Media

A small space has been establish in the Courthouse for use as a Media Communications Room. This space is extremely limited but may provide the opportunity for internet and telephone connectivity at the expense of the user. Press credentials are to be displayed at all times while using the space. Occupancy is limited to a first come, first serve basis. Media organizations interested should contact the Clerk’s Office Court Services Supervisor, Vickie Downing, to discuss details and determine availability. The Court Services Supervisor can be reached at (813) 301-5465.

In order to continue normal operations at the courthouse, designated media areas have been identified. Cameras are allowed on the sidewalk area adjoining the courthouse near the intersections of Florida Avenue and Polk Street and Florida Avenue and Cass Street. Camera crews and/or press are not to block the main entryway or the steps. All interviews should be conducted at a reasonable location from the steps so as to not interfere with normal ingress and egress. These procedures may be adjusted at the discretion of the U.S. Marshals Service.

A pass card system will be used to identify media and spectators attending all hearings. This Court Pass system has been implemented to identify the number of media and spectators attending a hearing and limit the number allowed on the court floor to the number which can be appropriately seated in the courtroom. The number of pass cards issued may vary, depending on the maximum occupancy of the courtroom used for a particular hearing. In order to obtain a Court Pass, the visitor must request one while at the screening checkpoint. Once all cards are issued, no more visitors for the hearing will be allowed past the screening checkpoint. If overflow rooms are designated for a hearing, then visitors above the seating limit will be directed to these locations. If the hearing is scheduled to last a full day or more, then the above procedure will be followed prior to the morning session and again prior to the afternoon session.

Once a member of the media obtains a card, the card must be taken to the appropriate court floor and presented along with proper photo ID at secondary screening. Because of limited seating and seating restrictions, visitors should adhere to instructions as directed by Court Security Officers. Visitors may have access to public facilities such as restrooms located on the floor. If visitors choose to leave the court floor, they will again be required to follow the above process. Press credentials are to be displayed at all times while attending any hearing.

Be advised that no rebroadcast of any kind is permissible from the media room.

Security and Screening

Current security procedures require all visitors to present a valid official photo ID at screening. Members of the press should be prepared to present employer issued press credentials along with the above photo ID. Items such as cellphones, laptop computers, cameras, audio recorders, weapons, etc., are not allowed in the courthouse. These items should be left at home or in a vehicle.