SUMMARY: CNN is facing a defamation trial in Florida involving Navy veteran Zachary Young, who claims the network harmed his business by depicting him in a story about smuggling Afghans. Young asserts that the use of the term “black market” suggested criminality, negatively impacting his reputation. CNN acknowledged an error but maintains it reported fairly. This trial comes amid a challenging climate for legacy media and may set a precedent for press accountability. Legal experts warn that the case could expose damaging internal communications and highlight the media’s declining public support, complicating CNN’s defense.

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The post CNN defamation trial comes at a rough time for legacy media — and for the struggling network appeared first on www.news4jax.com

SUMMARY: An administrative law judge ruled that state regulators acted correctly in denying Green Thumb Industries’ (GTI) request to open medical-marijuana dispensaries adjacent to Circle K stores in Florida. Office of Medical Marijuana Use Director Christopher Kimball rejected the proposals due to concerns about safety, security, and compliance with state law, asserting proximity to convenience stores posed risks such as increased crime and accessibility for minors. GTI argued that there are no restrictions in Florida law against such locations, highlighting previous approvals for similar dispensaries. An additional case regarding a separate Ocala location is also pending review.

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The post Gas up and get medical pot? Florida officials, judge nix plans appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: Hillsborough County has appointed a new state attorney, Suzy Lopez, who was sworn in on Tuesday after winning a contentious election against former State Attorney Andrew Warren. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who supported Lopez, remarked that she would “right the ship” after Warren’s controversial removal in 2022 for his stance on prosecuting specific cases. Lopez won the election with 52% of the vote. DeSantis emphasized the importance of upholding the law without political bias. Lopez expressed her commitment to public safety, vowing to serve Hillsborough County diligently alongside prominent figures like former prosecutor Pam Bondi and Attorney General Ashley Moody.

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The post Lopez sworn in as Hillsborough County’s top prosecutor | Florida appeared first on www.thecentersquare.com