham County Sheriff’s Office said. 

    A vehicle involved in the deadly crash Sunday evening was being pursued by a deputy responding to the shots fired call, the sheriff’s office confirmed Monday.

    What You Need To Know

    •  The crash happened a little after 6:30 p.m. Sunday while Durham County deputies were pursuing two vehicles involved in a shooting minutes earlier, officials said

    •  Three people were killed in the crash and several others were injured

    •  The second vehicle involved in the initial shooting call has not been located


    Deputies were called to a shooting between two vehicles on Ball Road just before 6:30 p.m., according to the sheriff’s office. When a patrol deputy in the area located the vehicles on Roxboro Street and tried to stop them, officials said they sped off.

    While searching for the suspect vehicles, the deputy came upon a crash on North Roxboro Street at Latta Road.

    The crash happened around 6:37 p.m. when one of the suspect vehicles crossed the center line into the northbound lanes, the N.C. State Highway Patrol said, striking one vehicle head on before hitting a third. Three people were killed and several others were injured.

    The second suspect vehicle has not yet been located, officials said. The investigation into the crash and shooting is ongoing.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Ohio woman sentenced 6 to 9 years in prison for Medicaid scam

    [ad_1]

    DAYTON, Ohio — A Montgomery County woman who stole $1.5 million while working as a Medicaid provider was sentenced to six to nine years in prison, according to Attorney General Dave Yost. 

    Janay Corbitt, 36, pleaded guilty in March to second-degree felony theft and three third-degree felony counts of identity fraud. Additionally, she must pay $1.5 million in restitution. 

    She was indicted in May 2024 following an investigation by Yost’s office. She stole multiple identities to open and operate two spam behavior health counseling agencies in the Dayton area, according to Yost. She also stole the identities of several licensed counselors. 

    “Some thieves don’t know when to quit,” Yost said in a statement. “The investigators and prosecutors in our Health Care Fraud Section did a great job of putting a stop to this costly scheme.”

    [ad_2]

    Lydia Taylor

    Source link

  • Traffic lights again working in Haines City after earlier outages

    [ad_1]

    UPDATE: Just after 4 p.m. Monday, the Haines City Police Department said: “All traffic lights are operational at this time. Thank you for your patience.”

    PREVIOUS

    HAINES CITY, Fla. — The Haines City Police Department is aware of a Monday afternoon power outage affecting the east side of the city. 

    Due to the outage, several traffic lights are currently inoperable, including those at:

    • Hwy 17/92 & Johnson Avenue
    • Hwy 17/92 & Hinson Avenue

    Drivers should treat these intersections as four-way stops and proceed with caution.

    Duke Energy says about 4,000 customers are without power, with restoration likely before 7 p.m.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • State of emergency, evacuation orders issued for Swain County fire

    [ad_1]

    Three wildfires were burning Monday in western North Carolina on an estimated 4,183 acres total. 

    The Sam Davis Road Fire, which has been burning since last week in Swain County, about 4 miles southwest of Bryson City, North Carolina, has prompted a state of emergency and several evacuation orders for residents.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Sam Davis Road Fire has burned roughly 350 acres as of Monday morning, officials said, and is 0% contained

    • Swain County government issued a state of emergency Saturday

    • The Bee Rock Creek Fire was estimated at 1,397 acres and the Haoe Lead Fire at 2,436 acres on Monday


    An evacuation order for Dark Branch Road and Bobcat Trail remains in effect, Swain County Emergency Management said in a Facebook post Monday morning. Orders of evacuation for all other areas previously issued have been lifted.

    The fire has burned roughly 350 acres as of Monday morning, officials said, and is 0% contained.

    Emergency management officials said they are working to contain the fire with Sam Davis Road to the east, Lower Alarka Road on the south, Mountain Side Drive to the west and Potato Ridge on the north.

    A heavy smoke advisory has been issued to residents in and around the county.

    The county issued a state of emergency to go into effect at 5 p.m. April 19. Read the full proclamation here.

    A shelter for those forced to evacuate is available at the Swain County Senior Center at 125 Brendle St. in Bryson City. Officials said pets are not allowed at this shelter.

    Some roads may be closed to nonresident traffic to enable fire crews efficient access, authorities said.

    Bee Rock Creek Fire

    An evacuation order has been lifted for McDowell County residents as firefighters continue to battle the Bee Rock Creek Fire, authorities said.

    Crews were working Monday to secure containment lines and monitor the fire’s edge.

    The fire was estimated at 1,397 acres and was 27% contained, the U.S. Forest Service said Monday morning. More than 150 firefighters from local, state and federal agencies were battling the blaze.

    They urged residents of Wild Acres Road and Wild Acres Retreat who are returning after the evacuation was lifted to remain cautious.


    Haoe Lead Fire

    Crews continued Monday to battle the Haoe Lead Fire, authorities said, noting it had grown slightly since Sunday.

    The fire west of Robbinsville in the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness was estimated at 2,436 acres and 12% contained.

    Firefighting operations involving over 150 personnel are expected to produce increased smoke throughout the day Monday, the U.S. Forest Service said.

    The fire was caused by lightning April 12.

    Several counties in the mountain region saw an outburst of wildfire activity last month during prolonged dry and windy conditions, burning thousands of acres.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Emergency crews respond to 3-alarm fire in Clearwater

    [ad_1]

    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Emergency crews are on scene of a fire that broke out at Fairwinds Treatment Center in Clearwater.

    According to Clearwater Fire Rescue officials, the alarm went off just after 5 a.m. Sunday morning. Seventeen residents and five staff members were able to self-evacuate. No injuries were reported to those inside the center or to firefighters.

    Officials said heavy smoke and fire was inside the building and there’s partial collapse of the structure. 

    Officials said the fire is under control, however, drivers will want to avoid the area of South Fort Harrison Avenue between Belleair Raod and Woodlawn Avenue due to road closures. 

    There is no word on the cause of the fire, but the incident is currently under investigation.

    This is a developing news story. Stay with Spectrum Bay News 9 for more updates.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Victims injured in FSU mass shooting begin to recover physically, emotionally

    [ad_1]

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The nation is still reacting after officials say a gunman opened fired near the Florida State University Student Union, killing two people and injuring others on Thursday.

    At least two people were killed as a result of the active shooter attack and at least six people were injured, according to officials.

    According to the Tallahassee Police Department, all injured victims, and the suspect who was injured, are expected to survive. 

    Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare reported that two patients are expected to be discharged Friday. Three others who were sent to the operating room have improved and are in good condition. One remains in fair condition, they said.

    Officials at the hospital, the Tallahassee Police Department and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office all made it clear on Thursday that they would not be releasing any specific details regarding the victims at this time and that included clarification on whether or not those victims were students or staff at the university.

    “All of our victims, although some have serious injuries, they’re all in fair condition. They have various injuries but overall, in good spirits and are doing well,” said Dr. Brett Howard of the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital on Thursday

    Florida State University Police Chief Jason Trumbower said at a press conference on Thursday that the first shots were fired at 11:50 a.m.

    Videos were shared on social media that showed students running for their lives and others exiting the university with their hands up as law enforcement agencies responded and secured the school.

    Authorities identified the shooter as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, a FSU student and the stepson of a Leon County Sheriff’s Office deputy.

    When asked about the weapon used during the shooting, officials shared that Ikner used his stepmother’s previous service weapon.

    “A lot of times many agencies, mine included, when we transition to a new handgun, the officers are allowed to purchase the handgun that they used prior. And correct me if I’m wrong, sheriff, but I believe that’s the case here,” said Tallahassee Police Department Police Chief Lawrence Revell.

    A memorial has been started on the Florida State University’s campus for all of those involved.

    The school will also hold a vigil Friday at 5 p.m. outside the Doak Campbell Stadium. 

    [ad_2]

    Jaclyn Harold

    Source link

  • New College of Florida marketing director arrested, fired from job

    [ad_1]

    SARASOTA, Fla. — The director of marketing and media for New College of Florida is facing charges of exposure of sexual organs.

    According to our newsgathering partners at the Tampa Bay Times, Fred Piccolo was arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday.

    On Wednesday, a spokesperson for New College confirmed that Piccolo has been fired from the position.

    He also previously worked as a spokesperson for Gov. Ron DeSantis.

    He resigned from that position in 2020 after posting a controversial tweet about COVID-19 victims.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • St. Petersburg teen arrested in 13-year-old boy’s fatal shooting

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg police arrested a 14-year-old suspect on 2nd degree murder charges after police say a video surfaced that allegedly depicted the suspect shooting a 13-year-old.

    Investigators say the victim’s own cell phone video captured 13-year-old Jaden Hill from Largo being shot and killed by his 14-year-old friend on Saturday and broke the case open.

    What You Need To Know

    • Police said a 14-year-old boy shot and killed his 13-year-old friend 

    • The victim captured the deadly shooting on cell phone video  

    • Police said the video broke the case open

    • The 14-year-old boy was arrested for 2nd degree murder


    “Originally, we’re kind of trying to put things together and the stories weren’t matching up,” said Assistant Police Chief Mike Kovascev. “Ultimately, there was a cell phone on scene. When we downloaded that cell phone, it showed the shooting was recorded.”

    Spectrum News has not identified the 14-year-old alleged shooter because he’s a minor and has not been charged as an adult. Police said the deadly incident happened shortly after 11 p.m. on Saturday while the boys were sitting in a parked car outside of a home in the 2400 block of 11th Street South in St. Petersburg.

    “Originally, we were investigating it potentially as a drive by shooting,” said Kovascev. “That was not exactly what occurred.”

    Police said the 14-year-old had provided misleading statements, but once police downloaded the victim’s cell phone detectives found the victim had recorded his own demise.

    “He picked the firearm up, pointed it at his friend and discharged the firearm one time, and the bullet struck his frontal chest,” said Kovascev. “The video, which is a unique piece of evidence to have from a cell phone like that… gave us an idea of what truly happened.”

    The 14-year-old was arrested on a 2nd degree murder charge and was booked into juvenile detention. Kovascev said once detectives finish processing the gun, they should be able to determine where the teen got it.

    The assistant chief said teens getting their hands on guns through illegal means have become a growing problem lately.

    “Over the last 6 months to a year, we’ve seen it far more than we should have. And it’s a concerning trend that we probably need to have bigger discussions about whether it be in school, whether it be community-based discussion point,” he said. ”In most cases, we’ll find out that it was taken during an auto burglary at some point. That’s generally the trend.”

    [ad_2]

    Josh Rojas

    Source link