Psychic Arrested, Cop Fired, Mediterranean Style

Patch operates 24 daily news sites in the Tampa Bay area and surrounding counties. The following are some of the top stories from the past day:

Help Needed For Snooty's 3 New Manatee Friends

Snooty, the world’s oldest-known manatee, has three new friends sharing his habitat at the South Florida Museum. Randall, Gale and Baca arrived at the Bradenton museum’s Stage 2 Rehabilitation facility on Wednesday.

Pinellas Utility Scam: More Victims Come Forward

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office is looking for help identifying several men accused of tricking their way into elderly residents’ homes by posing as water department employees. Once inside, deputies say one of the men distracts residents while the other swipes items from victims’ homes.

51 Jobs: Prisoner Transport, Baker, Electrician

In the market for a new job in the Tampa Bay area? There’s good news on the employment front! Employers throughout the region have put out help-wanted signs in recent days.

Middle School Teacher Arrested On Molestation Charges

The St. Petersburg Police Department has announced the arrest of a 41-year-old Largo man on five counts of lewd and lascivious molestation. According to the agency, the Meadowlawn Middle School teacher was arrested early Wednesday morning.

Psychic Bilked Veteran, Widow Out Of $155K: Deputies

A lengthy investigation into a Tarpon Springs psychic’s alleged criminal activities ended with the 31-year-old woman’s arrest. Pinellas County Sheriff’s deputies say Gina Wilson bilked the two victims who have been identified so far out of a combined $155,353.

Clearwater Cop Fired After Teen Injured During Arrest

The Clearwater Police Department has announced the termination of one of its officers after an internal investigation determined he used excessive force while bringing a teenager into custody in April. The teen suffered facial injuries and had to be taken to a hospital for treatment.

1 Dead In Shooting At Auto Body Shop

The fatal Wednesday morning shooting of a 41-year-old man at the Tampa auto body shop he once worked at is under investigation by police. Authorities say the alleged shooter is cooperating with detectives and has been identified as the shop’s owner.

Tow To Go Revs Up For Memorial Day Weekend 2017

Tampa Bay area motorists with big party plans over Memorial Day weekend will find AAA is once again offering a safe way home for folks who are too impaired to drive. The auto club plans to offer its Tow To Go program throughout the long holiday weekend to help keep area roads safe.

Free Mosquito-Chomping Fish Available In Hillsborough County

With summer just around the corner, Hillsborough County officials want to make sure backyard bloodsuckers don’t ruin outdoor fun for residents. With that in mind, the county has announced plans to take its “mosquito fish” program on the road to make sure residents who want the critters at no charge can get their hands on them.

Mediterranean Style Sets Old Northeast Charmer Apart

House hunters with a passion for old world style might find this Mediterranean-inspired estate in St. Petersburg’s Old Northeast area a treat for the eyes. From its artistically designed front door to its third-floor deck, this home was built to impress.

Photo courtesy of the South Florida Museum