Deputy Charged In Fellow Deputy's Accidental Death
(Brevard County, FL)-- More details regarding the death of an off-duty Brevard County deputy are being released. According to an arrest warrant, Deputy Andrew Lawson pulled the trigger twice before it went off killing his roommate, 23-year-old Deputy Austin Walsh. Lawson told investigators he did not think the gun was loaded, but said he should have known given the weight of the firearm.Lawson is charged with manslaughter and was released from Brevard County Jail Monday after posting a 15-thousand dollar bond.
State To Consider Arguments Of Deadly Officer-Involved Shootings
(Tallahassee, FL)-- The Florida Supreme Court will look into a case this week that could impact how officer-involved shootings are reported. The high court in Tallahassee will consider arguments on whether law enforcement officers who kill civilians in a violent situation should be identified to the public. Under Marsy's Law, officers who use deadly force are considered victims of imminent threats or harm and are protected. Justices will convene are scheduled to discuss the legislation on Wednesday.
Florida Experiences Lowest School Immunization Rates In A Decade
(Tallahassee, FL)-- Florida is experiencing its lowest school immunization rates in more than a decade. The State Department of Health reports nearly 92-percent of kindergarten students in public and private schools completed their required shots last school year. Seventh graders completed just over 94-percent of their shots. Most of Florida's school districts did not meet a health department goal of 95-percent.State and national health experts believe the pandemic is to partially blame for the setback.
Tampa Chief Resigns After Golf Cart Traffic Stop
(Tampa, FL)-- Tampa Police Chief Mary O'Connor is stepping down. O'Connor announced her resignation less than a month after she and her husband were stopped by a Pinellas County Sheriff's deputy on a golf cart for not having proper plates displayed. During that stop, O'Connor can be heard saying she'd hoped the deputy would just let her go. In a statement released yesterday, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, who selected O'Connor to be the city's 43rd police chief back in March, said, "It is unacceptable for any public employee, and especially the city's top law enforcement leader, to ask for special treatment."
Police: Man Had Sex With Dog, Damaged Church Nativity Scene
(Clearwater, FL)-- An Orlando man is facing multiple charges after reportedly having sex with a dog in front of several witnesses. Thirty-six-year-old Chad Mason was arrested Sunday at an apartment complex on McMullen Booth Road. According to police, Mason knew the dog's owner and was taking it for a walk when the incident occurred. He's also charged with damaging property at a nearby church after he allegedly knocked over a nativity display.
Superintendent, Principal On Leave Over School Shooting Training Video
(Prairie Grove, AR)-- Two school administrators in Arkansas have been placed on leave after showing teachers a disturbing video. Staff members at the middle school in Prairie Grove tell 40/29 News that during a meeting on security measures last month, a video was played showing their own kids as the victims of a school shooting. One teacher said the photos were taken from their personal Facebook pages. Both Superintendent Reba Holmes and middle school Principal Shayne Taylor were placed on administrative leave following a special meeting Friday, and will remain on leave until they retire next year.
TODAY IN HISTORY
2017, President Trump recognizes Jerusalem as Israel's capital.
1877, Thomas Edison demonstrated the first sound recording, reciting "Mary had a Little Lamb."
1865, the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, abolishing slavery.
1768, the first edition of the Encyclopedia Brittanica was published in Scotland.