Crime & Public Safety
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 · Dover
Jury Convicts Four in Tampa Shooting Death of Jacksonville Rapper
A Hillsborough County jury found four men guilty of first-degree murder Friday evening in the June 2024 ambush killing of Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio outside a Tampa hotel. The defendants—Isaiah Chance, Sean Gathright, Rashad Murphy and Davion Murphy—face sentencing at a later date after prosecutors proved they drove from Jacksonville with intent to kill.
Tampa Violent Crime Drops 16.6% in 2025, Outpacing Nation: TPD
The Tampa Police Department reported a 16.6% decrease in violent crime in 2025, surpassing the national decline of 12.3%. Homicides plunged 52.8% compared to 2024. Officials credit expanded policing, technology and community programs for the gains.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
King High School Custodian Arrested After Bringing Gun on Campus
Michael Difabio, 58, was arrested by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office after being found with a firearm on King High School grounds. Difabio, who had been employed at the school since January 2023, resigned following his arrest.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
King High Custodian Arrested for Gun on Campus
A custodian at King High School in Tampa was arrested after a firearm was found secured in a school maintenance closet. Michael Difabio, 58, faces a charge of possession of a firearm on school grounds, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. He resigned immediately upon arrest.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
South Tampa Businessman Jailed in Guest House Dispute
A South Tampa businessman remains in jail without bond after a judge ordered the demolition of his backyard guest house following a five-year battle with neighbors. Michael Martin was arrested April 20 for contempt of court despite claims of proper permitting. The case highlights tensions over property development in the Beach Park neighborhood.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Atlanta Man Nabbed After Torching Sanford Temple, Wild Multi-County Chase
A 51-year-old Atlanta man faces felony arson charges after allegedly setting fire to a Sanford Buddhist temple, sparking a high-speed chase across Central Florida highways. Singhasouk Danny Phanouvong led police on a 115 mph pursuit through Volusia and Flagler counties before troopers stopped him with a PIT maneuver. The late-night incident shocked the tight-knit temple community in Seminole County.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Broward Burglary Spree Ends in Arrests Tied to South American Theft Ring
Broward Sheriff's Office has busted a string of high-end residential burglaries in Weston's gated Windmill Ranch Estates, linking suspects to a notorious South American theft group targeting wealthy enclaves nationwide. Authorities recovered tools of the trade and seized stolen goods worth millions, including a $500,000 jewelry heist. Homeowners in South Florida's suburbs are urged to bolster security amid the crackdown.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026