Nearby · Crime · Miramar, FL
Shannon Ryan, 44, a self-described witch doctor convicted in September of second-degree murder in Broward County, was sentenced Friday to life in prison by Circuit Judge Michael Usan. The victim, Leila Cavett, 21, a Georgia resident, disappeared in 2020 after being dropped off with her young son outside a Miramar neighborhood; the child was found wandering alone and her body has never been located. Prosecutors presented evidence that Ryan researched chloroform, alcohol, and bleach and purchased duct tape and cleaning supplies around the time Cavett vanished. Ryan maintained his innocence at trial but made no statement at sentencing.
Nearby · Local Politics · Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fort Lauderdale city commissioners voted unanimously on Tuesday night to decertify the Himmarshee Village Special Entertainment District, ending its special privileges such as extended bar hours and higher noise limits. The decision follows complaints from community leaders about violence, underage drinking, and public disorder in the downtown area. A final commission vote is scheduled for November 17, after which bars will face stricter closing times of 2 a.m. on weekdays and 3 a.m. on weekends unless they obtain waivers. Police have already increased enforcement presence along Southwest Second Street to address safety concerns.
Nearby · Crime · Fort Lauderdale, FL
A Fort Lauderdale resident and telemedicine company owner was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for his role in a $46.2 million Medicare fraud scheme. Christopher Harwood, 44, pleaded guilty in March to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud and wire fraud related to his Broward County-based company TelevisitMD, which targeted Medicare beneficiaries with unnecessary durable medical equipment and genetic tests. The Department of Justice announced the sentencing on Wednesday. Harwood was ordered to pay nearly $18 million in restitution and will serve three years of supervised release following his prison term.
