WINK News - November 18, 2024
A lot of changes are in store when President-elect Donald Trump takes office in January. One of those changes is the possible dismantlement of the U.S. Department of Education. I break down the impacts Florida may see with this potential change.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - November 15, 2024
INVESTIGATION: A southwest Florida developer has now surrendered his six different contracting licenses, which include general contracting, plumbing and roofing. How did we get to this point? What’s next? I started investigating after an email tip was sent in July 2024, claiming Beattie has destroyed many lives.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - November 14, 2024
INVESTIGATION: Beattie Development has been accused of taking customers’ money and not completing work promised, and now the company’s owner is surrendering his licenses. Paul Beattie had a hearing in front of the construction industry licensing board. This is the board that serves the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Beattie voluntarily gave up his construction, plumbing and roofing licenses. This means, he is no longer allowed to build homes anymore.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - November 13, 2024
A Fort Myers woman believes a fraudulent QR code at Bonita Beach Park near Barefoot Beach caused her credit card to be hacked. She’s on a mission to warn others
WINK News - November 11, 2024
Both amendments deal with two very different topics but one thing they share in common is they will both impact the state of Florida. Experts say they will likely be impacts but it’s too early to tell what concrete impacts we may see. Both amendments need to be established in the law first, in order to understand the impacts. Of course, many have predictions.
WINK News - November 8, 2024
I am trying to understand what reason would warrant three big-name government agencies to swarm Oakes’ home and warehouse. Kristen Ziman, a retired police chief and WINK’s Safety and Security Specialist, said this situation likely involves financial crimes.
I am live at the Oakes Farms warehouse
WINK News - November 7, 2024
BREAKING: Several federal and state law enforcement agencies were at politician Alfie Oakes’, home and packing house for an investigation that remains undisclosed. Those agencies are the Secret Service, the IRS and the U.S. Department of Defense Office of Inspector General on the scene.
I am live at the Oakes Farm warehouse
WINK News - November 6, 2024
Amendments three and four, marijuana and abortion, failed, despite the majority of voters wanting both amendments to pass. They both didn’t get 60% yes. Some voters believe the 60% mark is too high to make constitutional changes. For the threshold to change, it has to be put on the ballot for voters to decide and would need at least 60% of the vote.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - November 5, 2024
Florida’s Amendment 4, which aimed to create a constitutional right to abortion, has failed to pass. The amendment received 57% of the vote, falling short of the 60% vote required to pass. Florida’s current six-week abortion ban will, therefore, remain in place.
I am live at a polling place
WINK News - November 4, 2024
Stipends, Jaycee Park and new developments have been topics of concern in the City of Cape Coral for months now. Some voters tell WINK News they don’t know much about City Council and didn’t vote on that section of the ballot, others say they want all the incumbents gone with a laundry list of complaints.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - November 1, 2024
Red tide is smelly. Red tide is painful. At times, it can take you by surprise.
Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, and teary eyes. Satellite maps show red tide creeping more toward the south from offshore of Pinellas County. I speak with beachgoers and the city of Sanibel on how to prepare.
I am live on the beach in Sanibel
WINK News - October 31, 2024
BREAKING: New information has been released about the 2-year-old Clewiston boy who died from a single gunshot wound. According to authorities, this was an accidental and isolated incident.
I am live at the crime scene
WINK News - October 30, 2024
EXCLUSIVE: Election day is less than a week away and in the final stretch, we are hearing from more state officials. Florida Speaker of the House, Paul Renner, spoke exclusively me about the upcoming election.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - October 30, 2024
EXCLUSIVE: Thrive Academy is a first-of-its-kind school for those diagnosed with autism. On Wednesday, the school held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and invited the public inside. Parents tell WINK News that this is a “dream” as the school has tailored curriculum to the kids’ unique needs.
I am live inside Thrive Academy
WINK News - October 29, 2024
Is Matlacha forgotten? People in Matlacha still have questions following a civic association meeting Monday night that focused on rebuilding the island after recent storms. County leaders, business owners and property owners attended the meeting which got contentious at times.
.I am live at a debris site in Matlacha
WINK News - October 25, 2024
A New York investor has purchased Aspen, Colorado-based M Development’s interest in developing the former St. George & The Dragon property into luxury condominiums, boutique shops and restaurants in Naples, but the project team will continue to guide the project.
I am live on the property
WINK News - October 25, 2024
EXPLAINER: Florida helps to fund the campaigns of all statewide office candidates, including the governor, attorney general, chief financial officer, and agriculture commissioner. If passed, Amendment 6 will remove that funding.
I am a look live in the studio
WINK News - October 24, 2024
EXPLAINER: Collier County voters will see a tax-neutral referendum on their ballot. The referendum aims to shift funds from capital to operating expenses in the Collier County Public School system. It’s a continuation of the referendum currently in place
I am live in the studio
WINK News - October 24, 2024
EXPLAINER: Property taxes are not anyone’s favorite words, but they are money that must be paid if you own Florida real estate. Amendment 5 deals with homeowners, specifically those with a homestead exemption, which reduces a property’s taxable value.
I am a look live in the studio
WINK News - October 23, 2024
Benjamin, of Collier County, passed away on Saturday, two days after choking on food on his school lunch break at Laurel Oak Elementary School. 911 was called, and the North Collier Fire District responded within minutes.
I am live at the Collier County Public School headquarters
WINK News - October 23, 2024
EXPLAINER: Amendment 4 could be called the most controversial issue Florida voters face: When women in our state can have an abortion. Currently, Florida law restricts abortion to the first six weeks of pregnancy, with notable exceptions such as rape, incest and the life of the mother
I am a look live in the studio
WINK News - October 22, 2024
Marco Island Police Chief Tracy Frazzano has received a vote of no-confidence from the police union. The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 95 represents 27 officers. They called their no-confidence vote a “last resort,” as 23 votes of no-confidence and one vote of confidence were tallied. They want her removed and are questioning her leadership.
I am live at the Marco Island Police Station
WINK News - October 22, 2024
EXPLAINER: Where there’s passion, there’s big money. Supporters and opponents have spent well over $100 million on Amendment 3. The bottom line is that if 60% of Florida voters vote “yes,” recreational marijuana will become legal in Florida.
I am a look live in the studio
WINK News - October 21, 2024
EXPLAINER: Tens of thousands of Floridians, and thousands more visitors that come to our state, enjoy fishing and hunting. We live in a state surrounded by water and wildlife and people have taken advantage of that. Amendment two would forever preserve the state’s constitutional right to hunt and fish, but this leaves some worried.
I am a look live in the studio
WINK News - October 21, 2024
EXPLAINER: Some school board meetings have become political, with raised voices and the need for security. Do you want to know if your elected school board member is Republican or Democrat? Or do you feel political parties shouldn’t be brought into school board elections? That’s what Amendment 1 is asking voters.
I am a look live in the studio
WINK News - October 15, 2024
A tornado from Hurricane Milton left a Glades County community in pieces. WINK News has confirmed that the tornado that hit the Twin Lakes Resort was the strongest tornado ever recorded in southwest Florida, according to the National Weather Service.
I am live at the damage site
WINK News - October 14, 2024
One of the biggest hurdles southwest Florida had to deal with after Hurricane Ian was FEMA. Many didn’t know how to apply, which forms needed to be filled out and how to get money. People are concerned about how FEMA is handling all of the damage from both Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. FEMA is working on that since many are impacted by both storms.
I am live in the Dean Park neighborhood
WINK News - October 11, 2024
Sanibel has been closed to the public for days because of Hurricane Milton. On Friday, WINK News visited the island for the first time since the hurricane. I saw the damage, which was not as bad as Hurricane Ian but worse than Hurricane Helene.
I am live in Sanibel
Take a look at my story and web article
WINK News - October 10, 2024
Hurricane Milton caused significant damage to a Cape Coral home.
On Wednesday, around 9 p.m., a single-family home burst into flames off of Chiquita Boulevard in northwest Cape Coral. Neighbors said a downed transformer likely caused the fire and because of the hurricane, firefighters were unable to respond.
I am a look live at the home
WINK News - October 8, 2024
The City of Cape Coral held another press conference Tuesday to give an update on Hurricane Milton. The city is urging people in zones A and B to evacuate now. They also asked residents to secure loose items around homes and structures and be smart and safe. Basically, do anything you can to prepare for the storm surge as the city says they are doing the same.
I am live at the Cape Coral City Hall
WINK News - October 7, 2024
Ronald Selway, owner of Weinmeister Roofing, took his trucks and bought as much sand as he could. He then took it all back to Cape Coral, a place he has called home his whole life. The City of Cape Coral is not providing sandbags for Hurricane Milton. They haven’t in 15 years.
I am live at the sandbag distribution center
WINK News - October 7, 2024
Cape Coral held a press conference Monday morning to discuss Hurricane Milton. Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter says storm surge is the biggest threat of Hurricane Milton to the city. His message to his neighbors Monday morning is to make a plan and execute it now.
I am live at Cape Coral City Hall
WINK News - October 3, 2024
A community left waterlogged over and over again is ready for it to end. The county says they don't have drainage issues.
I am live a flooding prone area
WINK News - October 2, 2024
BREAKING: Some areas of Port Charlotte were underwater after heavy rain Wednesday evening.
I am live at the flooding
WINK News - October 1, 2024
INVESTIGATION: On Tuesday, for the first time, Paul Beattie, owner of Beattie Development, who a lot of people say owes them a lot of money, is speaking out. Beattie’s on-oath appearance on Zoom follows the raid in August at his construction office in Cape Coral, months of WINK News Investigations, dozens of people coming forward who claim they paid for homes his company never finished and subcontractors saying they were never paid.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 30, 2024
With a few hours to spare, the Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH) and Florida Blue have reached an agreement after months of negotiations. This will impact 40,000 people.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 27, 2024
On Friday, roads in downtown Fort Myers were fairly dry. It’s a stark contrast to Thursday night’s storm surge caused by the outer bands of Hurricane Helene. Some residents in the Dean Park neighborhood were still making repairs from Hurricane Ian when they were hit again with flooding from Hurricane Helene. Some neighbors even had water enter their homes.
I am live at the Dean Park neighborhood
WINK News - September 25, 2024
Many people living on Fort Myers Beach are still in the process of rebuilding their lives and their homes. Tropical storm Debby wasn’t any help last month. The flood water made a mess, scattering sand all over Times Square. Now, many worry Hurricane Helene could wash away their progress.
I am live on Fort Myers Beach
WINK News - September 25, 2024
The Florida Urban Search and Rescue Task Force Six has been deployed ahead of Helene. 52 members will go to affected areas throughout the state.
Some stationed in Bonita Springs left Thursday afternoon. They will head to Orlando to meet teams from all across Florida who respond to disasters and emergencies.
I am live the Bonita Springs Fire Department
WINK News - September 24, 2024
The Foxmoor Lakes condos are in North Fort Myers. They were damaged in Hurricane Ian so a construction company came in. All residents moved out in November 2022 so that the repairs could be completed.
Owners say there’s been delay after delay with renovations, costing them lots of money. They blame the construction company.
I am live at Foxmoor Lakes condos
WINK News - September 20, 2024
BREAKING: Two women have been transported after being critically injured following an incident on Montgomery Avenue in Tice.
I am live at the crime scene
WINK News - September 19, 2024
EXCLUSIVE: I have has obtained new exclusive video and new documents from the State Attorney’s Office of the deadly Matlacha crash in April.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 19, 2024
INVESTIGATION: WINK News has now confirmed the state’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation is now investigating Beattie Development.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 18, 2024
INVESTIGATION: WINK News has obtained new documents from the City of Cape Coral confirming the possibility of criminal charges against Paul Beattie, the owner of Beattie Development before the office was raided in early August. It shows the company is in $11 million dollars in debt.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 18, 2024
We are hearing from a former Florida Senator who said Erick Canoura could’ve been stopped before he came to Lee County if his law, a state-wide animal abuse registry, was in effect.
I am live at the crime scene
WINK News - September 17, 2024
A newly updated Lee County Sheriff’s Office arrest report details a troubling past for a new animal abuse arrest of a Lee County resident. Erick De Jesus Canoura was arrested for animal abuse. Before living in Lee County, Canoura lived in Miami-Dade County. According to the LCSO report, in 2021, Canoura was arrested in Miami-Dade County after 31 dogs were found in deplorable condition in his possession.
I am live at the crime scene
WINK News - September 11, 2024
Every day a student in Lee County carries a very special letter around with him. He likes to show it to anyone he can. The return address is The White House.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 10, 2024
Cars crashing into plots of water like canals, retention ponds and even lakes and rivers are stories WINK News covers often. If you have lived in Florida long enough, you know these crashes are common. WINK News is now asking if there is something that could prevent these accidents. You’ll notice that around canals and water spaces in Southwest Florida, you don’t typically see guardrails.
I am a look live at the crash site
WINK News - September 9, 2024
An investigation is underway after a car crashed into an ATV with six people, including children, on it. All six were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. I break down the do's and don'ts of ATV's.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 6, 2024
After 20 years of getting kids to school safely, a beloved Collier County bus driver is retiring. Parents and students surprised him. Rick Ramsey received an outpouring amount of support from the community. He said he’ll miss everyone he interacted with.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 5, 2024
INVESTIGATION: Some people are so angry at the contractor they hired to build their dream home, they’re demanding changes in the law. Homeowners face a huge problem now: liens. Homeowners who paid their contractor, Beattie development, are being liened by subcontractors who claim Beattie never paid them. Florida law generally allows that.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 5, 2024
INVESTIGATION: Since we showed you Beattie Development‘s Cape Coral office being raided by police a month ago, the number of complaints to the Florida Attorney General has more than doubled, from 15 to 38. WINK News still get emails and are discovering new lawsuits concerning Beattie Development. WINK Investigations has uncovered problems Florida homeowners are facing because they did business with Beattie Development.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - September 2, 2024
EXCLUSIVE: According to Crime Stoppers, a man walked into Papa John’s at 3412 Cleveland Ave. at 8:45 p.m. on Sunday, brandishing a gun. No was was injured and employees say it could’ve been a lot worse. I exclusively got the security footage.
I am live at the Papa John's
WINK News - August 30, 2024
Friday was Jimmy Buffett Day at Margaritaville, and Fort Myers Beach is gearing up for a fun party all weekend long. There are specials, concerts, fun games and other activities happening all day throughout the weekend.
WINK News - August 30, 2024
A closer look at the gas leak that killed two men in Fort Myers Beach has revealed some new details leading up to the deaths. Joe Orlandini is the builder of the home. He said that Mike Dewitt, the owner of the home was one of his best friends of 20 years. They worked on many construction projects together and called Dewitt a hands-on guy when it came to those projects.
I am live at the home
WINK News - August 29, 2024
Wade Wilson, who was convicted of murdering two women in Cape Coral, was back in court for a plea hearing on drug charges. The hearing was supposed to be in September, but at the end of the hearing, State Attorney’s said moving it will facilitate Wilson going to death row more swiftly.
I am live at the courthouse
WINK News - August 28, 2024
A bad gas situation at a Fort Myers Beach home caused two deaths on Saturday. The details of this death have been pending, but the Lee County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there was no foul play involved.
LCSO said it was an accidental death and not a murder-suicide.
I am live at the home
WINK News - August 27, 2024
BREAKING: A judge has sentenced the man who killed two Cape Coral women to death. Wilson had been in court since Tuesday morning for a Spencer hearing, which the defense had hoped would sway the judge to give him a life sentence. Wilson showed little to no emotion as the judge sentenced him to death.
I am live at the courthouse
WINK News - August 26, 2024
A newly released report from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office has revealed that a deadly gas leak that took two lives in a Fort Myers Beach home was due to exhaust. The report states that two men died inside the home because of it.
I am live at the home
WINK News - August 23, 2024
After years of living without any problems, Fort Myers homeowners are being hit with a surprise bill that could be more than about $1,000 dollars.
A letter from the City of Fort Myers appeared in more than 100 people’s mail, telling them they have to update their water system to the current ordinance that was passed in 1995.
I am live outside the neighborhood
WINK News - August 22, 2024
BREAKING: The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred near Ava Maria. Deputies responded to the shooting incident at around 9 a.m. on Thursday, where they discovered one person was injured. Shots were fired in the quiet Ave Maria neighborhood and soon after, deputies say 26-year-old Hilberto Callejas from Hendry County, fled the scene.
I am live at the crime scene
WINK News - August 21, 2024
The Punta Gorda Waterfront Hotel has been sitting vacant for nearly two years but Wednesday, that changed. The structural demolition started and the hotel and restaurant were fully demolished. In the morning, the building stood, but by 5pm, it was all gone. Now lays piles of rubble with walls, pipes, even chairs and bed mattresses.
I am live at the demolition site
WINK News - August 20, 2024
BREAKING: Beattie Development now has a “F” rating on Better Business Bureau. On August 8th, the company had an A+. Then, on August 9th, the company had received a rating of C- and a suspension.
WINK News - August 20, 2024
The teachers union in Lee County has won $8.2 million arbitration against the Lee County School District. The arbitrator sustained the Teachers Association of Lee County’s (TALC) grievances in its entirety and ruled in favor of the union. TALC won $8.2 million but will only take home $5.5 million dollars. This is because the arbitrator found the district had already paid $2.6 million.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - August 20, 2024
BREAKING: The Supervisor of Elections Office said it was indeed taxpayer dollars and said all Supervisor of Elections payroll is pulled from taxes. The former employee, Doyle's affair, received 20 weeks’ severance pay. The catch is the office said there was no misappropriation of taxpayer dollars.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - August 19, 2024
An affair is bringing up questions. The former employee received 20 weeks’ severance pay. Lee County voters are wondering if the severance pay was their taxpayer dollars which is why I made phone calls and combed through documents Monday. I found that Lee County Commissioners pass a budget every year and that budget funds the Supervisor of Elections Office.
I am live at the Lee County Supervisor of Elections Office
WINK News - August 16, 2024
BREAKING: The Supervisor of Elections for Lee County, Tommy Doyle, is making a public and personal apology days before he is up for re-election.
Doyle sent WINK News a statement about allegations of an extramarital affair with a female employee in 2019 after it was reported by the Miami Independent.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - August 15, 2024
INVESTIGATION: I broke the story in May about a local county commissioner, who is required by our state constitution to live in the district he represents, moving away and remaining in office. When some Glades County residents found out about the Commissioner moving, they demanded he be replaced as the move didn’t abide by the constitution. That didn’t happen. So, who enforces commissioners living in their district?
I am live in the studio
WINK News - August 14, 2024
INVESTIGATION: The lawyers for Beattie Development have released a statement after a barrage of accusations saying that the company took money for construction projects and never finished the work. The statement confirmed that there is a government investigation against Paul Beattie and his company, Beattie Development Corporation. Former Beattie customers responded back with their own statement.
I am live at the Beattie Development Office
WINK News - August 13, 2024
INVESTIGATION: Former Beattie customers are upset that materials they bought for their homes with hard-earned money was on sale without their consent. I have been investigating Beattie Development for collecting money and never finishing the work. Former Beattie customers found out their materials were for sale through Facebook posts saying “Out of Business Sale” at a sale at a Beattie Development warehouse.
I am live at the warehouse
WINK News - August 12, 2024
INVESTIGATION: More people are coming forward and sharing their experiences with Beattie Development. I have been digging into the construction company for months, investigating allegations that owner Paul Beattie, was getting paid for work he never finished. I spoke with a former Beattie Development employee and four former Beattie Development customers.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - August 9, 2024
INVESTIGATION: A former project manager for Beattie Development is speaking out about working for the company accused of taking money from customers and not finishing promised work. I spoke exclusively with the former employee who started working there in 2021. The former employee, who wished to remain anonymous, said he was fired for insubordination, which he denies. WINK News verified his employment with his W-2.
I am live at one of the unfinished homes
WINK News - August 9, 2024
INVESTIGATION: As we have reported, some people have unfinished homes. Some just have a vacant lot. The owner of the vacant lot told me he paid $100,000 to Beattie Development, and they never broke ground. I also spoke to a realtor. Steven LaBoeuf, owner of Florida Gulf Home Realty, said he quickly regretted his recommendation to send three of his clients to work with Beattie Development. He said, “I decided I wasn’t going to recommend anybody again.”
I am live in one of the unfinished homes
WINK News - August 8, 2024
INVESTIGATION: Dozens have reached out to WINK News before and after the recent raid of the Beattie Development office in downtown Cape Coral. Homeowners say Beattie Development was building their homes. On Thursday, I got an inside look at several of the unfinished homes that homeowners accuse Beattie left.
I am live in one of the unfinished homes
WINK News - August 7, 2024
INVESTIGATION: Beattie Development has been the single most complained about company in our newsroom for the last several months, which is why WINK News has been investigating Paul Beattie for weeks. Beattie Devlopment's office was raided today. Several dozens of former Beattie customers have reached out to WINK News, sharing their stories.
I am live at the raid location
WINK News - August 6, 2024
The people dealing with flooding in Punta Gorda are telling us they want leaders to take their issues seriously. In unincorporated Charlotte County, as of Monday, 15 homes had water inside. Riverside Drive and Darst Park are areas WINK News saw were flooded. In Punta Gorda, two drivers were rescued as their cars got stuck in flood water.
I am live in Punta Gorda
WINK News - August 5, 2024
Punta Gorda is a city where water always finds a way into the streets. On Sunday and Monday, the city of Punta Gorda closed down several roads as the flooding worked its way into neighborhoods. Flooding is an issue many deal with in Punta Gorda, especially if you live right near the Peace River, where the water has nowhere else to go.
I am live at the prone flooding zone in Punta Gorda
WINK News - August 3, 2024
Tropical Storm Debby has entered the Gulf of Mexico and Southwest Florida residents are preparing for landfall. I went to the Sanibel Lighthouse on Saturday afternoon to monitor the situation. It was not raining at Sanibel at the time but it was windy.
I am live at the Sanibel Lighthouse Beach
WINK News - August 2, 2024
A building in downtown Fort Myers that some people believe is a piece of history but others believe is standing in the way of our future. A rumor has been going around that the Hall of 50 States has been sold. That is not true. After gaining access to public records, WINK News found out there are four proposals, but the bids are in the very beginning stages.
I live at the Hall of 50 States
WINK News - August 1, 2024
On Wednesday, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office announced a massive massage parlor bust involving 10 different massage parlors and 11 people.
On Thursday, CCSO added Xu Huiping, 55, to their list of arrests. There are now a total of 12 arrests, and WINK News exclusively caught the latest arrest on video.
I am live at the massage parlor
WINK News - July 30, 2024
A new person is in charge of the Lee County Port Authority, and he begins his term with many looming issues. Steven Hennigan was approved by Lee County Commissioners Tuesday morning to be the new executive director. The big question is whether his appointment will make a difference after several Port Authority projects are extremely delayed.
I am live at the RSW Airport
WINK News - July 29, 2024
DNA technology has helped to identify skeletal remains discovered more than 20 years ago in Charlotte County. On Jan. 6, 2002, the skeletal remains of an unidentified male were found in the bushes on the side of Zemel Road near the landfill in South Charlotte County.
I am a look-live at the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office
WINK News - July 25, 2024
Cape Coral is going after homeowners who are not following the rules. Not even 24 hours after the story aired on Monday, Cape Coral Code Compliance showed up at all three homes. Code compliance took down notes and made a decision after visiting the homes and seeing our story. All three homes now have notices of violations from a city of Cape Coral Compliance Officer. The city cited the Land Development Code, specifically, uses by zoning.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - July 25, 2024
A panel of five, with the hope of finding solutions for the county’s homeless population, met at Fort Myers High School. An audience of over 100 sat and listened as the panelists discussed the complex issue.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - July 24, 2024
BREAKING: A person has been arrested near the Walmart in Lehigh Acres after deputies responded en masse to investigate the theft of a stolen U-Haul pickup truck out of Fort Myers. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office arrested Carlos Rodriguez, 30, after a Wednesday morning call regarding a stolen U-Haul vehicle had been reported.
I am live at the Walmart in Lehigh Acres
WINK News - July 23, 2024
People living in Cape Coral are having problems with noise from residential rental properties. We told you on Monday about three rental properties that are giving neighbors a hard time. Tuesday morning, code compliance officers were at all of them. There’s no word if any violations were uncovered. More neighbors are coming forward with similar complaints.
I am in Cape Coral
WINK News - July 22, 2024
Neighbors are accusing people who rent out vacation homes in Cape Coral of breaking the rules. They say owners are allowing guests to stay for less than a week, which is against city rules. The biggest complaint from Southwest Cape neighbors is the noise. Neighbors told me that groups of up to 30 people come to Cape Coral and throw massive parties in quiet residential neighborhoods.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - July 19, 2024
Residents of Lee County are breathing a sigh of relief as FEMA has agreed to allow homeowners to maintain their flood insurance discount.
FEMA confirmed Friday that Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach, Estero, Bonita Springs and portions of unincorporated Lee County will maintain its flood insurance discount.
I am live at City Hall in Cape Coral
WINK News - July 19, 2024
It’s been almost two years since Hurricane Ian devastated our neighborhoods. Family Initiative, a non-profit, partnered with Lee County to better understand hurricane readiness for the families they serve.
Through a survey that 100 autism families took over the past three months, there were many takeaways post-Ian. Jessica Van Hart, the mother of Colby, said Family Initiative changed their lives for the better.
I am a look-live in the studio
WINK News - July 16, 2024
How hard is it to purchase an AR-15, the rifle that was used in the attempted assassination of former President Trump, and a gun called a weapon of mass destruction? In Florida, AR-15s have a similar process of purchase in comparison to other firearms. I visited the Naples Gun Shop to learn the step-by-step process of buying a gun.
WINK News - July 15, 2024
Church leaders are grappling with the idea of unity after the attempted assassination against former President Trump. With a country divided in political discourse and banter, pastors across the nation took it upon themselves to figure out how to heal this national divide; many said to pray for a less divided country.
I am live at a church
WINK News - July 14, 2024
Safety and security are on the minds of millions of Americans after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. With so many questions left unanswered, I went to our WINK News Security Specialist, Kristen Ziman, hoping to get some answers. Ziman cannot say for sure yet if this was a failure of the Secret Service. There’s not enough information; instead, she labeled it a “breach of security.”
I am live in Fort Myers
WINK News - July 13, 2024
On July 3, three juveniles aged 13, 14, and 17 were arrested by the Arcadia Police Department. This happened on W Effie Street in Arcadia. The three kids allegedly walked up to a residence and started shooting at a window.
The weapon was an Orbeez gun.
WINK News - July 12, 2024
Arcadia business owners want you to know they are open.
Ian destroyed the downtown area, but after, the business owners of downtown Arcadia rallied together to clean up. Now, they are back open.
WINK News - July 11, 2024
EXCLUSIVE: Over three weeks ago, we learned about a mysterious hazmat situation in Labelle. I got a look inside the hazmat team and got to try on one of their suits!
I am live in the studio
WINK News - July 10, 2024
In 2022, Cape PD started getting reports regarding Moon. They opened an investigation and went forward with charges from three victims. Since the arrest, they have heard from others. Since the arrest, WINK News has also gotten messages from several people claiming Moon took their money.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - July 9, 2024
New details are coming to light after multiple people allege tens of thousands of dollars were stolen right out of their hands. Several victims allege that Dylan Moon, who was arrested in Cape Coral, didn’t finish the job and didn’t give back their deposits.
I am live in Cape Coral
WINK News - July 8, 2024
A representative from Ford and Edison Winter Estates caught up with us on Monday afternoon. Lisa Wilson, the Marketing & Public Relations Director of Ford and Edison Winter Estates said they are excited for the city’s plans to upgrade the portion of the road right in front of their property.
I am live on McGregor Boulevard
WINK News - July 5, 2024
On Monday, July 8, Llewellyn Drive to Larchmont Avenue on McGregor Boulevard will close as part of a City of Fort Myers Public Works Department paving project. This is also the Portion of McGregor Boulevard fronting the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. It will soon be ripped up, repaired and given a new look.
I am live on McGregor Boulevard
WINK News - July 4, 2024
Hundreds jumped into the Charlotte Harbor for the county’s annual freedom swim to beat the heat. Brave souls swam the 1.5-mile stretch to celebrate America’s birthday. I got an up close and personal view thanks to the Punta Gorda Fire Department’s boat.
I am live at the water
WINK News - July 3, 2024
New documents show a second arrest was made during the investigation of the mysterious hazmat scene in LaBelle that made 20 first responders sick. The Hendry County Sheriff’s Office arrested 39-year-old Giovel Chmelnicky Valdes on Monday, June 24, in connection to several stolen vehicles and parts worth close to $1 million at the scene.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - July 3, 2024
Four children are back with their family just a day after a van slammed into their home on Braman Ave in Fort Myers. What used ot be a childrens bedroom, sits a pile of rubble. We are hearing from the family's attorney.
I am live at the house
WINK News - July 2, 2024
The Fort Myers Police Department responded to a crash involving a church van that rammed into the children’s bedroom of a home. Witnesses say the driver was speeding and severing off of the road, and then shortly after heard a “boom.” That’s when the van, belonging to the First Haitian Baptist Church of Fort Myers, hit the home. The church declined a comment.
I am live at the house
WINK News - July 1, 2024
The Fort Myers Police Department pulled a woman over on SR 82 for going 100 mph in a 50 mph zone. Fort Myers patrol officer Ryan Beiner caught the woman. She claimed she was late to work. Her actions landed her to get an $1,100 fine. Hours after giving out the hefty ticket, Officer Beiner took me on an exclusive ride along.
I am live on State Road 82
WINK News - June 28, 2024
Charlotte County deputies say Salim Qadir was running an illegal gambling ring at the Tiffany Square Bingo Hall in Englewood. I spoke with a Captain at the Sheriffs Office and two gambling experts who broke this case
I am live at the illegal gambling site
WINK News - June 27, 2024
EXCLUSIVE: Many of you will soon have to find a new Florida House Representative. State Representative Spencer Roach is retiring. Before the age of 50, Republicans rose through the ranks while the red wave took over the state of Florida. He sat down with me to talk about the takeaways, successes, future plans and much more.
I am live at the Reps. office
WINK News - June 26, 2024
More than 27,000 students are on their way to Southwest Florida’s largest school district. District leaders came to that number in their ten-year student growth forecast, which has helped them decide how they will use your money for improvements and building new schools.
I am live at the Lee Schools building
WINK News - June 25, 2024
Red tags are rearing their ugly head. Cape Coral homeowners who were slapped with tags and found non-compliant with city code permits are back to defend themselves. Some walked out of council chambers with smiles, others with a frown on Tuesday morning. Homeowners could face potentially large fines, and even their houses are on the line.
I am live at City Hall in Cape Coral
WINK News - June 24, 2024
The man arrested during a hazmat scene in Hendry County that made 20 first responders sick appeared in federal court in Fort Myers. He faced a federal judge on Monday afternoon but not for anything related to the hazmat situation in Hendry County. He has yet to be charged for that.
I am live in the newsroom
WINK News - June 21, 2024
A scene that made 21 people ill...the scene was unknown to the town of LaBelle but not to former FBI Agent Bret Hood. He would know as he has worked in similar situations with the FBI and had to make careful choices at a meth lab scene.
I am live near the hazmat scene
WINK News - June 20, 2024
The Hendry County Sheriff’s Office has begun its investigation after a mysterious substance made 20 people ill, and they have now made an arrest. Deputies responded to the scene early Wednesday night at the North Industrial Loop area on State Route 29 in Labelle. Eight of the 20 people who fell ill and went to the hospital have been released.
I am live near the hazmat scene
WINK News - June 19, 2024
We are learning what FEMA said went wrong with the Village of Estero and what the response was. WINK News went to the meeting Wednesday morning. FEMA said Estero had 62 properties that weren’t permitted correctly. So, officials spent their time going to each home to write down everything FEMA required in hopes of saving the village’s flood insurance discount.
I am live in Estero
WINK News - June 18, 2024
More money to help serve and protect. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office can now apply to get $2.5 million for new equipment. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office needed the commissioners to sign off on the application, and they did.
I am live at the Sheriffs Office
WINK News - June 18, 2024
Lee County leaders are cracking down on abandoned boats and those living on the water at Bimini Basin. During Tuesday’s Lee County commissioners meeting, an anchoring limitation area was approved for the Bimini Basin, now allowing Cape Coral city leaders to take action on the basin.
I am live at the Bimini Basin
WINK News - June 17, 2024
According to the CCPD, Albert Coronado, 36, was arrested at around 11:08 p.m. on Sunday, Father’s Day, after his 8-year-old called 911. CCPD arrived at the 1900 block of Southwest 32nd Street, where they discovered Coronado sleeping in his vehicle with his daughter crying in the back seat.
I am live in the studio
WINK News - June 14, 2024
Lee County released new data this week on how different areas in the county are bouncing back after Ian, based on the number of hotels that have reopened since the storm. In the entire county, 78.1% of hotels and rentals are open following Hurricane Ian, including Sanibel, Captiva and Fort Myers Beach, which have less than half of their hotels open at this time.
I am live on Fort Myers Beach
WINK News - June 12, 2024
The flooded roads of Lee County saw fire rescuers jump into action to save a man from his slowly sinking SUV. I was there and watched it all happen. The rain was dangerous and frightening, and Steven Yanniello is a prime example of how extreme weather can almost take your life. Steven lost control after hitting a big puddle on Plantation Road, right by Daniels Parkway.
I am live where it happened
WINK News - June 11, 2024
EXCLUSIVE: The Fort Myers Police Citizen Review Board held its final meeting, ahead of state laws changing on July 1. This comes after Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 601, which changed how police citizen’s review boards operate. The current board will never meet in council chambers again or in the same format, but that doesn’t mean the city is not committed to transparency.
WINK News - June 10, 2024
Thrive Academy, a school that puts extra care into educating and helping children, teens, and young adults with autism spectrum disorder, is significantly expanding services to the autism community in Cape Coral. I met with 12-year-old Jonathan and his mother Gabrielle who talked about how this school has changed their lives.
WINK News - June 7, 2024
I was in downtown Fort Myers Friday evening. Not many people were around, but surprisingly, there was not much traffic. It is possible people figured out their alternative routes to Edison bridge. That is a surprise because this week, during rush hour, there has been bumper-to-bumper traffic. The traffic is ultimately the reason why June’s Art Walk was canceled. Some business owners aren't happy about it.
I am live in downtown Fort Myers
WINK News - June 6, 2024
A storm of controversy surrounds the former Lee County School Superintendent after a letter claiming racial bias and defamation surfaced on social media. I was able to verify the letter. Dr. Christopher Bernier said he left Lee County when his position changed from an appointed role to an elected one. Now, he’s the superintendent of Duval County, but some are questioning why he left.