In the know

By Times Staff Writer
Published March 12, 2008

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Port Richey

At-fault drivers may soon pay accident fees

The City Council unanimously approved an ordinance Tuesday evening that will allow Port Richey to recover accident investigation fees from at-fault drivers who live outside the city limits. The city will contract with Dayton, Ohio-based Cost Recovery Corporation to collect accident fees from the at-fault party's insurance provider. Then, the city can use that money for any improvements it chooses. The council first discussed the idea in October and sought bids from several companies that offer the service. Cost Recovery was the only company that responded.

WESLEY CHAPEL

Marijuana plants found in garage

Pasco sheriff's deputies arrested a 60-year-old man Monday after they said they found 79 pot plants growing in his garage. Dominik Tarzia was charged with cultivating marijuana and possession with the intent to sell. Deputies said he had rigged an irrigation system in the garage of his Westpoint Drive home and hung several grow lights from the ceiling. Tarzia was released from the Land O'Lakes jail Monday evening on $10,000 bail.

Four dogs charge deputy, one bites

A Pasco sheriff's deputy was bitten by a dog Monday while responding to a criminal mischief complaint on Woodsman Drive. He was not severely injured. According to deputies, four dogs charged Deputy P. Franco and another deputy while they were investigating the complaint. A white pit bullterrier bit Franco, 35, on the back of his right ankle. The dog's owner, Larry Mayer, 22, saw the commotion from across the street and yelled, "the dogs will bite," according to the incident report. The dog was taken into custody by animal control. No one was charged. Deputy Franco is fine, according to the department.

Correction

An article in Tuesday's edition gives the incorrect date for the Brandon Shamrock Classic. It happens Sunday.

Inside

Partin trial: Jurors hear opening arguments in the second trial of Phillup Alan Partin, accused of murdering 16-year-old runaway Joshan Ashbrook.Page 4

Pasco deaths

Blahut, Albert J.

Bullis, Nancy Jean

Ferguson, Justin M.

Goluba, Audrey B.

Gomes, Fernando S.

Langford, Joel Pierce

Malsberger, Leola May

Odorowski, Estelle F.

Olsen, Kurt J.

Pursley, Steven L.

Reedy, Edward C.

Rohrer, Jacob Jr.

Roy, Lester L.

Shelton, Wendy Lee Bicknell

Verdi, Jack

Waters, Mary Jane

Willett, Charlotte L.