Florida
Parkland school shooter to get life sentence for killing 17
Published
4 years agoon
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — A jury spared Florida school shooter Nikolas Cruz from the death penalty Thursday for killing 17 people at a Parkland high school in 2018, sending him to prison for the remainder of his life in a decision that left many families of the victims angered, baffled and in tears.
“This is insane. Everyone knows right? This is insane,” Chen Wang, cousin of shooting victim Peter Wang, said at a news conference after the jury’s decision was announced. “We need justice.”
The jury’s decision came after seven hours of deliberations over two days, ending a three-month trial that included graphic videos and photos from the massacre and its aftermath, heart-wrenching testimony from victims’ family members and a tour of the still blood-spattered building.
“We are beyond disappointed with the outcome today,” Lori Alhadeff, whose daughter, Alyssa, was killed, said at the news conference.
“This should have been the death penalty, 100%. Seventeen people were brutally murdered on Feb. 14, 2018. I sent my daughter to school and she was shot eight times. I am so beyond disappointed and frustrated with this outcome. I cannot understand. I just don’t understand,” she said.
Under Florida law, a death sentence requires a unanimous vote on at least one count. The jury found there were aggravating factors to warrant the death penalty for each victim, however, they also found mitigating factors. In the end, the jury could not agree that the aggravating factors outweighed the mitigating ones, so Cruz will get life without parole.
Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer will formally issue the life sentences Nov. 1. Relatives, along with the students and teachers Cruz wounded, will be given the opportunity to speak.
Cruz, his hair unkempt, largely sat hunched over and stared at the table as the jury’s decisions were read. Rumblings grew from the family section — packed with about three dozen parents, spouses and other relatives of the victims — as it became apparent the jury was not going to recommend the death penalty. Many shook their heads, looked angry or covered their eyes as the judge spent 50 minutes reading the jury’s decision for each victim. Some parents sobbed as they left court.
Jury foreman Benjamin Thomas, in an interview broadcast on local TV station WPLG, indicated that more than one juror voted for life in prison instead of the death penalty.
“We went through all the evidence and some of the jurors just felt that was the appropriate sentence,” Thomas said. “I didn’t vote that way, so I’m not happy with how it worked out, but everyone has the right to decide for themselves.”
He said the jurors reached their decision Wednesday, then went home to sleep on it before bringing it to the judge on Thursday.
He said he feels bad for the families of victims and that “it hurt” to watch the decisions being read in court. “There’s nothing we could do. It’s the way the law is. And that’s how we voted,” he said.
“This has been really hard on my heart … I’d rather not see anything like this ever again.”
Tony Montalto, father of Gina Montalto, said: “How can the mitigating factors make this shooter, who they recognized committed this terrible act — acts, plural — shooting, some victims more than once on a pass, pressing the barrel of his weapon to my daughter’s chest — that doesn’t outweigh that poor little what’s-his-name had a tough upbringing?”
“Our justice system should have been used to punish this shooter to the fullest extent of the law,” he said.
Montalto, president of Stand With Parkland, the group that represents most of the families and other relatives, also said the decision would do nothing to deter another person from gunning down multiple people in a school.
Michael Schulman, the stepfather of teacher Scott Beigel, said the decision gives anyone a license to kill, then claim mental illness as a defense. “This animal deserves to die. He hunted all of these people,” Schulman said. “He planned it for months.”
As he spoke to the media, Schulman held up a laptop with an image of Cruz in the school hallway with a gun. “The last thing my son saw was the gunman aiming at him,” he said.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said it “stings” that Cruz will not receive the death penalty.
In a case like this, “where you’re massacring those students with premeditation in utter disregard for basic humanity … I just don’t think anything else is appropriate except a capital sentence,” DeSantis said.
Multiple family members called Cruz a “monster” and talked about the years they waited for justice. They thanked prosecutors for their work, but in the end, they said, they got another blow.
Just days after the shooting, Cruz’s defense had offered that he plead guilty in exchange for a life sentence. But then-Broward State Attorney Mike Satz rejected that.
Broward State Attorney Harold Pryor released a statement Thursday saying: “We have not shied away from telling all of the horror, all of the loss, all of the devastation, all of the pain, all of the facts, all of the truth. We hope that, while there is no such thing as closure, this will bring some measure of finality and justice to this terrible chapter.”
Cruz, 24, pleaded guilty a year ago to murdering 14 students and three staff members and wounding 17 others on Feb. 14, 2018. Cruz said he chose Valentine’s Day to make it impossible for Stoneman Douglas students to celebrate the holiday ever again.
The massacre is the deadliest mass shooting that has ever gone to trial in the U.S. Nine other people in the U.S. who fatally shot at least 17 people died during or immediately after their attacks by suicide or police gunfire. The suspect in the 2019 massacre of 23 at an El Paso, Texas, Walmart is awaiting trial.
Lead prosecutor Mike Satz kept his case simple for the seven-man, five-woman jury. He focused on Cruz’s eight months of planning, the seven minutes he stalked the halls of a three-story classroom building, firing 140 shots with an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle, and his escape.
He played security videos of the shooting and showed gruesome crime scene and autopsy photos. Teachers and students testified about watching others die. He took the jury to the fenced-off building, which remains blood-stained and bullet-pocked.
Cruz’s lead attorney Melisa McNeill and her team never questioned the horror he inflicted, but focused on their belief that his birth mother’s heavy drinking during pregnancy left him with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Their experts said his bizarre, troubling and sometimes violent behavior starting at age 2 was misdiagnosed as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, meaning he never got the proper treatment. That left his widowed adoptive mother overwhelmed, they said.
The defense cut its case short, calling only about 25 of the 80 witnesses they said would testify. They never brought up Cruz’s high school years or called his younger half-brother, Zachary, whom they accused of bullying.
In rebuttal, Satz and his team contended that Cruz did not suffer from fetal alcohol damage but has antisocial personality disorder.
Their witnesses said Cruz faked brain damage during testing and that he was capable of controlling his actions, but chose not to. For example, they pointed to his employment as a cashier at a discount store where he never had any disciplinary issues.
Prosecutors also played numerous video recordings of Cruz discussing the crime with their mental health experts where he talked about his planning and motivation.
The defense alleged on cross-examination that Cruz was sexually molested and raped by a 12-year-old neighbor when he was 9.
Florida
Democrats Jorge Figueroa and Anthony Nieves Compete for Florida House District 47 Nomination
Published
5 days agoon
July 18, 2026
KISSIMMEE, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida House District 47 voters will choose between two Puerto Rican Democrats in the Aug. 18 primary, setting the stage for one of Central Florida’s most closely watched legislative races.
Democratic candidates Jorge Figueroa and Anthony Nieves are presenting voters with two distinct campaigns centered on affordability, economic opportunity and improving the quality of life for residents across Osceola County.
The Democratic nominee will advance to the November general election, where the race could become even more competitive amid ongoing litigation involving Republican incumbent Rep. Paula Stark’s ballot qualification. While the court challenge has drawn statewide attention, Democratic candidates have focused their campaigns on earning the support of primary voters.
A growing Puerto Rican electorate
House District 47 serves communities in Osceola County, and parts of Orange County, one of Florida’s fastest-growing regions and home to one of the largest Puerto Rican populations in the continental United States.
The district has become increasingly influential in Florida politics as Puerto Rican voters continue shaping elections at the local, state and federal levels. Both Democratic candidates say they understand the unique needs of families who relocated from Puerto Rico and those who have called Central Florida home for generations.
Jorge Figueroa emphasizes economic opportunity
Jorge Figueroa is campaigning on expanding economic opportunity while improving government accountability and public services.
His campaign has highlighted priorities including:
- Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Expanding workforce development.
- Promoting economic growth.
- Improving public safety.
- Increasing transparency in state government.
- Investing in neighborhood infrastructure.
Figueroa says state government should focus on creating opportunities that allow working families to succeed while ensuring taxpayers receive effective public services.
Anthony Nieves focuses on working families
Anthony Nieves brings previous campaign experience to the race after earlier bids for the Florida House.
His platform emphasizes policies affecting everyday families, including:
- Affordable housing.
- Public education.
- Access to healthcare.
- Economic mobility.
- Community investment.
- Increased constituent services.
Nieves has said the Legislature should prioritize lowering costs for families while strengthening public schools and expanding opportunities throughout Central Florida.
Shared priorities
Although each candidate brings a different background and campaign style, both have identified several common priorities:
- Addressing Florida’s housing affordability crisis.
- Strengthening public education.
- Supporting working families.
- Improving economic opportunity.
- Increasing access to healthcare.
- Delivering responsive constituent services.
The candidates also have emphasized the importance of listening to residents throughout the district and maintaining an active presence in the community if elected.
Puerto Rican representation
Regardless of the primary outcome, the Democratic nominee will reflect the growing political influence of Puerto Rican voters in Central Florida.
Puerto Rican residents have become an increasingly important voting bloc in Osceola and Orange Counties over the past decade, with many families citing education, affordable housing, healthcare, hurricane preparedness and economic opportunity among their top concerns.
Political observers say candidates who effectively connect with these issues often perform well in the district.
Why District 47 matters
House District 47 is considered an important legislative district because of its changing demographics, competitive elections and growing influence within Central Florida.
The representative elected from the district will vote on issues including:
- Florida’s annual state budget.
- Public education funding.
- Property insurance reforms.
- Housing affordability.
- Transportation infrastructure.
- Economic development.
- Healthcare policy.
- Disaster preparedness and recovery.
Looking Ahead
Democratic voters will choose their nominee in the Aug. 18 primary. Because Florida House District 47 is highly competitive. However, if a court rules that incumbent Republican Paula Stark is eligible to appear on the ballot, the general election is expected to remain one of Florida’s most closely watched legislative contests.
Meanwhile, litigation over Republican incumbent Paula Stark’s ballot qualification continues. While the courts determine the outcome, the Democratic candidates remain focused on presenting their vision for House District 47 and earning voters’ support in the Aug. 18 primary.
Florida
Vilchez Santiago Wins Union Backing; Daisy Morales Says Voters — Not Political Endorsements — Decide Elections
Published
2 weeks agoon
July 10, 2026
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 intensified this week after candidate Samuel Vilchez Santiago announced endorsements from a coalition of labor organizations, prompting former State Rep. Daisy Morales to respond that while endorsements are important, elections are ultimately decided by voters.
Vilchez Santiago announced support from 12 labor organizations, including the Florida AFL-CIO, Central Florida AFL-CIO, SEIU Florida, the Florida Education Association, the Orange County Fire Fighters Association, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625, the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association, the United Auto Workers, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 606, the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 517, SMART Transportation Division PAC, and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1596.
“I am incredibly honored to earn the support of these outstanding labor organizations,” Vilchez Santiago said.
He said the endorsements were especially meaningful because he grew up in a union household.
“These endorsements are deeply personal to me. As someone who grew up in a union household, I understand firsthand that unions create pathways into the middle class and give working families the opportunity to build a better future.”
Vilchez Santiago said he would continue advocating for workers’ rights and policies that strengthen Florida’s middle class if elected.
Morales Congratulates Opponent, Recognizes Union Members
In response, Morales congratulated Vilchez Santiago on receiving the endorsements while recognizing the contributions of organized labor across Florida.
“I congratulate Mr. Vilchez Santiago on earning the support of these organizations and appreciate every group that participates in our democratic process,” Morales said.
Morales praised union members working as teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, healthcare professionals, skilled trades workers, transportation employees and others who contribute to Florida’s economy.
“Every worker deserves respect, opportunity, safe workplaces, fair wages, and the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.”
Morales Points to 2020 Democratic Primary
Morales said endorsements are valued but do not determine election outcomes.
She cited the 2020 Democratic Primary for Florida House District 48, when Vilchez Santiago received endorsements from elected officials, political organizations and advocacy groups before Morales defeated him and three other Democratic candidates to win the Democratic nomination.
Following that election, Florida Politics wrote that endorsements “didn’t matter” after Morales emerged victorious.
“That election demonstrated a principle that remains true today,” Morales said. “Political endorsements are valued expressions of support, but they never replace the judgment of the voters. The people—not political insiders or special interests—have the final say on Election Day.”
Morales later won the general election and represented House District 48 from 2020 to 2022.
Contrasting Campaign Messages
The exchange highlights the different messages each campaign is emphasizing as the Aug. 18 Democratic primary approaches.
Vilchez Santiago has focused on labor support, workers’ rights, affordability, housing, healthcare and reducing the influence of special interests.
Morales has centered her campaign on her legislative experience, bipartisan record and accomplishments during her term in the Florida House.
Morales said her official legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring more than 110 bills during the 2021 and 2022 legislative sessions and helping secure more than $12.5 million in state appropriations supporting higher education, healthcare, workforce development, nonprofit organizations, infrastructure improvements and community projects.
Among the legislative priorities Morales highlighted were educational opportunities for disabled veterans, property tax relief, consumer protection, public safety, workforce development, healthcare initiatives, infrastructure investments and services benefiting veterans, seniors and individuals with disabilities.
“Working families deserve representatives who deliver results—not just campaign promises,” Morales said.
Leadership and Experience
Morales said voters should evaluate candidates based on their accomplishments in public office.
“There is a clear difference in this race. My opponent is asking voters to consider who has endorsed his campaign. I am asking voters to examine my record of public service, legislative accomplishments, and proven results. Experience matters because results matter.”
She encouraged voters to review her official legislative record on the Florida House of Representatives website, which includes sponsored and co-sponsored legislation, committee assignments, voting history and appropriations.
Primary Election Approaches
The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, with early voting scheduled for Aug. 3–16. The winner will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.
House District 43 includes portions of east Orange County, including Azalea Park, Union Park, Alafaya, Orlando, Rio Pinar and surrounding communities.
Both campaigns are expected to continue emphasizing their respective strengths as voters begin casting ballots in one of Central Florida’s most closely watched Democratic legislative primaries.
Florida
Alex Vindman Campaign Highlights New Endorsements, Fundraising in Florida U.S. Senate Race
Published
2 weeks agoon
July 10, 2026
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alex Vindman is highlighting growing campaign momentum following a series of endorsements, strong second-quarter fundraising and recent polling showing a competitive race against Republican Ashley Moody.
Campaign Raises $8.5 Million in Second Quarter
Vindman’s campaign announced it raised $8.5 million during the second quarter of 2026 from more than 114,000 unique donors.
According to the campaign, the average contribution was $35, which it says reflects broad grassroots support as the Senate race intensifies.
Veterans Caucus Endorses Vindman
The Democratic Veterans Caucus of Florida endorsed Vindman on July 10, citing his military service and leadership.
“Lt. Col. (Ret.) Alex Vindman has committed his life to serving our nation and protecting our freedoms,” said Democratic Veterans Caucus President Danny Fuqua. “During his 21-year Army career, he served presidents of both parties, and we know he will focus on representing Floridians, not special interests.”
Vindman thanked the organization and pledged to focus on lowering costs for Floridians, combating corruption in Washington and supporting veterans.
Debra Tendrich Announces Endorsement
On July 8, Lake Worth Beach Commissioner Debra Tendrich endorsed Vindman, describing him as an independent-minded leader who would prioritize Florida families.
“Floridians deserve leaders like Alex who will stand up for our interests,” Tendrich said.
Vindman contrasted his campaign with Republican opponent Ashley Moody, saying he would focus on reducing housing, insurance and utility costs while refusing contributions from corporate special interests.
State Sen. Tina Polsky Backs Campaign
State Sen. Tina Polsky became the latest Democratic lawmaker to endorse Vindman on July 6.
Polsky praised Vindman’s willingness to challenge corruption and said he would fight for affordable health care and lower costs for Floridians.
Vindman reiterated his campaign’s message that he will not accept contributions from corporate political action committees and will focus on addressing rising living expenses.
Competitive Senate Race
The campaign said multiple recent polls show Vindman running in a competitive contest against Republican Ashley Moody, setting the stage for one of Florida’s most closely watched races in the 2026 election cycle.
The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.
