Ocala, Florida — Niokoa Breeze Johnson, 15, died March 23, 2014 with her family by her side in Gainesville, Fl.
Niokoa Was born September 29, 1998 in Gainesville, FL to Ricky and Shannan Johnson. She loved fishing and camping, as well as anything else involving the outdoors. Niokoa loved to be with her family and friends.
She leaves behind many family members and friends. Mourning her loss are parents Ricky Johnson and Shannan Sutton; her siblings Nakiya Sutton, Mariah Berry, and Dakota Johnson; her grandparents, Dorothy Johnson and Vivian Sutton. She will also be missed by her only dog, Alley, as well as countless other family and friends whom were blessed to know her.
Niokoa touched the lives of many people with her smile and love for life. There will be an open viewing for Niokoa on Wednesday, March 26, 2014 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Forest Meadows Funeral Home. The Funeral service will be graveside at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 27th 2014 at Historic Micanopy Cemetery, Micanopy, FL.. Donations can be made to the Niokoa Johnson account at the Florida Citizen’s bank in Micanopy, Fl.
The family wants to thank everyone for the continued love and support. Niokoa was dearly loved and will be truly missed. She left this world doing what she had always dreamed about and what she worked so hard to achieve. Niokoa spent countless hours working on her racecar and was so excited to be able to do what she loved. Saturday, March 22, was the best day of her life. Heaven has truly gained an angel.
For those who do not know, Niokoa Johnson’s viewing is at 5 p.m. Wednesday, at Forest Meadows Funeral Home in Gainesville, Florida. Her funeral is this Thursday at 11:30 a.m. at the cemetery in Micanopy, Florida.
FUNERAL ATTIRE: At the funeral, the family asks you come as you would normally dress, even if it’s blue jeans and a t-shirt, actually that’s what the family would prefer. The family said, “Niokoa wouldn’t want it any other way.”
Niokoa’s father, Richard Johnson had purchased a 1997 Nissan Sentra for her so she could fulfill her dream of racing cars.
When Niokoa wasn’t attending Micanopy Middle School, she was working on her racecar with her father.
According to reports, Niokoa was severely injured while conducting a time trial run at Bubba Raceway Park off of Gainesville Road, Ocala, Florida. Witnesses say it was around 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 22, 2014 when Niokoa was driving her Red Nissan Sentra and lost control of the vehicle in her second lap on the north end of the track and slammed into a concrete barrier.
Niokoa was unconscious when racetrack officials and others pulled her from the smashed vehicle.
The teen was rushed to Ocala Regional Medical Center where she was then air lifted via helicopter to Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida.
Niokoa passed away on March 23, 2014 as a result of her injuries from doing what she loved to do most, race.
Niokoa’s sister, Nakiya Sutton, posted a poem on her Facebook page today March 25, 2014 in memory of her sister:
Condolences have poured in from all over the United States from people within the racing community.
Many have said once you are in the racing life, everyone is family and all racers stick together.
Bubba Raceway Park released a statement on their Facebook fan page that read:
Whether you are a racer or not, a young life has been tragically lost, and during this time the entire community has come together to show support for the family and for Niokoa Johnson.
Ocala, Florida — Just before 4 a.m., Monday, March 24, 2014, at the Ford of Ocala dealership, 2816 N. Pine Avenue, Ocala, Florida suspects stole three (3) Ford F-250 4×4 Crew Cab Lariat diesel trucks and two (2) Ford Mustang sports cars.
It is believed at least five or more suspects may be involved in the theft of these vehicles, according to reports.
The value of the five vehicles is nearly $240,000.
Marion County Sheriff’s Office Detectives are looking for additional details concerning this case of auto theft. “We are hoping someone saw something at that time of morning and now realizes they were witnessing a crime,” said Judge Cochran, Marion County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer. “We want that witness to call immediately and share whatever information they have about this case,” Cochran added.
Call Detective Warmuth at (352) 402-6044 or phone anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Marion County at 368-STOP or 368-7867. Text tips to 274637 using keyword 368STOP.
Tips can also be submitted at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.
[Left] Rachel Fryer [Right] Tariji GordonSanford, Florida — Disturbing video of a murderer regaining custody of her children has now been released.
The video of the hearing was recorded on December 9, 2013. The December 9th hearing was a follow up to the families progress in an ongoing case as to whether Rachel Fryer was a fit mother after the “accidental” death of her son in 2011.
In 2012 the court was petitioned by DCF in an attempt to permanently remove the remaining children from Frye’s custody in order to put them up for adoption; the court denied that motion.
During the December 9th hearing, Fryer was allowed by the court to remain in custody of her remaining children.
Within two months of the decision, Fryer’s 2-year-old daughter, Tariji Gordon, was dead.
On February 10, 2014, Police responded to a residence in Crescent City after receiving tips that a child may have been buried on the property.
According to reports, police found what appeared to be a shallow unmarked grave that had a tiny shoe sticking up out of the ground. The shoe was consistent with the description of the footwear that had been recently described to police to be worn by Gordon. It was later determined that the remains in the shallow grave were that of Fryer’s 2-year-old daughter, Tariji Gordon.
Also, located nearby in the woods was a leopard patterned suitcase that was later determined to be the instrument used to transport Gordon’s body.
According to reports, Fryer beat the child on and off for hours for soiling her pull-up. At one point Fryer pushed the child down and Gordon struck her head on a step.
An autopsy of Gordon’s body revealed multiple adult bite marks (both new and healed), and blunt force trauma to the right side of Gordon’s head.
When Gordon’s head struck the step it caused a brain bleed. The child was alive after the incident but later died in her sleep as a result of the brain bleed.
When Fryer found the child unresponsive, she decided to bury Gordon to conceal the crime.
Fryer was charged with Homicide, Child Abuse with Great Bodily Harm and Public Order Crimes- Mishandle Human Remains.
Many residents feel if the court had been more aggressive in removing the children instead of pushing for Fryer to get public assistance with the attempt to get free housing that the child would still be alive.
The investigation into the “accidental” death of Fryer’s son has been reopened.
Seminole County — On March 24, 2014 the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office announced the results of Operation SafeNet, a multi-agency, undercover operation targeting individuals who use the internet to sexually exploit children. Law enforcement from 16 Central Florida agencies joined forces to arrest 26 individuals who traveled to and within Seminole County intending to engage in sexual activity with what they believed to be a child as young as 11-years-old.
During the operation, undercover law enforcement officers chatted online, e-mailed, and spoke on the phone with subjects who believed they were communicating with a minor, or with an adult who had a minor available for sexual activity. Individuals arrested ranged from age 19 to 51 and included a postal worker, security guard, pizza delivery men, landscapers, and a variety of other professionals. The majority of the offenders travelled from neighboring cities and counties. The weeklong operation began on March 19th and concluded early Monday Morning.
Participating agencies included: the Apopka, Casselberry, Longwood, Orlando, Oviedo, and Sanford Police Departments, the Citrus, Orange, Lake, Manatee, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, and Volusia County Sheriff’s Offices, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Every man arrested gave an excuse as to why they had actually traveled to the bait house.
One of the arrested, said that he just drove to the bait house to tell the adult that “supposedly” had a minor available for sex, that it was wrong. The Suspect said, “They shouldn’t be doing this, and I was going to leave. I was going to come, shake the dad’s hand and tell him, No, thanks. You shouldn’t be doing this to your daughter, and I was going to leave.”
A pizza delivery man arrived right after his work shift, while he was still in uniform, another had his mom drop him off at the bait house.
Investigators said one of the suspects had a gun and that it is the first time they have experienced someone showing up to a sex sting while armed.
Most of the men told investigators that they knew there was a chance they had been speaking with police, but they didn’t care. Investigators said that the urge that the men had to meet a minor for sex was just too great for the men to stay away despite the fact some of them knew they could have been speaking with an undercover officer posing as a minor.
All of the individuals arrested were booked into the John E. Polk Correctional Facility.
Timothy Abbot [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On March 16, 2014 Deputy Rath responded to the 14400 block of E HWY 25 in reference to a disturbance.
Upon arrival, Deputy Rath made contact with the victim whom stated that her boyfriend and father of her three children had abused her.
The victim said she was outside talking to her friend for quite some time. The victim stated the when she (the victim) returned to inside her home, her boyfriend begin yelling at her for staying outside to long.
According to reports, Abbot yelled to the three children and ordered them to their room. The victim said that once the children closed their bedroom door, Abbot shoved her (the victim) up against the wall and placed his forearm against her throat.
The victim told Deputy Rath that she tried to tell Abbot to stop but she could not breath, therefore she could not speak. The victim stated that the incident went on for approximately one minute, and once she was able to break free she ran toward the front door.
According to reports, as she was running toward the front door Abbot grabbed her by the back of her shirt, jerking the victim in a backwards motion and ripping her shirt.
The victim was finally able to make her way outside, at which time she began screaming for help.
Someone heard the screams and immediately dialed 911.
Abbot reportedly ran out of the house with two of the children, jumped in his vehicle and fled the area.
Deputy Rath stated that while he (Rath) was on the scene, Abbot called numerous times. Deputy Rath stated that Abbot was advised to return to the area, at which time Abbot said,”F**k you, I ain’t coming back.”
Deputy Rath informed Abbot of the charges he could be facing, to which Abbot replied,”I do not care and I am not coming back.” Abbot then hung up on Deputy Rath, according to reports.
A warrant was issued for the arrest of Timothy Abbot and on March 20, 2014 he was booked into the Marion County Jail. He was charged with Felony Battery – Domestic Battery by Strangulation.
He was released on March 21, 2014 on $5,000 bond.
An unnamed source told Ocala Post that the children could hear the struggle as it was taking place.
Yard Sale Thieves [Mugshots]Ocala, Florida — Investigators say several vehicle burglaries occurred during February, 2014. The crimes happened within the Forest/Ocklawaha districts.
During the investigations, Christopher Pyatte and Gerald Dowe were identified as burglary suspects.
According to invesitgators, Dowe and Pyatte would drive into specific neighborhoods and Pyatte would check for unlocked vehicles; once a vehicle was found, he would take items from the vehicle. Some of the items removed from the vehicles include G.P.S. units, money, music CD’s, laptop computers, cameras and an IPOD.
During the investigations, it was revealed that the two defendants sold items at a yard sale in Grande Oaks Manor at 5900 South Highway 314-A.
“If you purchased any items from these individuals at their yard sale the Marion County Sheriff’s Office encourages you to come forward, return the items and testify against these individuals who committed these crimes and help us return the property to the rightful owners,” said Lieutenant Bill Sowder of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Forest District Office.
Items could have possibly been sold on the “Ocala Online Yard Sale” Facebook site. If you recognize the photos of these two criminals you are urged to call the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 352-732-9111.
The Sheriff’s Office will add anyone that comes forward as a secondary victim in the case.
Dowe was arrested on March 11, 2014 and charged with Dealing in Stolen Property (multiple), Violating the Broker Pawn Act (multiple), Grand Theft (multiple) and Burglary (multiple).
Pyatte was also arrested on March 11, 2014 and charged with Burglary (multiple), Grand Theft (multiple), Dealing in Stolen Property (multiple), and Fraud- Attempting/Using Another Persons ID (multiple).
Neither have been released from jail as of March 20, 2014.
[Ocala Post has included the press conference video in its entirety. Start at 9:30 if you want to go straight to the Sheriff express his anger over illegal immigrant drug dealers on welfare. ]
Voodo Meth Flowchart [Click to enlarge or preview slide show]Polk County, Florida — This investigation directly impacts Central Florida as a whole. A drug bust in Polk County that public assistance officials should have answers for and that has Florida residents, including law enforcement officials fuming with anger, is one of the largest in Central Florida History in regards to the “purest form” of Meth, which is ICE.
Recently, Eric Holder and President Obama announced they want law enforcement agencies to be lenient on drug dealers and individuals arrested for drug offences. Eric Holder is calling for the review of records on individuals that are currently serving time for drug charges, and says he may want their sentences to be reduced or inmates released.
The Obama administration has also warned that illegal’s should not be deported, and be given the same benefits as United States citizens, something officials are not willing to abide by or tolerate.
Officials say it seems as though the Obama administration is going out of their way to release inmates that are currently or were previously in the drug business.
Polk County, Florida Sheriff Grady Judd is demanding answers. Sheriff Judd wants to know how an illegal Mexican — of whom is a convicted felon — was able to cross over the border making reentry into the United States, travel to Florida, then walk into a public assistance office where she was able to obtain welfare.
Sheriff Judd is calling for a federal investigation into why illegal’s and felons that deal in millions of dollars in drugs are able to get a free ride on law abiding citizens tax dollars.
Sheriff Grady Judd said, when certain individuals make national TV appearances and tell the public that drug dealers are not that bad or the offences are not that serious, they are not telling the truth.
Mississippi is currently invoking a state law that will require all welfare recipients to undergo drug testing. To take it one step further, anyone with a criminal history to include drug abuse or alcohol abuse may not even be eligible for public assistance of any kind.
Many Florida officials and legislators feel that Florida should follow Mississippi’s lead, however some residents are not convinced it is the right move and fear it will open the door for “profiling.” Experts say if a recipient has nothing to hide; then what would a welfare recipient need to be worried about?
As a result of an investigation that began October 2013, on Tuesday, March 18, 2014, Polk County Sheriff’s Office High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Task Force detectives, along with members of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Orlando District Office, Florida Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution, and Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives, identified 25 suspects involved in an organized drug trafficking enterprise.
Through their investigation, detectives and agents learned the organized methamphetamine crime ring was responsible for the distribution of large amounts of methamphetamine in Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk and Seminole Counties.
Investigators identified the organization’s source of methamphetamine supply as Javier Flores, aka: “El Don.” Flores resides in southern California and managed large scale methamphetamine shipments to Lakeland, Florida, Atlanta, Georgia, and Las Vegas, Nevada through southern California from Mexico.
Import Map
The organization included a network of couriers, managers, distributors and customers. In February, detectives intercepted a $200,170 cash delivery meant to pay for methamphetamine from a courier.
Investigators also learned Lopez and Flores consulted a Voodoo priest who would provide predictions, prophecies and readings regarding the organization’s decisions and welfare.
On Tuesday, March 18, 2014, investigators intercepted 44 pounds of methamphetamine at Love’s Truck Stop, 1800 Florida 559, in Polk City. The “uncut” street value of this amount is approximately $2 million, while the total distributed value is approximately $8 million. Also, on Tuesday, March 18th, detectives arrested 13 suspects, seized tens of thousands of dollars, seven vehicles, approximately 100 weapons, bullet-proof vests and thousands of rounds of ammunition.
Evidence
Two children, ages 1 and 3, were removed from a residence and placed into DCF custody.
Out of 25 suspects in the organization, 11 are currently receiving Federal/public assistance, and one suspect, Ma-Concepcion Lopez, that had previously been deported, is back in the United States illegally, and is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
During the course of the investigation, detectives and agents learned two of those involved in the methamphetamine network were Josh Widdows, 30, of 5339 Meadow Grove Trail, Lakeland, and TJ Scott, 24, of 7708 Glen Meadow Drive, Lakeland.
Widdows and Scott were known to associate with Matthew Tutt, the man responsible for shooting and severely injuring two PCSO deputies in June 2010. At approximately 2:30 a.m, Friday, June 25, 2010, Deputies Mike Braswell and Paul Fairbanks were patrolling in the area of Plateau Avenue and Josephine Street in the Wabash area of unincorporated Polk County near Lakeland. There had been a number of burglaries in the area. During their encounter, Tutt pulled a gun from under his shirt and shot at both deputies.
Tutt was killed when deputies returned fire.
Now retired, Deputy Paul Fairbanks was shot three times, and Deputy Mike Braswell was shot four times. Both deputies recovered.
Widdows and Scott bought Meth from Rojas and in turn were selling the meth on the streets of Polk County.
Detectives with served search warrants at the following addresses:
Jose Luis Rios, 48, of 2322 View Way, Lakeland is charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine over 200 Grams – first degree felony mandating a 15-year minimum mandatory sentence.
Criminal arrest history: 1992-DUI; 2005-Cocaine Trafficking; 2006-Amphetamine or Meth 14 grams or over; Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, Possession of Marijuana over 20 Grams, Keep a Public Structure for Burglary Activity and Paraphernalia.
Ma-Concepcion Lopez, 38, of 2322 View Way, Lakeland, claims she is married to Rojas. Lopez is charged with Engaging in a Continuing Criminal Enterprise, a life felony; Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Unlawful Transportation of Currency, $100,000 or more, first degree felony; Possession of a Place or Structure used for Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, a second degree felony.
She has a prior conviction of Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine in 2006 – served 3 years in prison and then was deported. She is currently back in the U.S. and receiving Federal/assistance.
Luis Villafuerte Rojas, 39, of 2322 View Way, Lakeland. Rojas is charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Unlawful Transportation of Currency $100,000 or more, Possession of a Structure Used for Trafficking in a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime, a third degree felony.
Rojas has prior convictions of: Assault on an Officer or Firefighter-1999. Criminal arrest history includes DUI-2000, DWLSR-2007, False name to a LEO- 2003, 2007. Rojas was in the process of obtaining his U.S. citizenship and is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Villafuerte Rojos was arrested at Love’s Truck Stop during the interception of the 44 pounds of Methamphetamine on Tuesday, March 18, 2014.
Joel Tapia, 30, of 2015 Adair Road, Davenport is charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine over 14 grams, a first degree felony, mandating a three year minimum mandatory sentence; Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 14 grams; Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Tapia has Prior convictions of: Resist Officer W/O Violence- 2010. Criminal Arrest History includes Burglary; Grand Theft; Criminal Mischief, Theft of Fire Extinguisher, Burglary Conveyance, Shoplifting; 2003-Felony Criminal Mischief; 2004-Felony Criminal Mischief. Joel Tapia is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Debra Tapia, 50, of 2015 Adair Road, Davenport is charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine over 14 grams, Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 14 grams, Possession of a Structure Used for Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Criminal Arrest History: Traffic Amphetamine, Possession with Intent, Possession over 20 Grams, Keep Structure for Drug Activity, Possession of Drugs-Equipment.
Debra Tapia is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Tara Tapia, 30, of 2015 Adair Road, Davenport is charged with Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 28 grams, first degree felony mandating a 7-year minimum mandatory sentence, Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 28 grams, first degree felony mandating a 15-year minimum mandatory sentence, and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Criminal Arrest History: 2003-Burglary, Grand Theft, Criminal Mischief, Theft of Fire Extinguisher, Burglary Conveyance, Shoplifting, 2003-Felony Criminal Mischief and 2004- Felony Criminal Mischief.
Tara Tapia is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Maria Lopez Ontiveros, aka Mariana Alvear, 33, of 2322 View Way, Lakeland is being detained for deportation.
Dioscelina Galaraza-Ozorio, 33, of 2322 View Way, Lakeland is charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Criminal Arrest History: Assault, Battery on LEO, Resisting without Violence and Deprive Officer of Weapon , 2004 Cocaine possession w/intent to sell, Purchase Narcotics – 2007.
Alfredo Ortiz-Hernandez, 25, of 750 3rd Avenue, Chula Vista, California is charged with Conspiracy to Traffic in Meth over 200 grams, Trafficking in Meth over 200 grams.
Criminal Arrest History: DUI in 2013. Ortiz-Hernandez was the currier hauling the 44 pounds of meth – he was arrested at Love’s Truck Stop on Tuesday, March 18, 2014.
Maria Widdows, 29, 3604 Glenoak Drive South, Lakeland is charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Joseph Workman, 52, of 18 West Bass Street Orlando, was arrested in Osceola County and charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine over 14 grams, Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 14 grams, Unlawful use of Two- Way Communication Device. (See Attachment for Criminal Arrest History)
Joseph Angelo Rinaldi, 34, of 10811 Sienna Drive Clermont was arrested in Osceola and charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine over 28 grams, and Unlawful use of Two-Way Communication.
Rinaldi is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Criminal Arrest History: August 16, 1995 arrest for Retail Theft, by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, November 20, 1995 arrest for Aggravated Battery and Retail Theft, by the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, July 27, 1997 arrest for Failure to Appear, and Operation of a Motor Vehicle without a License, by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, May 28, 2003 arrest for Battery, by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, July 17, 2006 arrest for Trafficking Methamphetamine over 14 Grams, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While License Suspended, by the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, May 29, 209 Criminal Registration, by the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office and October 3, 2013 arrest for Trafficking Methamphetamine Over 14 Grams, Child Neglect, Possession of a Cannabis and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, by the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.
Eugenia Lopez, 29, of 402 Wildlife Trail Lakeland is charged with Possession of a Place or Structure being Used for the Sale of a Controlled Substance.
Wanted Suspects:
Javier Flores, between 35-40 years of age and known resident of California is wanted for Engaging in a Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Unlawful Transportation of Currency $100,000 or More, and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Hugo Lopez Esquivel, 33, of 54 Pinetree Road Lawrenceville, Georgia is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Unlawful Transportation of Currency – $50,000 or More and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Eliezer Rodriguez Merced, 32,of 54 Pinetree Road Lawrenceville, Goergia is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Unlawful Transportation of Currency – $50,000 or More and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Joshua Widdows is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 14 grams, and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Joshua Widdows is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Tyler Scott is wanted for Possession of Methamphetamine, Sale of Methamphetamine and Own or Rent Structure for Knowingly Selling Drugs.
Demasco Candid Lugo, 30, of 908 Ruth Avenue, Lakeland is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 28 grams, and Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 28 grams.
Melinda Baker-Ruiz, 34, of 908 Ruth Avenue Lakeland is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 28 grams, and Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 28 grams.
Danielle Campbell, 26, of 9555 Kingsbury Court, Windermere is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 28 grams, and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Danielle Campbell is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Hector Sanyustiz, 30 ,of 1254 Westside Drive, Winter Garden, is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 28 grams, Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 28 grams, and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime.
Sanyustiz is currently receiving Federal/public assistance
Laura Caton, 35, of 2718 Sample Street, Kissimmee, Caton is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 14 grams, and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communications Device to Facilitate the Commission of a Crime’
Caton is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Jose Godoy, 22, of 1108 Powerline Road, Davenport; Godoy is wanted for Conspiracy to Traffic in Methamphetamine over 14 grams.
Godoy is currently receiving Federal/public assistance.
Bryan Cumberbatch, 31, of 1541 Goodyear Avenue, Lakeland, is wanted for Possession of Methamphetamine, Sell Methamphetamine, Own or Rent Structure/Vehicle Known to Sell Drugs, a second degree felony and Possession/Use Narcotic Paraphernalia.
Sheriff Grady Judd promises that he will find the remaining fugitives and lock them up from civilization. He is pleased with the overall outcome of the investigation but wants answers.
We want to hear from you. Do you think Florida should drug test welfare recipients or prevent felons that have been convicted of alcohol or drug related offenses from receiving assistance?
Levy County, Florida — The Florida Highway Patrol will be monitoring the area of SR 24 in the community of Rosewood today, March 20, 2014 as the Florida Forest Service conducts a prescribed burn of approximately 80 acres of woodlands.
Smoke from this fire may affect portions of the following roadways:
State Road 24, Levy County Road 345 as well as other local roads in this area.
Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling in these areas. Visibility may deteriorate quickly due to smoke/fog type conditions especially during the night time and early morning hours.
Motorists are reminded to reduce their speed and utilize low beam headlights in order to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Tallahassee, Florida — The Florida Department of Health today issued an advisory to residents in counties surrounding the Withlacoochee river.
The City of Valdosta has reported a spill, made up of a combination of storm water and untreated raw sewage that has overflowed into One-Mile Branch, Two-Mile Branch, Sugar Creek and Cherry Creek which flow into the Withlacoochee River.
Until further information is known regarding possible contamination of the rivers, residents are urged to take precautions when in contact with the Withlacoochee River. This includes those individuals in the counties of Hamilton and Madison.
Water contaminated by waste-water overflow presents several health hazards to humans and may contain untreated human sewage with microbes that could cause gastro-intestinal and other diseases.
Anyone who comes in contact with the river water should wash thoroughly, especially before eating or drinking. Children and older adults, as well as people with weakened immune systems, are particularly vulnerable to disease so every precaution should be taken if in contact with the river water.
For more information about the potential health effects of waste-water overflow, Floridians are encouraged to contact their local county health department.
Allen Croskey [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — Today, March 19, 2014 officers with the Ocala Police Department responded to a 911 call in reference to a disturbance.
As officers arrived they discovered EMS personnel were already on the scene providing medical assistance to the 87-year-old victim.
Officers were advised by EMS that the suspect involved in the incident was no longer on scene. Officer Marcum then approached a man identified as Allen Croskey, whom was thought to be a witness.
Officer Marcum asked Croskey what he had seen and it was at that time Croskey replied, “I hit my father in the head with a pipe.”
Officer Marcum then detained Croskey in handcuffs and placed him in the back of a patrol vehicle.
The victim had to be transported to ORMC.
Evidence Officer Yanik recovered a blood covered sledge hammer from the edge of the carport area, according to reports. Officers also reported a pool of blood under the carport with a trail, where it appeared as if someone had been dragged. The bloody drag marks left south from the pool of blood out of the carport and east into the yard where they continued into the bushes on the east side of the property.
Lying next to the drag marks was a pink blanket which was saturated in blood. A green blanket was also found spread out on the ground just north of the bushes.
Croskey was then transported to the Ocala Police Department for questioning.
Detective M. Steckman advised Croskey of his Miranda rights and he stated he understood and agreed to speak with Detective Steckman.
Croskey stated that earlier in the morning he had gone to the soup kitchen and when he returned home his father was going through the trash can under the carport.
Croskey stated that his father began yelling at [him] and accusing him of messing up the vacuum cleaner. Croskey stated that his father picked up a sledge hammer and motioned for [him] to leave.
According to reports, Croskey then told his father to “wait right there” and walked over to the neighbors yard, picked up a steel pipe from a chain link fence and returned to the carport. Croskey stated that his father asked why he had the pipe, at which time Croskey swung the pipe, hitting his father in the head knocking him unconscious.
Croskey stated that when his father fell to the ground he released the sledge hammer.
Croskey then picked up the sledge hammer and bashed his father in the face two times with it.
According to reports, Croskey told Detective Steckman at that point [he] believed his father was dead.
Croskey said he then threw the pipe back into the neighbors yard and hid the sledge hammer behind a chair. He said he then drug his father’s body to the bushes in the yard, and afterwards retrieved a pink and green blanket. Croskey stated he covered his father with the pink blanket and planned to wrap him in the green blanket then bury him.
Croskey was arrested and charged with Second Degree Attempted Murder.
Croskey has an extensive criminal history to include charges of Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon (multiple), Resisting and Officer with Violence and Battery (multiple).
Croskey’s father was released from surgery and is listed in critical condition.
Ocala, Florida — The fifth best place to live in the nation, horse capital of the world and best place to raise a family are just a few ways Marion County used to be described. Now, not so much as Marion County is no longer considered the fifth best place to live, our horse farms are quickly disappearing and Marion County has lost more residents than it has gained due to the high unemployment rate.
Now, Marion County faces a greater threat at the expense of Marion County residents.
As Chrisean Bollers of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office once told commissioners during a board meeting, “The greatest threat to Marion County is not terrorists or criminals; the greatest threat is the people in this room.” (Meaning the County Commissioners.)
The threat has been extended to include the City of Ocala Council members as well. Be careful though; if the City Council doesn’t like what a resident has to say during a meeting, they will have you escorted out of the building by the police. This was recently demonstrated when Albert Dunlap expressed his concerns over the 400-acre land development deal that was recently vetoed by Mayor Kent Guinn.
Dunlap praised Mayor Guinn for showing leadership by vetoing the proposed land change. Dunlap said the city is just trying to make a “quick buck,” and most all residents agreed. Dunlap was escorted out by police at the request of Council President John McLeod after Dunlap threatened to introduce the City Council to his (Dunlap’s) attorneys.
The City Council has proposed a land development deal very similar to the land deal proposed by the Marion County Board of County Commissioners. Oddly enough, the land the city is trying to allow to be developed was annexed into the city by the county.
The City Council is proposing an ordinance that would allow the development of 400-acres of farmland that will, if approved, become a mixture of residential and commercial development. The land is located on 27th Avenue, near Trinity Catholic High School and Glen Hill Farm. Red Oak Farm and Ocala Stud Farm are the properties in line to be developed. The plans will allow for up-to 18 residential units per acre with a .75 ratio of commercial.
Ocala Stud Farm
The President of Trinity Catholic High School, surrounding business owners, and residents are greatly opposed to the changes.
The plans were originally approved by a 3-2 vote, with councilmen James Hilty and Brent Malever being the two that voted against the plans.
Mayor Guinn, in a move that stunned residents but was greatly accepted, vetoed the plans the very next day. Guinn said, “The land use is not compatible for the surroundings of the area.”
Not willing to accept the fact that residents do not want the land developed, the City Council is now trying to have Mayor Guinn’s veto overturned.
Residents said it’s just one more reason to realize that the county and city public meetings mean absolutely nothing to board members.
Recently, the BCC voted 4-0 to support similar land changes known as the Sunny Oaks Estates project, and 3-1 for the Equine Commerce Support District development project; projects that will destroy approximately 400 acres of Marion County farmland. The project will be a combination of residential, commercial and industrial development. The plans originally only called for a little over 100 acres, however the county slowly increased the acreage and were very sneaky about inserting the changes into the plans without presenting the changes to the public. The residential portion of the project allows for 10 units per acre to be built. The land for the project is located on CR 475 near I-75.
It should be known that both projects combined involve an estimated 800 acres of land, and the projects are less than 20 miles apart.
And as with the county, it is to no surprise that City Council members also received many campaign contributions from real estate developers, contractors, engineers and construction companies including Scott Siemens, a developer whom also contributed to county commissioners. Two of the City Council members are also directly involved in the finance industry.
Accepting campaign contributions of these types is something residents have expressed time and time again to be a conflict of interest.
Residents are concerned that development on such a large scale will certainly bring crime and traffic.
Carlene Arroues wrote, “Does development only bring crime and traffic or can it also bring jobs? Our community cannot survive on wide open spaces and minimum wage jobs. That brings more crime as well because people can’t survive. I feel it needs to be developed smart, to bring better paying jobs. Nothing stays that same, that is an unrealistic expectation.” [It should be known that Carlene Arroues made her statement before she realized the intensity of the development]
Residents are looking at 10 houses per acre on the county project and up to 18 per acre on the other. With the projects being close to the interstate, in an area that will be partially industrial developed residents are smart enough to figure out what kinds of neighborhoods will be built. Orlando started out the same way and look at the city now.
Marion County does not have the resources nor does the sheriff’s department have the man power to keep up with the crime that the developments could possibly bring. Marion County has a high number of vacant businesses that are just sitting and falling apart, development is not going to correct that issue. The only resolution for the vacant dilapidated businesses is for an investor to buy and renovate already standing structures, not build more in a new area with the hope that they will thrive.
Many residents of Marion County have hit hard times due to the lack of employment, but not all of them have become criminals in the process. Marion County statistics show it is far more rare to find an individual that stole bread to feed a family than it is to find an addict that lost a job and steals to support a habit. Therefore the theory of honest residents committing crimes because of the lack of employment or that developing 800 acres will solve the unemployment rate and keep residents from committing crimes, holds no merit.
Crime is just one issue, with development of this magnitude comes other problems that must be factored in.
For instance, county and city officials need to consider water supply, traffic flow and what kind of impact the development will have on the ecosystem. Not to mention, how will the already crowded Marion County Schools accommodate families with children?
According to analysts, building a new neighborhood and including commercial plans does not necessarily mean there will be a vast supply of jobs. If the area includes hotel development and or gas stations and the business is solely owned by a foreign entity, majority of the owners will only hire within their foreign group. Therefore the supply of jobs expected by Marion County residents will not be available. With a vast majority of investors being from India, analysts say that it is a high probability that foreigners would be drawn to the area. Money brought in by foreign groups (unless they pay taxes) is not usually reinvested into the county, but rather within their own home towns.
The parties that stand to make the largest profit from the developments are the individuals that are directly involved in the development or have some sort of interest in the project.
It should also be known to Marion County residents, that all seven members of the planning board have ties to the construction industry, many are even involved in projects that come before them for review.
Sarah Carter wrote, “Leave it as farmland, there are enough empty buildings.”
Sarah is correct, on SW 19th Avenue Road, prior to turning left onto 27th Avenue there are numerous businesses that are vacant, and have been vacant for some time. In the industrial district there are also multiple fairly large buildings that have been vacant for years. The property is there, including vacant hotels; so why aren’t the properties being utilized? It’s because the city, the county nor the developers involved in the current projects stand to profit from those building being renovated and reopened.
Craig Bernick, the owner of Glen Hill Farm, was pleased by Mayor Guinn’s veto. Bernick is 100% opposed to the land being developed. Bernick, along with Mayor Guinn and local doctors agree that there are enough vacant buildings as well as multiple acreage sites for sale that are more suitable for the projects at hand.
Residents feel city and county meetings are a waste of time and they are fed up. Having attended many meetings, Ocala Post has witnessed a packed room with all residents opposing the city or county, just to have the issue passed by the City Council or BCC. Almost as if the elected members already had their minds made up before attending a public meeting.
Residents want change, and not “Obama Change,” they want to be heard and want the system overhauled. Decisions should be based on the popular vote as a community in its entirety, not by the vote of a few whom stand to profit from the decisions being made.
There is clearly corruption in Marion County. Corruption that we the citizens are sick and tired of dealing with, said a Marion County resident in an e-mail to Ocala Post. The resident, whom wishes to remain unnamed, also told Ocala Post that she spoke with the governor’s office about the Marion County and City of Ocala elected officials. She said after speaking with Governor Rick Scott’s office she was directed to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s (FDLE) Jacksonville office which is the agency that handles corrupt politicians in the Marion County area.
Ocala Post verified the information with Deputy Press Director John Tupps with Governor Rick Scott’s office. And while the FDLE would not confirm nor deny if an investigation is being conducted, Ocala Post was told that the FDLE takes these types of reports very serious.
Ocala Post has received dozens of e-mails from Marion County residents whom are fed up with the elected officials of the City Council and the BCC. Residents are fed up with the lack of funds for the sheriff’s office, funds that would allow more protection for Marion County residents. Some e-mails cannot be repeated for professional reasons, but it is clear that Marion County residents are no longer going to stand for the abuse of power.
If you wish to express your concerns to the FDLE, all it takes is a quick phone call or e-mail. While Ocala Post always appreciates and welcomes e-mails, Ocala Post encourages residents to direct e-mails to the FDLE. They will have more resources and can address your concerns on a legal level as opposed to Ocala Post.
FDLE’s Jacksonville office can be reached at 904-360-7100 between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Fax 904-360-7111 or e-mail info@fdle.state.fl.us
Remember, to say nothing then complain makes a person part of the problem, not part of the solution.
Ocala Post reached out to the City Council multiple times via e-mail as well as the City Clerk with no response.
Ocala, Florida — A town meeting summed up in a few short important words.
Like many Americans, United States Congressman Ted Yoho (Republican) wants President Obama gone. To be more precise, Yoho wants Obama impeached.
During a town meeting tonight, March 17, 2014, Yoho was quite candid about his feelings toward Obama and what the mediocre president has done for the United States of America and residents in his district.
He said Obama does not enforce laws passed by congress.
Yoho said Republicans in Washington don’t have the stomach to impeach Obama. The tone of Yoho’s voice just fell short of calling Washington spineless.
Yoho accused John Boehner of not following through with bills proposed by other congressman to sue Obama, stating Boehner and other Republicans don’t want to rock the boat, so to speak. Yoho said they are not pressing forward because they are too busy trying to get elected in November.
Someone asked Yoho about the situation in the Ukraine and Yoho’s response was surprising.
Yoho said, It was Obama’s weakness as a leader that helped foster Russia’s bold intervention on the Crimean peninsula.
Yoho said, take a look at what is going on with the Ukraine, Iran and Syria. He said, “We have never been challenged like this. People are becoming emboldened against America, it is time we come together as Americans.”
Yoho also touched on “Obamacare.”
Yoho said, “The Supreme Court said the Affordable Care Act is the law of the land. For us that want to get rid of it, it is the law of the land in its entirety. You cannot pass the law and only implement the part you want to implement. It’s unconstitutional.”
Yoho said the administration has changed several parts of the law, which were not authorized in the original implementation of “Obamacare.”
Yoho also wants to see the IRS tax code rewritten, and Americans may soon see a plan put into place that could do just that. Yoho did not go into great detail with the plans during the meeting.
Yoho said, “Americas problems are not going to be solved in Washington, they are going to be solved at the local diner and at the coffee shop. “
Referring to the administration, Yoho said,“If people are breaking our laws, trampling up the Constitution, how long do you put up with that?”
“Are we not a country of laws?”
Whether it be a political stunt, or sincerity, Yoho has certainly gained a lot of respect from Floridians for having the courage to stand up to the Obama Administration, and calling it as he sees it.
Ocala, Florida — Criminal(s) in Ocala are sleeping a little better tonight.
The Mattress Firm located at 3411 SW 36 Terrace was burglarized and the suspect(s) got away with nearly $12,000 in mattresses.
Unknown person(s) made entry through a window and once inside removed 3 queen size Temper Pedic mattresses and 1 king size Temper Pedic mattress,valued at nearly $12,000.
The thieves went out the front door once they had gained entry through the window, according to reports.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Ocala Police Department at 369-7000, Crime Line at 369-7001 or Crime Stoppers at 368-7867.
Deltona, Florida — When the lights went out in Deltona on Sunday, an illegal marijuana growing operation was revealed.
A transformer fuse on a utility pole had blown, blacking out one to two blocks of homes. Utility workers were dispatched to repair and restore the electricity in the area. Shortly after making the repairs, the replacement fuse blew just moments after installation. This led to a small fire in a home’s meter box.
Technicians said they became suspicious and dug up the ground to check the power supply line which led to the discovery of extra wires that were illegally siphoning more electricity than a typical house would need.
Volusia County Sheriff’s deputies were called and quickly learned why the home was drawing so much power. It wasn’t a family home but rather a marijuana grow house with dozens upon dozens of plants, high powered specialty lights and multiple air conditioning units.
According to reports, at least 51 of the plants were more than five feet tall.
When the suspect realized deputies were at his home, [he] tossed at least 17 one foot tall marijuana plants over the backyard fence in an attempt to hide them.
Deputies arrested the occupant, 43-year-old Ramon Munoz-Rodriguez, on several narcotics charges and booked him into the Volusia County Branch Jail in Daytona Beach.
Munoz-Rodriguez was charged with Possession of Narcotics Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana Over 20 Grams, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute and Manufacture of Marijuana.
James Phillips [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On March 16, 2014 deputies met with a pregnant victim in the parking lot of the Marion Oaks Sheriff’s District Office after being rescued by a good Samaritan.
The victim stated that she had stayed the night with James Phillips, 40, of 440 Marion Oaks Course, and that Phillips is the father of her unborn child.
According to reports, Phillips accused the victim of using his cocaine and wanted money so he could replace it (the Cocaine).
The victim stated that Phillips became enraged and then punched her several times with a closed fist in the head. The victim stated that she then ran out of the house and Phillips chased after her then pushed her down to the ground. Phillips then leaned down and punched the victim several more times in the head with a closed fist.
According to reports, the victim was able to get up and run down the street yelling for help. A witness that was driving by and saw Phillips chasing the victim, push her down then begin punching her heard her screams as she was running away. The witness turned his car around and saved the victim from further abuse by Phillips. The witness then drove the victim to meet with sheriff’s deputies.
The victim had several lumps on her head and forehead consistent with being punched with a closed fist, according to reports.
Deputies made contact with Phillips at his residence.
Phillips denied punching the victim as well as pushing her down. Phillips stated that he was chasing the victim, but told deputies she fell on her own.
Phillips was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery While Knowing the Victim was Pregnant (felony). Phillips has had a previous arrest for Battery.
Phillips was released from jail on a $20,000 bond on March 17, 2014.
PBA Responds to City of High Springs Termination of Police Chief Steve Holley:
This morning, in an email to the attorneys representing High Springs Police Chief Steve Holley, the City of High Springs terminated Chief Holley’s employment alleging that he had been absent without authorization from his duties with the High Springs Police Department. The City Manager’s claims are neither factual, honest, legal nor ethical.
On January 27, 2014, High Springs City Manager Ed Booth arranged for a meeting with Chief Holley. During this meeting, Mr. Booth advised Chief Holley that three of the sitting High Springs City Commissioners had expressed to him a desire to terminate his duties as the Chief of Police. At that time, Mr. Booth provided Chief Holley with a document which outlined an ultimatum in which Chief Holley would be allowed to choose between forced retirement and forced demotion to the rank of Sergeant. Additionally, Mr. Booth advised that Chief Holley was being placed on administrative leave with pay until February 17, 2014 so that he may ponder his decision. The basis of Mr. Booth’s actions against Chief Holley was neither substantiated with citizen complaints, allegations of misconduct nor poor performance appraisals. In the same document, Mr. Booth lauded Chief Holley’s law enforcement experience, job knowledge and performance which were the impetus of his offer to remain at the High Springs Police Department as a Sergeant. Instead, Mr. Booth merely advised Chief Holley that “there are three commissioners that want you gone”. Being that Chief Holley’s direct supervisor is Mr. Booth, he obeyed the order he was given and retained the legal assistance provided by the Florida Police Benevolent Association.
During the course of Chief Holley’s ordered administrative leave, Mr. Booth, in several public forums, stated that Chief Holley was unable to perform his duties as Police Chief for “personal reasons”, proposing that Chief Holley had requested leave of his own accord and claiming that Chief Holley was unfit to continue his employ as the High Springs Police Chief. These blatantly disparaging and slanderous claims are wholly fabricated by Mr. Booth in an effort to hide official misconduct on his part. At no time did Chief Holley request any time off from his position as asserted by Mr. Booth. Chief Holley has always been, and to this day remains, ready to serve the citizens of High Springs as their Chief of Police.
At no time since being placed on Administrative Leave by City Manager Ed Booth have Chief Holley, his attorneys or the Florida PBA received any correspondence from the City of High Springs advising that he had been demoted to the rank of Sergeant. It wasn’t until after close of normal business hours on Friday, March 7, 2014, that High Springs City Attorney Scott Walker sent an email to Chief Holley’s attorneys informing them that he was to return to work at the High Springs Police Department. On the morning of Monday, March 10, 2014, Chief Holley’s attorneys contacted Mr. Walker eager to return Chief Holley to his position as Chief of Police. At that time, Mr. Walker informed Chief Holley’s attorneys that his return to the High Springs Police Department would be in the capacity of a Sergeant. That action is in violation of the City of High Springs Personnel Manual as well as the Law Enforcement Officer Bill of Rights. At no time was Chief Holley ordered to return to work by City Manager Ed Booth, the only representative of the City of High Springs with the authority to do so. This is why the email received this morning terminating Chief Holley’s employment for being “AWOL” or absent without leave is so disturbing. Not only is the basis of his termination fabricated, misleading and blatantly untrue, but any effort by the City of High Springs to terminate his employment was completely devoid of even an attempt at affording the due process rights guaranteed to Chief Holley under Florida Law.
Furthermore, the City of High Springs’ actions regarding Chief Holley’s employment status, in particular those actions of City Manager Ed Booth and City Attorney Scott Walker, have violated the provisions of the City Personnel Manual, the City Charter, and state and federal statutes.
Chief Holley loves his job, loves the citizens of High Springs, and has been willing and able to serve as Police Chief every day since January 27, 2014 when he was ordered by Mr. Booth to be placed administrative leave. It is a sad day when those sworn to protect the rights of the citizens provided by the constitution and laws of the State of Florida are denied the ability to exercise their own. The Florida Police Benevolent Association will continue to represent Chief Holley against the slanderous and illegal practices being undertaken by the City of High Springs at the hands of its City Manager and City Attorney.
Ocala, Florida — The Ocala Police Department will have a DUI checkpoint set up on Saturday, March 15, 2014, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. in the 700 block of South Magnolia Avenue.
Along with looking for impaired drivers, OPD officers will also be checking for valid driver’s license, proper insurance documents and valid and up-to-date vehicle registrations.
The DUI checkpoint is not just limited to drivers that commit any of the violations mentioned.
Tallahassee, Florida –On March 13, 2014, the Senate Committee on Appropriations, chaired by Senator Joe Negron (R-Stuart), unanimously approved Senate Bill 156, Motor Vehicle License Taxes. The bill, sponsored by Chair Negron, would reduce certain annual vehicle registration fees by nearly $400 million.
“Our starting point for this year’s tax cut package was legislation passed by the Senate last session which reduced vehicle registration fees by more than $230 million,” said Chair Negron. “From day one we committed to making a reduction in vehicle fees the centerpiece of meaningful tax relief for Florida’s families. I’m pleased that as the bill moved through the committee process, we gained support within the Senate to increase the amount and scope of this needed reduction in fees and I’m grateful to Governor Scott and our colleagues in the House for their leadership on this important issue.”
Senate Bill 156 reduces certain annual fees paid to register a motor vehicle to the amount paid prior to 2009. Based on the latest estimates, the bill reduces fees by $395 million. Annual vehicle registration fees were raised during the height of Florida’s economic decline in 2009, a year when state general revenue collections had declined more than 22 percent since their high in 2005-2006.
As Florida’s economy continues to rebound, tax relief is a joint priority of Senate President Don Gaetz (R-Niceville) and House Speaker Will Weatherford (R-Wesley Chapel) who announced a $500 million tax and fee reduction as a key component of their 5-point Work Plan 2014 joint legislative agenda.
The Senate Appropriations Committee passed four additional Work Plan Florida 2014 priorities today: CS/CS/SB 846 by Senator Jack Latvala (R-Clearwater), SB 928 by Senator Jeremy Ring (D-Margate), SB 1648 by the Committee on Governmental Oversight and Accountability, and Senate Bill 732 by Senator Bill Galvano (R-Bradenton).
Aiming to increase the standard of ethics across the state, SB 846 extends specific provisions within the Code of Ethics, such as anti-nepotism provisions, voting conflict standards, and post-employment lobbying restrictions, to statutorily created quasi-governmental entities, like the Florida Clerk of Courts, Enterprise Florida and Citizens Property Insurance.
Senate Bill 928 develops an Information Technology governance strategy for the state through the creation of an Agency for State Technology, headed by a Chief Information Officer and charged with producing better Information Technology management, security, cost efficiency and customer service.
Senate Bill 1648 substantially strengthens Florida’s existing public records and open government laws by clarifying how the public may access records and how government should respond. The legislation brings additional transparency to organizations that accept membership fees from the government and to businesses with government contracts.
SB 732, Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program, aims to provide the Florida Prepaid College Board better predictability of future tuition and fee payments to universities, thus reducing the cost of prepaid contracts. The maximum assessment and payment for state university registration fees, tuition differential fees, local fees, and dormitory fees is capped at no more than the actual cost charged by the state universities for such fees.
Tallahassee, Florida–The Florida Senate Committee on Health Policy, chaired by Senator Aaron Bean (R-Fernandina Beach), On March 12, 2013, passed Senate Bill 1030, allowing the compassionate use of low-THC grade marijuana for Floridians suffering with severe neurological conditions.
The Republican-led effort sponsored by Senator Rob Bradley (R-Fleming Island) and co-sponsored by Senator Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg) and Chair Bean, would provide a framework for the production and distribution of non-smokable strains of cannabis with high concentrations of CBD, the medicinal component of cannabis, and low levels (.05%) of THC, the psychoactive component in marijuana.
“As parent, I would do anything to prevent my children from suffering, so I sympathize with the compelling testimony from parents forced to seek treatment in other states or face legal jeopardy in Florida.” said Senate President Don Gaetz (R-Niceville). “These parents aren’t criminals. They are desperate to find a solution to help their children who have not found relief with other medications. This legislation allows for the compassionate use of this particular strain of non-smokable medical cannabis and provides for the ongoing study of this type of treatment.”
“I made the decision to file SB 1030 after meeting with the families of children who suffer hundreds of serious seizures every day,” said Senator Bradley. “These desperate parents have tried everything. One father told me that his daughter has been put into a medically induced coma several times. We don’t hear the voices of these Floridians in their 30’s and 40’s because most don’t live past 25. Under current Florida law, if these parents give their suffering children this substance, they are criminals. Simply put, that’s not right, and I filed a bill to fix it.”
SB 1030 creates a pathway toward legal use of substances similar to “Charlotte’s Web,” which is processed into an oil extract and administered by placing a droplet under the tongue, avoiding the harmful side effects of smoking marijuana. The hybrid strain, originally referred to as “Hippie’s Disappointment,” offers the therapeutic benefits of CBD without getting patients “high.” Charlotte’s Web has been reported to provide relief from serious illnesses, including for children suffering from daily seizures associated with epilepsy.
“Charlotte’s Web is different from what the public typically associates with marijuana,” said Chair Bean. “Its non-smokable, non-euphoric, and most importantly provides relief to children suffering from debilitating seizures on a daily basis.”
“This bill is a starting point of a conversation about how Florida should adjust our laws to reflect new advancements in treatment,” said Senator Brandes. “Physicians should have all the tools at their disposal to improve the lives of those suffering from severe conditions like epilepsy.”
Representative Matt Gaetz (R-Shalimar) has filed the companion bill in the House, HB 843.
Polk county, Florida — On Saturday, March 8, 2014, a Lake Wales woman reported that she had been bitten by a raccoon and that her neighbors’ dogs had been fighting with it, in the area of 952 Campbell Avenue.
The PCSO Animal Control Section responded, impounded the raccoon, and sent its body to the state lab for rabies testing.
On March 13, 2014 the raccoon was confirmed positive for rabies by the State Laboratory.
The dogs’ owner was notified of the test results and the dogs will be quarantined for 180 days.
Residents are reminded that bats and raccoons are considered to be a high risk species or “rabies vector species” (RVS). Please do not approach any animal which is acting in an unusual or suspicious manner. If you think you or your pet has had an “exposure,” please contact Animal Control.
