Stay informed about crime news and updates in Tampa Bay, FL.
A woman named June Fenton was arrested in Sarasota following a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the deaths of two young children and critical injuries to their mother. The incident, which occurred on February 10, prompted a thorough investigation by the Sarasota Police Department, leading to Fenton's capture and charges related to the tragic crash.
A Tampa father, Jermaine Bass, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the shooting deaths of his children, resulting in the death of his 5-year-old daughter and injury to his 8-year-old son. The jury found Bass guilty of first-degree murder and multiple counts of aggravated child abuse after a trial that revealed disturbing details of the crime. The children's mother expressed her grief and called for healing while questioning how such a tragedy could occur.
Laurentz Simprevil and Steve Castamby were arrested by Pinellas County deputies after allegedly stealing $5,000 from a victim as part of a bank scam. The suspects were caught in the act when deputies intervened after the victim received a fraudulent call from someone impersonating a Bank of America employee. Both men face multiple charges, including grand theft and resisting arrest.
Jury selection has concluded for Teresa Zeppi, accused of a fatal hit-and-run that killed 82-year-old Joseph Dralus, Sr., known as the "Peace Walker" in Bradenton, Florida. The trial follows the withdrawal of a plea deal, with opening statements set to begin shortly as the community seeks justice for the beloved figure.
A Haines City man, Willie Pierce, was arrested after fleeing from a traffic stop, crashing his truck, and attempting to escape before being tased by police. During the incident, officers discovered nearly 4 pounds of methamphetamine and over $23,000 in cash in his possession. Pierce is now facing serious charges, including drug trafficking and violation of probation.
A Spring Hill bar shooting led to the arrest of 40-year-old George Labar, who allegedly fired several rounds from his truck after a physical altercation at Capone’s. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but two rounds shattered a window. Labar was apprehended following a chase and is being held without bond on multiple charges.
A Florida man, Christopher Newton, was arrested for drug possession after inadvertently alerting authorities to a baggie of cocaine he left behind while being trespassed from a residence. Deputies discovered the drugs after Newton texted the homeowner about the baggie on a nightstand, leading to his arrest for possession of cocaine. The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office humorously cautioned against leaving behind illegal items and then notifying others.
Four men linked to Bag Tawk Entertainment (BTE) have been sentenced to prison for drug trafficking in Pinellas County, Florida, following an investigation that utilized their own music videos as evidence. The group, which openly rapped about drug distribution, led to the discovery of large quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and meth in St. Petersburg. U.S. Attorney’s Office officials noted that the evidence from the videos was pivotal in securing the convictions.
A driver in Mannheim, Germany, intentionally rammed his car into a crowd, resulting in two fatalities and 11 injuries, five of which are severe. Authorities have detained the 40-year-old suspect, who is currently hospitalized with self-inflicted injuries, and investigations are underway to determine his motivations, which do not appear to be politically or religiously motivated.
An Illinois man, Robert E. Crimo III, pleaded guilty to killing seven people during a 2022 Independence Day parade shooting in Highland Park, just before the trial was set to begin. The change of plea eliminates the need for a trial, with sentencing scheduled for April 23, where he is expected to receive a life sentence. The courtroom was filled with survivors and victims' families, highlighting the ongoing impact of the tragedy on the community.