STARKE - One of eight Florida State Prison inmates who began a hunger strike Sunday has resumed eating, officials said.
Stephen Smith, 43, ate dinner Monday and breakfast Tuesday, Department of Corrections spokeswoman Debra Buchanan said. Smith is awaiting trial and a possible death sentence in the death of prison guard Darla Lathrem, who was killed during an escape attempt at Charlotte Correctional Institution in June.
The hunger-striking inmates, housed on a disciplinary wing known as Q Wing, claimed prison officials are denying them basic human needs such as recreation, decent food, visitation and access to canteen items.
Rep. Baker home from Iraq
TALLAHASSEE - Florida Rep. Carey Baker, R-Eustis, is back home after about a year in Iraq with the Florida National Guard.
House Republicans at a caucus meeting Tuesday evening gave Baker a standing ovation. Baker, a first sergeant, missed last year's legislative sessions but kept his seat. He is expected to be in Tallahassee for the regular session that starts in March.
