State & National

New Florida domestic violence law, spurred by Starke case, takes effect

A Florida law stiffening penalties for repeat domestic violence offenders and expanding protections to survivors’ pets took effect Wednesday after receiving unanimous approval in both chambers. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the measure in May following advocacy by State Rep. Debra Tendrich, who cited the Bradford County case of Rachael Kerr — killed in a Starke murder-suicide in late January despite having documented abuse and sought court protections.

Sources: WCJB TV20