Unresolved Homicide in Hernando County Draws Attention Amid New York Stabbing Case
Ariana Ptarcinski’s 2019 homicide in Hernando County remains unsolved, sparking renewed questions amid a related New York murder case.
Crime & Safety in Hernando County
Jewel Thief Presumed on the Run After Failing to Appear in Court
Jewel thief Michael Ornelas presumed on the run after failing to appear in court for sentencing status hearing
Tampa Smoke Shop Owner Faces Homicide Charge
Tampa smoke shop owner Ryan Perez faces homicide charge after alleged dark web narcotics operation.
“Vigilante Justice” Kidnapping Case Heads to Trial in Hernando County
A Hernando County School District employee and five others are accused of kidnapping and interrogating three men they accused of stealing from Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold.
Convicted Woman Promotes New Blueberry Festival in Hernando County
Convicted woman promotes blueberry festival in Hernando County despite restrictions
Jewel Thief Sentencing Nears, Defense Cites Poor Health
Jewel thief Michael Ornelas faces sentencing on June 4, with his defense citing poor health. Ornelas pleaded no contest to four burglary charges and racketeering, and is accused of stealing $16 million in valuables from 23 jewelry stores across Florida.
Decades on the Run: Hernando Child Sex Crime Suspect Arrested in New York, $1.6M Bond Set
A 68-year-old man accused of sexually abusing a child in Hernando County over three decades ago has been arrested in New York and is being held on a $1.6 million bond.
Charges Dropped Against Hernando County Democratic Party Chair in ‘No Kings’ Protest Battery Case
Hernando County Democratic Party Chair Brian Stewart will not face prosecution for a misdemeanor battery charge stemming from a March 2026 altercation at a “No Kings” protest in Spring Hill.
Citra Man Arrested in Hernando County Child Predator Sting
A Citra man, 21, was arrested in Hernando County on multiple felony charges related to child exploitation following an undercover investigation.
Child Molestation Suspect Nathan Holmberg Dies in Custody
Child molestation suspect Nathan Holmberg dies in custody at Hillsborough County Jail
Hernando County Jewelry Heist Sentencing Delayed Until June
Three defendants in $16 million jewelry heist case see sentencing delayed until June 4 as prosecutors gather victim statements and restitution amounts.
Hernando Democratic Party Chair Arrested at No Kings Protest
Hernando Democratic Party Chair Brian Stewart arrested at No Kings protest, accused of striking disabled veteran with megaphone