ReportWire

Tag: APP Public Safety

  • 2 JetBlue planes, one Orlando-bound, make contact at Logan Airport

    2 JetBlue planes, one Orlando-bound, make contact at Logan Airport

    [ad_1]

    BOSTON  — Two JetBlue planes made contact Thursday morning at Boston Logan International Airport, with one wingtip touching another plane’s tail.

    No one was hurt and both flights were canceled, Jennifer Mehigan of the Massachusetts Port Authority said in an email.

    The left winglet of JetBlue Flight 777 struck the right horizontal stabilizer of JetBlue Flight 551 around 6:40 a.m. while both Airbus 321 jets were on the de-icing pad, in an area of the tarmac controlled by the airline, according to the Federal Aviation Authority, which opened an investigation.

    Mehigan said the planes “made contact while in the de-icing area” and described the collision as “very minor.” Passengers said they were moved onto other aircraft.

    Brian O’Neil, who was flying to the Super Bowl, said his plane was following a vehicle to the de-icing areas when he noticed it was “super close” to another plane parked in the area.

    “After we passed, we felt a bump and the captain came over the loudspeaker to say we had just clipped the other plane,” said O’Neil, who has since boarded a new flight to Las Vegas. “To me, it felt like we ran something over.”

    JetBlue confirmed the incident and said the flights to Las Vegas and Orlando would operate on other aircraft while both planes are out of service for repairs. “Safety is JetBlue’s priority, and we will work to determine how and why this incident occurred,” the statement said.

     

    [ad_2]

    Associated Press

    Source link

  • Human trafficking: How to spot it and get help

    Human trafficking: How to spot it and get help

    [ad_1]

    ORLANDO, Fla. — Human trafficking awareness training is taking place in the private sector to address this worldwide widespread crime. Law enforcement and many private businesses are making sure they’re on the lookout for the signs of human trafficking, too, in order to help victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.


    Florida requires hotel and lodging businesses to give their employees approved training. This includes housekeepers, front desk clerks, those at the concierge desk, valets and others.

    In Texas and Ohio, hairstylists and cosmetologists are being trained, too. They’re required to take courses on spotting human trafficking in their clients. The Truckers Against Trafficking organization is also working to put the brakes on trafficking. Training programs like the one at the Roadmaster Drivers School teach truckers about the red flags they could encounter on the road and at truck stops and what to do about them. 

    “If truckers are sitting in their truck and they see a Lincoln Navigator pull in and then girls get out, there’s no reason why 10 girls are getting out of a Navigator at a truck stop scantily clad — wearing clothing that is revealing. That’s an indicator that they should call the 1-800 number,” said Roadmaster Drivers School President Brad Ball.

    It’s a trend the transportation industry as a whole is following.

    At a recent event at Port Tampa Bay, organizers were focused on raising awareness about precious cargo that shouldn’t be there.

    “It’s extremely important for all sectors in the maritime industry to be aware of human trafficking,” said Brianna Cho of Businesses Ending Slavery and Trafficking (BEST). “It can be occurring in the cruise industry but also fishing, cargo or shipping. Really in any setting. There are four main indicators of human trafficking. It’s control, distress or injury, confusion and behaviors that indicate sex buying.”

    You don’t need formal training to spot the signs of human trafficking.

    You may hear announcements over the loudspeaker in airports. You may see signs posted there, in bus stations, restaurants, bars and even restrooms. At Orlando International Airport, like many other airports, employees receive special training on identifying trafficking and taking action.

    Here’s how to spot the signs of human trafficking according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security:

    • Does the person appear disconnected from family, friends, community organizations, or houses of worship?
    • Has a child stopped attending school?
    • Has the person had a sudden or dramatic change in behavior?
    • Is a juvenile engaged in commercial sex acts?
    • Is the person disoriented or confused, or showing signs of mental or physical abuse?
    • Does the person have bruises in various stages of healing?
    • Is the person fearful, timid, or submissive?
    • Does the person show signs of having been denied food, water, sleep, or medical care?
    • Is the person often in the company of someone to whom he or she defers? Or someone who seems to be in control of the situation, e.g., where they go or who they talk to?
    • Does the person appear to be coached on what to say?
    • Is the person living in unsuitable conditions?
    • Does the person lack personal possessions and appear not to have a stable living situation?
    • Does the person have freedom of movement? Can the person freely leave where they live? Are there unreasonable security measures? 

    If you, someone you know, or someone you see appears to be in a human trafficking situation, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is the place to report missing children or child pornography. 

    Human trafficking is a worldwide widespread crime. The U.S. State Department estimates there are more than 27 million victims at any given time. Traffickers exploit and profit at the expense of adults and children by compelling them to perform labor or engage in commercial sex.

    The National Human Trafficking Hotline says many times sex crimes are taking place in hotels, spas and illicit businesses. When it comes to labor trafficking, it’s being seen in agriculture, on farms and in domestic work or hospitality.

    [ad_2]

    Tammie Fields

    Source link

  • Marcelle Waldon, found guilty in Polk double murder, sentenced to death

    Marcelle Waldon, found guilty in Polk double murder, sentenced to death

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — The man found guilty of killing a former Lakeland city commissioner and her husband has been sentenced to death.

    A jury on Tuesday returned an 11-1 verdict for Marcelle Waldon, who was found guilty last week for the 2020 murders of ex-commissioner Edie Yates-Henderson and her husband, David Henderson.


    The couple was killed in their Lake Morton-area home on Nov. 11, 2020. She was 67. Her husband was 63. According to authorities, both of the victims were stabbed with their bodies being found in an upstairs bedroom.

    Waldon, 39, was found guilty in a Polk County courtroom Jan. 31 after a trial that lasted two weeks.

    Under a recent change to Florida law, juries no longer have to be unanimous to recommend the death penalty.

    The new minimum is a three-fourths majority.

    Marcelle Jerrill Waldon, 39, was found guilty last week of killing former commissioner Edie Yates Henderson and her husband David Henderson in their home on Lake Morton Drive on Nov. 11, 2020. (Polk County Jail)

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Extra eyes on downtown Lakeland to increase safety

    Extra eyes on downtown Lakeland to increase safety

    [ad_1]

    LAKELAND, Fla. — The Lakeland Downtown Development Authority is installing more than a dozen cameras for added surveillance in the downtown area.

    What You Need To Know

    • More than a dozen surveillance cameras being added downtown

    • The cameras should be operational at the beginning of March

    • LDDA stresses this approach to safety is economical, saying it will cost about $115,000 to maintain the cameras in the various spots for 10 years

    “What we’re trying to accomplish is just to provide just that extra set of eyes that can assist our Clean and Safe Team, as well as the Lakeland Police Department and Parking Services,” said Julie Townsend, LDDA Executive Director.

    It’s an added layer of security that makes Hannah Long, who works downtown, feel safer.

    “I kind of get protective over my employees, and walking to our cars at night after we close is a big concern of mine. It makes me feel a lot better to hear about that,” Long said.

    The manager at Mitchell’s Coffee House also hopes it has a positive impact on area businesses.

    “I honestly hope that it brings in some more people because they would feel a lot safer coming into the area,” Long said.

    LDDA stresses this approach to safety is economical, saying it will cost about $115,000 to maintain the cameras in the various spots for 10 years.

    “We want to make sure that we’re just keeping those areas surveilled and people are aware that they are on camera, and perhaps they don’t want to engage in those activities that are unsavory,” Townsend said.

    The cameras should be operational at the beginning of March.

    “I personally just feel like it’s so much better,” Long said.

    LDDA says cameras are/will be installed at the following locations:

    • LDDA Building
    • Palace Pizza (2 cameras)
    • Jimmy Johns
    • Loft (2 cameras)
    • Co-Hatch
    • June Taylor’s 
    • Traditions
    • Madden Building 
    • Tsunami Sushi
    • Missouri & Main (2 cameras)

    [ad_2]

    Melissa Eichman

    Source link

  • Pasco County Corrections looks to hire correctional officers

    Pasco County Corrections looks to hire correctional officers

    [ad_1]

    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — Pasco County is looking to hire staffers for a new jail that is expected to open later this year. Officials say the department is in need of corrections officers, but the job duties go well beyond that.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County Corrections is looking to hire 50 certified correctional officers this year with the opening of a new jail

    • The position offers a number of incentives, like sponsoring officers in the academy to go to school full time, and different paths toward other specialties

    • Construction of the department’s new jail has already started, and the facility is expected to open later this year

    At Pasco County Corrections, Corrections Officer Nicole Kleber introduced herself to a few potential new recruits as the department held its first-ever career fair earlier this month.

    “Our main idea for this career fair is to fill the corrections officer spots here,” said Kleber. “We’re going to need a lot of officers to fill our new facility, so that’s what this is based on.”

    Kleber first joined the division 16 years ago by taking her first steps toward becoming a corrections officer — a job she says offers quite a few different paths toward other specialties.

    “I don’t think people realize how many specialty areas that we have in the jail and that we’re offering,” she said. “Especially with incentives if you get certified.”

    Those incentives include sponsoring officers in the academy to go to school full time.

    “There’s room and opportunity to grow,” Kleber said. “I can say that because I started out as a civilian.”

    Kleber said her initial interest was sparked thanks to a family member who worked in the department, which paved the way for her current position in inmate processing.

    “I didn’t have any expectations to stay here,” she said. “I actually wanted to go to school to be a firefighter. But when I started working here as a civilian, I realized these people are regular inmates, they make mistakes, and they’re just regular people.”

    And Kleber said it’s a job that doesn’t discriminate based on an applicant’s age.

    “Age is just a number. It doesn’t matter — it’s all how you carry yourself,” she said. “You run the same unit the same way, it does not matter how old you are.”

    She said it’s also a job that, in time, can lead to bigger and better opportunities, and a future for those hoping to be hired.

    “We want you to advance. We want you to be a superstar,” Kleber said. “Our hopes are if we invest in you, you’re going to grow with us and stay with us.”

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Juvenile crime, including car theft and break-ins, rise in Manatee Co.

    Juvenile crime, including car theft and break-ins, rise in Manatee Co.

    [ad_1]

    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — The just-completed year of 2023 witnessed a significant increase in youth crime in Manatee County.

    What You Need To Know

    • According to the Manatee County State Attorney’s Office, there has been a 42 percent increase in grand theft auto and a 62 percent increase in car break-ins involving juveniles

    • The fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi in Manatee County has noticed this increase 

    • The fraternity’s plan is to help kids stay on the right path through its youth development program called “Guide Right”

    In the past week, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office faced two events involving teens and guns. On Friday, a 17-year-old was shot by a deputy after allegedly attempting to break into cars and firing at deputies. In another incident over the weekend, the Sheriff’s Office reported a teen pointing a gun at a security officer after breaking into a home.

    According to the Manatee County State Attorney’s Office, there has been a 42% increase in grand theft auto and a 62% increase in car break-ins involving juveniles. One organization has observed the uptick in youth crime and is actively working to assist kids in the neighborhood.

    Keenan Wooten is doing his part to decrease those numbers. He makes it his mission to guide kids on the right path through his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi.

    “Oh, I love our Kappa League program. They look forward to me,” he said. For the past 18 years, he has been the Guide Right Director, overseeing the fraternity’s youth development program, aiding boys in grades 6-12.

    “One thing we provide is mentorship, self-identity training, competition, social and health education,” he said.

    Recently, he has noticed an increase in youth crime, linking it to single-parent homes, fatherless households, lack of supervision, and influences from media, movies, music, and social media, which might drive someone to rob or steal a car.

    To ease this issue, Wooten works with kids in team-building events focusing on behavior and confidence building. It has proven to help kids, and they’ve been awarded for their efforts, hoping to continue making a difference.

    “Mentorship through achievement. We pride ourselves on mentoring self-identity, health education, college, and career to help our kids become productive, gainfully employed citizens,” he said.

    He is making a difference in his community, creating new outlets to help kids. “That’s what I tell my students: do not waste time; these are critical years that will set you up for when you get older,” he said.

    In an effort to further help kids, the fraternity invites police officers from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office to spend a day with the boys.

    [ad_2]

    Julia Hazel

    Source link

  • Father of drunk driving victim shares son’s story to prevent tragedy

    Father of drunk driving victim shares son’s story to prevent tragedy

    [ad_1]

    ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. — Advocates are encouraging people to celebrate safely this New Year’s Eve and avoid drunk driving. 

    “Think about other people. There’s going to be other people out there,” said Wade Angel of Zephyrhills.

    What You Need To Know

    • Mothers Against Drunk Driving is urging people to make plans to celebrate New Year’s Eve safely

    • MADD says party hosts should make sure they have room for people to stay the night and be ready to call a rideshare for anyone who’s been drinking

    • Wade Angel, who lost his son, William, in a drunk driving crash in 2012, says people need to plan for a designated driver or other safe ways to get home if they’ll be drinking

    • Angel said people need to remember drunk drivers don’t just impact those in the car they hit, but their families and friends, as well

    Angel knows the impact of drunk driving all too well. His son, William Angel, was just 20 years old when he was killed by a drunk wrong way driver on I-275 in 2012. Angel was out of town for work at the time but called home before William headed out with friends that night.

    “I could hear him in the background, and then my wife says, ‘You want to talk to William?’ And I said, ‘No, I can hear he’s in the background talking with everybody. Tell him I’ll talk to him in the morning.’ Never got a chance to talk to him again. But what they were discussing was who’s driving. Of course, William was like, ‘I’ll drive,’” said Angel of how his son became the designated driver that night. “That’s what you have to do: make plans. If you’re going to go someplace, go with somebody else and see if they’ll be the designated driver or be the designated driver yourself, but it’s not so hard.”

    The West Central Florida Office of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) also recommends planning. Program Manager Sharon Hall said it’s everyone’s responsibility to prevent impaired driving. She urges people hosting parties to arrange rideshares or have room available for people to stay the night if they’ve been drinking. Hall said any amount of alcohol will impair judgment and decision-making skills.

    “This is a lifelong sentence that families and friends endure when a loved one is taken from us,” said Hall, who lost her son to a drunk driver 15 years ago. 

    Hall said the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested and charged 3,882 people with DUI so far in 2023 and there were nearly 800 crashes involving an impaired driver. She reminds drivers that the sheriff’s office, Tampa Police, and Florida Highway Patrol will all be conducting saturation patrols this weekend. 

    Drunk driving is a year-round problem, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reporting 13,384 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2021 — up 14% from the year before. When it comes to New Year’s Eve, the National Safety Council reports that records show 40% of traffic fatalities for the New Year’s Day holiday period in that same year involved an alcohol-impaired driver.

    Angel said the ripple effects from his son’s death continue to be felt years later.

    “Imagine where every joyous occasion is immediately followed by sorrow,” he said. “When William’s brother came home and said, ‘I proposed to my girlfriend, we’re getting married,’ we were so happy. And its immediately followed with, ‘That’s something we’ll never experience with William.’”

    Before the pandemic, Angel spoke on MADD’s victim impact panel. He said that hasn’t yet resumed, but he continues to share William’s story.

    “It’s not just the person you hit. You’re affecting their entire family and everybody that knew them. So, that’s what I’m trying to push on people. Really, it’s the reason why I talk about it is to get through to people, and maybe it’ll save their life,” Angel said.

    AAA’s Tow to Go program is currently activated for the holidays. Members and nonmembers can call (855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246 if they’re impaired and a tow truck will come to take drivers and their vehicles home or to a safe place within ten miles. According to AAA, the program is meant as a safety net for drivers who haven’t planned ahead. It encourages people to find a designated driver ahead of time if they know they’ll be drinking.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Blazonis

    Source link

  • Family, community remember Pasco teen hit by car on the way to school

    Family, community remember Pasco teen hit by car on the way to school

    [ad_1]

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — Bonnie Farago remembers her nephew, Myles Farago, as a smart, witty kid who loved animals, excelled in art and music and enjoyed getting outdoors to hike and camp.

    What You Need To Know

    • Myles Farago, 15, died after being hit by a car while bicycling to school early Thursday

    • His aunt, Bonnie Farago, describes him as a smart kid who loved animals, the arts, and outdoors

    • A memorial honoring Myles has been set up along Kitten Trail, near the scene of the crash
    • Pasco County says safety improvements are planned for the area

    “Myles was supposed to be at Christmas with us. I had already bought him Christmas presents, and he was supposed to be one of the groomsmen in my wedding in March. So, that will not happen now,” Farago said.

    According to Florida Highway Patrol, Myles, 15, was hit by a car while riding his bike to school along Kitten Trail in Hudson just after 6:30 a.m. Thursday. FHP said the driver didn’t see him due to dark conditions.

    “His bike that he normally rides, it does have lights on it,” Farago said. “But because he had a flat tire, he had to take a friend’s bike to school at that particular moment, so he didn’t have a light on his bike.”

    That area of Kitten Trail has no lighting and no sidewalks. Farago said her brother, Myles’ father, mentioned his concerns about road safety in the area many times.

    “He actually did go with Myles a few times to find the safest way to get to school. He wasn’t even going the quickest way,” she said.

    On Friday, students and community members stopped by a memorial cross set up on Kitten Trail in his honor. Among them was Brittany Nichols. She lives near the crash scene and said she called 911. She told Spectrum Bay News 9 that she and another person attempted to perform CPR on Myles.

    “My heart really does go out to his family, and I hope his family can find some peace,” Nichols said. 

    Hudson High School student Maria Gomez said she and others with the school’s Dungeons and Dragons Club came to the memorial because a fellow member was best friends with Myles.

    “It felt a lot more painful, and really the more you started to hear what was going on, you learned different details throughout the day about what had happened to the kid, and all you could feel was guilt the entire time,” Maria said.

    Maria’s mother, Lazara Gomez, said she spent the morning calling school and county officials, asking for lights, signs indicating a school is nearby, and sidewalks to be installed in the area.

    “They’re having to share this road at six-something in the morning,” Gomez said. “The sun hasn’t even risen yet, and these kids are having to trek through here.”

    Pasco County said in a statement that it secured grant funding to build a sidewalk on the south side of Kitten Trail that will go from Hicks Road to Giddyup Lane. A school speed zone will also be in place on Kitten Trail from Hicks Road. to a quarter mile east of Cobra Way. The county also said it’s including the area in its annual review of roads that need street lights. Farago said that the news is a relief.

    “I don’t want any other parents, any other family, to have to go through exactly what we are going through right now. It should never happen again,” Farago said.

    Farago said she wants people to remember Myles’ story when they find themselves driving on dark roads. She urges drivers to slow down and be vigilant – especially before school.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Blazonis

    Source link

  • Hudson residents rally for safety after teen bicyclist killed in crash

    Hudson residents rally for safety after teen bicyclist killed in crash

    [ad_1]

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A 15-year-old Hudson Academy student was struck and killed by a vehicle while riding his bike Thursday morning.

    What You Need To Know

    • A teen bicyclist was hit and killed by a vehicle near Thompson Avenue and Kitten Trail in Hudson

    • The teen, 15-year-old Myles Farago, was a student at Hudson Academy

    • FHP said a Hudson man, 31, was driving a Dodge Charger eastbound and did not see the teen, who was not wearing a helmet, due to dark conditions

    According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the crash happened just after 6:30 a.m. near Thompson Avenue and Kitten Trail in Hudson — less than a mile away from the school on a two-lane road.

    The bicyclist has been identified as Myles Farago. In a Facebook post, Hudson Academy officials described him as “kind, caring and a talented student.”

    Troopers said a Hudson man, 31, was driving a Dodge Charger eastbound on Kitten Trail when he struck the rear of the bicycle. Authorities said the conditions were dark and the driver did not see the teen, who was not wearing a helmet. 

    People who live in the surrounding area say that road is dangerous and there needs to be more lights. 

    “It needs something to be done,” Hudson resident Janet Michaels said. “There’s a lot of traffic in the mornings, at like seven o’clock or so, and then in the afternoon when school gets out. I’m surprised we don’t have more accidents, really.”

    Kelli Childress, another resident and parent, said she immediately knew something bad happened as she drove past the flood of police lights on Kitten Trail.

    “My first thought was it was a kid going to school,” she said. “And then it ended up being that. It’s devastating. No mom should have to feel that. Not with a little boy just trying to go to school.”

    Officials said Farago was taken to an area hospital where he later died as a result of his injuries. 

    The road where the crash happened leads to three nearby schools. Neighbors and school parents, including Childress, have been speaking out about Kitten Trail, which has no sidewalks or crosswalks.

    “What happened this morning could be avoided 100 percent. It’s dangerous, it’s dark, (drivers) not paying attention,” Childress said. “There’s nothing on Kitten Road, except for one faded sign that says ‘school entrance.’ People don’t pay attention to signs anymore. There’s no lights, there’s nothing. It’s dark.”

    Childress has been advocating for improved safety measures for years. She says she’s frustrated and heartbroken that a tragedy like this happened, but hopes it may lead to change.

    Hudson Academy said they had a crisis team on their campus today to offer support to students and staff and will keep bringing in counselors for as long as needed.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • New street lights installed in Manatee County’s underlit areas

    New street lights installed in Manatee County’s underlit areas

    [ad_1]

    PALMETTO, Fla. — Manatee County is installing street lights in underlit areas as part of a project that was passed by commissioners in August.

    What You Need To Know

    • According to Manatee County Commissioner Mike Rahn, 90% of the county does not have proper street lighting

    • Light Up Manatee plans to install 9,000 solar operated LED street lights in low-income and underlit neighborhoods in Districts 2, 3 and 4

    • The county is partnering with the Sheriff’s Office to install Raven Sound Detection Systems throughout these neighborhoods as well

    Installations are taking place throughout Districts 2, 3, and 4. Workers recently completed the first neighborhood in Palmetto.

    Manatee County Commissioner Mike Rahn, who is spearheading the Light Up Manatee project, says it’s all an effort to give residents light and to reduce the crime rate in low-income neighborhoods.

    A total of $3 million from the American Rescue Plan Act will be used to install 9,000 solar-operated LED street lights.

    “It came to my attention through my research that 90 percent of Manatee County is without lighting,” Rahn said. “I believe when you light up neighborhoods, they become safer, stronger, and it chases all the bad elements out of the way.”

    Essick and Janiell Johnson, who have been living in Palmetto since 1972, recently noticed the new lights illuminating their street.

    “He said it’s the streetlight; we got a streetlight now,” Janiell Johnson said. “It was so bright, like I was in heaven. It was gorgeous.”

    The two say they can’t remember a time their street has been lit in the past 50 years.

    “We feel much safer with my daughter coming home at night, especially if I’m not here; she can see a larger area that’s brightened up,” Essick Johnson said. “It gets dark out here, especially when the sun goes down early.”

    Feeling that sense of safety is the goal of these new lights as officials aim to bring a brighter future for neighborhoods.

    According to Rahn, the county also is partnering with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office to install Raven Sound Detection Systems throughout these neighborhoods.

    The audio device works to detect and locate gunshots before 911 is called.

    [ad_2]

    Julia Hazel

    Source link

  • Rescue crews respond after plane crash at Zephyrhills airport

    Rescue crews respond after plane crash at Zephyrhills airport

    [ad_1]

    ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. — Two people have been injured after a plane crashed Thursday afternoon at Zephyrhills Municipal Airport.

    Authorities said South Avenue, from Airport Road to Sixth Avenue, is closed and that drivers should avoid the area.

    Pasco County Fire Rescue and Zephyrhills Police Department are on the scene. The FAA and NTSB have been requested to respond as well. 

    The two injured were taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

    (Zephyrhills Police Department Photo)

    The single-engine Cessna was registered in Lakeland.

    This is a breaking news story and we’ll provide updates as they come in.

    Stay with Spectrum Bay News 9 on-air, online and the Spectrum News app for more.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Crystal River community mourning shooting death of former student

    Crystal River community mourning shooting death of former student

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — The Crystal River community is mourning after news that one of their own died in Montana this weekend.

    What You Need To Know

    • 18-year-old Chandler Stalcup, a Crystal River native, was shot and killed in Montana over the weekend

    • Stalcup was a freshman football player at Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Montana
    • He was a 2003 graduate of Crystal River High School where he played football; Stalcup’s former coach Cliff Lohrey says he made an impact on the football field

    • The Pirates football team plan to honor and recognize Stalcup ‘next season and beyond’

    Chandler Stalcup, 18, was shot during a fight with another teen this past weekend, according to police in Billings. He later died at an area hospital.

    Stalcup, a 2023 graduate of Crystal River High School, was a freshman football player at Rocky Mountain College in Billings. It was a sport that meant a great deal to him.

    At Crystal River High School, Stalcup made an impact on the football field, but maybe none greater than the impact he had on the people around him.

    “We’re not going to get over this easily,” says Cliff Lohrey, head football coach at Crystal River High School and Stalcup’s former coach. “It’s going to take some time and some healing.”

    As Lohrey looks inside the trophy cabinet at Crystal River High School, he reflects on Stalcup.

    “He’s just an outstanding young adult who contributed to the lives of a lot of people here in a lot of different ways,” he said. 

    Chandler Stalcup and Head Coach Cliff Lohrey. (Chris Lohrey)

    Lohrey has been head coach of the football team for six years. 

    “All he did was work to improve,” Lohrey said. “All he did was work to get better. Those are the relationships, those are the interactions and those are the memories that, as a coach, you go, ‘Chandler is the reason that I wanted to do this in the first place.’ He’s the reason that I’m going to get up tomorrow in the morning and try to do it better than I did today.”

    But, as Lohrey said, for Stalcup, it wasn’t always about football.

    “Chandler, when he first came to Crystal River High School, (was) a multiple sport athlete as I mentioned. Baseball and football guy,” he said. “Baseball was initially his first love.”

    A multi-sport athlete whose dedication took him to the collegiate level, Stalcup had bigger dreams— and a larger-than-life impact— off the field.

    “People would be missing the boat if they don’t understand what a well-rounded young man, young adult he was,” Lohrey said. “The impact he made on this world in 18 years, it’s so important to remember what he would’ve done going forward in his life. Those are the things that we’ll continue to talk about that will be a part of Chandler Stalcup’s legacy at Crystal River High School.”

    The Pirates had their final game of the season last week. While their season might be over, Lohrey said they plan to recognize and honor Stalcup next season and beyond.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Citrus County launches paramedicine program to help drug addiction

    Citrus County launches paramedicine program to help drug addiction

    [ad_1]

    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — A new program is helping those who are battling drug addiction.

    What You Need To Know

    • Community Paramedicine Program launches in Citrus County, helping those who are battling drug addiction 

    • The program has been made possible by funding from the opioid settlement

    • Currently, Citrus County Fire Rescue has two county paramedics on staff with the hopes of expanding in the future

    • Sometimes the job yields different results than expected and sometimes those results can be a pleasant surprise

    The Community Paramedicine Program was launched by Citrus County Fire Rescue in collaboration with the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) and Florida Department of Children and Families. The initiative is made possible by funding from the opioid settlement, intended to mitigate the opioid epidemic on affected communities throughout the state.

    The program’s sole duty is focusing on the opioid epidemic within the county and searching for those patients who want help.

    “We can be out there within 30 to 40 minutes depending on where it is in the county, assess them, assess their need, contact our online medical control doctor — who helps us with this program, agrees with the program and loves the program — and then start a plan for them in order to get them the help they need,” says Jason Morgan, division chief of EMS for Citrus County Fire Rescue. “That’s long-term help.”

    Right now, Citrus County Fire Rescue has two county paramedics fulfilling that role. Morgan says he’s hopeful the program will expand, allowing more paramedics to be hired.

    It’s a duty that requires plenty of patience and community connections.

    “Thirty years of doing this, of EMS. I’m still here so, obviously, I must like doing it. I must,” he said.

    Every day, county paramedic Gronn Morgan goes out for a drive, with each day bringing a familiar mission — visiting those who need help with overcoming drug addiction.

    “The best way we describe it is we’re a bridge program — from where they’re at by themselves to that long-term care,” says Gronn Morgan. “We get them there so they don’t relapse and that’s really the focus of all this is to get people to the long-term care without them falling through the cracks.”

    Gronn Morgan is one of two paramedics in Citrus County who are part of the new paramedicine program. Part of his daily routine is serving as a bridge between those offering help and those who need help.

    Only on this particular call, one of his patients wasn’t answering.

    “We’ll try again tomorrow, call them again, stop by the house again and see if anyone shows up. If I get two or three days with nobody home and no answer and nothing looks like it’s changed outside, I’ll probably talk to one of the neighbors and see if there’s something changed — like they went to a nursing home or they went on vacation. But it’s only been a few days since the referral went in, so where’d they go?”

    Sometimes the job yields different results than expected. And sometimes those results can be a pleasant surprise.

    One of Morgan’s clients is Roger Terras, who’s been sober more than 50 days.

    ”You just have to make that choice to one — not do the same thing or see the same person, do whatever you can to get money,” said Terras, who is a patient. “You forget about family, friends, morals or principles. All you care about is one thing, and it’s killing people.”

    It’s been a battle for Terras and others like him wanting to get clean. A battle made a little easier with the right kind of help and someone like Morgan on his side.

    “It’s going to be days of sometimes of you know, ‘I don’t feel so good’ and days of ‘Let’s keep at it and keep going to the doctor’s office, keep taking the medication,’” said Morgan. “It’s going to be a process and not everybody is happy with the process. Some people give up on it too soon. Roger is staying with it and I am so happy he’s staying with it. He’s going to make it.”

    It made this daily routine that much more meaningful for this paramedic.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Citrus County Sheriff’s Office to offer free firearm safety course

    Citrus County Sheriff’s Office to offer free firearm safety course

    [ad_1]

    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — A free, basic firearms course will soon be available for residents, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday.

    CCSO, in partnership with Outpost Range, designed the Firearms Safety Training Program for those with limited or no prior firearm experience and incorporates a blend of classroom instruction, live-range exercises, firearm handling, manipulation exercises and recent changes to concealed carry statutes. 

    Upon successful completion of the course, attendees will attain a CCSO Basic Firearms Safety Certification. There will also be opportunities for further firearm skill development and knowledge enhancement through advanced courses, officials said. 

    “I am excited to provide our citizens with this opportunity to learn about firearm safety – the safe handling of a firearm is critical for everyone to know,” said Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast in a statement. “This course will not only educate citizens on the proper techniques of firearm use, but will also allow them to practice hands-on with a certified firearms instructor and ask questions.”

    Requirements to join the firearms safety program include:

    • Must be 21 years of age or older, unless you are a service member or a veteran of the Armed Forces who was discharged under honorable conditions
    • Must be a U.S. citizen and resident of Citrus County
    • Must bring a state-issued photo ID or drivers license the day of event
    • Must wear pants or slacks, full size shirt, closed-toe shoes. A baseball style hat is optional
    • No red shirts, shorts, or tank tops will be allowed
    • Handguns, ammunition, and targets will be provided. Please do not bring your own
    • Eye and hearing protection will be provided, or you may bring your own if preferred

    The available course dates are on Nov. 19, Dec. 10, Jan. 7, 2024, and Feb. 11, 2024. All courses will run from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Outpost Range.

    Space is limited. To sign up, visit the CCSO website and click on Firearm Safety Course under the Programs and Services tab.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Citrus County schools closed after strong storms left areas damaged

    Citrus County schools closed after strong storms left areas damaged

    [ad_1]

    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — Citrus County schools are closed Thursday, Oct. 12, after parts of the county experienced significant damage from storms overnight.

    The school district made the announced on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at 6:13 a.m.

    Powerful storms came on shore around 2 a.m. and left a trail across Citrus County and other areas of Tampa Bay.

    Officials have closed several roadways in Crystal River due to extensive damage following an unconfirmed tornado touching down in the area.

    Highway 44 is closed in all directions from the intersection of U.S. Highway 19 to Turkey Oak drive. Highway 19 is closed in all directions from West Fort Island Trail to Northeast Fifth Street in Crystal River.

    Tornado watches remain in effect across Tampa Bay until 9 a.m.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Crystal River home total loss after late-night fire

    Crystal River home total loss after late-night fire

    [ad_1]

    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A late-fire destroyed a home in Citrus County.

    Crews responded just before 11 p.m. Tuesday to W. Beachview Drive to find a two-story wood frame residence fully involved in flames. 

    Firefighters from Connell Heights, Homosassa, DeRosa, Sugarmill Woods, Hernando, Highlands, Citrus Springs, Pine Ridge, a safety officer, rescue unit, and the Rehab Unit from Citrus Springs responded to the scene.

    Multiple 911 callers reported hearing a possible explosion, and flames were visible about 2-3 miles away from the residence.

    The fire was brought under control at 11:52 p.m. but the home was a total loss.

    No injuries were reported.  Assistance was requested for the displaced residents.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Hernando authorities: Suspicious death at Weeki Wachee home

    Hernando authorities: Suspicious death at Weeki Wachee home

    [ad_1]

    HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. —  The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a suspicious death in Weeki Wachee and have started a search for the victim’s significant other, who is missing.

    Deputies said after they responded to reports of a missing person, which later turned out to the victim, at a home on Darts Street Sunday afternoon. Deputies discovered the body of an adult female in one of the bedrooms.

    What You Need To Know

    • Hernando deputies: Woman found at Weeki Wachee home; significant other, victim’s car missing 

    • Deputies said there are suspicious circumstances surrounding the death

    • Authorities: Victim’s significant other, Shauna Urive, 23, and the victim’s vehicle, a 2005 silver Pontiac Grand Am are missing

    Family members told authorities that had not seen the woman in several days.

    In examining the home, deputies said they immediately noted suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and contacted Major Case detectives and Forensic specialists, who took over the investigation.

    An autopsy will be conducted to determine the victim’s cause of death.

    Meanwhile, the victim’s significant other, Shauna Urive, 23, and the victim’s vehicle, a 2005 silver Pontiac Grand Am with the Florida tag CG2VH are both missing, officials said.

    Authorities have not released any further information about the case.

    Anyone with information is asked to call the sheriff’s office or Hernando County Crime Stoppers at 1-866-990-TIPS (8477).

    You may also submit your tip via the internet at http://www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com.

    You can remain anonymous and also be eligible for a reward up to $5,000 cash.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Idalia: When classes across Tampa Bay will resume

    Idalia: When classes across Tampa Bay will resume

    [ad_1]

    We’ll be using this page to update our viewing area on school impacts due to Idalia. 

    School Closings by County: 

    Citrus County

    NEW: The school system will reopen Friday.

    In a statement Thursday, the district said: “After receiving the latest update from Emergency Management officials and having assessed the damages in our facilities sustained from Hurricane Idalia, I am pleased to share that schools will be reopen tomorrow Friday, September 1st.  Should you have any issues or concerns, please contact the administration at your school.  As always, we appreciate your time, understanding, and patience during these uncertain times.”

    Due to the coastal impact in our county from Hurricane Idalia, schools are continuing to be used as shelters.

    School will be cancelled, Thursday, Aug. 31.

    After the next high tide, more info regarding a projected date of school reopening will be announced.

    Hernando County

    All Hernando County schools and district offices will reopen Thursday, Aug. 31.

    Students impacted by coastal flooding will be provided an excused absence.

    Hillsborough County

    Hillsborough County Schools are reopening on Thursday, Aug. 31.

    Manatee County

    All Manatee District Schools will reopen Thursday, August 31.

    Pasco County

    All Pasco County schools will be open on Thursday, August 31.

    This includes athletics, PLACE, Delta, Star, and all other extracurricular activities.

    Pinellas County

    Schools will be open for normal operations on Thursday, August 31.

    Polk County

    All Polk County schools and offices will reopen Friday, Sept. 1.

    Major Universities:

    University of Central Florida: UCF will resume standard operations on Thursday, Aug. 31. 

    University of Florida: UF to resume normal operations on Thursday, Aug. 31. 

    University of South Florida: USF says classes will resume Thursday, Aug. 31, except for classes at Mote Marine.

    University of Tampa: Regular operations are scheduled to resume Thursday, Aug. 31 at noon.

    St. Petersburg College: Campuses/sites open and all classes resuming — on Thursday, Aug. 31. 

    Florida State University: Classes and normal university operations will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 5.

    FAMU: Classes and Universtiy operations remain suspended through Friday, Sept. 1. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 5. 

    Polk State College: PSC classes and operations will resume Thursday, Aug. 31. 

    Keiser University: Classes will resume at the following Keiser University campuses on Thursday, August 31, 2023. All campuses will be open for regular operations unless otherwise noted.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link