Escaped convicts, downtown Jacksonville, and The Satanic Temple are in the headlines today.Welcome to WJCT First Read, your daily weekday morning round-up of stories from the First Coast, around Florida, and across the country. We'll also preview some of WJCT's upcoming news programming.
Six charged with conspiracy in fugitive fraud case: Six men, all current or former state inmates, were charged with conspiracy in the escape of two convicted murderers from Franklin County earlier this year using forged court documents. (WJCT)
Jax DIA to invest in downtown: The Jacksonville Downtown Business Authority has approved a plan toinvest $750,000 to assist small businesses with rent and renovations downtown. (News4Jax)
Jax City Council wary of bridge widening plan: City officials are hoping to get more specifics regarding the state's plan to widen the Fuller Warren Bridge. (Action News Jax)
Florida attracts more venture capital: Venture capital investors increased their investment in Florida by 45 percent in the last fiscal year. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Rep. Radel to stay in office following cocaine arrest: A month after pleading guilty to cocaine-possession, Republican Rep. Trey Radel of Florida refused to resign yesterday. (Washington Post)
Florida leads in accidental firearm injuries: Four in 10 non-fatal gunshot wounds coming into state hospitals are due to accidents. (Orlando Sentinel)
Capitol rejects application for Satanic holiday display: Florida officials are denying a request from The Satanic Temple to place a display on the first floor rotunda of the Florida State Capitol. (AP via WJCT)
Today on First Coast Connect, special guest host Fred Matthews leads our weekly media roundtable.
First Read will be taking a break for the holidays next week. We'll be back Dec. 26.
You can get all the latest headlines online at WJCTNews.org, on our Facebook page, and on Twitter @WJCTJax. You can follow Patrick Donges on Twitter at @patrickhdonges.
