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Tag: broward county

  • Broward couple jailed after infants suffer broken bones

    A Broward County couple was jailed as deputies investigate a nearly year-long child abuse case after their infants suffered multiple unexplained fractures and injuries.

    A Broward County couple was jailed as deputies investigate a nearly year-long child abuse case after their infants suffered multiple unexplained fractures and injuries.

    A Broward couple are in the midst of a puzzling, nearly year-long child-abuse case and were put behind bars Tuesday, deputies said. The pair had their infant taken away from them as authorities tried to figure out if they were at fault for the child’s broken bones.

    However, while authorities tried to get to the bottom of that abuse, the couple had another baby and possibly abused that child, too, deputies said.

    Kourtney Walton, 37, and Andrew Wilson, 37, were charged with one count of child neglect with great bodily harm, according to their arrest reports.

    On Dec. 19, 2024, Broward County Sheriff’s deputies were alerted by the Department of Children and Families that the couple’s 6-month-old boy was being treated for “unexplained” fractures, the report read. His collarbone, a shinbone, a forearm and a thighbone were broken.

    While the couple had told authorities the child did not fall and they did not harm him, doctors ruled that the injuries were consistent with “non-accidental blunt-force trauma.”

    Deputies continued their investigation to see where the fault lied, but on Dec. 23, 2024, the child was removed from the parents’ custody in Juvenile Dependency Court and his grandmother was made his primary caretaker.

    Walton and Wilson were allowed supervised visitations with their child, the report read.

    During the next several months, deputies tried to contact the couple and their family members and friends who would have been taking care of the child. Many calls for questioning were left unanswered, including by the parents.

    In June, Walton and Wilson had another boy. Deputies would later learn this child, too, was taken away from the parents and handed over to his grandmother because doctors discovered severe physical abuse.

    On Tuesday, their second boy, at 4 months old, was discovered to be suffering from fractures in various stages of healing and a traumatic brain injury. Walton and Wilson again denied harming their child, but the medical professionals’ findings indicated the injuries were from “non-accidental blunt-force trauma.”

    Deputies charged the couple with child neglect and causing the injuries of their first child in December. It’s unclear if authorities will file charges in relation to the injuries of their second child.

    As of Friday night, Walton and Wilson both remained in the Broward County Jail.

    Devoun Cetoute

    Miami Herald

    Miami Herald Cops and Breaking News Reporter Devoun Cetoute covers a plethora of Florida topics, from breaking news to crime patterns. He was on the breaking news team that won a Pulitzer Prize in 2022. He’s a graduate of the University of Florida, born and raised in Miami-Dade. Theme parks, movies and cars are on his mind in and out of the office.

    Devoun Cetoute

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  • Florida Woman Wins $1 Million Playing Monopoly Scratch-Off Game

    Florida Woman Wins $1 Million Playing Monopoly Scratch-Off Game

    The Florida Lottery recently announced that Soignese Youte, of Miramar, claimed a $1 million top prize from the $5 MONOPOLY DOUBLER scratch-off game at the Lottery’s Miami District Office.

    The Broward County winner chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $798,985.00.

    The South Florida woman purchased her winning ticket from Le Phare Food Market, located at 16784 Northeast 2nd Avenue in North Miami Beach. The retailer received a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning scratch-off ticket.

    The $5 Monopoly Doubler scratch-off game features more than 9.4 million winning tickets and over $132.6 million in cash prizes, including 12 top prizes of $1 million.

    The game’s overall odds of winning are 1-in-3.98.

    Scratch-off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 74 percent of ticket sales in fiscal year 2023-2024. Additionally, since inception, scratch-off games have awarded more than $63.1 billion in prizes, created 2,175 millionaires, and generated more than $18.95 billion for the state’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF).

    The Florida Lottery is responsible for contributing more than $46 billion to enhance education and sending more than 983,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,600 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $95.7 billion in prizes and made more than 4,000 people millionaires.

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  • Broward County Insurance Adjuster Arrested

    Broward County Insurance Adjuster Arrested

    A Broward County insurance adjuster was arrested for unlicensed public adjusting.

    Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez allegedly secured public insurance adjuster contracts for adjusting, and appraisal services, without being licensed in the state of Florida, and then unlawfully withheld money belonging to two policyholders. Gonzalez defrauded the two policyholders out of $34,424.

    Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis recently announced the arrest of Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez, owner of Maximum Claims Recovery, Inc., on two counts of felony charges of Unlicensed Public Adjusting.

    “When unlicensed public adjusters take advantage of the system, every policyholder in the state loses,” Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis said. “Insurance fraud drives up rates and devalues the professionalism of honest public adjusters and insurance agents. As Florida’s insurance market begins to improve little-by-little, we will continue to assure companies and policyholders that fraud will not be tolerated in our state. Kudos to my Criminal Investigations Division fraud detectives for doing the hard work to bring this fraudster to justice. Also, thanks to the Broward State Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this case and protecting the rights of Florida consumers.”

    “NAPIA believes in the ethical practice of public insurance adjusting and applauds all efforts of the Florida DFS to assure that only licensed public adjusters are allowed to assist consumers who have sustained first party property loss,” said Brian Goodman, General counsel to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA).

    In September 2023 and December 2023, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Criminal Investigations Division (CID) received complaints from policyholders based on concerns that Maximum Claims Recovery Inc, operated by Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez, may have secured a public insurance adjuster contract, for adjusting and appraisal services, without being licensed in the state of Florida and for unlawfully withholding monies belonging to the two policyholders.

    According to supporting documents that were provided by the policyholders, Gonzalez represented himself as a licensed public adjuster to assist the policyholders with insurance claims related to home damage in 2022, in return for a 20% adjusting fee of the insurance settlements. The contract agreements from Maximum Claims Recovery, Inc. were executed and memorialized in writing by Gonzalez and the policyholders.

    As such, Evolution Risk Advisors issued a settlement check in the amount of $18,000 on behalf of Universal and Property Insurance that was payable to Maximum Claim Recovery. Catastrophe and National Claims (CNC) issued two settlement checks on behalf of State National Insurance Company, Inc. that were payable to Maximum Claim Recovery that totaled $26,903. In both instances, the checks totaling $44,903 were signed and deposited in a Chase bank account Maximum belonging to Claims Recovery, Inc.

    CID investigators gathered evidence to show the settlement checks totaling $44,903 were deposited into the Chase account. Although, Gonzalez received the settlement checks in a timely manner, he failed to remit the funds due to one of the policyholders from the Evolution Risk Advisors claim which totaled $18,000.

    He also provided a business check in the amount of $16,424 to the other insured on behalf of CNC which was deposited by the policyholder and was returned for non-sufficient funds. As a result of fraudulent, unethical, and dishonest acts within the insurance industry, Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez received a total of $44,903 while acting as an unlicensed public adjuster and failed to remit to the policyholders approximately $34,424 of insurance claim money.

    CID Investigators reviewed records from the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Division of Agent & Agency Services (A&A) which showed Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez licensed as an All Lines Public Adjuster suspended by the Chief Financial Officer for the state of Florida on April 25, 2013, for failing to maintain a surety bond.

    Furthermore, Gonzalez was also arrested on June 19, 2023, by CID detectives in Miami-Dade County for a similar act. In that case, Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez was charged with one count of acting as a public adjuster and one count of grand theft.

    Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez was arrested at the Broward County Main Jail without incident by CID detectives. The Broward State Attorney’s Office, who partnered in this investigation will handle prosecution. If convicted, Giorgio Giovanni Gonzalez could face up to 30 years in prison.

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  • City leaders vow action after 2 toddlers shot in 2 weeks in Fort Lauderdale

    City leaders vow action after 2 toddlers shot in 2 weeks in Fort Lauderdale

    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and Police Chief Bill Schultz held a press conference Wednesday morning to address gun violence in the city, including a drive-by shooting over the weekend that left a toddler dead.

    In the span of two weeks, two toddlers have been shot in Fort Lauderdale, prompting city officials to declare that such violence will not be tolerated.

    Trantalis, Schultz and Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Pamela Beasley-Pittman pledged to solve the recent murders and address the surge of shootings in the city. The event was held at Riverland Park, where 3-year-old Rylo Yancy was fatally shot while attending a birthday party.

    “We are doing all that we can to solve Rylo’s murder,” said Trantalis.

    The family of Rylo Yancy, devastated by the loss, spoke to Local 10′s Sanela Sabovic.

    “They took my heart, they took my soul, they took a lot of people’s strength,” said Rylo’s grandfather, Jerrold Pough. “I want to say this… I already asked for forgiveness to who did this to my grandbaby. They don’t know how special he was to me, my family, the world.”

    Rylo’s aunt, Beverly Isaac, tearfully pleaded for an end to gun violence.

    “I didn’t know it would be the last time Sunday kissing Rylo,” Isaac said. “These people need to put the guns down. Please put them down!

    Rylo was attending a one-year-old’s birthday party at Riverland Park on Sunday when two people in separate cars started shooting at each other. A stray bullet hit Rylo while he was on a slide. He was rushed to Broward Health Medical Center, where he died.

    This incident follows another tragic shooting just two weeks earlier on July 8.

    Five people were shot near a convenience store along Northwest 10th Terrace, resulting in the deaths of 38-year-old Tiarra Holliday and 45-year-old Sheldon Lawrence. Among the injured was Holliday’s 2-year-old son, Diego Henry, who was released from the hospital last week and now faces life without his mother.

    From left: Tiarra Holliday and Sheldon Lawrence were killed in a double shooting in Fort Lauderdale on July 8. (Broward Crime Stoppers)

    No arrests have been made in either shooting. Authorities discussed the need for public assistance.

    “We are following leads but really need help from the public,” Schultz said. “If you have any information that can help investigators, give us a call or remain anonymous by calling Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. There are cash rewards for information that leads to an arrest.”

    Broward Crime Stoppers released a flyer on Wednesday stating that they will pay up to $10,000 for any information that leads to an arrest in connection with Rylo’s death.

    Rylo Yancy. (Broward Crime Stoppers)

    Schultz said that over the last five weeks, Fort Lauderdale has experienced three shootings involving 11 victims, including two toddlers.

    Crime Stoppers also announced they would pay up to $5,000 for information that led to the arrest or arrests in the shooting death of Michael “Kirby” McKinney Jr.

    Authorities said McKinney, 33, was fatally shot just after 7 p.m. on June 14 while standing outside near the 700 block of Northwest 22nd Road.

    Michael McKinney Jr. (Broward Crime Stoppers)

    .Detectives said a 2-year-old boy, who was shot and placed in a medically-induced coma during the fatal double shooting on July 8, has returned home and is recovering.

    Trantalis said over 40 police officers were hired in Fort Lauderdale over the past year to “ensure safety in the community.”

    “The Fort Lauderdale Police Department will not stand for these acts of violence,” said Schultz. “We appreciate all the tips and assistance from the public but please reach out if you have any information.”

    Schultz also confirmed that over 150 guns were stolen in the city of Fort Lauderdale this year.

    Anyone with information on the shooter or shooters in any of the cases is urged to call Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477.

    Local 10 News viewers can watch the press conference in the video below.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Ryan Mackey, Sanela Sabovic

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  • Heat advisory continues in South Florida amid triple-digit temperatures

    Heat advisory continues in South Florida amid triple-digit temperatures

    PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – Another heat advisory was issued Monday for South Florida, with peak heat indices of 105 to 112 degrees expected throughout much of the afternoon.

    The advisory is expected to last until 6 p.m.

    South Florida residents should brace for intense heat today as temperatures soar and a heat advisory is in effect for areas south of Lake Okeechobee, including the Florida Keys.

    While the majority of the day will remain dry, significant afternoon storms are expected to stay west, near Naples and the Gulf side.

    Miami is already experiencing a heat index of 90 degrees, which is anticipated to climb into the triple digits, according to Local 10 News meteorologist Brandon Orr.

    Rain chances are at 40%, primarily from late morning through early afternoon, and will decrease as the day progresses, Orr said.

    South Florida is experiencing a mix of intense heat and scattered showers Monday, bringing some brief relief from the high temperatures.

    The rain is currently concentrated over Broward County, particularly between Weston and Rolling Oaks, with light showers also seen from Surfside to Miami Beach, according to Local 10 meteorologist Peta Sheerwood.

    Showers and thunderstorms are anticipated to develop inland by late afternoon, likely leaving eastern areas mostly dry. On and off moisture from the Atlantic is expected this week, with Saharan dust and drier air lowering rain chances on Tuesday and Wednesday. By Thursday, the sea breeze pattern will bring more moisture. Sherwood said.

    Temperatures in Fort Lauderdale are 89 degrees, with a dew point of 78 and a southeast breeze at 14 mph, making it feel like 103 degrees as of Monday afternoon. Miami could see a high of 92 degrees.

    Rain chances will vary throughout the week, decreasing to 30% on Tuesday and Wednesday before increasing again by the end of the week.

    In the tropics, conditions remain calm despite a few tropical waves. Widespread Saharan dust is helping to keep tropical development at bay. The peak of this dust activity occurs from June to July, with near-record levels currently observed. This dust is preventing storm formation, providing temporary relief from tropical threats.

    Tropical moisture will move in on Monday, according to Local 10 meteorologist Peta Sherwood.

    “This could spark a few early showers with inland showers and thunderstorms setting up in the afternoon. Highs will reach the lower 90s and we should see feels like temperatures in the triple digits. It is likely we will not reach the heat advisory criteria,” Sherwood said.

    Saharan dust could increase again Tuesday into Wednesday. That will help lower rain chances on those days.

    If you have respiratory issues, please limit your time outside as the air quality is at moderate levels.

    The National Weather Service in Miami advises the public to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room if possible and stay out of the sun.

    Those who work outdoors are advised to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments and limit strenuous activities.

    Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location, and if someone appears to be suffering a heat stroke, call 911.

    CLICK HERE for the latest weather updates from Local 10′s Weather Authority.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Brandon Orr, Peta Sheerwood, Ryan Mackey

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  • Surveillance video released following shooting in Fort Lauderdale that left 2 dead, 3 injured

    Surveillance video released following shooting in Fort Lauderdale that left 2 dead, 3 injured

    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Fort Lauderdale police released surveillance video Thursday that shows a fatal shooting that occurred earlier this week.

    According to police, multiple people called 911 just before 8 p.m. Monday to report a shooting near the 800 block of Northwest 10th Terrace.

    Officers arrived at the scene to find multiple people suffering from gunshot wounds, including a 2-year-old boy.

    Police confirmed that a total of five people were shot, including a woman who was pronounced dead at the scene and a man who died after being transported to Broward Health Medical Center.

    The surviving victims were also taken to Broward Health Medical Center.

    Loved ones identified the victims killed as 28-year-old Tiarra Holliday and 45-year-old Sheldon Lawrence.

    According to Holliday’s family members, she was with her young son near a convenience store when someone opened fire.

    Surveillance video shows that the shooter was riding in a silver car with the passenger door open when the shooting occurred.

    Relatives said Holliday was shot in the head and her 2-year-old son was also struck by a bullet.

    According to relatives, the mother ran into the store where she collapsed and died.

    The toddler was identified by his grandmother as Diego. She said he was initially placed in a medically-induced coma and also suffered a broken leg.

    “She did everything she could to save her baby’s life,” Shontrelle Holliday said. “That was definitely the person who she was. She would have preferred to save him over her.”

    Relatives said Diego was no longer in a coma Thursday and was undergoing a second surgery to remove part of his skull.

    Police confirmed Thursday that the silver vehicle was found abandoned shortly after the shooting, but no suspects are in custody.

    Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Detective Jennifer Saint-Jean 954-828-5570, Detective Jackie Sanchez at 954-828-5539, the Homicide Tipline at 954-828-6677, or remain anonymous by calling Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.

    Any information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward.

    A GoFundMe page has been created by loved ones to assist with Diego’s medical expenses and Holliday’s funeral service.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Amanda Batchelor, Rosh Lowe

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  • Florida Panthers Stanley Cup Championship: Coach, players deliver speeches during rally on the beach

    Florida Panthers Stanley Cup Championship: Coach, players deliver speeches during rally on the beach

    FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH, Fla. – A Sunday thunderstorm did not stop The Florida Panthers Stanley Cup champions from celebrating their Monday night victory against Edmonton with tens of thousands of fans for hours in Fort Lauderdale Beach.

    Some fans had waited three decades for the victory, so they didn’t mind waiting a few more hours — under menacing clouds, rain, lighting, and a flood advisory — to participate in a beachside parade along State Road A1A.

    The peal of trumpets was at Riomar Street. Police officers rode on motorcycles. A traditional Scottish band marched. White-clad dancers glided on the pavement. There were pickup trucks, sports cars, and fire trucks.

    The players carried the Stanley Cup and the Title Belt on the top of ruby-red double-decker buses. Some took a dip with it in the Atlantic Ocean. Another ran through a crowd with it. In the end, they delivered it to the rally’s stage.

    Vincent Viola, who bought the Florida Panthers in 2013 for about $250 million, danced on stage before Steve Goldstein, the team’s play-by-play announcer, introduced him.

    “The cup is home,” Viola said. “Let’s get it back again.”

    “It’s unbelievable to see how players win, and be with you at the Elbo Room, be with you at Pompano Beach, Sunrise, to Miami — all over South Florida,” Caldwell told fans. “When many teams win championships, they go to Vegas or they go somewhere else. Our people stay right here, locally with all of you.”

    “Every guy back here considers you guys family, “ Bill Zito, the team’s general manager, told fans after pointing to the players. “The way you stayed out in the rain, and supported us … Thank you.”

    Monica Cepera, the Broward County administrator, announced commissioners declared June 30 was Florida Panthers Day. There were a few speeches thanking fans for their loyalty.

    Florida Panthers Coach Paul Maurice delivered on a promise. He stood on the rally stage and showed off his white T-shirt showing the faces of his two family cats Penny and Poppy over the team’s icons.

    “My daughter made this shirt,” Maurice told fans during the rally. “I promised her, ‘If we win the Stanley Cup, I am wearing the shirt!’”

    Linus Eriksson, who wore the Swedish flag as a cape, and Aaron Ekblad were among the Florida Panthers players who took turns on stage to lift and kiss The Stanley Cup.

    Matthew Tkachuk stopped at the Elbo Room, a bar that opened in 1938. The American-Canadian forward and alternate captain also jumped into the Atlantic Ocean. A group of fans surrounded him.

    Tkachuk, 26, later smoked a cigar and described the celebration to fans as the best day of his “entire” life.

    “The Fort Lauderdale police and fire department, this had been the greatest day ever,” Tkachuck said. “Thank you for everything.”

    “When I was drafted 10 years ago, 2013, I would have never believed that this day would come and here I am with my teammates, with the team Violas, management, everyone, we are here in front of you, all together on a rainy day, during hurricane season, we are here on the beach celebrating,” Aleksander Barkov, the Florida Panthers captain, said to great cheer.

    “In my first interview, they asked me why I came to Florida. My answer was, ‘Because I want to with The Cup, and I want to do it here.’ And now he were are, five years later celebrating the biggest victory of this franchise,” said Sergei Bobrovsky, who was born in Novokuznetsk, a city in south-central Russia, about joining the Panthers in 2019.

    Sights and sounds from the parade

    Waiting for the parade and rally to start

    Complete coverage on YouTube

    (Warning: Public expletives during live coverage)

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Will Manso, Nicole Perez, Clay Ferraro, Janine Stanwood, Calvin Hughes, Hannah Yechivi, Roy Ramos, Saira Anwer, Rosh Lowe, Alexis Frazier, Eden Checkol, Brandon Orr, Bridgette Matter, Terrell Forney, Andrea Torres

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  • Shooting reported outside Fort Lauderdale hotel

    Shooting reported outside Fort Lauderdale hotel

    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Fort Lauderdale police are investigating a shooting that occurred Friday morning outside a hotel.

    The shooting was reported at 5:47 a.m. outside the Extended Stay hotel in the 6000 block of Northwest Sixth Way.

    According to Fort Lauderdale police spokeswoman Casey Liening, the victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a hospital by Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue.

    She said the suspect is not in custody at this time, and this appears to be an “isolated incident.”

    No other details were immediately released.

    Watch Local 10 News or refresh this page for updates.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Amanda Batchelor

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  • Parkland School Massacre Survivor Now Owns Shooter’s Name

    Parkland School Massacre Survivor Now Owns Shooter’s Name

    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — The most severely wounded survivor of the 2018 massacre at Parkland’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School now owns shooter Nikolas Cruz’s name, and Cruz cannot give any interviews without his permission, under a settlement reached in a lawsuit.

    Under his recent settlement with Anthony Borges, Cruz must also turn over any money he might receive as a beneficiary of a relative’s life insurance policy, participate in any scientific studies of mass shooters and donate his body to science after his death.

    The agreement means that Cruz, 25, cannot benefit from or cooperate with any movies, TV shows, books or other media productions without Borges’ permission. Cruz is serving consecutive life sentences at an undisclosed prison for each of the 17 murders and 17 attempted murders he committed inside a three-story classroom building on Feb. 14, 2018.

    “We just wanted to shut him down so we never have to hear about him again,” Borges’ attorney, Alex Arreaza, said Thursday.

    Borges, now 21, was shot five times in the back and legs and collapsed in the middle of the third-floor hallway. Video shows that Cruz pointed his rifle at Borges as he lay on the floor, but unlike most of the other victims he walked past, did not shoot him a second time. Arreaza said he asked Cruz why he didn’t shoot Borges again, but he didn’t remember.

    A promising soccer player before the shooting, Borges has undergone more than a dozen surgeries and still lives in pain. He received donations, a $1.25 million settlement from the Broward County school district and an undisclosed settlement from the FBI for their failures in preventing the shooting. Arreaza said it is difficult to say whether Borges has received enough money to cover his future medical expenses.

    Several other families also sued Cruz, and a mini-trial had been scheduled for next month to assess damages against him. That trial has been canceled, Arreaza said. David Brill, the attorney representing the other families, did not return a phone call and two email messages seeking comment.

    Florida already has laws that prohibit inmates from keeping any proceeds related to their crimes, including any writings or artwork they might produce in prison. In addition, Judge Elizabeth Scherer, when she sentenced Cruz, ordered that any money placed in his prison commissary account be seized to pay restitution to the victims and their families and all court and investigation costs. In total, that would be millions of dollars.

    Arreaza said he feared that without the settlement, Cruz could find a way around the law and the judge’s order or assign any money he might receive to a relative or other person.

    Borges, the families of those Cruz murdered and other survivors are also suing former Broward County sheriff’s deputy Scot Peterson, the sheriff’s office and two former school security guards, alleging they failed to protect the students and staff. No trial date has been set. Peterson was acquitted of criminal charges last year.

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  • Plantation woman accused of killing cyclist in hit-and-run

    Plantation woman accused of killing cyclist in hit-and-run

    PLANTATION, Fla. – A 25-year-old woman turned herself in at the Broward County jail on Tuesday to face a felony charge after police said she killed a bicyclist in a hit-and-run crash near her home in Plantation back in 2022.

    According to Plantation police, the crash happened just before 7:40 p.m. on Sept. 7, 2022, in the 400 block of North Hiatus Road.

    An arrest report states that Emily Fasano, then 23, was driving her 2017 Jeep Renegade when she hit the victim, whose name was redacted, while he was riding in the bike lane.

    Authorities said even though the man’s body smashed the windshield, Fasano kept on driving; surveillance cameras spotted her at her home on Northwest 111th Avenue about five minutes later.

    Police said Fasano changed her hairstyle and clothes “in an effort to change her physical appearance” and tried leaving “only 12 minutes after being home.”

    Doorbell footage shows that Fasano, after noticing police vehicles in the area “immediately crouched down in an attempt to conceal herself.”

    Police said she “then quickly walked back to the front door of the residence” but never entered it, “concealing herself behind a wall” for 84 seconds.

    “However, after standing there for approximately 51 seconds, Fasano crouched down and peeked around the edge of the wall to look where the police units were at. She then remained behind the wall for approximately another 20 seconds,” police wrote. “During those 20 seconds, Fasano appeared to be confused/indecisive on what to do. First, she was going to walk back into the residence but did not, then she turned around a few times as she did not know what to do.”

    Police said Fasano then walked towards her vehicle, unlocked it and officers stopped her.

    The report states that police conducted a show-up with a witness, who said the vehicle parked in front of Fasano’s home was “100%” the same vehicle she saw pass her on Hiatus Road immediately after hearing a loud “boom.”

    The witness additionally said that Fasano looked “very much” like the woman driving the SUV. Another witness gave the same account, police said.

    DNA collected under a search warrant matched the victim with DNA found on Fasano’s windshield and placed Fasano as being in the Jeep at the time, the report states.

    Police said cellphone data also placed Fasano in the area of the crash site. The arrest report states that police didn’t suspect any alcohol or drug use as a factor in the crash.

    Fasano, who has pleaded not guilty in the case, remained in the North Broward Bureau jail facility on a charge of leaving the scene of a crash involving death as of Wednesday morning.

    Online records listed no bond.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Chris Gothner

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  • Police: Girl, 14, was with 4 teenage boys, man during carjacking, chase, fatal crash in Broward

    Police: Girl, 14, was with 4 teenage boys, man during carjacking, chase, fatal crash in Broward

    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Detectives believe a troubled 14-year-old girl lured a 25-year-old man to a carjacking that devolved into a deadly crime spree in Broward County.

    Juvenile transcripts identified the girl as Serenity Anivin, who is also known as “Sasha” and turns 15 in July. The Margate Police Department had reported her “missing” in 2022. And after she returned months later, she vanished from Margate again in 2023.

    The juvenile transcripts also listed Serenity’s five co-defendants in the new Broward County case against her as 16-year-old Justin Edmond; three 17-1-old boys; and Cody Clark, who turned 20 in December.

    “All collaborated and worked together as a group,” Hallandale Beach Officer Jonathan Rodriguez wrote about Serenity and her five co-defendants, according to juvenile transcripts in the case.

    Justin and the three other teens, Jamari Peacock, Jermaine Walker, and Cameran Wright, appeared in bond court on Friday. Records show they are facing charges as adults for their alleged crime spree in May.

    This Margate Police Department photograph shows Serenity Anivin when she vanished in 2022. She was also the subject of a missing child alert in 2023 and this year is a co-defendant in a felony case. Prosecutors are charging teens as adults after a man was injured and a woman died during a crime spree. (MPD, BSO, HBPD records)

    Records show the group’s first victim, Rider Prospère, told police officers that he was in his gray 2016 Dodge Charger when he met with Serenity — who was “referred by a friend” — at 10:15 p.m., on May 11, at 320 NW 4 St., in Hallandale Beach.

    “The victim met the co-defendant approximately a week ago,” Rodriguez wrote.

    Records show Prospère reported Serenity was already in the passenger seat of the 2016 Dodge Charger when the violent armed group interrupted abruptly and forcefully pulled him out of the driver’s seat.

    “He was kicked and struck with the butt of multiple firearms in his face,” Rodriguez wrote.

    The five allegedly forced Prospère to take off his clothes and snatched his chain — before fleeing with Serenity in his Dodge Charger. According to Rodriguez, Prospère told police officers he was “in fear for his life.”

    Hallandale Beach police officers reported ordering the driver of the stolen Dodge Charger to stop at Ansin Boulevard. The driver sped away on Hallandale Beach Boulevard and got on Interstate 95 northbound.

    “The vehicle reached felony speeds until it exited on I-95 at Copans Road,” Rodriguez wrote.

    Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies also followed. According to Claudinne Caro, a BSO spokeswoman, the chase ended with a crash. The crime spree’s second victim was Patricia Ann Schmelz, who was driving a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe.

    “After running the red light, the Dodge Charger proceeded into the path of the Hyundai, causing the Hyundai to collide with the driver’s side of the Dodge Charger in a T-bone style collision,” Caro wrote in a statement.

    Pompano Beach Fire Rescue personnel responded and took the injured to the hospital where Schmelz, of Margate, was pronounced dead. She was 68. Deputies found five firearms in the Dodge Charger after the crash.

    “The defendant and codefendants were placed into custody,” Rodriguez wrote adding, “five firearms were located in the [Dodge].”

    BSO inmate records show Hallandale Beach police officers arrested Clark, Serenity’s only adult co-defendant, on May 11 and he remained at the Broward County main jail on Friday in Fort Lauderdale.

    Inmate records also show BSO deputies arrested Serenity’s other four co-defendants — Justin, Jamari, Jermaine, and Cameran — on Thursday, and they were at the Paul Rein Detention Facility on Friday in Pompano Beach.

    Jamari, Jermaine, and Cameran are each facing charges of carjacking with a firearm, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, and under 18 years old unlawfully possessing a firearm. A judge set their bond at $210,000 and ordered them to surrender their passports.

    Records show Justin is facing 28 charges: Carjacking with a firearm, 12 counts of aggravated fleeing or eluding with serious bodily injury or death, aggravated battery, vehicular homicide, four counts of causing death or serious injury while driving without a valid driver’s license, three counts of reckless driving causing serious bodily injury, four counts of reckless driving causing damage to a person or property, under 18 years old unlawfully possessing a firearm, and possession of marijuana.

    Records show BSO correctional deputies held Justin without bond after a judge denied him bail on the charges of carjacking with a firearm, aggravated battery, and vehicular homicide. The same judge set his bond for the other 25 charges at $530,000.

    Serenity was not in the BSO inmate database on Friday night.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Andrea Torres

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  • Teacher arrested after accusations of child abuse involving student in Broward

    Teacher arrested after accusations of child abuse involving student in Broward

    COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – A Broward County Public Schools teacher stands accused of abusing a student in Broward County.

    Broward Sheriff’s Office inmate records show Christopher Cagle was at the main jail on Friday in Fort Lauderdale. He works as a science teacher at Monarch High School.

    “The individual has been reassigned away from the school and students pending the outcome of the case,” Cathleen Brennan, a spokeswoman for BCPS, wrote in a statement.

    According to Scotty Leamon, a spokesman for the Coconut Creek Police Department, police officers arrested Cagle, 64, of Deerfield Beach, on Thursday.

    On Friday morning, at Monarch High School, a student told Local 10 News that he saw a student and a teacher get into “a fight” on Thursday afternoon.

    Broward County court records show Cagle is facing a third-degree felony charge of child abuse without great bodily harm and Circuit Judge Ernest A. Kollra was set to preside over the case.

    Detectives asked anyone with information about this or other cases to call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477.

    This is a developing story. Local 10 News Assignment Desk Editors Wilson Louis and Frine Gomez, and Photojournalist Lani Yasuk-Carrier contributed to this report.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Andrea Torres

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  • Memorial Day weekend in South Florida: T-storm risk increases late Saturday afternoon, heat dome affects Sunday-Monday

    Memorial Day weekend in South Florida: T-storm risk increases late Saturday afternoon, heat dome affects Sunday-Monday

    PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – Areas of South Florida are at risk for afternoon thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon and a heat dome will affect temperatures on Sunday.

    The forecast includes a few strong afternoon thunderstorms capable of producing strong wind gusts and small hail. The risk increases after 2 p.m.

    The temperature is forecast to peak at 94 degrees with a heat index in the low 100s on Saturday. A heat dome will raise temperatures on Sunday and Monday.

    For travelers during this busy weekend, severe weather disruptions are likely in northern Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Kansas. There were tornadoes in Iowa and Illinois on Friday.

    For those staying home, The Weather Authority’s local live radar, the hour-to-hour and 10-day forecasts are available on this page.

    Related stories

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Brandon Orr, Andrea Torres

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  • Domestic violence in Broward: Uncle commits suicide after shooting nephews

    Domestic violence in Broward: Uncle commits suicide after shooting nephews

    HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – A family was struggling to understand what prompted the domestic violence that left them with a funeral and two hospitalized in South Florida.

    The Wierzba family had already lost a family member on May 17, 2010. The tragedy in Broward County was a day before the 14th anniversary of the murder.

    Richard “Richie” Wierzba was 26 when he was killed. He would have been 40 last year. His brother Anthony “Tony” Wierzba had been grieving him for years on Facebook and posted a photo of his tombstone.

    “Cherished son, father, husband, brother, uncle.”

    Richard Lee Wierzba died on May 17, 2010. He was 36. (Courtesy photo)

    According to Deanna Bettineschi, a spokeswoman for the Hollywood Police Department, police officers found three males shot on Thursday near McKinley Street and 53 Avenue. One was dead.

    Anthony Wierzba, who had co-owned Anthony’s Towing & Recovery, had committed suicide. He was 53.

    Bettineschi reported he “had shot the two victims” before he shot himself at about 4:20 p.m., and fire rescue personnel took the two injured to the Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood.

    Relatives reported Anthony Wierzba shot his two nephews — Alex Wierzba, 15, and Richard Wierzba, 21, who are brothers.

    Anthony “Tony” Wierzba shared this selfie publicly on Facebook on Oct. 28, 2023. He died on Thursday in Hollywood. (Courtesy photo)

    On Saturday, a relative told Local 10 News Assignment Desk Editor Joyce Grace Ortega that the Wierzba brothers — whose father was murdered and whose mother lost custody of them ― were at different hospitals.

    AEF Schools, where Alex is a 9th-grade student, organized a fundraiser to help support Tina Wierzba, the paternal grandmother who has custody of Alex and had custody of Richard.

    “Alex was placed on life support without brain activity,” the organizer wrote on the GoFundMe page on Friday. “Richard is in critical condition.”

    Detectives asked anyone with information about this or other cases to call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Andrea Torres

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  • Heat advisory issued for Miami-Dade, Florida Keys

    Heat advisory issued for Miami-Dade, Florida Keys

    Summer time heat continues Friday and into the weekend with little relief in sight.

    A heat advisory is currently in effect for Miami-Dade County and the Florida Keys until Friday evening. Heat indices can reach up to 107 degrees for both Miami-Dade and Broward counties, with a heat index up to 110 degrees possible for the Florida Keys as high temperatures climb into the mid-90s for much of the area.

    According to the National Weather Service, this is the first heat advisory in May in at least 15 years.

    A similar scenario will play out as we move into the weekend.

    While there are no advisories currently issued for Saturday, the heat, and its impacts on the human body, will be almost a carbon copy of Friday.

    Saturday will feature high temperatures in the mid 90s with heat indices between 105-107 degrees.

    If you plan on heading to the pool or beach, pack plenty of water and make sure you have somewhere to get out of the sun and allow your body to cool off. Heat-related illnesses can occur in this kind of heat if out for too long.

    Sunday will feature yet another similar day of heat and humidity. Our saving grace on Sunday will be a higher chances for scattered showers and storms in the afternoon to cool some of our neighborhoods off.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Jordan Patrick

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  • Broward felon associated with school accused of vandalizing ex-girlfriend’s house

    Broward felon associated with school accused of vandalizing ex-girlfriend’s house

    POMPANO BEACH, Fla. – After Valentine’s Day this year, a 26-year-old Pompano Beach felon’s record got longer.

    Deshaun “Versace” Robinson — who was associated with a private school — was allegedly in a vicious romantic conflict that resulted in vandalism.

    According to Broward Sheriff’s Office records, surveillance video shows Robinson used his left hand to break a house’s window on Feb. 21, and fixing it cost his ex-girlfriend about $1,700.

    “He willfully and maliciously damaged personal property,” BSO Deputy Timothy S. Butts wrote in his April 16 arrest report, which listed Robinson’s place of employment as the Premier Academy, a faith-based virtual school based in Coconut Creek that filed for dissolution on March 27, 2023.

    Broward prosecutors filed the new felony case against Robinson on May 3. Broward County Circuit Judge George Odom Jr. signed an arrest warrant. Deputies served it on Thursday and he appeared in court Friday.

    According to the Florida Department of Corrections, Robinson has four convictions. He was in prison from March 29, 2018, to Oct. 1, 2018, and from July 26, 2021 to Sept. 10, 2023.

    There were four arrests in Broward County when he was 18.

    There was a traffic case on May 13, 2016. He was accused of grand theft on May 22, 2016; robbery, burglary, and grand theft on Oct. 31, 2016; and burglary and grand theft on Nov. 28, 2016.

    At 22, deputies arrested him for battery on Oct. 12, 2020, and Oct. 13, 2020. Prosecutors filed the related court cases on Oct. 15, 2020, and Nov. 17, 2020.

    Both Broward cases were dropped when he was 23.

    In 2021, records show Robinson was convicted and sentenced for four 2016 offenses: Grand theft of a motor vehicle, robbery, burglary, and grand theft. About eight months after his corrections’ release, he was facing the new charge of criminal mischief with damage of over $1,000, a third-degree felony.

    Robinson’s employment status or reported association with the former Premier Academy was unclear Friday. While many felony offenses can disqualify a person from working in Florida public schools, the state’s requirements for private schools are not as strict. There are higher requirements for private school owners than for employees or volunteers.

    Related record section

    Broward County court (.)

    Local 10 News Assignment Desk Editor Kelly Davis contributed to this report.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Andrea Torres

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  • Grieving Miramar family warns about threat of urban coyotes without fear of humans

    Grieving Miramar family warns about threat of urban coyotes without fear of humans

    MIRAMAR, Fla. – Puffy, a poodle-Maltese mix, was part of the Melendez family in Miramar, so there was overwhelming grief when coyotes killed him.

    Richard Melendez thought his 12-year-old son Adrian and Puffy were safe to walk together in the morning inside their gated community. In a flash, that sense of security was gone.

    Adrian was holding Puffy by a leash.

    “We hear like a commotion. He ran upstairs. I heard a scream from outside, and Adrian said they took him,” Melendez said, adding, “By the time I came downstairs, there [were] three coyotes already outside. One of them already had Puffy by the neck. His body was already lifeless.”

    Melendez said they want to warn other dog owners about the threat, so they don’t have to suffer the loss. He is grateful the coyotes didn’t attack Adrian.

    “If one of them was able to grab a dog, three of them can grab a child easily,” Melendez said.

    Meanwhile, Adrian was still processing the traumatic experience. He and his family miss their cute little dog dearly.

    “His fur was really fluffy … he would always run around behind the couch,” Adrian said. “He was a loving dog.”

    Before the terrifying encounter, a pair of coyotes roamed behind their home several times.

    “The backyard is just off limits,” Melendez said.

    WHAT TO DO

    According to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, coyotes live throughout Florida, and most coyote attacks are at night or in the early evening and morning. The FWC recommends a fence be at least six feet high to deter coyotes from jumping over it.

    If a coyote approaches too closely, the FWC recommends using deterrents such as motion-activated sprinklers or audible alarms, shouting and waving your arms, using a solid walking stick, throwing stones, or using a strong water spray, pepper spray, or paintball gun.

    If a coyote has lost its fear of humans, the FWC may consider lethal control measures. To report a coyote sighting, contact the FWC South Region at 561-625-5122. For information about coyote sightings in Florida, visit this FWC page to view a map.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Terrell Forney, Andrea Torres

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  • Spirit Airlines Unveils New Spirit Central Campus in Florida

    Spirit Airlines Unveils New Spirit Central Campus in Florida

    Spirit Airlines celebrated the official opening of Spirit Central, its new corporate campus at Dania Pointe in Dania Beach, Florida.

    The campus spans more than 11 acres and features four buildings, including a support center with offices, an amenity building, a new crew training facility built for hands-on experience in flight simulators, and a corporate housing facility. Additionally, the campus also includes dedicated parking garages for Spirit Team Members.

    The new Spirit Central provides an expansive, centralized location for the airline’s main support teams and is only a few minutes away from Spirit’s largest operating base at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

    “The opening of Spirit Central marks a major milestone as we celebrate a new chapter in our more than 30-year history and reflect on how far we’ve come in our mission to deliver high-value travel options across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean,” said Ted Christie, Spirit’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Spirit is proud to make this major investment in Broward County, drive local economic development, and further strengthen our commitment to the South Florida community.”

    The new campus interior includes design features that pay tribute to Spirit, including an 18-foot-long Airbus A321neo model plane, a 3D engine cowling, a gallery showcasing the famous “Howdy” sharklet, a history wall, and more. The main buildings on the campus include:

    • Support Center: The largest of all four buildings is approximately 180,000 square feet and features six floors of office space for more than 1,000 corporate Team Members from the Operations Control Center, IT, Flight Operations, Inflight and more.
    • Fueling Station: The amenity building is easily accessible from the first floor of the Support Center and features a café, fitness center, and lounge spaces exclusive to our Team Members.
    • Training Hub: The state-of-the-art training facility for Inflight and Flight Ops Teams will boast several high-tech flight simulator bays and fixed flight simulators, an advanced Cabin Emergency Evacuation Trainer (CEET), a door trainer, classrooms, and debriefing rooms.
    • The Landing: The corporate housing facility will be the home away from home for out-of-town Team Members visiting for company business and features accommodations for up to 400 Team Members, several meeting rooms, a grab-and-go market, a pool, a fitness center, and its own parking garage.

    In celebration of Spirit Central’s official opening, the Spirit Charitable Foundation donated $25,000 to Dania Beach PATCH (Peoples Access to Community Horticulture), an urban farm and market created to provide local access to healthy foods and horticulture. The donation advances the Foundation’s Environment pillar by investing in a platform for education, cultural growth, access to healthy foods & community gardening, and economic development.

    Spirit partnered with Florida-based architectural firm HuntonBrady, general contractor Brasfield & Gorrie, and project advisor Jones Lang LaSalle to design and build Spirit Central. The airline worked with Kimco Realty, the owner and principal developer of Dania Pointe, to secure the land.

    The relocation from Spirit’s Miramar, Florida, facilities to Spirit Central in Dania Beach is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.

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  • Lauderhill Peace365 aims to reduce crime

    Lauderhill Peace365 aims to reduce crime

    LAUDERHILL, Fla. – Lauderhill has felt the pain of gun violence lately, so officials were preparing to launch Lauderhill Peace365 on Monday.

    It’s up high on the agenda for Lauderhill’s Deputy Chief of Police Allen Siegel and Fire Chief Robert Torres who will meet with officials to announce the initiative at 4 p.m., on Monday, at City Hall.

    In a statement, City Manager Desorae Giles-Smith described the initiative as a “comprehensive approach” to reduce crime since gun-related homicides are up by 44%.

    “The Lauderhill Peace365 is set to further this progress, encouraging a unified effort towards peace,” Giles-Smith said.

    According to city officials, the initiative encourages “daily acts of kindness and peaceful conflict resolution” through peace walks, workshops, and forums. The awareness campaign will promote a peace pledge with signage, media advocacy, and public service announcements.

    In a statement, Commissioner Melissa P. Dunn said the campaign “embodies the belief” that peace is a daily practice.

    “By making peace a personal commitment, residents contribute to building a more peaceful environment for themselves, their families, and our community,” Dunn said.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Andrea Torres

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  • WATCH LIVE: Miramar officials hold press conference on proposed incinerator threat

    WATCH LIVE: Miramar officials hold press conference on proposed incinerator threat

    MIRAMAR, Fla. – Broward County officials held a press conference Tuesday to address the issue of a mass burn facility, which they will say be a hazard to the environment if installed.

    The focal point of the assembly was the proposed establishment of a mass burn facility or incinerator, slated to take root a mere 0.8 miles from West Miramar. The resonance of this proposed facility is multifaceted, echoing concerns that transcend the immediacy of local boundaries.

    Miami-Dade County officials is evaluating three potential locations for the new facility: the existing site in Doral, Medley, and the former Opa-locka West Airport site, situated in the far northwest corner of Miami-Dade County, near the Broward County line.

    Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam raised environmental concerns regarding the Opa-locka West Airport site, describing it as a 400-acre wetland area with endangered species residing on the edge of the Everglades.

    Within Sunset Lakes alone, there are currently 1,865 homes and an elementary school nearby, further fueling community opposition.

    City leaders are also expected to discuss the potential compromise to public health, alongside the integrity of air and water quality.

    “We are urging Miami-Dade County to choose a site that impacts fewer people and will be far away from residents because our community has been here for decades. Don’t take trash to our backyard,” said Messam.

    “Public health has no borders,” said Commissioner Yvette Colbourne. “I am asking Broward County to be a good neighbor to the city of Miramar. I ask all residents to sign the petition and help prevent this from happening.”

    Tom Goode

    We stand with our neighbors in Miramar, Weston and Southwest Ranches to stop the incinerator. We need to be environmentally stabilized.

    Click here to sign the petition.

    The press conference is expected to begin at 10 a.m.

    Local 10 viewers can watch it on the video on the top of this page.

    Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com – All rights reserved.

    Ryan Mackey

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