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Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody announced a major drug trafficking bust Friday, resulting in 47 arrests and the seizure of millions of dollars in drugs and cash.
The multi-agency operation targeted a large-scale drug trafficking organization operating across Florida.
The Operation
“Operation Sunshine Takedown” resulted in: – 47 arrests – $8.5 million in drugs seized – $2.3 million in cash seized – 15 firearms recovered – Multiple vehicles and properties seized
“This was a sophisticated drug trafficking organization that we’ve dismantled,” Attorney General Moody said at a press conference in Tampa.
The Organization
The investigation revealed: – Multi-state drug trafficking operation – Distribution network across Florida – Connections to Mexican drug cartels – Operations in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville – Money laundering activities
Drugs Seized
Drugs recovered: – 150 kilograms of cocaine – 75 kilograms of methamphetamine – 50 kilograms of fentanyl – 200 pounds of marijuana – Various prescription drugs
“This is enough fentanyl to kill millions of people,” Moody said.
The Investigation
The 18-month investigation involved: – Florida Department of Law Enforcement – DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) – FBI – Local law enforcement agencies – Undercover operations – Wiretaps and surveillance
Arrests
47 people arrested: – 23 in South Florida – 12 in Tampa Bay area – 8 in Central Florida – 4 in Jacksonville area – Charges include drug trafficking, money laundering, racketeering
Key Figures
Major arrests include: – Alleged organization leader (Miami resident) – Multiple high-level distributors – Money launderers – Transportation coordinators
Names being withheld pending arraignment.
Charges
Defendants face charges including: – Trafficking in cocaine – Trafficking in methamphetamine – Trafficking in fentanyl – Money laundering – Racketeering – Conspiracy
Potential sentences range from 15 years to life in prison.
Money Laundering
The organization laundered money through: – Cash businesses – Real estate transactions – Shell companies – International wire transfers
Assets Seized
Property seized: – $2.3 million in cash – 12 vehicles (luxury cars, trucks) – 3 boats – 5 properties – Jewelry and other assets
Total asset value estimated at $5 million.
Cartel Connections
The investigation revealed: – Connections to Mexican drug cartels – International drug smuggling routes – Coordination with out-of-state distributors – Sophisticated logistics operation
Impact
The bust will impact: – Drug availability in Florida – Street prices – Related crime – Public safety
“We’ve dealt a major blow to drug trafficking in Florida,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass.
Fentanyl Crisis
The fentanyl seizure is significant: – Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin – Leading cause of overdose deaths – Often mixed with other drugs – Extremely dangerous
“Fentanyl is killing Floridians,” Moody said. “This seizure will save lives.”
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation continues: – Additional arrests possible – Following leads on suppliers – Investigating money laundering network – Coordinating with federal authorities
Community Impact
Law enforcement emphasized community safety: – Removing dangerous drugs from streets – Disrupting criminal organization – Protecting Florida families – Deterring future trafficking
What’s Next
Defendants will: – Appear in court for arraignment – Face state and federal charges – Potential plea negotiations – Trials expected in coming months
Governor’s Statement
Governor Ron DeSantis praised the operation: “This is outstanding work by our law enforcement. We will not tolerate drug trafficking in Florida.”
The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Warning for parts of Central Florida as severe thunderstorms move through the region.
Residents are urged to take shelter immediately.
The Warning
Tornado Warning in effect until 7:45 PM for: – Orange County – Seminole County – Lake County (southern portions)
A tornado was indicated by Doppler radar.
Radar Indication
National Weather Service radar shows: – Rotation in thunderstorm – Tornado possible or occurring – Storm moving northeast at 35 mph – Dangerous situation developing
“Doppler radar indicated a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado,” NWS Melbourne said. “Take shelter now.”
Affected Areas
Areas in the warning path: – Orlando (northern portions) – Altamonte Springs – Casselberry – Winter Springs – Oviedo – Lake Mary – Longwood – Sanford
What to Do
If in the warning area: – Take shelter immediately – Go to lowest floor of sturdy building – Get to interior room away from windows – Avoid windows, doors, outside walls – Cover yourself with blankets or mattress – Mobile homes are not safe—seek sturdy shelter
If Driving
If caught in vehicle: – Do NOT try to outrun tornado – Park safely away from traffic – Stay in vehicle with seatbelt on – Duck below windows – Cover head with hands and blanket if available – Do NOT shelter under overpass
Storm Details
The severe thunderstorm: – Moving northeast at 35 mph – Capable of producing tornado – Large hail possible (up to 2 inches) – Damaging winds up to 70 mph – Heavy rain and lightning
Tornado Safety
Best shelter locations: – Basement or storm cellar – Interior room on lowest floor – Bathroom or closet – Under sturdy furniture – Away from windows
Worst locations: – Mobile homes – Vehicles – Outside – Near windows – Upper floors
Weather Situation
Severe weather outbreak: – Multiple severe thunderstorm warnings – Tornado watch in effect for Central Florida – Conditions favorable for tornadoes – More storms possible this evening
Forecast
Severe weather expected through evening: – Additional tornado warnings possible – Severe thunderstorms likely – Large hail and damaging winds – Heavy rain causing flooding
“This is a dangerous situation,” said NWS meteorologist Sarah Johnson. “Monitor weather alerts closely.”
School and Business Closures
Some impacts: – After-school activities canceled – Some businesses closing early – Sporting events postponed – Outdoor events canceled
Power Outages
Potential for power outages: – High winds may down trees and power lines – Utility companies on standby – Report outages to your utility company – Have flashlights and batteries ready
Monitoring
Stay informed: – NOAA Weather Radio – Local TV and radio – Weather apps with alerts enabled – NWS website: weather.gov – Social media: @NWSMelbourne
After the Storm
If tornado occurs: – Stay sheltered until all clear – Watch for downed power lines – Avoid damaged buildings – Report injuries to 911 – Document damage with photos
Tornado Watch vs. Warning
Watch: Conditions favorable for tornadoes—be prepared
Warning: Tornado indicated or occurring—take shelter NOW
Historical Context
Central Florida tornado history: – Tornadoes occur year-round in Florida – Peak season: June-September – Most tornadoes are weak (EF0-EF1) – Strong tornadoes possible but less common
Updates
This is a developing weather situation. Monitor local weather alerts and take warnings seriously.
Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal multi-vehicle crash that closed all northbound lanes of Interstate 75 in Sarasota County Friday afternoon.
At least two people were killed in the crash, authorities report.
The Crash
The crash occurred around 2:30 PM on I-75 northbound near mile marker 205 in Sarasota County.
Multiple vehicles were involved, including several passenger vehicles and a commercial truck.
“This is a serious, multi-vehicle crash with fatalities,” said FHP spokesperson Trooper Ken Watson. “We’re conducting a thorough investigation.”
Fatalities
Preliminary information: – At least 2 people killed – Multiple others injured – Victims’ identities not yet released – Next of kin being notified
Injuries
Several people injured: – At least 5 people transported to hospitals – Injuries range from minor to serious – Sarasota Memorial Hospital and Blake Medical Center receiving patients
Vehicles Involved
The crash involved: – At least 6 vehicles – Multiple passenger cars – One commercial semi-truck – One pickup truck – Vehicles sustained significant damage
Road Closures
Major traffic impact: – I-75 northbound completely closed at mile marker 205 – All northbound lanes blocked – Closure expected for several hours – Southbound lanes remain open but slow
Alternate Routes
FHP recommends: – Use US-41 (Tamiami Trail) northbound – Exit I-75 at University Parkway or Fruitville Road – Expect significant delays – Plan alternate routes
Cause
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
FHP is investigating: – Speed – Driver impairment – Vehicle mechanical issues – Weather conditions – Road conditions
“We’re looking at all factors,” Watson said.
Investigation
FHP Traffic Homicide Unit investigating: – Crash reconstruction underway – Witness interviews being conducted – Vehicle inspections – Evidence collection
Scene
The crash scene: – Debris scattered across highway – Multiple damaged vehicles – Emergency vehicles on scene – Traffic backed up for miles
Response
Multiple agencies responded: – Florida Highway Patrol – Sarasota County Fire Department – Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office – Emergency medical services – FDOT for traffic management
Traffic Impact
Major delays: – Northbound I-75 backed up for miles – Delays expected for several hours – Evening commute heavily affected – Alternate routes congested
Reopening Timeline
FHP estimates: – Investigation will take several hours – Debris removal required – Road surface inspection needed – Reopening estimated late evening
“We’ll reopen the highway as soon as it’s safe,” Watson said.
What Drivers Should Do
Witness Information
FHP is seeking witnesses: – Anyone who saw the crash – Anyone with dashcam footage – Contact FHP: FHP (347) or (239) 938-1800
Updates
This is a developing investigation. Check back for updates on the crash investigation and highway reopening.
Multiple people have been injured in a fire at a high-rise apartment building in downtown Miami, authorities report.
Miami Fire Rescue is on scene with dozens of firefighters battling the blaze.
The Incident
The fire broke out around 5:45 PM at a 20-story apartment building on Biscayne Boulevard in downtown Miami.
Flames and heavy smoke visible from the 15th floor.
“We have a working fire on the 15th floor with extension to the 16th floor,” said Miami Fire Rescue Chief Joseph Zahralban. “Multiple units are on scene.”
Injuries
Preliminary reports indicate: – Multiple people injured – Injuries range from smoke inhalation to burns – At least 6 people transported to hospitals – Severity of injuries not yet confirmed – No fatalities reported at this time
“We’re still assessing the situation,” Zahralban said.
Evacuations
The entire building has been evacuated: – Approximately 200 residents evacuated – Residents gathered outside building – Some residents evacuated via stairwells – Firefighters assisted residents unable to evacuate on their own – No residents reported trapped at this time
Fire Status
Current situation: – Fire on 15th and 16th floors – Heavy smoke throughout upper floors – Firefighters conducting search and rescue – Fire not yet under control – Cause under investigation
Response
Major emergency response: – Miami Fire Rescue (multiple units) – Miami Police Department – Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (mutual aid) – Emergency medical services – American Red Cross responding
“This is a significant incident requiring substantial resources,” Zahralban said.
Building Information
The building: – 20-story residential apartment building – Built in 1985 – Approximately 150 units – Mixed residential and commercial use – Located on Biscayne Boulevard
Witness Accounts
Residents describe the scene:
“I heard the fire alarm and smelled smoke,” said resident Maria Gonzalez. “We evacuated down the stairs. It was scary.”
“There was heavy smoke in the hallways,” said another resident. “Firefighters were helping people get out.”
Road Closures
Roads closed near the scene: – Biscayne Boulevard closed between NE 14th and NE 16th Streets – NE 15th Street closed at Biscayne Boulevard – Expect major traffic delays in downtown Miami
Avoid the area.
Shelter
Red Cross is setting up temporary shelter for displaced residents: – Location to be announced – Residents should check with Red Cross on scene – Assistance available for displaced residents
Investigation
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Miami Fire Rescue and state fire marshal will investigate.
Building Safety
Questions about building safety: – Fire alarm system activated – Sprinkler system status unknown – Building code compliance to be reviewed – Recent inspections to be examined
Air Quality
Heavy smoke affecting downtown Miami: – Visible smoke plume – Residents advised to avoid area – Close windows if near building – Smoke may affect air quality for several blocks
What We Don’t Know
Information still being confirmed: – Exact number of injuries – Severity of all injuries – Whether anyone is unaccounted for – Cause of fire – Extent of damage
Public Information
For updates: – Miami Fire Rescue social media – Local news – City of Miami emergency alerts
Similar Incidents
High-rise fires are serious incidents: – Require significant firefighting resources – Evacuation challenges in tall buildings – Smoke spread concerns – Multiple agencies typically respond
Updates
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
A rapidly spreading wildfire has forced mandatory evacuations in Walton County as firefighters battle the blaze in difficult conditions.
More than 500 homes are under evacuation orders as the fire has burned approximately 1,200 acres.
The Fire
The wildfire started around 11:00 AM near Highway 331 North in Walton County, according to Florida Forest Service.
Strong winds and dry conditions have fueled rapid spread.
“This is a very active, fast-moving fire,” said Florida Forest Service spokesperson Jennifer Smith. “We’re asking residents in evacuation zones to leave immediately.”
Evacuations
Mandatory evacuations ordered for: – Areas north of Highway 20 – East of Highway 331 – West of County Road 393 – Approximately 500-700 homes affected
Residents should evacuate immediately.
Evacuation Shelter
Red Cross has opened an evacuation shelter: – Location: Walton County Fairgrounds, 1295 Highway 90, DeFuniak Springs – Open now: Accepting evacuees – Pet-friendly: Pets welcome with proper carriers/leashes – Services: Food, water, cots, medical assistance
Fire Details
Current status: – Size: Approximately 1,200 acres (growing) – Containment: 0% – Structures threatened: 500-700 homes – Cause: Under investigation – Conditions: High winds, low humidity, dry vegetation
Response
Firefighting resources deployed: – Florida Forest Service crews – Local fire departments – Wildfire suppression aircraft – Bulldozers creating firebreaks – Additional resources requested
“We have significant resources on scene, but conditions are challenging,” Smith said.
Road Closures
Roads closed due to fire: – Highway 331 North from Highway 20 to County Road 280 – County Road 393 between Highway 20 and Highway 90 – Multiple local roads in fire area
Avoid the area and follow detour signs.
Weather Conditions
Challenging fire weather: – Winds: 15-20 mph with gusts to 30 mph – Humidity: 25-30% (very low) – Temperature: 78°F – No rain in forecast for 48 hours
National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warning for fire danger.
Air Quality
Smoke affecting air quality: – Visible smoke plume for miles – Air quality alerts for Walton and surrounding counties – Residents advised to stay indoors if possible – Close windows and doors – Avoid outdoor activities
What Residents Should Do
If in evacuation zone: – Leave immediately – Take medications, important documents, valuables – Bring pets and pet supplies – Turn off gas, but leave electricity on for firefighters – Close all windows and doors – Go to evacuation shelter or stay with family/friends outside area
If near fire area: – Monitor local news and alerts – Be prepared to evacuate – Have go-bag ready – Keep vehicle fueled – Stay informed
Cause
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Florida Forest Service is investigating all possible causes.
Historical Context
The Panhandle is experiencing drought conditions: – Below-normal rainfall for past 60 days – Vegetation extremely dry – High fire danger across region – Multiple wildfires burning in Florida
Public Information
For updates: – Walton County Emergency Management: (850) 892-8065 – Florida Forest Service: (850) 681-5875 – Local news and emergency alerts – Monitor social media for official updates
Governor’s Response
Governor Ron DeSantis is monitoring the situation.
“We’re mobilizing all available resources to fight this fire and protect residents,” DeSantis said.
Updates
This is a developing situation. Check back for updates as firefighters battle the blaze.