Ocala, Florida — An Ocala man who was arrested for impersonating a sheriff’s deputy is back behind bars.
On January 5, 2015, a report was made that a subject had approached a man and identified himself as a Marion County Sheriff’s deputy.
The man detained the victim and took possession of the victim’s identification for the time he had detained him.
When the victim read about the recent arrest of Kristopher Krumm in the news and on social media, he immediately made contact with Officer Rodriguez to advise that Krumm was the suspect in his case.
Krumm had stopped the victim in an apartment complex and held him for approximately eight minutes. During that time, Krumm was giving orders to the victim just as a legitimate police officer would do.
Krumm told the victim, “Keep your hands were I can see them.” He later told the victim, “Keep your hands out of your pockets.”
Krumm then took a picture of the victim’s driver’s license and told him he was free to go.
Officer Rodriguez was able to establish probable cause for the arrest of Krumm in the January case and obtain a warrant for his arrest.
Today, Officer Rodriguez responded to Krumm’s home, placed him under arrest, and transported him to the Marion County Jail.
He was charged with Impersonating a Law Enforcement Officer and False Imprisonment.
This is the second time in less than a week that Krumm has been arrested for impersonating a law enforcement officer. You can read the original story here.
The investigation is ongoing.
If you have had dealings Krumm where he identified himself as a police officer, been picked up by Krumm while he was acting as a bail bondsman, or have other information about this case, call the Ocala Police Department at 352-369-7000.
Ocala, Florida — A woman died Wednesday after she ran a stop sign, crossed a busy road, and slammed into a concrete utility pole.
Florida Highway Patrol troopers say Jill Ruiz, 42, was traveling eastbound on southwest 30th Street at a high rate of speed when she failed to stop at a stop sign.
Troopers said as she sped through the intersection she drove across Southwest 38 Avenue and onto the east grassy shoulder.
The front of her 2012 four-door Kia Forte then slammed into a large concrete utility pole.
According to reports, the Kia rotated clockwise off the pole and came to rest on top of the I-75 perimeter fence, facing west.
Troopers said Ruiz was not wearing her seat belt.
Ruiz was pronounced dead at the scene by Marion County Fire Rescue.
Deltona, Florida — The former treasurer of a local Cub Scout pack is facing felony charges after a Volusia County Sheriff’s Office investigation revealed she stole close to $9,500 of the pack’s money to pay her own bills.
Eloisa “Ellie” C. Hilton, 37, a language arts teacher at University High School in Deltona, was arrested Wednesday morning and charged with Organized Scheme to Defraud, Grand Theft and Illegal Use of a Credit Card.
Deltona Cub Scout Pack 340 knew of some of Hilton’s thefts before her arrest.
In March, at a pack committee meeting, Hilton admitted to other parents that she had stole approximately $2,500 of the pack’s funds. At the time, the committee arranged for Hilton to repay the money without law enforcement getting involved.
Sheriff’s investigators learned of the thefts through an anonymous tip a couple of weeks later.
By late March, the committee decided to pursue charges against Hilton.
A review of the pack’s checking account revealed $2,770.43 in unauthorized transactions – including electric, cable and phone bill payments, grocery bills, gas station charges, and several nights at a hotel in Tampa.
According to reports, an additional $1,000.66 in funds raised by selling popcorn and discount cards was never deposited into the bank.
As investigators compared the pack’s financial records, they discovered more missing cash that should have been deposited into the bank. At one point, Hilton was given $27,493.09 in cash to deposit, but only $21,808.51 made it to the bank – a difference of $5,684.58.
Those thefts totaled $9,455.67.
Hilton was arrested at her home and transported to the Volusia County Branch Jail.
She was later released on $2,500 bond.
Volusia County school officials said Hilton has not been terminated, however, she has been removed from the classroom pending the outcome of an investigation.
Student brings loaded handgun on school property.Douglas Hurteau,II.
Ocala, Florida — A North Marion High School student was arrested after school officials searched the student’s vehicle and found a loaded gun.
On Tuesday, May 26, a Marion County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Deputy at North Marion Middle School received information that North Marion High School student, Douglas Hurteau, II. 17, was allegedly storing a loaded gun in his truck while on school property.
The North Marion Middle School Resource Officer then contacted North Marion High School.
Deputies attempted to make contact with Hurteau on Tuesday, but he was absent from school that day.
On Wednesday, May 27, Hurteau was approached by the Dean of Students and deputies in the parking lot of the high school.
According to reports, when Hurteau was asked if he was carrying a firearm on school property he stated that he had a tactical pocket knife on his person. He said he wasn’t sure about what was in the truck.
School officials conducted a search of his truck, where they found a loaded .32 caliber pistol in the center console.
Deputies said that after Hurteau was read his Miranda warning, he told deputies that he kept the gun in his truck when he would go hunting and that he must have forgotten to remove it from his truck before he came to school.
Hurteau was arrested and charged with Bringing Weapons on School Property.
He will be held at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Facility until his court appearance Thursday morning.
The student’s father arrived at the school and took possession of the vehicle.
Ocala, Florida — Ocala Police have arrested a man who witnesses say conducted a traffic stop and pretended to be a Marion County sheriff’s deputy.
On Friday, police were contacted by a man who stated that he had been driving through the Walmart parking lot, located at 2600 Southwest 19th Avenue Road, when he was stopped by who he thought was a legitimate police officer.
The victim told police that a man, later identified as Kristopher Edward Krumm, 27, had used a 2004 Ford Expedition with a siren and flashing lights to conduct the stop.
According to reports, Krumm exited his vehicle, approached the victim’s window, and stated, “You cut me off.” Krumm then ordered the victim to roll the driver’s side window all the way down.
The victim stated that he did not want to roll his window down because Krumm was wearing plain clothes, “looked dirty,” and was not wearing a badge or gun.
When the victim requested identification, Krumm identified himself as a Marion County sheriff’s deputy. Krumm then advised the victim that if he did not roll down his window that [he] would “call someone over.”
According to reports, the victim then rolled his window up all the way. Krumm then returned to his SUV, and approximately a minute later, fled the scene.
The victim was able to write down the license plate of Krumm’s vehicle as he drove off.
A second witness corroborated the victim’s story.
Ocala Police Officer David Rodriguez reported that he has personal knowledge of Krumm and has had previous dealings with him.
Officer Rodriguez reported that he knew Krumm’s vehicle to be equipped with red and blue lights that were mounted near the roof on the inside of the vehicle.
Krumm was arrested at his residence and charged with Impersonating a Law Enforcement Officer, False Imprisonment, and Prohibited Use of Lights under Certain Circumstances. Krumm’s vehicle was also impounded.
Krumm was later released on $15,000 bond.
This situation begs the question, why would a civilian be driving around Ocala with a siren and police lights on his vehicle?
Ocala Post, with the help of confidential sources, found that answer.
Krumm has been operating and referring to himself as a “Bounty Hunter.” Bounty hunters are illegal in Florida.
Further investigation revealed that Krumm has allegedly performed “pickups” for No Collateral Bail Bonds, located on Highway 40, which is odd because Krumm is a convicted felon.
An individual can neither be licensed nor operate as a surety agent (bail bondsman) if a person has been convicted of a felony.
Krumm was previously arrested by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.
According to the 2012 arrest affidavit, the victim stated that Krumm came to his house to fight. The victim stated, “I do not want to fight you.” Krumm then pulled out a knife and stated, “I didn’t come to fight, I came to f***ing kill you.”
A second victim grabbed a brick and told Krumm to leave or she would call the police. Krumm replied, “I don’t give a f**k about the police. I am still going to f***ing kill you.”
In 2006, Krumm was charged with Escaped (F) after being arrested on an outstanding Lake County warrant and then escaping from custody.
Ocala Post reached out to the Ocala Police Department and asked if the agency was aware that Krumm had been operating as a bail bondsman.
OPD Public Information Officer Sergeant Angy Scroble said, “He did tell the officer that he is employed part time at No Collateral Bail Bonds.”
OPD could neither confirm nor deny that these allegations would be investigated.
In a photo obtained by Ocala Post, Krumm is shown dressed in a surety agent uniform with two other bail bonds agents.
According to sources, agents who have used Krumm’s services knew he was not licensed as a bail bondsman.
Ocala Post reached out to No Collateral Bail Bonds and spoke with the business owner, Byron Werner.
Werner said, “Kristopher Krumm is not on my payroll and has never been on my payroll. I do not even know who this guy is.” He added, “Each bail bondsman is responsible for his or her own actions and this has nothing to do with the business name of No Collateral Bail Bonds.”
“I only employ licensed bail bondsman,” Werner said.
Werner also stated that he did not recognize the individuals photographed with Krumm.
Sources said Krumm could be charged with kidnapping for every person he picked up as a “bail bondsman.” Furthermore, the companies that he allegedly worked for could also face legal action if it is proven that the businesses knowingly contributed to Krumm’s activities.
According to the state, a bail bonds license is one of the hardest license to obtain.
If you have had dealings Krumm where he identified himself as a police officer, been picked up by Krumm while he was acting as a bail bondsman, or have other information about this case, call the Ocala Police Department at 352-369-7000.
Summerfield, Florida — On Saturday, Marion County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Investigations Unit detectives conducted a traffic stop on a gold Hyundai Santa Fe after it crossed over the median divider and fog lines on the road at the 17700 block of South Highway 441, Summerfield.
The driver of the vehicle, later identified as Thomas Petrick, 26, told detectives that the reason he was swerving was because he dropped his electronic cigarette and had attempted to pick it up while driving.
According to reports, K-9 Deputy Winkler and his K-9 “Solo” conducted walk around on the vehicle, at which time K-9 Solo alerted to the odor of narcotics.
During the search of Petrick’s vehicle, detectives found a red Tommy Hilfiger bag that had been stuffed in-between two child car seats in the rear of the vehicle.
The bag contained an electronic scale and a mason jar that was filled with 1,258 multi-colored pills.
According to investigators, the pills tested positive as MDMA, also known as Ecstasy.
Petrick stated that the pills were diet pills, and that he had purchased them on Amazon.com.
Petrick was arrested and charged with Trafficking MDMA-30 Grams or more, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (x2).
He was released on $22,000 bond.
The total packaged weight of the Ecstasy was 336 grams.
Petrick was previously arrested in Marion County on an Alachua County warrant for Possession of Cocaine.
Click to enlarge photo [MCFR][Last updated on May 26, 2015, at 2:00 p.m.]
Marion County — Florida Highway Patrol troopers say speed was definitely a factor in a crash that left a 23-year-old Lady Lake man in critical condition Sunday.
The accident occurred at approximately 7:50 p.m.
Marion County Fire Rescue Silver Spring Shores Station 17 and MCFR Belleview Station 18, were dispatched to a two-vehicle crash that occurred in the 10500 block of Southeast 108th Terrace Road near Candler.
[MCFR]Upon arrival, Engine 17 found that two vehicles had been involved in the crash and one occupant had been ejected. MCFR immediately called for shandsCair air transport.
Marion County Sheriff’s deputies also assisted with the crash.
According to FHP, a white 2012 Ford F350 pickup, driven by Clint Michael Collop, 23, and a silver 2001 Chevy S10 pickup, driven by Richard Summers, 67, were both traveling northbound on Southeast 108th Terrace, south of Southeast 105th Street.
Troopers said the Ford F350 was traveling at a high rate of speed and slammed into the back of the Chevy S10.
Both vehicles then veered onto the northbound shoulder of Southeast 108th Street, at which time the left front and side of the S10 slammed into a cluster of trees.
The F350 rotated, sheered through a utility pole, and continued to rotate in a northerly direction until it struck a dirt berm and a tree. It then became airborne and flipped. The F350 came to a final rest on its roof.
Collop was ejected from the vehicle and came to rest in a field a short distance from the crash site. He was airlifted to Ocala Regional Medical Center and is currently listed in critical condition.
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ShandsCair helicopter [MCFR]Summers and his passenger, Virginia Summers, 87, was transported by ambulance to Munroe Regional Medical Center. Their condition is not known at this time. Troopers did not release their ages, other than to say they were elderly.
A spokesperson for FHP said the driver of the F350 was “going much faster than the posted speed limit.”
2002 Jeep driven by Candace A. Beauregard. [MCFR]Ocklawaha, Florida — On Wednesday, Marion County Fire Rescue responded to a two-vehicle traffic crash with entrapment.
The crash occured on County Road 314A and Southeast 47th Street Road, Ocklawaha.
Upon arrival, rescue crews found three victims, one which had been entrapped in her vehicle.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 2010 Dodge Charger, driven by Christa J. Kendall, 21, was traveling southbound on 314A, and a 2002 Jeep, driven by Candace A. Beauregard, 72, was traveling northbound on 314a.
Troopers said Kendall entered a curve too fast and slid into the path of Beauregard. Kendall’s charger then slammed into the left front of the Jeep.
According to reports, it had been raining and the roadway was wet.
Firefighters were able to extract Beauregard from her Jeep within six minutes. She was declared trauma alert and transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center.
Kendall was also transported to the hospital. Her passenger refused further treatment.
According to troopers, both drivers were wearing their seat belts.
Troopers said Kendall was ticketed for Failure to Maintain a Single Lane.
The condition of the drivers is not known at this time.
These are just a few of the shelter cats at Marion County Animal Services that are looking for homes. Through June 30, the adoption fee for kittens is now $25 and the adoption fee for cats one year of age or older is $20. Photos courtesy of Marion County Animal Services.
Ocala, Florida — Adopt a Shelter Cat Month does not start until June, but kitten season has already begun and Marion County Animal Services has countless cats (well, almost) looking for homes.
This summer, residents can adopt all of the fun, love, and entertainment that a pet cat can provide for a reduced adoption fee.
The adoption fee for kittens is now $25, which is half of the regular adoption fee, and the adoption fee for cats one year of age or older is $20. The adoption fees include the cat’s spay or neuter surgery, vaccines, county license and microchip, in addition to lifelong friendship.
The Animal Center is open Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Residents can view pets available for adoption online at www.marioncountyfl.org/animal.
These are just a few of the shelter cats at Marion County Animal Services that are looking for homes. Through June 30, the adoption fee for kittens is now $25 and the adoption fee for cats one year of age or older is $20. Photos courtesy of Marion County Animal Services.
Marion County Animal Services is an open-admission shelter, which means it accepts all animals that come to its doors, regardless of breed, condition, temperament, or age. The shelter receives strays, abused and abandoned animals, and pets that owners can no longer care for or no longer want.
That also means that during certain times of the year, such as summertime kitten season, the shelter has many cats of all kinds needing homes. From relaxed lap cats to energetic kittens; MCAS offers felines that can fit any lifestyle and home.
Many cats have been surrendered by their owners and get along with other pets and children.
For more information, call 352-671-8700 or email animalservices@marioncountyfl.org.
Animal Services encourages residents to spay and neuter their cats and dogs to help reduce pet overpopulation and ensure more shelter animals can find homes. Residents can visit www.MarionCountyFL.org/animal for information on Animal Services’ Neuter Commuter program and other local pet sterilization resources.
Ocala Post file photo from January 28, 2015 — after Churchill Dentistry was raided for the second time.
Ocala, Florida — Marion County residents no longer have to worry about Michael or Rebecca Tarver performing dental work on children.
On Wednesday, Ocala Post received multiple e-mails that stated Churchill Dentistry — formerly Polliwog Dental — had been sold to Heart of Florida Health Center. Ocala Post was able to confirm the sale on Thursday.
HFHC will accept Medicaid, something the Tarver’s were no longer allowed to do since there is still an open Medicaid fraud investigation against the husband and wife team.
Michael Tarver has maintained his innocence from the beginning and believes that the “system” was just out to get him.
When the fraud investigation was initiated in January, Michael Tarver called it a “witch hunt.”
In November 2013, Ocala Post reached out to the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) to find out if Tarver was being investigated for Medicaid fraud in addition to the child abuse allegations. Press Secretary Shelisha Coleman wrote, “We cannot confirm or deny whether we have an open audit or investigation on a particular provider.”
Then, on January 28, it became clear that the pediatric dentistry was under investigation after the office was raided for the second time.
According to the Florida Department of Health, this investigation involves multiple agencies including the FBI, and the Attorney General’s Office. The Ocala Police Department assisted during the execution of search warrants.
The Tarver’s have been plagued with legal troubles since 2012, and Ocala Post has followed the story from the beginning.
According to the Medical Examiner’s Office, she was identified by dental records.
Detectives do not know if the girl fell or jumped from the bridge.
Detectives said the investigation is ongoing and no further information would be released at this time.
On Thursday afternoon, Ocala Post received an e-mail containing Facebook posts that Ann had allegedly posted on an alternate Facebook page she created. Additionally, Ocala Post received a second Facebook post that allegedly had been posted by a woman who claimed to be Ann’s biological mother. In the post she stated that she lost custody of Ann to the State nearly 14 years ago. Ocala Post chose not to publish that Facebook post until its authenticity could be verified. However, a reader has posted it in the comment section for this article on Ocala Post’s Facebook page.
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Facebook posts allegedly posted by 16-year-old Ann E. Sagul.
If you have any information about this case, please call the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 352-732-9111, Crime Stoppers at 352-368-STOP, text a tip to 274637 using keyword 368-STOP, or visit www.ocalacrimestoppers.com. For Crime Stoppers, please reference 15-38 in your tip. Anonymity is guaranteed.
Ocala, Florida — Remember that MTV show “My Super Sweet 16?” You know, the show about the unappreciative spoiled brats who treated their parents with the utmost respect (sense the sarcasm) and felt they were entitled to everything?
Well, this story is not about that.
While most teens turning 16 wish for cars and lavish parties, a Florida teen was doing just the opposite.
Brittany R. DeMeola, 16, of Ocala, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 1999 when she was just 6 months old.
Neuroblastoma is a rare type of cancer that typically affects infants and young children. It is a solid tumor that is formed by neuroblasts, which are special nerve cells. When neuroblastoma is diagnosed in infancy, the chance of recovery is good. About 700 new cases of neuroblastoma are diagnosed each year in the United States.
When she was diagnosed, her doctors at UF Health Shands Hospital originally believed that the cancer was stage 1. However, during surgery it was learned that her cancer was actually stage 3.
Brittany’s parents, Mike and Karen DeMeola, were devastated; as was the entire family.
Following surgery, Brittany was required to undergo multiple rounds of chemotherapy. Her parents took countless trips back and forth to Shands Hospital.
At times, they said it seemed like there was never going to be a light at the end of the tunnel, but even as they watched their daughter get sick from the chemo and saw her hair fall out, they never gave up hope. With endless support from family members, they somehow found the strength to hold on to the possibility that their daughter would one day be cancer-free.
Then, after a year and a half of chemo treatments, many prayers, and what seemed like endless sleepless nights, they received the news they had been longing to hear. After a year and a half of tears and worrying, Brittany was declared cancer-free.
Everything was just getting back to normal for the family before they received more bad news.
In 2003, Mike’s mother — Brittany’s grandmother — Nancy DeMeola was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a huge blow for this extremely close Irish-Italian family.
Nancy’s cancer eventually spread to her lungs, and as with Brittany, she underwent extensive chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Her treatments were so aggressive that they led to other health issues.
Her family said that even though she was often sick, she never let it show in front of her 12 grandchildren.
The family said that in December of 2012, Nancy, who had COPD, got an infection in her lungs. On December 28, 2012, at approximately 1 a.m., her daughter, who is a nurse and lives a few blocks away, received a frantic call from her dad. He said Nancy could not breathe and he needed help. When the daughter arrived she immediately knew she had to call 911.
Nancy was rushed to Ocala Regional Medical Center by Marion County Fire Rescue.
Once at the hospital, Nancy was placed on a ventilator and held on to life for nine days. She waited until she was transported to her home by hospice before she would give up her fight.
She passed away on January 6, 2013, in the comfort of her own home.
The family said they were completely blindsided. Namely because there were no warning signs that Nancy had an infection.
Brittany was 13 years old when her grandmother passed away. A short time later, she lost a good friend to cancer.
“I had had enough. After my 15th birthday I told my dad I wanted to do something more. I told him I wanted to help families in Marion County that were going through the same thing I went through,” Brittany said. “While I was too young to remember when I had cancer, I know [that] time in my life made a big impact on me.”
Brittany told her dad that she wanted to start a foundation that could allow her to give back to the community.
Brittany said, “I want to be able to help families financially and emotionally. People need to know that there is hope.”
She said that when she and her father talked about it, she thought it would just be talk.
“I never thought anything would actually ever come of my ideas,” Brittany said. “I even had a name picked out for the foundation.”
Brittany said she chose the name “Rosie Posie” because her middle name is “Rose” and when she was little her family used to call her “Brittany Rosie Posie.”
Then, in January of 2015, Brittany’s father made it happen and the “Rosie Posie Foundation, INC.” was born.
Brittany, who just turned 16, said that she wanted to have a Sweet 16 party, but she wanted it to be something meaningful as well as unforgettable.
“I wanted to have a party that would have an impact on others,” Brittany said.
And she did just that.
Brittany, along with her mom and dad, planned her Sweet 16 “Party with a Purpose” to benefit the “Rosie Posie Foundation.”
Her parents booked the Munroe Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Center and allowed Brittany to invite her friends and all of her family.
But what made this party different from others?
It could be the fact that Brittany instructed her guests not to bring gifts. Instead, Brittany told her guests that in lieu of gifts, she wanted them to make a donation to the foundation.
Brittany even landed several local businesses as sponsors.
“My Sweet 16 party was just my first step toward making a big impact on others,” Brittany said.
Brittany said that families whose children are currently being treated at Shands have already reached out to the foundation. She said it is a wonderful feeling to know she can help others.
“Helping families is just one example of how I plan to make a difference. My second task is to improve the Shands Pediatric Oncology play room; the same room I played in while I was going through treatments in 1999,” Brittany said. She added, “I plan to accomplish [that] task soon.”
“But, I could not have accomplished anything up to this point without the help from my family and my business sponsors,” Brittany said. “First, I would like to thank my mom, my dad, and God for everything they have given me.”
“Secondly, I would also like to thank my sponsors, Black Tie and Blue Jeans DJs, Bear Archery, Brooklyn’s Backyard, BB Graphics, Ford Orthodontics, Ausley Construction, Dean & Dean Law Firm, MRMC Auxiliary, and last but not least, Gilligan, Gooding and Franjola Law Firm.” Brittany added, “And thank you to all of my friends and guests who attended my party and helped make the night so special.”
Brittany said she is also thankful that she has been cancer-free for the past 15 years.
Brittany’s family said they were amazed by her decision and could not be more proud of her.
If you would like to learn more about the “Rosie Posie Foundation,” how to help make a difference, or simply give them a thumbs up, you can visit the Foundation’s Facebook page.
Ocala, Florida — The Marion County Sheriff’s Office received information that a warrant suspect they had been searching for was traveling to the Pilot on Highway 484 and I-75, Ocala, last week.
While conducting surveillance of the area, a deputy saw a green Chevy pickup truck being driven by the suspect’s brother and two other occupants pull into the Pilot. Information received by the agency indicated that the wanted suspect would be in the truck.
According to reports, detectives made contact with the occupants of the pickup truck, but the wanted suspect was not present. However, authorities recognized one of the passengers from previous arrests.
While speaking to the three occupants outside the vehicle, K9 “Trigger” alerted to the presence of drugs. A search of the vehicle turned up a used syringe, which contained heroin residue.
Annie Arnold, 24, a passenger in the vehicle, stated that she had used the syringe to inject heroin. When asked if she had anything else illegal on her person, she reached into her bra and pulled out a clear cellophane wrapper that contained 18 pills. The pills were later identified as Tramadol 50mg.
Arnold stated that she had purchased the pills from a friend.
Arnold was arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance without a Prescription and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Arnold has previous arrests for Retail Theft, Failure to Appear, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Violation of Probation.
Gainesville, Florida — The Florida Department of Health today announced $1 million in grant funding to the University of Florida for research involving cannabidiol and its effects on refractory childhood epilepsy. The award is designed to provide treatment with a new medication, derived from cannabis, to children with resistant epilepsy through a Food and Drug Administration Expanded Access Investigational New Drug protocol.
“This funding helps Florida’s families dealing with severe childhood epilepsy to have access to an investigational cannabidiol medication as researchers work to answer important questions about the effect of this medication,” said Secretary of Health and State Surgeon General Dr. John Armstrong. “The scientific research framework puts the best interests of patients first.”
Florida Statute requires all applicants to obtain approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for an Investigational New Drug application authorizing research involving cannabidiol and its effects on intractable childhood epilepsy. Through the Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act, the Florida Legislature provided this funding. This grant was awarded based on rigorous scientific peer review, which is consistent with the standards used by federal funding agencies.
Sen. Rob Bradley said, “This is another step toward ensuring a safe, effective product is available to children suffering from this terrible disease. I’m grateful to see research dollars going to a university committed to helping children and their parents across this great state get the information they need to make the best decision for their family.”
Rep. Matt Gaetz said, “I’m grateful for the Florida Department of Health’s continued efforts to ensure children with intractable epilepsy have access to a safe, effective product. These research dollars will ensure quality information is available to help guide the choices of parents coping with children with these serious medical needs in Florida.”
The studies will directly impact the lives of children in Florida with drug resistant epilepsy. Drug resistant epilepsy is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that impacts the day-to-day functioning of children. The primary objective of this grant is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a cannabidiol medication when administered in addition to current care in children who have exhausted the majority of federal FDA-approved anti-epileptic drug treatment options. The medication is available in standard dosages. This grant will also enhance access to existing clinical trials of other investigational new drugs for Florida residents.
Pro-marijuana advocates said this is a step in the right direction.
Florida — The Florida Department of Health, with support from local law enforcement agencies, carried out Statewide Operation Trigger Point May 13 through 15. The operation to stop the dangerous practice of providing health care without proper licensure culminated in 64 cease-and-desist notices served to individuals and establishments practicing massage or operating a massage establishment without a license. Providing health care without a license is a felony-level criminal offense in many instances.
Officials said that treatment by an unlicensed provider is dangerous and could result in further injury, disease, or even death. Notices were served on the following subjects:
The department’s Division of Medical Quality Assurance Unlicensed Activity (ULA) Program, under authority of Florida Statute 456.065, protects Florida residents and visitors from the potentially serious consequences of receiving health care services from an unlicensed person. The ULA program investigates all unlicensed health care activity complaints and allegations, and works in conjunction with law enforcement and the state attorney’s offices to prosecute individuals practicing without a license.
Marion County — In a unanimous vote during a regularly-scheduled meeting on May 19, 2015, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners removed an appointee to the Marion County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) following objectionable remarks made by the appointee on a social media forum. Marcel “Butch” Verrando, who was first appointed to the IDA by board vote in June 2011 and then again in December of the same year, was removed from advisory board service effective immediately. His term would have expired in November 2015.
“On behalf of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners, I extend my sincerest apologies to all members of our community for the racially and culturally insensitive comments made on social media by an appointee to one of our local advisory boards. Those comments do not represent this board’s nor our dedicated county staff’s views and will not be tolerated. This Commission is committed to treating all citizens equally,” Commission Chairman Stan McClain said. “All individuals appointed by the Commission to serve on an advisory board are expected to exhibit the highest standards of professionalism in their public conduct, and Mr. Verrando failed to uphold his oath.”
Verrando posted the comments to a thread on the “Marion County Political Forum” Facebook page on Monday, May 18, 2015.
According to an e-mail received by Ocala Post, Verrando posted, “Black unemployment percentage is exceeded only by Native Americans and in 2012 they had the highest unemployment rate, education is way a head [sic] of hispanic [sic] so why can’t they get a job? My experience was that the only time a black guy applied for work it was because they were on probation and HAD to have a real job.” He then posted this hyperlink.
Verrando was responding to what some called “other stereotypical-type” comments that had been posted on the forum.
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Moving forward, the County Commission will advertise the IDA vacancy and appoint another individual to serve in the future. The county will also be extending an invitation to the advisory boards to participate in the county’s long-standing Cultural Diversity and Professional Ethics employee training sessions.
The Marion County Board of County Commissioners is the primary legislative and policy-making body for the unincorporated areas of Marion County. The IDA was created for the purpose of financing and refinancing capital projects including air and water and other pollution and waste control facilities, as well as industrial and manufacturing plants with pertinent facilities.
This is not the first time Verrando has been the center of controversy. In September of 2014, Verrando came under fire after he publicly attacked a U.S. military firefighter veteran and former volunteer firefighter for Marion County Fire Rescue for suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on an online forum.
Ocala, Florida — On Saturday, May 23, 2015, Marion County will unite with citizens from all over the world in protest of genetically modified foods (GMOs).
This year will mark the third annual “March Against Monsanto,” in which over 400 cities throughout the world hold demonstrations to raise public awareness and bring increasing political pressure to bear regarding Monsanto’s corporate farming and business practices and to fight for labeling of foods that contain genetically engineered and/or modified materials.
Event organizers said that this year’s March Against Monsanto event will be better than ever! The event will feature local and organic food vendors, speakers, kid’s activities, and workshops on growing food, permaculture, the importance of bees, composting, wood mulch gardening, and how to avoid GMOs more!
The goal is to give people the knowledge and tools they need to move away from the industrial food system that funds companies like Monsanto. Organizers hope to educate and inspire the community to take action and begin to create a sustainable, local food system, ultimately taking the food system back and removing it from of the hands of the corporations that currently control what people eat.
For a full list of speakers, vendors and activities, please visit; www.mtcitra.com/communityaction/marchagainstmonsanto
Event Details:
Date & Time: Saturday, May 23, 2015, 11am-2:00pm
Workshops begin at 11:00 ~ March @ 2
Location: Citizens Circle at City Hall
SE Osceola Ave, Ocala, FL
Preliminary statistics released on May 11, 2015, by the FBI show that 51 law enforcement officers were feloniously killed in the line of duty in 2014. This is an increase of almost 89 percent when compared to the 27 officers killed in 2013. (Note: From 1980–2014, an average of 64 law enforcement officers have been feloniously killed per year. The 2013 total, 27, was the lowest during this 35-year period.) By region, 17 officers died as a result of criminal acts that occurred in the South, 14 officers in the West, eight officers in the Midwest, eight in the Northeast, and four in Puerto Rico.
By circumstance, 11 officers died from injuries inflicted as a result of answering disturbance calls (one of which was a domestic disturbance). Ten officers were conducting traffic pursuits or stops, eight were killed as a result of ambushes (six due to entrapment/premeditated situations and two during unprovoked attacks), and six officers were investigating suspicious persons or circumstances. Five officers sustained fatal injuries while they were performing investigative activities, four while they were engaged in tactical situations, three officers were handling persons with mental illness, and one officer was slain during a drug-related matter. Three officers were killed while attempting other arrests.
Offenders used firearms in 46 of the 51 felonious deaths. These included 32 incidents with handguns, 11 incidents with rifles, and three incidents with shotguns. Four victim officers were killed with vehicles used as weapons, and one was killed with the offender’s personal weapons (hands, fists, feet, etc.).
Thirty-five of the slain officers were confirmed to be wearing body armor at the times of the incidents. Five of the 51 officers killed fired their own weapons, and six officers attempted to fire their service weapons. Seven victim officers had their weapons stolen; one officer was killed with his own weapon.
The 51 victim officers died from injuries sustained in 48 separate incidents. All 48 of those incidents have been cleared by arrest or exceptional means.
An additional 44 officers were accidentally killed in the line of duty in 2014. This total represents five officers fewer than the 49 officers who were accidentally killed in 2013. By region, 19 officers died due to accidents in the South, 13 in the West, seven in the Northeast, four in the Midwest, and one in Puerto Rico.
Twenty-eight of the officers died as a result of automobile accidents, six were in motorcycle accidents, and five were struck by vehicles. Two of the officers were killed from accidental shootings, one from drowning, one from blunt force trauma, and one died as a result of smoke inhalation.
Of the 28 officers who died due to automobile accidents, 15 officers were wearing seat belts. 10 officers were not wearing seat belts (six of whom were ejected from the vehicles), and seat belt use was not reported for three of the officers who were killed due to automobile accidents.
File photo: Alachua County sheriff’s deputies conduct a traffic stop in a BearCat.
[Last updated on May 18, 2015, at 5:11 p.m.]
Washington – The Obama administration announced Monday it will ban federal transfers of certain types of military-style gear to local law enforcement agencies.
The decision is in response to a spate of incidents that has frayed trust in communities across the country, and after a White House working group made the recommendations.
According to a White House press release, the banned items would include tracked armored vehicles, bayonets, grenade launchers, ammunition of .50-caliber or higher, and some types of camouflage uniforms. Equipment such as tactical vehicles, explosives, and riot equipment, would only be transferred if law enforcement agencies adopt “robust and specific written policies and protocols” covering not just the use of the federal equipment, but their policing practices in general.
Any agency that violates the rules faces being barred from future equipment purchases for at least 60 days and, in some cases, be referred to the Justice Department for a civil rights investigation.
Agencies would also be required to provide additional certification and assurances that prove the gear would not be used in an irresponsible manner.
Officials said that the ban on prohibited items would take effect immediately. However, the restrictions on other gear would be phased in so that law enforcement agencies can be briefed about the new requirements.
According to the White House, citizens “have voiced concerns about what has been described as the ‘militarization’ of law enforcement due to the types of equipment” that is deployed.
A White House spokesperson said that the administration will also spend about $75 million over the next three years to buy about 50,000 body cameras that will be worn by law enforcement.
“The idea is to make sure we strike the right balance of providing equipment that is appropriate and important, while at the same time put standards in place that give a clear reason for the transfer of that equipment, with clear training and safety provisions in place,” White House Director of Domestic Policy, Cecilia Muñoz said.
One of the ways police departments have armed themselves in recent years is through the Defense Department’s excess property program, known as the 1033 Program. That program has transferred more than $4.3 billion in equipment since its inception in 1997. In 2013, [it] gave nearly half a billion dollars worth of military equipment to local law enforcement agencies, according to the program’s web site.
The White House also highlighted one policy by the University of Texas System police that prohibits the use of military vehicles in response to “exercises of the First Amendment right to free speech” or as a part of “any public demonstration or display of police resources.”
The White House working group said they made the recommendations because there is a substantial risk of law enforcement agencies misusing or overusing the military items.
Ocala Post reached out to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and asked about the agency’s position on the ban.
MCSO released the following statement via e-mail:
“The Sheriff dislikes the ban because of the increased financial burden it places on local law enforcement agencies and their citizens. For example, in the past our agency has received military surplus helicopters for a couple of thousand dollars rather than paying several hundred thousand dollars (even close to a million dollars depending on the unit) to purchase a new helicopter unit. Additionally, we have previously received items such as riot helmets from military surplus. I do want to make clear, however, that there is a common misnomer used in the media about the “militarization” of law enforcement and phrases such as “military equipment.” None of the items our agency has received are offensive in nature, but rather, are defensive (such as helmets needed in the event of a riot to protect the officer’s safety) or items such as a helicopter that is utilized to search for missing persons or to assist law enforcement troops on the ground in various law enforcement functions. By eliminating these surplus items from local law enforcement it means in future years those programs, such as aviation, will either have to be funded by our citizens or scrapped altogether.”
Law enforcement agencies across the county say the equipment is vital for officer safety.
Preliminary statistics released by the FBI on May 11, show that 51 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty in 2014. This is an increase of almost 89 percent when compared to the 27 officers killed in 2013. (Note: From 1980–2014, an average of 64 law enforcement officers have been feloniously killed per year. The 2013 total, 27, was the lowest during this 35-year period.) By region, 17 officers died as a result of criminal acts that occurred in the South, 14 officers in the West, eight officers in the Midwest, eight in the Northeast, and four in Puerto Rico.
By circumstance, 11 officers died from injuries inflicted as a result of answering disturbance calls (one of which was a domestic disturbance). Ten officers were conducting traffic pursuits or stops, eight were killed as a result of ambushes (six due to entrapment/premeditated situations and two during unprovoked attacks), and six officers were investigating suspicious persons or circumstances. Five officers sustained fatal injuries while they were performing investigative activities, four while they were engaged in tactical situations, three officers were handling persons with mental illness, and one officer was slain during a drug-related matter. Three officers were killed while attempting other arrests. You can read the entire story on these statistics here.
According to the White House, misuse of military-style vehicles would include using them to conduct traffic stops. The working group said it could be considered a form of intimidation.
A senior administration official said that the White House didn’t have the authority to stop the transfers of military-type equipment. “Those are programs that Congress directed the agencies to implement,” the official said.
Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who has a bill pending in Congress to reform militarized weapons for local police, endorsed the president’s actions.
“I see no reason why a 20-ton mine resistant ambush protection vehicle should ever roll down any city in our country,” Paul said. “The president can change some of this through executive order, and I commend him for doing so. There is no reason that the police force should be the same as the army.”
Senator Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) also supported Obama’s decision. McCaskill called the new restrictions “another step in the direction of needed change to better protect both police officers and the communities those officers serve.”
Surprisingly, officials said the ban is greatly supported by many who currently and formerly served in the military.
Christopher M. Conger [left], and Jeremy RobertsonMarion County — The Marion County Sheriff’s Office said they received a tip that help them thwart a planned attack on the Eustis Police Department on Monday.
According to reports, an inmate at the Lake County Jail told the Lake County Sheriff’s Office about the alleged planned attack. The LCSO then passed the information onto the Marion Coounty Sheriff’s Office.
MCSO was advised of the situation after an investigation revealed that the suspects were located at a residents across county lines.
According to reports, a plethora of weapons were being stored inside a safe that was inside a shed at a home, located at 17450 Southeast 260th Avenue Road, east of Weirsdale.
Investigators said that the attack was supposed to be carried out with a grenade Rocket Launcher.
Christopher M. Conger, 32, was arrested and charged with, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, Grand Theft of a Firearm, Display Firearm during a Felony, Wearing a Bullet Proof Vest during certain Offences, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of a Synthetic Narcotic with Intent to Sell.
Also arrested was Jeremy Robertson, 29. Robertson faces the same charges with an additional charge of Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon.
The sheriff’s office has not charged either suspect with the planned attack on the police department pending the outcome of an investigation.
During a search of the shed investigators found , 22 firearms, several containers of black powder , two bullet proof vests, powder and crack cocaine, more than a pound of marijuana, prescription pills, scales and other drug paraphernalia.
Investigators said that they believe the two had planned the attack because of recent run-ins with the EPD.
The sheriff’s office did not locate a grenade launcher during the search of the home.
The informant also said that the two had planned an attack on a church and an Elks Lodge.
