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Pasco deputies trade fire with suspect in fatal shooting

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NEW PORT RICHEY – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating a fatal shooting on March 9 that led to the suspect exchanging gunfire with Pasco Sheriff’s Office deputies.

Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco said a man and woman were clearing land around noon at the intersection of Davista Avenue and Sawtell Street when they were confronted by 32-year-old Aaron Rodriguez. The male victim called 911, telling dispatch they were being harassed by Rodriguez.

“While he’s on the phone with 911, the male victim is shot,” Nocco said. “He collapses at the intersection.”

Nocco said Rodriguez also shot the woman. She ran down the street to get away from him. 

Nocco described this as a horrific scene, not only for the victims but also for the dispatchers who heard everything unfold during the call. 

Deputies arrived at the scene and began rendering aid to the victims. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Three deputies, including one with a canine partner, approached the suspect who was in a nearby garage.

“The suspect has a gun,” Nocco said. “They start ordering the suspect to drop the gun. He does not drop the gun. Shots start being fired.”

The canine handler was shot. The other two deputies continued moving toward the suspect. The suspect was hit in the exchange.

Nocco was proud of how the deputies handled themselves during the tense scene. 

“We tell people if you put your hand on something hot, like a boiling pot, your hand is going to burn,” Nocco said. “If you play with glass, it’s going to cut. If you point a gun at a Pasco deputy, you’re going to get shot. And that’s what happened today. There’s no apologies. There’s no sympathy. He got shot. I feel horrible for the victims.”

The deputy, woman and suspect were all taken to the hospital. The deputy did not have life-threatening injuries. His canine partner was also OK. Nocco said he wasn’t aware of the status of Rodriguez or the woman when he spoke to reporters about the incident. 

The FDLE investigation is standard protocol with deputy-involved shootings. The deputies who fired the shots have been placed on paid administrative leave, in keeping with policy. 

The sheriff’s office described the shooting as an isolated incident, assuring the public there was no safety threat. 

“It’s an absolute horrible incident that occurred,” Nocco said. “It all happened because the suspect did not, one, just be a normal person and allow people to go about their business and clean a lot – their own lot. Second, when you get orders to drop a gun from a Pasco deputy, you drop that gun. It’s that simple.”

Bresin: Nuts offer many health benefits

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If you look at the food label (and hopefully you do), you’ll see that nuts are high in calories. 

For example, there are 170 calories in a one-ounce serving of mixed nuts, or 180 calories in a quarter cup of walnuts, while three small chocolate chip cookies come in at 160 calories. 

We tend to think that if something is high in calories, we should refrain from eating it if we are trying to lose weight. 

And while that is true, it’s also important to factor in the quality of calories, not just the quantity. 

Although nuts are high in calories (and excess calories can lead to weight gain), they have a lot of nutritional value and health benefits, making them a nutrient-dense food. Some of their health benefits include:

  • Fiber.
  • Monounsaturated fat, which lowers LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol levels, while maintaining the HDL, or “good” cholesterol.
  • Protein.
  • Vitamins E and B6, folic acid, magnesium, zinc, potassium and more.
  • Phytochemicals that play a role in preventing heart disease.

Just a handful (about one ounce) five times a week is all it takes to pack a nutritional punch.

Did you know the peanut is not a nut? While we group peanuts in the nut category in the food and culinary world, botanically speaking, because they grow underground, they are a legume, which are edible seeds enclosed in pods. 

Therefore, they are in the same family as peas, beans and lentils, according to the International Food Information Council. 

Whereas nuts like cashews, almonds and walnuts grow on trees. 

This is why peanuts and peanut butter are cheaper than other nuts and nut butters. They cost less to cultivate and harvest.

Tree nuts take several years to harvest versus planting peanuts in the ground each year. 

Because peanuts and tree nuts have different proteins, people with an allergy to one aren’t necessarily allergic to the other. 

That’s why you’ll see on a food label’s allergy warning “contains peanuts and tree nuts,” since they are technically two different food types.

It’s best to avoid salted or honey roasted nuts, but if you don’t want them plain, go with lightly salted; the sodium difference is usually around 50% less per serving. 

We should not be consuming more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day, and even less, at 1,500 mg per day, for those with hypertension. 

Another thing to note: plant-based milks, such as almond milk, don’t have the same nutrient levels as the actual whole nut. 

And for those prone to certain types of kidney stones, nuts and peanuts should be limited, so make sure to talk with your doctor or dietitian about your diet.

In addition to snacking on a handful of nuts, incorporate them in your meals too, such as adding cashews to a salad, adding walnuts to your bowl of oatmeal, topping peanuts onto stir fries or throwing in some nuts into the blender when making a smoothie. 

There are lots of ways to enjoy them.

 

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County, An Equal Opportunity Institution.

 

SMARTstart to host GROW Pasco for entrepreneurs 

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Johnny Crowder, CEO of Cope Notes, gives the keynote during last year’s GROW Pasco. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

 

Deb Mazzaferro talks about elevating one’s sales game during a breakout session during last year’s GROW Pasco. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

LUTZ – The Pasco Economic Development Council is hosting the sixth annual GROW Pasco event through its SMARTstart program on March 19 at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center in San Antonio. 

This conference-style event, presented by Suncoast Credit Union, brings together the Pasco County business community to network and learn ways to help their businesses grow and thrive. 

The event offers 15 breakout sessions led by more than 30 business professionals. Speakers will cover topics such as artificial intelligence, funding options, marketing and community resources for businesses. 

“GROW Pasco is a must-attend event for all entrepreneurs,” said Beth Galic, of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association and a 2025 GROW Pasco attendee. “The wealth of information gained from the event is invaluable to business owners.”

The Pasco EDC SMARTstart entrepreneurship program, supported by Penny for Pasco, offers resources to help growing businesses achieve long-term success. The program delivers support in key areas, including access to funding, education, guidance, collaboration and workspace. 

SMARTstart serves 54 incubator members, representing a diverse range of industries, from food-based businesses operating out of the East Pasco Incubator Kitchen in Dade City to high-tech companies headquartered at SMARTstart at the Grove in Wesley Chapel. Members also have access to three Entrepreneur Centers throughout Pasco County.

“Through programs like SMARTstart and events like GROW Pasco, we’re investing directly in the people that are innovators and who help drive our economy,” said Jack Mariano, chair of the Pasco County Board of Commissioners. “Every new idea and business launched contributes to a stronger, more resilient Pasco County.” 

Taylor Doe, a former TEDx speaker and entrepreneur, is invested in community development, youth mentorship and fostering economic mobility for others. His presentation will explore the overlooked moments behind entrepreneurial success, showing how founders start, grow and scale while leveraging relationships, resources and experiences to create opportunity and build a stronger ecosystem. 

“What makes GROW Pasco truly special is the incredible cross-section of entrepreneurial journeys in one place, from those just starting out, to successful operators returning year after year, and everyone in between,” said Dan Mitchell, assistant vice president of entrepreneurship. “They inspire, lift each other up and make powerful connections, much like the ‘And Then Moments’ Taylor Doe will explore in his keynote, where one introduction or opportunity can change everything.” 

 

Want to go?

Visit pascoedc.com/events/details/grow-pasco to learn more about the GROW Pasco sessions and to register. The cost is $65 and includes breakfast, a keynote lunch presentation and access to various breakout sessions. Sponsorships are available and offer access to exhibit at the event.

Health & Wellness (02/11/26): Hospital wins big award

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St. Joseph’s Hospital-North wins award

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North was one of eight hospitals nationally to receive a 2025 Press Ganey Human Experience Award titled “Pinnacle of Excellence – Physician Experience Award.” 

Press Ganey surveys patients from more than 41,000 healthcare facilities asking about safety, quality and overall care experience.

The award is part of Press Ganey’s annual ranking of the top hospitals and health systems in the United States. The Pinnacle of Excellence award, won by St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, honors locations that rank in the top 5% nationally for three consecutive years in delivering exceptional experiences. 

“We are deeply committed to supporting our physicians and ensuring that our community receives the highest standard of care,” said Sara Dodds, president at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North. “This recognition inspires us to continue striving for excellence and compassion in everything we do.”

 

BayCare appoints a new VP

CLEARWATER – BayCare has named Deirdre Franzese the vice president of system financial shared services.

Franzese will lead net revenue management, financial reporting and finance-related technology platforms, while overseeing core shared services functions such as accounts payable and payroll.

“Deirdre brings strong leadership in fast-growing, complex environments,” Chief Financial Officer Janice Polo said. “Her skills will take our shared services team to the next level,” 

Franzese has served as director of finance for BayCare Medical Group since 2017.

She led financial operations for the $750 million multispecialty physician enterprise. She also spearheaded automation initiatives across provider compensation, budgeting and reporting, achieving a 20% reduction in manual processes and $80,000 in annual cost avoidance. 

“By strengthening shared financial services across net revenue, reporting and core operations, we’ll enhance consistency and transparency systemwide, allowing our teams to focus on advancing BayCare’s mission,”  Franzese said.

 

Wellness trail opens on AdventHealth campus 

SEBRING – Patients, caregivers and community members have a new place to find comfort and calm on the AdventHealth Sebring campus with the opening of a wellness trail. 

The outdoor walking path, dedicated Jan. 29 during a ribbon cutting hosted by AdventHealth Sebring Foundation, allows people to step outside, breathe deeply and reconnect with nature, whether they are supporting a loved one, taking a break from treatment or looking for a quiet moment of clarity.

The wellness trail spans about a quarter of a mile and is five feet wide. The landscaped path is in the shape of a cancer ribbon.

The project was made possible through gifts from AdventHealth staff and community members including longtime AdventHealth supporters Lisa and Bill Jarrett. 

 

Get answers on Medicare in February

  1. PETERSBURG – SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas. 

Specially trained volunteers can assist with Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information.

They’ll answer questions at the following Medicare programs: 

  • Medicare Basics: Feb. 12 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th St., Dade City. 352-567-3576
  • Medicare Basics: Feb. 19 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL-54, Wesley Chapel. 813-788-6375
  • Medicare Basics: Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. 813-929-1214
  • Medicare 101: Feb. 18, 11 a.m. at the Pinellas Park Library, 7770 52nd St. N., Pinellas Park. 727-369-0669
  • Medicare 101: Feb. 18 at 1 p.m. at the Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-893-1073
  • Medicare Fraud & Prevention Presentation: Feb. 20 at 1 p.m. at the Safety Harbor Public Library, 101 2nd St. N., Safety Harbor. 727-724-1525

SHINE services are free, unbiased and confidential. Counselors do not sell anything. They can be reached by calling 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.

 

Quick Hits

  • AdventHealth Sebring organized a free community heart symposium for Feb. 3 to help families understand heart disease risks, warning signs and care options available close to home. 
  • Who We Play For, a nonprofit founded by parents and doctors, organized heart screenings Feb. 7 in St. Petersburg for anyone ages 10 to 25. 

Leonardo da Vinci machines on display in new MOSI exhibit

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MOSI makes science and technology accessible to all with engaging permanent and rotating exhibits such as “Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion.” Photo courtesy of Evergreen Exhibitions

 

Get ready to crank, spin and fly into the mind of the world’s greatest inventor. Photo courtesy of Evergreen Exhibitions

TAMPA – MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science & Industry has launched a new exhibit inspired by the imagination of one of history’s most celebrated thinkers, Leonardo da Vinci. 

“Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion” is a life-size mechanical playground where visitors can see the artist’s flying machines, try out floats designed for walking on water and climb inside an eight-person military tank.

All of these attractions are based on the sketches found in da Vinci’s famed notebooks.

To bring this exhibit to life, skilled craftsmen in Italy hand-built more than 40 machines, using the same techniques and tools that da Vinci himself would have used in the Renaissance, more than 500 years ago. 

“Leonardo da Vinci was STEAM before STEAM had a name,” said John Graydon Smith, MOSI president and CEO. “He blended science, technology, engineering, art and math into everything he imagined. This exhibit lets you explore that same mix of creativity and curiosity in action.”

In Tampa for a limited time, “Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion” is included with MOSI admission.

 

Ways to strengthen your immune system 

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There are things about respiratory viruses that we can’t control, such as this season’s flu strain, the effectiveness of the flu vaccine or if the person sitting behind you at a restaurant is covering their cough. 

And with cold and flu season well underway, it’s important to take action to prevent these illnesses in ways you can control: washing your hands frequently and minimizing barehand contact of public surfaces such as doorknobs and handrails, and so on. 

Another thing you can control: your diet pattern. 

After all, the immune system can’t work at maximum capacity if you are deficient in nutrients. 

The good news is that the diet recommendations that keep our immune systems in optimal condition are the same recommendations for an overall healthy diet. 

So, if you needed another reason to eat healthier this year, there it is.

For a strong immune system, make sure you are getting these micronutrients (Mayo Clinic, 2025):

  • Iron: Needed for immune cell efficiency. Foods like red meat, beans, nuts and fortified cereals are good sources of iron. 
  • Vitamin A: Shields us from infections by keeping skin and tissue healthy. Orange and red fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers, have high levels of Vitamin A.
  • Vitamin C: Promotes the creation of antibodies and the function of white blood cells. Found in strawberries, tomatoes and citrus fruits.
  • Vitamin D: Activates immune defenses and plays a role in your body’s ability to effectively fight off bacteria and viruses. Found in fatty fish, egg yolks, fortified dairy and sunlight. 
  • Vitamin E: An antioxidant that defends cell membranes from free radical damage. Seeds, nuts, peanut butter and some oils have this vitamin.
  • Zinc: Supports immune cells’ function and development, and maintains skin barriers for fighting off bacteria and viruses. Foods such as meats, seeds, nuts and whole grains are good sources.

What about supplements? 

You get more health benefits when your nutrient intake is from food sources, such as fiber, antioxidants and phytochemicals. 

Nutrients are also more potent and are absorbed better from food versus supplements. 

Fat-soluble vitamins, which are D, E, A and K, need fat for absorption, and won’t provide as many benefits if taken as a supplement without a meal or food source with dietary fat. 

It’s important to note that taking supplements in conjunction with eating an unhealthy diet isn’t going to cancel out the risks that come with poor eating habits. 

Supplements should complement a healthy diet, not replace it. 

If you are eating a healthy balanced diet, then you are likely getting enough vitamins and minerals, but getting blood work at your annual checkup will give you a bigger picture of your nutrient levels and finding out what you may be deficient in. 

If your diet falls short (such as vegan diets lacking Vitamin B12), or you’re of a certain population (such as older age where it’s hard to absorb some nutrients, or pregnant women, who have more nutritional demands), then make sure you discuss with your provider about taking supplements.


Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County, An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Bilirakis secures federal grant funding for Pasco projects

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gus Bilirakis announced Jan. 8 that with the passage of three appropriations bills in the U.S. House, he has secured $14,625,000 in federal grant funding for multiple critical infrastructure, public safety, education and research projects across Florida’s 12th Congressional District.
The funding is included in the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations; Energy and Water Appropriations; and Interior Appropriations packages.

“These investments reflect my commitment to delivering results for our communities and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely,” Bilirakis said. “These projects were identified by local government leaders as priority unmet needs. From improving public safety and protecting public health to strengthening water infrastructure and advancing lifesaving medical research, they have the potential to make a lasting, meaningful impact across our district once these bills are approved by the Senate and signed into law.”

Bilirakis-sponsored projects in Pasco County are as follows: 

  • Pasco County School Board Safety Enhancements: $1.75 million to deploy weapons detection software and additional security cameras across all 100 Pasco County school campuses, allowing the district to proactively address threats and enhance student and staff safety.
  • Pasco County Chlorine Booster Stations Project: $750,000 to support design, engineering, inspection, testing and construction of three chlorine booster stations. This project will reduce water waste, ensure regulatory compliance, protect public health and support Pasco County’s goal of operating infrastructure systems in a safe, compliant and cost-efficient manner.
  • Pasco County Sheriff’s Office Human Performance Program: $1 million to enhance equipment and technology that support deputy wellness, physical readiness and injury prevention-reducing downtime, improving quality of life for deputies and ensuring continued effective service to the community.

Bilirakis also secured funding for projects in Hernando and Citrus counties. 

“These projects represent mission-critical investments that strengthen public safety, protect public health, support students, safeguard our environment and prepare our communities for future growth,” Bilirakis said. “While these bills have passed the House, the funding is still contingent on Senate approval and the President’s signature. I will continue working to ensure our district receives its fair share of federal resources and that these funds are spent responsibly and effectively.”

 

Business Digest (01/21/26): Youth and Family Advocates getting new leader

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The Cake Girl recently surprised residents at Liberty Manor for Veterans as part of a Christmas tradition. The company creates custom cakes, wedding cakes and cupcakes at 14851 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Carrollwood. The Cake Girl has been featured on “Today” and Entrepreneur magazine. Photo courtesy of Liberty Manor for Veterans

Youth and Family Advocates getting new leader

NEW PORT RICHEY – Mark Wickham will retire as president and CEO of Youth and Family Advocates on June 30 after 13 years of service. 

“For over a decade, Mark has led YFA with a passion for service, building community partnerships, and creating resources to support children and families across our seven-county service area,” Board Chair Nicholas Ottaviano emailed supporters. “His greatest legacy is the team he has cultivated: leaders who are courageous, humble and unwavering in their commitment to YFA’s mission and the children and families we serve.”

Susan Eby, who has served as chief operating officer, will replace Wickham as president and CEO. 

“Her leadership is grounded in data-driven decision-making and a deep understanding of quality improvement in human services,” Ottaviano wrote. “Throughout her career, Susan has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing social and emotional wellness at both individual and community levels.”

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Coffee Social, a ribbon cutting and a New Member Orientation. 

  • The chamber hosts its Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Jan. 21 at 28329 Paseo Drive, Suite 195, Wesley Chapel. 
  • Members hold a ribbon cutting from 1 to 3 p.m. Jan. 22 at Primrose School of Wesley Chapel, 26031 County Line Road, Wesley Chapel.
  • New chamber members go through New Member Orientation from 9 to 10 a.m. Jan. 28 at 28329 Paseo Drive, Suite 195, Wesley Chapel. Register in advance. 

Visit northtampabaychamber.com for details about the chamber and events.

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a legislative briefing, nonprofit roundtable, ribbon cutting and women’s programming. 

  • Jessica Alban, founder of Cloud 9 Feng Shui, talks about leading with purpose during the Professional Women in Business Networking Lunch from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 21 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance. 
  • Members hear from State Rep. Brad Yeager during State Legislative and Pasco Day Briefing from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 23 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance. 
  • The Greater Pasco Nonprofit Network features a roundtable of nonprofits to discuss various issues. They meet from 9 to 10 a.m. Jan. 27 at 4 & Co Coworking Spaces, 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance. 
  • Members celebrate the opening of the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco & Hernando’s Hudson office from 9 to 11 a.m. Jan. 28 at 12107 Majestic Blvd., Hudson. The ribbon cutting starts at 9:15 a.m. Register in advance. 

Visit greaterpasco.com for details about the chamber and events. 

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – The East Pasco Chamber members will host Coffee & Networking events.

  • Members network during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Jan. 23 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.) and 8 to 9 a.m. Jan. 27 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.). 

Visit eastpascochamber.org for details about the chamber and events. 

Lee works to combat online predators  

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 6719, the Combating Online Predators Act, legislation introduced by Congresswoman Laurel Lee to strengthen protections for children targeted by online sextortion.

The bill explicitly criminalizes intentional threats to distribute child sexual abuse material, a coercive tactic increasingly used by online predators to exploit and silence children. 

Under current law, sextortion has fallen outside existing child sexual abuse material statutes, forcing prosecutors to rely on patchwork charging theories that fail to reflect the gravity of these crimes.

Lee delivered her floor speech in support of the legislation on Jan. 12 during National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

“Predators are exploiting gaps in our laws to terrorize children online,” Lee said. “By passing the Combating Online Predators Act, Congress is making clear that these threats will be prosecuted with the seriousness they deserve.”

Reported sextortion cases in the United States rose from 13,842 in the first half of 2024 to 23,593 in the first half of 2025. Children are particularly vulnerable, with boys ages 14 to 17 most often targeted. In tragic cases, sextortion has led young victims to take their own lives.

During her remarks, Lee honored the lives of children lost to sextortion. She shared the story of a Florida mother whose son committed suicide after being targeted online.

The Combating Online Predators Act builds on Lee’s prior work to combat online exploitation, including the REPORT Act, which strengthened reporting requirements for online service providers and was signed into law in the previous Congress.

With House passage secured, Lee emphasized that protecting children from online exploitation must remain a bipartisan priority and that predators must be held fully accountable under federal law.

The bill now awaits consideration in the Senate.

 

Pasco County fights human trafficking

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DADE CITY – The Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking is not only working to combat the crime locally, but it is also helping other communities across the country mobilize against exploitation. 

The commission has worked to ensure every current and future Pasco County employee is trained on human trafficking issues. Members are preparing to expand that to every Pasco County Schools employee. 

Several members of the commission led a workshop at the Shared Hope International conference on Oct. 15 in Orlando. The 90-minute session was on how county commissions can lead in child trafficking prevention.

Liana Dean, chair of the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking, said one of the results of presenting at the conference has been hearing from groups across the country with interest in launching commissions of their own.

“Our reach is growing,” Dean said. “I’m very excited that we’ve had those opportunities to assist other counties across the U.S. in setting up commissions.”

The Pasco Board of County Commissioners presented a resolution Jan. 6 declaring January 2026 as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Pasco County. Elected officials praised the work of Dean and her team. 

“Human trafficking is occurring in Pasco County,” according to the resolution. “Through the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking, our community has united to combat this horrific crime and restore dignity to survivors by bringing together the sectors deemed critical to effectively combat human trafficking, such as law enforcement, schools, child welfare, nonprofits, businesses, faith-based organizations, survivors and more.”

Outside of training, the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking has also provided materials to firehouses. Middle and high schools have received posters about sexting and sextortion.

Dean said members have assisted in law enforcement operations involving missing and endangered children, specifically mentioning the U.S. Marshals’ Home for the Holidays, which led to the recovery of 57 kids from the Tampa Bay area. 

Members also assisted the University of South Florida’s Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Lab this past year in launching the first State Report on Human Trafficking.

Members with the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking are also organizing events for the coming year, including a national survivor leadership conference. 

Pasco County Commissioner Seth Weightman credited Dean for her leadership. 

“She’s really, in my opinion, the subject matter expert and the leader in combating these horrific, horrific crimes that take place in our county and beyond,” Weightman said.