Local authorities reported fewer arrests Saturday compared with a year ago as an estimated 350,000 people converged on downtown Tampa for the Gasparilla celebration, a Tampa police report showed. ...more

February 8, 2009

Law enforcement agencies reported 141 arrests Saturday during Gasparilla parade festivities as an estimated 350,000 people converged on downtown Tampa for the annual celebration, a Tampa police report showed. ...more

February 7, 2009

SEBRING — They threw rose petals into Lake Jackson, and the wind from an evening storm floated them back. Betty Martin said a prayer for her niece, Ruth Marie, and for "people who have brought harm toward Marie." ...more

June 20, 2008

SEBRING — A Sebring man, originally charged in the boating death of a 19-year-old woman, has been sentenced to 60 days. State's Attorney Steve Houchin declined to prosecute on the most serious charge, boating under the influence-manslaughter. Instead, William Barbour, 38, 3920 Lakeview Dr., pled guilty to reckless operation of a vessel and received 60 days in Highlands County Jail – with credit for time served – and a $500 fine. He must also pay $238 in court costs, and restitution was ordered. Florida Fish & Wildlife Lt. Dale Knapp made a fundamental mistake when, after the accident, he and other officers allowed Barbour to go inside his home alone to change clothes, Houchin said. Then they allowed Barbour's wife to drive him to the sheriff's office. ...more

June 17, 2008

The director of the Hillsborough County Health Department was arrested during Gasparilla on Saturday. ...more

January 31, 2008

The director of the Hillsborough County Health Department was arrested during Gasparilla on Saturday. He was charged with boating under the influence, a misdemeanor. ...more

January 30, 2008

Police say 107 people were arrested during the weekend's Gasparilla celebration. ...more

January 29, 2008

TAMPA – Police say 107 people were arrested during the weekend's Gasparilla celebration. ...more

January 28, 2008

SEBRING — The beaches will be full, boats will be out, grills will be fired up, and people will be looking for things to do this Labor Day weekend. All the more reason to pay special attention to your personal safety while you're enjoying your days off of work. "Just be cautious," said Nell Frewin Hays, a crime prevention specialist with the Highlands County Sheriff's Office. "Have a good time and enjoy yourself, but be responsible." The best tip Hays has for people may be obvious: don't drink and operate a motorized vehicle. ...more

September 2, 2007