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I'm a reporter with WFOR CBS 4 News Miami/Fort Lauderdale. I'm a news nerd. I love to travel and I love airplanes! That about sums it up!
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Articles by Ted Scouten
Self-proclaimed "witch doctor" sentenced to life in prison for 2020 murder of young mother in Broward
A Florida judge sentenced a self-proclaimed witch doctor to life in state prison without parole on Friday for the 2020 murder of a young mother in Broward, whose body has never been found. Shannon Ryan showed no reaction as Judge Michael Usan delivered the sentence. Defense attorneys had requested a sentence of just over 22 years. Ryan was convicted by a jury last month. Because Leila Cavett's body was never located, the conviction was based on circumstantial evidence and video footage.
South Florida braces for king tide flooding as heavy rain, onshore winds threaten the coast
As king tides peak along the South Florida coast, municipal officials and local residents are preparing for potentially widespread flooding as heavy rain and strong onshore winds threaten the region over the coming days. Outside the Ocean Blu store on the Hollywood Broadwalk, sandbags are already lined up to prevent damage. The store was inundated with a foot of water during a smaller king tide event last month.
What time for last call at bars in downtown Fort Lauderdale? There's an issue
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What time for last call at bars in downtown Fort Lauderdale? There's an issue
Fort Lauderdale city leaders are considering a plan to roll back bar-closing times in the downtown entertainment area, a move that business owners warn could affect their livelihoods. Under the proposal, closing times along Himmarshee Street would shift from 3 a.m. to 2 a.m. on weekdays and from 4 a.m. to 3 a.m. on weekends.
Fort Lauderdale proposes earlier closing times for downtown bars, facing pushback from business owners
Fort Lauderdale city officials are considering a plan to roll back bar closing times in the downtown entertainment area, a move that local business owners warn could severely impact their livelihoods. Under the proposal, closing times along Himmarshee Street would shift from 3 a.m. to 2 a.m. on weekdays and from 4 a.m. to 3 a.m. on weekends.
Judge keeps $150,000 bond for driver accused of 100 mph Deerfield Beach crash that killed wife
A driver accused of traveling at more than triple the speed limit in a May crash that killed his wife and injured two others appeared in front of a judge on Tuesday. Jean Claude Saint Cyr Jean Claude Saint Cyr was behind the wheel during the violent crash in a Deerfield Beach neighborhood. Prosecutor Ross Weiner said surveillance video captured before the collision showed Saint Cyr traveling an average of 98 to 102 mph in a 30 mph zone. The state requested bond be set at $190,000.
Fort Lauderdale is offering $12.4 million in flood recovery grants, but only 241 people have applied
Millions of dollars in grant funding remain available for Fort Lauderdale homeowners recovering from historic April 2023 flood damage, yet only a small fraction of eligible residents have submitted applications. When more than 2 feet of rain inundated Fort Lauderdale in April 2023, floodwaters surged through Anthony O'Gorman's home in the Edgewood neighborhood, causing about $80,000 in damage.
Heavy rain leaves flooded streets, hazardous driving conditions in Broward County
It was a night of difficult driving in Parkland after hours of rain dumped about 5 inches on the area, leaving some roads flooded. Poor lighting along Parkside Drive made it difficult for passing drivers to see standing water on the roadway. In the Hollywood Lakes neighborhood, some streets were flooded, with cars splashing through standing water after 4.5 inches of rain fell. "Today there's some flooding, not as much as I expected," said driver Theresa Deebs.
Two women charged in 2007 Broward robbery killing cold case after tip from prison, deputies say
Nearly two decades after 34-year-old Leon Heron was fatally shot during a robbery in an apartment complex parking lot, authorities have charged two women in connection with his murder. The cold case dates back to May 2007 in Lauderdale Lakes, where Heron was confronted after getting out of his car. According to Broward Sheriff's Office Cold Case Det. David Towsley, two 17-year-old women were driving around Broward County in a stolen SUV looking for someone to rob.
Hollywood officials warn Amendment 3 could cost city $34 million and force cuts or higher fees
The city of Hollywood hosted a public meeting to give residents an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about Amendment 3, a ballot proposal aimed at drastically slashing property taxes. Under Amendment 3, the taxable value of a primary homestead property would drop by $150,000 in 2027 and by $250,000 in 2028. Following those reductions, the state Legislature would decide whether to eliminate property taxes on primary residences altogether.
Singer challenges Moskowitz to represent coastal Florida district in Congress
We're just about three weeks away from knowing who will be representing the newly redrawn Florida Congressional District 25, which is set to be the most expensive race in the nation. It runs from Miami Beach to Delray Beach in South Florida , and both candidates and voters spoke with CBS News Miami. Voters have their concerns and say they've been hit hard in the wallet.
Democrat Jared Moskowitz taking on Republican Scott Singer in race for Florida's District 25
We're just about three weeks away from knowing who will be representing the newly redrawn Florida Congressional District 25, which is set to be the most expensive race in the nation. It runs from Miami Beach to Delray Beach in South Florida, and both candidates and voters spoke with CBS News Miami. Voters have their concerns and say they've been hit hard in the wallet.
Emergency meeting held after BSO refuses to give access to Broward mayor, commissioners
Broward County's mayor and commission held an emergency meeting on Tuesday and approved a move allowing them to look into possibly taking legal action against the Broward Sheriff's Office. This comes one day after Broward Mayor Mark Bogen and other county officials were denied access to BSO headquarters. They arrived there demanding to get a look at a gym inside the BSO training facility. So, what does the vote on Tuesday actually mean?
Broward mayor Mark Bogen and Sheriff Gregory Tonhy trade barbs as budget battle escalates
Both sides in a Broward County budget battle claim the other side is lying. Broward County Mayor Mark Bogen and county commissioners have demanded a detailed audit of Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony's budget , questioning how the law enforcement agency spends taxpayer dollars "They're lying to you, and we have to put videos together to check them," Tony said. "He's hiding in his office and doing videos," Bogen said.
Broward mayor and sheriff trade barbs as budget battle escalates
Both sides in a Broward County budget battle claim the other side is lying. Broward County Mayor Mark Bogen and county commissioners have demanded a detailed audit of Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony's budget, questioning how the law enforcement agency spends taxpayer dollars. "They're lying to you, and we have to put videos together to check them," Tony said. "He's hiding in his office and doing videos," Bogen said.
Broward mayor targets BSO training center gym spending as he vows investigation of sheriff
A public feud between top Broward County officials has escalated after Mayor Mark Bogen called for an investigation into how Sheriff Gregory Tony spends the Broward Sheriff's Office's $870 million core budget. "The first thing we're going to initiate is an investigation into the sheriff and how he's spending his core budget of 870 million," Bogen said. Bogen specifically targeted spending on BSO's training center, pointing out a gym that he compared to a luxury spa.
Broward mayor and commissioners demand detailed audit of Sheriff's Office spending as budget battle heats up
Broward County Mayor Mark Bogen and county commissioners are demanding a detailed audit of Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony's budget, questioning how the law enforcement agency spends taxpayer dollars. "So when someone doesn't want to give you details of how they're spending their money, the only question you have is what are you looking to hide?" Bogen asked. In response to the audit calls, Sheriff Tony released commercial-style promotional videos on social media.
Fort Lauderdale stormwater pumps tested by heavy rain as residents prepare for king tides in flood-prone neighborhoods
Residents in Fort Lauderdale's Edgewood and River Oaks neighborhoods, long vulnerable to severe flooding, closely watched city stormwater pumps operate during heavy rainfall in September. Pump station number 8 was put to work clearing stormwater from both neighborhoods and discharging it into the New River. The station features four pumps capable of moving up to 52,800 gallons of water per minute, designed to handle a 10-year, 1-day storm event—roughly 8.5 inches of rain over a 24-hour period.
Broward commissioners fire back at Sheriff Tony as budget dispute over $5.8 million escalates
Broward County commissioners and Sheriff Gregory Tony remain locked in a dispute over funding and oversight of the Broward Sheriff's Office, with county leaders debating a request for an additional $5.8 million. The tension escalated a day after Tony announced on social media that he is suspending all budget negotiations with the county.
4 men in custody after Miami Beach police seized 70 pounds of drugs and $50,000 in cash, breaking up ring
Police have broken up a sophisticated drug ring in Miami Beach, seizing tens of thousands of dollars in cash and dozens of pounds of narcotics, authorities said. Officers confiscated $50,000 in cash along with 70 pounds of drugs, including "pink cocaine". Undercover police infiltrated two WhatsApp groups to monitor the operation they call Operation Pink Panther from the inside. "They noticed the icon was a pink panther," said Officer Chris Bess of the Miami Beach Police Department.
Masked man with hatchet confronts employee near Fort Lauderdale airport, remains at large
A masked person armed with a hatchet confronted an employee early Friday morning in the parking lot of a business near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, according to the Broward Sheriff's Office. Deputies with BSO's Airport District responded at approximately 3:20 a.m. to the business in the 500 block of Southwest 34th Street in Fort Lauderdale after Broward County Regional Communications received a report of an armed, masked individual in the parking lot.
Broward school district moves to terminate staff after Inspector General's investigation into laptop contract
Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Howard Hepburn announced plans Thursday to recommend the termination of three district staff members following an Inspector General investigation into the procurement process for 80,000 student laptops. The Broward Office of the Inspector General investigated allegations that staff members failed to follow proper procurement procedures when selecting a vendor to supply the laptops and hiring a company for storage and distribution.
Hollywood's seawall passes king tide test, but seawater can still rise through storm drains
For the first time, all 20 openings in a new seawall along North and South Lake Drives were covered Wednesday, successfully blocking Intracoastal Waterway floodwaters during annual king tides. High tide on Monday sent water pouring through gaps in the seawall onto North Lake Drive. By Wednesday, with all panels installed, ocean water was no longer spilling onto the land. Local residents noted that street flooding during king tides typically makes travel nearly impossible.
Driver who witnessed kitten thrown from truck into Broward traffic rescues her and takes her home
A kitten named Enola is safe and uninjured after being thrown from a moving pickup truck into traffic on Stirling Road on Sunday. Andrea Rivera was driving directly behind the truck when she witnessed an object hurled out of the vehicle's window. "I saw them throw something out the window. I thought it was littering, and I was annoyed by it, and then I saw it was something black," Rivera said. "I thought it was somebody's sweater, and then I saw it was in the shape of an animal.
Hollywood to monitor new seawall panels during king tide period beginning Saturday
South South Lake Drive near the Hollywood Marina has faced persistent flooding for years from king tides, rainfall, and storm drain backup. On Thursday, city workers installed and tested removable panels across five to six openings in a new seawall designed to keep seawater out. "They've actually done a fairly good job specifically at the far eastern end of our street to be able to stop the king tides from coming in," said Shawn Fawnshier, a resident living along the street.
Rain transforms Florida Everglades after drought, benefiting wildlife and businesses
Recent heavy rain has transformed parts of the Everglades, replenishing areas that were bone dry just weeks ago and bringing benefits for wildlife, the region's water supply and local businesses. Marshall Jones, a fifth-generation Gladesman and owner of Mack's Fish Camp, said water levels have risen dramatically after the lingering drought.
Crews begin dismantling Amazon cargo plane wreckage as cockpit transcript details final approach
Recovery crews have begun dismantling the Amazon Prime Air 767 involved in the recent cargo plane crash, as new details emerge from cockpit voice recordings from the moments before impact. Cranes surrounded the wreckage, and airport officials confirmed that crews began removing parts of the aircraft overnight. The plane is set to be broken into several pieces to facilitate transport to a nearby hangar or warehouse for further inspection.
Flight data shows pilot started go-around then reversed course in fatal Miami cargo plane crash, NTSB says
Investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board analyzing flight data from the Amazon Prime Air cargo plane crash at Miami International Airport say the pilot may have hesitated in the final seconds of landing, attempting to abort before reversing course and continuing with the landing. The plane, a Boeing 767, overshot the runway by roughly 1,300 feet, breached the airport fence, crossed Northwest 67th Avenue and struck two vehicles. Five people were killed.
Could a FAA-approved safety feature prevent the Amazon cargo plane crash at MIA? Experts weigh in.
A 767 cargo plane overshot a runway at Miami International Airport, sliding 1,300 feet past the pavement before crashing through a perimeter fence, crossing Northwest 67th Avenue and crushing vehicles. The plane came to a stop and burst into flames after the overrun. The incident has highlighted the role of Engineered Materials Arresting Systems (EMAS), a safety feature used at more than 70 U.S. airports, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Former Coral Springs school resource officer fired amid claims of inappropriate conduct
A former school resource officer at Taravella High School in Coral Springs is off the force now that an internal report alleges inappropriate conduct with two former students. The report, which CBS News Miami reviewed, was difficult to follow at times because of the redactions. It involved the actions allegedly taken by Raymond Kerner, which Coral Springs' police chief said were inexcusable.
Soggy surprise: Broward man says bad water meter sent his bill past $500 a month
A Pembroke Pines man is seeking a refund after his monthly water bill skyrocketed after a new meter was installed this year. Rafael Rodriguez said he was shocked when his monthly water bill jumped from approximately $150 to more than $600 in May. Over a three-month period, the total reached over $1,600. “The bill in total came out to roughly over, in three months, $1,600, which is way above what I'm used to paying, and it had us dipping into savings just to cover costs,” Rodriguez said.
Broward man asking for refund after he says faulty water meter drove his bill from $150 to over $600 a month
A Pembroke Pines man is seeking a refund after his monthly water bill skyrocketed after a new meter was installed earlier this year. Rafael Rodriguez said he was shocked when his monthly water bill jumped from approximately $150 to more than $600 in May. Over a three-month period, the total reached over $1,600. "The bill in total came out to roughly over, in three months, $1,600, which is way above what I'm used to paying, and it had us dipping into savings just to cover costs," Rodriguez said.
Broward families push back on school closure plan as district cites 60,000 unfilled seats
The Broward School District is considering the closure of 10 schools as officials look to address a surplus of 60,000 empty seats, a decision that has sparked concern among local families. Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn described the potential closures as "highly likely." "We're spending more money on maintaining that building and operating that building than educating the student," Hepburn said.
Broward residents celebrate Dolly Parton's life and legacy: "Everything she touched turned to sparkling gold"
Residents in Wilton Manors are coming together to celebrate the life and legacy of iconic singer Dolly Parton, honoring her contributions to the LGBTQ+ community and her global message of acceptance. Local businesses are marking the occasion with thematic tributes. Proof Bar and Restaurant is rolling out a special menu featuring items such as "Dolly-themed cocktails" and a dumpling pot pie, which is described as one of the singer's favorites.
South Florida families concerned as districts weigh school closures: "I wouldn't want to go to another school"
School districts in Broward and Miami-Dade counties are evaluating dozens of campuses for potential closure next academic year as both districts grapple with significant declines in student enrollment. In Broward County, 10 schools have been identified for possible closure. The announcement has sparked concern among families who view these schools as community anchors. "I don't want William Dandy to shut down," said Adrianna Ervin, a student whose family has attended the school for generations.
South Florida residents limited to 2 days a week for lawn watering under year-round rules
Maintaining a lush lawn while adhering to year-round water restrictions in Miami-Dade and Broward counties requires careful planning, local experts say. South Florida residents are subject to specific outdoor water rules implemented by the South Florida Water Management District around 2008 and 2009. "You're on a restriction every day of the week," said Anthony Gross of Broward's Natural Resource Division.
Pompano Beach man arrested on six animal cruelty charges after dogs found in wooden cages, police say
Six dogs, now in air conditioning with plenty of food and water at Broward Animal Care, were rescued on Monday from a backyard in Pompano Beach . All of them were found in wooden cages. The owner, Christopher Brayboy, is now facing six aggravated animal cruelty charges. The police report says Brayboy was evicted from the home 10 days earlier, but was allowed to return to care for the dogs.
Pompano Beach man arrested on six animal cruelty charges after dogs found in wooden cages, police say
Six dogs, now in air conditioning with plenty of food and water at Broward Animal Care, were rescued on Monday from a backyard in Pompano Beach. All of them were in these wooden cages. The owner, Christopher Brayboy, is now facing six aggravated animal cruelty charges. The police report says Brayboy was evicted from the home 10 days earlier, but was allowed to return to care for the dogs.
Suspended Palm Beach clerk of courts Michael Caruso remains jailed after arrest on child sex abuse charges
The suspended clerk of courts in Palm Beach County is spending another night in jail after he was accused of sexually abusing a young family member. Michael Caruso used to run the clerk's office in Palm Beach County. Now, cuffed at his waist and wrists, he stood before a judge facing very serious allegations. Judge Donald Hafele started a hearing on Wednesday with a disclaimer.
Two years of drought leave Everglades parched, taking toll on wildlife and tourism
At first glance, it looks like a normal day in the Everglades. But look closer, and the effects of two consecutive years of drought are hard to miss. There is barely any water in the man-made canal we traveled through by airboat — and beyond the canal, large stretches of the Everglades are dry. "How deep should the water be?" CBS News Miami asked.
Trio charged with nabbing $16K Birkin in Miami-Dade handbag heist, police report
Charges have now been filed against a woman and two teens who investigators say were caught on camera stealing a pricey Hermes Birkin bag from a Miami-Dade store earlier this week. The bag, stolen from The Brand Original consignment store in Sunny Isles Beach, was priced close to $16,000, roughly the cost of a used car. Surveillance footage obtained by CBS News Miami appears to show the three female suspects enter the store on Wednesday to casually look at clothes.
Trio charged with nabbing $16,000 Birkin in Miami-Dade handbag heist, police report
Charges have now been filed against a woman and two teens who investigators say were caught on camera stealing a pricey Hermes Birkin bag from a Miami-Dade store earlier this week. The bag, stolen from The Brand Original consignment store in Sunny Isles Beach, was priced close $16,000, roughly the cost of a used car. Surveillance footage obtained by CBS News Miami appears to show the three female suspects enter the store on Wednesday to casually look at clothes.
Fire kills 12 dogs at Hollywood home, with firefighters performing CPR to save the 1 survivor, owner says
A South Florida homeowner is mourning the loss of 12 dogs after a fire tore through her home in Hollywood. Only one of her 13 dogs, a puppy named "Baby Judge," survived the blaze. Andrea Santos, who was at work when the fire started in the 1900 block of Rodman Street, said she first realized something was wrong after checking her Ring camera. "I looked on my Ring camera. I'm like, 'Oh my god, where's that coming from?' Then it just clicked, and I just ran out of work," she said.
2 children hospitalized after they were struck by a car while riding an e-bike in Miami-Dade, deputies say
Two children were taken to the hospital after a crash Thursday afternoon involving an e-bike and a car in northwest Miami-Dade, according to deputies. The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office said that deputies responded to the area of Northwest 85th Street and 18th Avenue. Their preliminary investigation revealed that two children, ages unknown, were traveling westbound on NW 85th Street on an e-bike when they failed to stop at a stop sign.
1 man injured, another at large after exchanging gunfire at a northwest Miami-Dade gas station, deputies say
Deputies are investigating a shooting Wednesday night in a Mobil gas station in northwest Miami-Dade, leaving one person injured and another at large. The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office said that officials received a report of the shooting at the gas station located at Northwest 103rd Street and 12th Avenue at approximately 5:25 p.m. MDSO's preliminary investigation revealed that there were two men who got into an argument at the Mobil gas station.
Fort Lauderdale's collapsed Riverwalk section barricaded as seawall repairs won't start until 2027
A collapsed walkway along the New River in Fort Lauderdale has drawn attention as the city works to address an aging seawall that has led to soil erosion and safety concerns. The seawall has been identified as the second priority in the city's master replacement plan. City officials have installed barricades to prevent pedestrians from accessing the damaged section, which stretches from Andrews Avenue west to the train bridge.
Former teacher and choir member accused of emailing bomb threat to Broward church, police say
A former choir member at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church was arrested Monday and charged with sending a bomb threat to the congregation, authorities said. Melissa Redway, a former teacher at Westminster Academy who reportedly suffered a brain injury, was taken into custody months after the incident occurred in February.
Should monkeys that escaped South Florida testing lab be classified as native species?
For nearly 80 years, vervet monkeys have lived in the mangrove by Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport after escaping a South Florida medical testing lab and zoo in the 1940s. David Blewitt has lived on the edge of the mangrove for decades. "I've seen them many, many times," he said. "They came over looking for bananas. They're like little kids holding their hands up for an allowance." Missy Williams runs the Dania Beach monkey sanctuary.
Candidates tackle affordability, insurance and security in Florida Congressional District 25 primary
Voters in Florida's newly drawn Congressional District 25 will choose among seven candidates in the Aug. 18 primary, with affordability emerging as a central issue across both parties. The district stretches from South Beach north to Delray Beach. Two Democrats and five Republicans are competing in their respective primaries for the seat. Candidates have outlined priorities ranging from housing and health care costs to homeowners insurance, national security, immigration and government spending.
South Florida officials, residents react to Tallahassee court's ruling for rewrite of property tax ballot language
A court in Tallahassee has ordered a rewrite of the ballot language for a proposed property tax relief amendment, ruling that the current title is misleading and fails to meet neutrality standards. The court determined that the proposed title, "Save Our Homes From Excessive Property Tax," functions more as a political slogan than a fair, neutral summary.
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