Osceola Co. Sheriff Arrested On Federal Charges
(Osceola Co., FL) -- Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez is under arrest on federal racketeering charges. He was taken into custody yesterday morning and booked into the Lake County Jail. Florida's attorney general says Lopez was part of a massive illegal gambling operation and public corruption scheme where Lopez initially took part in the operation for campaign contributions and personal payments. He also played a role in expanding and protecting the illegal enterprise, using his office to shield it from law enforcement. The operation generated more than 21-million-dollars in illicit proceeds.. Governor DeSantis removed Lopez from his position and appointed FHP Trooper Christopher Blackmon as the new sheriff. The state is leading the investigation.
Man Robbed by Police Impersonator in Lake County
(Yalaha, FL) -- A man was robbed at gunpoint Thursday morning by someone posing as law enforcement in Lake County. Deputies say the victim pulled over after a white sedan with flashing blue lights followed him on County Road 48. A masked man approached, pointed a gun at his head, and took his phone and money. The suspect drove off toward Leesburg, and the case remains under investigation.
Hooters Abruptly Shuts Down 30 Locations
(Undated) -- Hooters is abruptly shutting down over 30 locations across the U.S., including six in Florida. The news comes after the restaurant chain filed for bankruptcy in March. The newly-shuttered locations are in Orlando, Sanford, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee. The company released a statement saying it will continue its iconic legacy under a pure franchise business model.
Former GOP Congressman David Jolly Launches Democratic Run for Florida Governor
(Tampa, FL) -- Former Republican Congressman David Jolly has announced he's running for Florida governor as a Democrat. Jolly, who left the GOP in 2018, says his campaign will focus on affordability, public education, and curbing political interference in personal freedoms. He served one full term in Congress after winning a 2014 special election in the Tampa Bay area. His bid comes as Florida Democrats face steep odds, with no current statewide officeholders and a growing Republican voter edge. Jolly could face Trump ally Byron Donalds, among other GOP contenders, in the 2026 race.
Today in History
1978, ABC's "20/20" debuted. The original host was Ted Koppel. He was replaced a week later by Hugh Downs.
1944, thousands of allied troops invaded the beaches of Normandy, France. D-Day marked the beginning of the defeat of Nazi Germany by Allied Forces in World War Two. The invasion was a success and Germany surrendered less than a year later.
1932, the first federal gasoline tax was enacted. The tax was one-penny per gallon of gas.
1850, Levi Strauss made his first pair of blue jeans.