Mold Remediation in Tampa, FL

Following a human trafficking investigation, a man was arrested and at least 4 victims were found, the Hillsborough sheriff's office said.

Tiffany Razzano, Patch Staff

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — A man was arrested and at least four victims rescued following a human trafficking investigation, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Deune Dukes, 38, was arrested April 1 as part of an undercover operation.

During the investigation, detectives identified two women who were forced by Dukes to engage in sexual acts in exchange for drugs, the sheriff’s office said.

He used both drugs and physical violence to control the victims, the agency said. Both women showed visible bruising, which is believed to be caused by Dukes.

Detectives also identified a possible third female human trafficking victim and a fourth woman who Dukes was grooming but hadn’t been forced to perform sexual acts yet at the time of his arrest.

Find out what's happening in Tampafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

While serving a search warrant at Dukes' home, detectives found methamphetamine, powder and crack cocaine, MDMA, and Suboxone patches.

At the time of his arrest, he had active warrants for:

Dukes now faces the following additional charges:

"Human trafficking is one of the most heinous crimes we confront," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "These survivors endured unimaginable trauma. Our top priority is protecting the vulnerable and making sure every predator responsible is held fully accountable."

The non-profit organization Selah Freedom offered the victims support in recovery.

Anyone with information about human trafficking or in need of assistance is encouraged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at 813-247-8200.

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From Cuban sandwiches to Michelin stars.

Tampa is experiencing an incredible renaissance, thanks in large part to Water Street, a new city within a city that’s changing the landscape of downtown Tampa. Another major player is the culinary scene that’s evolving across the region. As someone who’s lived in Tampa for nearly 25 years, it’s exciting to watch the city embrace independent chefs who are adding their own spins and flavors to the culinary landscape.

When the Michelin Guide arrived in Florida, three Tampa restaurants were awarded Bib Gourmand, which “recognizes great food at a great value.” Today, the city boasts 30 restaurants in the guide, including four Bib Gourmand, five with one-star designations and 21 included for their “good cooking.”

Alongside awarded establishments and buzzy up-and-comers, diners have flocked to local institutions for decades, even 120 years in the case of Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City. Any list of the best restaurants in Tampa would be remiss not to mention local, independent institutions like Bern’s Steak House, Mise en Place, Malio’s Prime Steakhouse, Carmine’s, Donatello, La Teresita, and Bella’s Italian Café, to name a few.

Here is a look at what I consider 10 of the best restaurants in Tampa, in no particular order.

Ash

The newest restaurant in Tampa’s buzzing Water Street district is Ash, the latest venture from Tampa native restaurateurs Chef Ferrell Alvarez and Ty Rodriguez. Ash’s intimate, subtly sleek décor sets the scene for an impeccable Italian-inspired dinner. Dishes of note include the Hamachi, Crispy Artichokes, Raviolo with broccoli, brown butter, and fontina, and Conchiglie with white beans, cotija cheese, and garlic cream.

ashtampa.com, 420 S Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33602

Flor Fina

Drawing from the Latin influences of Ybor City and inspired by Mediterranean flavor and flair, Flor Fina’s lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch menus are filled with dishes that tempt the palate. There are so many mouthwatering choices, might I suggest following our lead for dinner: Start with the Ybor Chop Salad and Patatas Bravas, followed by the Plantain Crusted Snapper served with smoked chile butter, and the Aguado de Gallina, a pan-seared chicken breast and confit leg served with savory sides.

hotelhaya.com/food-drink/flor-fina, 1412 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605

Cappy’s Pizza Seminole Heights

Everyone has their favorite pizza place; mine for the past 22 years has been Cappy’s Pizza Seminole Heights. Serving both New York- and Chicago-style pies with all the favorite toppings, Cappy’s calzones are a hit, too. Start off like we do with a Greek salad, and don’t be turned off by the scoop of potato salad—it’s the flavor you didn’t know you needed in your salad!

cappyspizzash.com, 4910 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603

The Pearl

Whether you go for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch, definitely save room for dessert at The Pearl. Yes, the seafood-inspired dishes, steaks, short ribs, fried chicken, sandwiches, and salads are satisfying, but you’ll kick yourself if you miss out on a slice of made-in-house pies like brown sugar, Dutch apple, and buckeye.

thepearlrestaurant.com, 823 Water St Suite C-100, Tampa, FL 33602

Willa’s

Named one of “The South’s Best New Restaurants” when it opened in 2023, Willa’s quickly became one of Tampa locals’ favorite go-to spots for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The causal atmosphere gives way to delectable dishes like Steak & Eggs Latkes, Shrimp Ceviche, Chicken Schnitzel, Rotisserie Chicken Frites, and a Double Smash Cheeseburger, with plenty of veg-friendly options.

willastampa.com, 1700 W Fig St, Tampa, FL 33606

Beacon

For a fun night out on the town, make reservations for an outdoor table at Beacon, Tampa’s highest rooftop bar at 27 stories above the city. Friends and I enjoy sampling the different flavors found in the shared plates, like steamed buns, tartines, and desserts. Beacon’s cocktail menu really shines with interesting flavor combinations—my go-to is Among the Clouds, a blend of pisco blanco, pamplemousse, yellow chartreuse, lemon, pineapple, basil-infused agave, and egg white.

beacontampa.com, 510 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602

Lilac

One of Tampa’s first Michelin stars was awarded in 2023 to Lilac, an exquisite dining experience in The Tampa EDITION, the city’s first five-star hotel. Drawing inspiration from his Greek heritage and love for Turkish cuisine, Chef John Fraser and his culinary team create vegetable-forward prix-fixe menus that highlight the freshest locally-sourced ingredients. Though the menu is constantly changing, one dish that is always available is the Day Boat Snapper, baked in a cataplana and served with prawns and creamy grits in a saffron shellfish broth.

lilacrestauranttampa.com, 500 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602

Chanko

When a friend told us to get to Chanko ASAP, we took heed and have returned time and again. Serving okonomiyaki, rice plates, and Japanese curry, all of which are fully customizable, it’s nearly impossible to go hungry after a meal here. In fact, my husband and I usually split a dish—they’re that big… and good. If you dine in, take a seat in the Elivs booth—he dined in the one-time diner after a show in the 1950s.

chankoflorida.square.site, 4603 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603

Steelbach

Housed inside Armature Works, an immensely popular food hall, Steelbach is a Southern-inspired kitchen and chophouse with something for everyone for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Take advantage of the Social Hour, Monday through Friday, 3 to 6 p.m., for Bar Bites, $10 martinis, and classic cocktails.

steelbach.com, 1902 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602

EmIstanbul Mediterranean Grill & Marketpty list item

Your tastebuds will delight in an escape to the Med at Istanbul Mediterranean Grill & Market. Bite into a gyro or falafel wrap, or dig into something more hearty like the Mixed Grill with shish kebab, chicken kebab, lamb gyro, chicken gyro and Inegol kofte. On the way out, stop at the bakery counter for some baklava, kadayif, or kunefe to go.

istanbulgrillfl.com, 8896 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604

Palm Harbor, FL (May 5, 2025) – Emergency crews responded to a serious vehicle crash with injuries and a temporary roadblock Monday afternoon on the southbound side of US-19 at Tampa Rd, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The incident was dispatched at approximately 2:12 p.m., with units arriving on the scene by 2:20 p.m. Multiple vehicles were involved in the collision, which caused injuries to at least one individual. Paramedics provided immediate care to those hurt, and while the specific number of injured parties has not been released, several people were reportedly evaluated on site, with some possibly transported to nearby medical facilities.

The crash led to a temporary roadblock on US-19 South, a heavily trafficked highway in Pinellas County. Emergency responders worked efficiently to treat the injured and remove debris from the roadway, restoring normal traffic flow within a short time. The Florida Highway Patrol later confirmed that the road had been cleared and reopened to traffic.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports have not indicated whether speed, distraction, or traffic violations played a role. Identities of those involved have not yet been disclosed.

We extend our best wishes for recovery to all individuals impacted by this crash.

Highway Crashes in Florida

Collisions on major Florida roadways like US-19 are unfortunately a frequent occurrence, particularly in high-traffic corridors like Palm Harbor. This stretch of highway, serving both local and through traffic, often sees accidents during mid-afternoon hours due to heavy congestion, lane merges, and high speeds.

Monday’s crash at Tampa Rd underscores the risks drivers face when navigating busy highway intersections. Even with improved infrastructure, driver inattention, unsafe lane changes, or sudden braking can lead to multi-vehicle incidents with serious consequences. When roadblocks occur as a result, emergency responders must act quickly to prevent secondary collisions and ensure safe traffic redirection.

Beyond the immediate injuries and disruptions, crashes on major roadways often involve complex insurance claims and extended recovery periods. Victims may face time away from work, rising medical costs, and the emotional strain of dealing with traumatic events.

Understanding how to respond after a highway crash—such as obtaining the official crash report, seeking medical evaluation, and knowing your legal rights—is critical for anyone involved in such incidents.

If you or someone you know was injured in a crash on US-19 or any Florida highway, timely access to resources and information is essential to recovery.

After a highway crash, getting the right help quickly can make all the difference. At Local Accident Reports, we provide fast, free access to your official crash report and connect you with the support you need—medical resources, legal guidance, and more. Take the first step toward recovery today. Request your free accident report now and let us help you move forward confidently.

Federal air quality guidance suggests that seniors living in near Tampa, Florida, should stay indoors on Tuesday as the region prepares for worsening air quality that could pose serious health risks to vulnerable populations.

Air quality levels in the Tampa area are expected to fall into the "orange" category on the Air Quality Index (AQI) on Tuesday, indicating conditions that are "unhealthy for sensitive groups," which includes older adults, children, and individuals with respiratory conditions. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), AQI values in this range can trigger symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and exacerbation of chronic heart and lung diseases.

Newsweek reached out to Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) by email for comment.

Why It Matters

The forecast coincides with a broader national trend in air quality deterioration. A recent report from the American Lung Association (ALA) found that 156.1 million Americans—46 percent of the population—now live in counties with failing grades for ozone or particulate pollution, a 25 million increase from the previous year.

What to Know

The Tampa metropolitan area, home to approximately 403,000 residents, includes more than 50,000 people aged 65 or older—representing about 13 percent of the local population, according to U.S. Census data. The EPA's AQI forecast for Tuesday anticipates this demographic could be susceptible to complications from poor air quality.

While orange AQI conditions do not automatically trigger air quality alerts, they represent a threshold where health officials recommend that at-risk populations take preventive action.

Medical experts have long warned that ozone exposure can lead to decreased lung function, inflamed airways, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. These effects are particularly dangerous for older adults, whose immune systems are typically weaker and may already be coping with other conditions.

The EPA's updated guidelines classify AQI values of 101 to 150 as orange. Under these conditions, children and adults with lung disease and older individuals should limit prolonged outdoor exertion. People with asthma are at a higher risk for attacks and may require more frequent use of inhalers.

EPA's forecast anticipates Florida is the only state facing these conditions on Tuesday. Numerous other states are facing moderate air quality, in which "air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution."

What People Are Saying

Katherine Pruitt, senior director of Nationwide Clean Air Policy at the ALA, previously told Newsweek: "The Air Quality Index's health advisory messages for sensitive groups can only be effective if people living with conditions that make them more vulnerable to health harm from air pollution recognize themselves as part of a sensitive group and take appropriate precautions. Research has shown that is not necessarily the case."

The ALA's State of Air 2025 report said: "Extreme heat, drought and wildfires are contributing to worsening levels of air pollution across much of the U.S., exposing a growing proportion of the population to ozone and particle pollution that put their health at risk."

What Happens Next

Air quality officials will monitor the situation closely and issue air quality alerts if the situation calls for it. The EPA has encouraged individuals to use the AirNow mobile app or website for real-time air quality updates in their area.

FLORIDA — If adrenalin-producing roller coasters and smile-inducing costumed characters are your idea of a fun family play date, four of the 20 best amusement parks in the country are close to home in Florida, according to a recent U.S. News & World Report ranking.

The Florida mentions on The 20 Best Amusement Parks in the U.S. for 2025 are:

Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando

Some of Walt Disney World's newest offerings for 2025 include a new ride called Tiana's Bayou Adventure, a reimagined Country Bear Musical Jamboree and a Dream the Night Away nighttime parade. Four distinct theme parks make up the larger resort. Magic Kingdom is the resort's most iconic area, plus EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios and the Animal Kingdom houses rare animals.

Busch Gardens: Tampa

In 2025, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will open a new "Wild Oasis" kid-friendly adventure realm with climbing features, educational scavenger hunts and interactive water play areas. The park offers theme and water park action, plus a full zoo with more than 200 species of animals. Rides include a triple-launch roller coaster called Tigris, a family-friendly spin coaster called Cobra's Curse, a 300-foot drop tower, and more.

Universal Orlando Resort: Orlando

In May, Universal Orlando Resort will open a new theme park called Universal Epic Universe that will include numerous realms themed to "How to Train Your Dragon," Universal Monsters, Super Nintendo World and another Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Four parks will be located within Universal Orlando Resort by summer 2025: Universal Studios Florida showcases characters from movies and TV series such as "Harry Potter"; Universal's Islands of Adventure features popular characters; Universal's Volcano Bay Water Theme Park provides slides and pools; and the new Universal Epic Universe will take visitors through new words from "How to Train Your Dragon," Super Nintendo World and Dark Universe.

Legoland Florida Resort: Winter Haven

The park is expected to open the new SEA LIFE Aquarium in May, which will offer educational experiences in an underwater world. This theme park features life-sized Lego creations, themed rides and shows with favorite characters. Legoland Florida Resort is a three-in-one theme park featuring the Lego-themed amusement rides and water park attractions, plus the Peppa Pig Theme Park. The park is open year-round.

U.S. News said the amusement parks on the list can be affordable for families, especially when reservations are booked in advance. The parks are supported by a range of nearby lodging options including family-oriented hotels with pools to campgrounds.

Others on the list are: