Sebastian Treasure Hunter Seeks Permit to Resume 1715 Fleet Salvage
A Sebastian-based treasure hunting company is following in the footsteps of famed treasure hunter Mel Fisher, and seeking a federal permit to continue excavating shipwrecks from the 1715 Spanish Treasure Fleet. Sam Guttoso of 1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels wants a 20-year reauthorization to recover artifacts off Florida’s east coast. The fleet sank in a […]
Read MoreDefense Wants Separate Trials in West Melbourne Toddler’s Murder
Attorneys for a West Melbourne man accused of killing a 3-year-old are asking for separate trials. Prosecutors say Josh Manns beat Jameson Nance to death in 2021 while the child’s mother, Erica Dotson, failed to intervene. Dotson reportedly claimed the injuries came from a duck attack. Both face murder charges and remain jailed without bond. […]
Read MoreDeSantis Signs Law Blocking Resort-style Development in State Parks
A bill banning golf courses and large lodges in Florida state parks is now law. Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 209 following public backlash over a proposed “Great Outdoors Initiative.” The new law limits development to cabins and conservation-focused recreation like hiking and fishing. It takes effect July 1.
Read MoreTwo Florida Parents Jailed Over Chronic School Truancy
A judge has sentenced two parents in Marion County to jail after their children missed dozens of school days. One child had 120 absences this year. A judge handed down a six-month sentence in one case, 90 days in the other. Officials credit that court with boosting attendance to a five-year high.
Read MoreTeen Arrested in Atlanta in Connection with Cocoa Baby Shooting
A 17-year-old wanted in the shooting of a 1-year-old girl outside a grocery store in Cocoa has been arrested in Atlanta. Authorities say the teen fled the state after the May 16 shooting and was tracked down by U.S. Marshals. The child was hit in the pelvis but survived. The suspect is being held without […]
Read MoreMystery Aerospace Project Could Bring 1,000 Jobs to Merritt Island
A company identified only as Project Beep plans to invest $247 million to build aerospace facilities near Kennedy Space Center. The deal, involving a 30-year lease with Space Florida at Exploration Park, would create around 1,000 jobs. Space Florida’s board is set to vote on the proposal May 28.
Read MoreTitusville Mall Redevelopment Secures Final Approval for Incentives
A $240 million plan to turn the aging Titusville Mall into a mixed-use complex called Titusville Resort & Destination has cleared its final hurdle. The Brevard County Commission unanimously approved $2.4 million in city-backed economic incentives. Phase one includes a hotel, apartments, and an assisted-living facility, with construction expected to begin later this year.
Read MoreBrevard County Fire Fees to Increase 37% to Fund Firefighter Wages
Fire fees for homeowners in unincorporated Brevard County will rise 37%, averaging $103.44 more annually, to help boost firefighter and paramedic wages. The increase, effective Octber 1, aims to address staffing shortages and rising costs. Fees will also rise annually up to 3% or inflation for the next three years.
Read MoreDeSantis Signs Bills Targeting Swatting, Boosting School Safety
Governor Ron DeSantis signed two new laws aimed at cracking down on false 911 calls and improving school security. The anti-swatting bill raises penalties, including felony charges if injury or death occurs. Another bill expands Florida’s guardian program, allowing trained staff to help defend schools.
Read MoreNascar Ceo’s Grandson Linked to Dangerous Motorcycle Stunt Videos on Florida Roads
The grandson of NASCAR CEO Jim France is tied to a YouTube channel showing motorcycles weaving through traffic and running red lights on Central Florida roads. The videos feature speeds exceeding 150 mph and risky maneuvers on I-4 and other highways. The Florida Highway Patrol is now investigating the channel.
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