Senator Moody introduces bill to protect anonymity in crime stoppers rewards

Senator Ashley Moody rolled out new federal legislation today aimed at helping citizens report crimes while staying anonymous—even when collecting rewards for tips that lead to arrests.

During a Crime Prevention Month event in Tampa, Moody gathered with law enforcement officials from across the Tampa Bay region, including Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office deputies. She highlighted her push to empower ordinary people to assist police, building on what the FBI recently reported as a historic drop in violent crime nationwide.

"It's vital that citizens are empowered to help fight crime," Moody said, referencing her work creating Florida's **TIPS statewide tip hotline when she served as Attorney General. Her new bill, she said, would let people collect reward money for helping officers make arrests without having to give up their anonymity.

The legislation has backing from major law enforcement groups including the Florida Association of Crime Stoppers, Florida Sheriffs Association, the Southeastern Crime Stoppers Association, and the National Fraternal Order of Police. According to Crime Stoppers officials, the bill addresses a federal reporting requirement that can complicate anonymous cash reward payments—a challenge that's emerged over 50 years of operating tip programs across multiple states.

Santa Rosa Health Dept. Offers Walk-In Tetanus Shots Thursday

The Florida Department of Health in Santa Rosa County is hosting a walk-in tetanus vaccination clinic Thursday, October 15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at their Milton office, 5527 Stewart St. No appointment is needed.

The clinic comes as the region continues recovery efforts following recent hurricane activity. Tetanus, caused by bacteria found in soil and the environment, can enter the body through wounds — particularly cuts from contaminated debris. The infection classically affects the jaw and neck muscles, leading to the common name "lockjaw." Hurricane cleanup work significantly increases exposure risk through minor cuts and puncture wounds that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Residents of Santa Rosa County who need a tetanus booster or primary vaccination are encouraged to attend. Those with questions about the tetanus vaccine can contact the health department at 850-851-8929 or visit the CDC's vaccine information page for more details.

Milton distributes 1,000 free meals tonight at Jernigan's Landing

The City of Milton is hosting a community meal distribution event tonight to assist residents affected by Hurricane Isaias. The Jack Brewer Foundation will provide 1,000 prepared meals on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 6 p.m. at Jernigan's Landing.

Each vehicle is limited to four meals, and distribution will continue while supplies last. The city has outlined a specific traffic route to manage the flow of vehicles: drivers should enter via Canal Street, continue to Pine Street, and proceed to Willing Street to access the pickup location. Personnel will be on hand to direct traffic and assist with the distribution.

For more information, residents can contact the City of Milton at (850) 983-5400.