GAINESVILLE – An all-white jury handed down a more than $15 million verdict after a weeklong trial in which Alachua County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) Seargent Kevin Davis claimed racial discrimination.  

The jury awarded Davis, the plaintiff, $115,724 for lost earnings David Macpherson, Ph.D., an economic expert witness, claimed Davis would have realized had he been promoted.  The jury also awarded an astounding $15 million for emotional pain and mental anguish, although there were not any medical or psychological expert witnesses listed in the plaintiff’s witness list to testify to the extent of such pain and anguish.  Oddly, the jury passed on awarding $54,545 in lost pension benefits that the economic expert estimated Davis lost due to the non-promotion.

Davis, a white man who has been employed with ACSO off and on since 1999, filed his lawsuit in February 2023 alleging discrimination by then Sheriff Clovis Watson, Jr.’s administration.  The crux of Davis’ complaint is that less qualified black candidates at the sheriff’s office were promoted into lieutenant positions instead him.  Davis claimed that although he was ranked in the top five candidates for a slate of positions, he was intentionally passed over based on his race.  The defense, however, stated that at the time of Davis’ lawsuit, there had been some 150 promotions, 120 of which were filled with white candidates and approximately 30 were filled with black candidates.

Witnesses for the sheriff’s office, however, testified that Davis has specifically not been recommended for promotion.  Notably, Davis had been seen as problematic, filing multiple Equal Employment Opportunity and other complaints against multiple sheriffs, both black and white.  And despite Davis’ many years on the force, under several sheriffs he had not been highly promoted by any of them.

Davis also claimed that he was retaliated against when he was placed on paid administrative leave during an investigation into Davis’ potential violation of ACSO’s social media policy.  Davis said this paid administrative leave was retaliation for his filing of an Equal Employment Opportunity Complaint.

Former Sheriff Watson testified that he was greatly bothered by assertions that he or his administration acted in a racially biased manner against any of his officers.  Watson harkened back to his time as a former city manager in the City of Alachua where he oversaw the promotion of numerous white employees, including white men and women, who ultimately became city managers in Alachua and elsewhere around the state.

The trial began Monday, Jan. 3, 2025, with jury selection and opening statements.  The plaintiff was scheduled to conclude its case by Wednesday at noon, but by Thursday at noon, it appeared that plaintiff would not rest until Thursday at 3 p.m., leaving little time for the defense, who would need to rush its case or hold the jury late into the evening and possibly through the weekend.  Apparently, the court broke for lunch Friday and sent jurors out to begin deliberations.  By early afternoon, the jurors returned with their surprising verdict.  

The $15 million award seems unlikely to be paid out of public coffers anytime soon.  It’s possible that presiding Judge Gloria Walker could reduce the award, especially if the jury had no evidentiary basis for arriving at the number.  It also seems likely ACSO will appeal the decision based on numerous objections and motions raised before and during trial.

Representing ACSO, Attorney R. Wayne Evans of Allen, Norton, and Blue, P.A. in Tallahassee, Fla., was tight-lipped about the defense’s plans going forward, saying, “They put on their case-in-chief, and we put on our case-in-chief.  We are considering all of our options.”

#     #     #

email editor@

alachuatoday.com

ALACHUA – A new Chick-fil-A restaurant is slated for construction in the City of Alachua.  The news was first shared in a neighborhood meeting notice shared in the Oct. 31, 2024 edition of Alachua County Today.  The new fast-food restaurant is to be located in the new Santa Fe Crossings Plaza, a few parcels west of the recently-opened Wawa convenience store.  Between the Chick-fil-A and Wawa is expected to be a Firestone Tires shop and a car wash.

Chick-fil-A has more than 3,000 locations across 48 states.  Six other Chick-fil-A restaurants already exist in Alachua County, but all are within Gainesville.  Chick-fil-A would be yet another chicken-based fast-food restaurant on Alachua’s 441 corridor, which is already home to Popeye’s, KFC, and Zaxby’s.

The intersection of County Road 235A and U.S. Highway 441 is fast becoming a hotbed of development.  The Alachua County Fire Station 21 in Alachua will soon be relocated from its current facility across from Alachua Elementary School to a newly constructed station on County Road 235A, a short distance south of Ellianos Coffee.

Also, under construction on the southside of U.S. 441 is the headquarters of Tower Hill Insurance, which first broke ground Nov. 28, 2023.  The state-of-the art 65,000 sq-ft two-story building will feature more than 25,000 sq-ft of energy efficient glass and was designed by local architectural firm Paul Stresing Associates. When completed, the facility will house 300 of the company’s 500-plus employees. Tower Hill currently has offices in Gainesville, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., and Lexington, Ky, and operates in 17 states in the U.S. Anticipated construction completion is planned for spring 2025.  

The soon-to-be Tower Hill Insurance headquarters for the 50-year-old firm will be accessed from U.S. Highway 441 at Northwest 167th Boulevard traffic signal, the same signal used from primary access to Alachua’s Publix.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

ALACHUA ‒ The Santa Fe Raiders are hoping a familiar Florida football name can help turn their program around. Florida legend and former NFL running back Earnest Graham has been hired as the team’s head coach for the 2025 season, marking the Raiders' fourth coaching change since 2022.

Graham, who played nine seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is eager for the opportunity. As he shared with The Gainesville Sun, he believes Santa Fe provides the perfect environment to guide young athletes toward success. The school's football facilities and strong community support also factored into his decision.

Before joining Santa Fe, Graham was the offensive coordinator at Gainesville High School, where he worked alongside former Florida Gators teammate Ian Scott. Under their leadership, the team improved its win total over consecutive seasons, finishing with five victories last year.

The Raiders have struggled in recent years, managing just two wins since 2021. In the 2022-23 season, Santa Fe finished 1-9 under head coach Joe Szymanski, and two years later, Jason Wells led the team to the same record. Their last winning season came in 2015-16, when Bill Wiles coached them to an 8-4 finish. Historically, the Raiders have seen success, winning the Class 3A state championship in 1991 and the Class 4A title in 1994.

Graham’s deep ties to Florida football began at Mariner High School, where he was named the state’s Mr. Football in 1997. That season, he rushed for 5,710 yards and scored 86 touchdowns, earning Parade Magazine All-American honors. His high school career was so impactful that the Florida High School Athletic Association later included him on its “100 Greatest Players of the First 100 Years” list in 2007.

At the collegiate level, Graham continued to make a name for himself with the Florida Gators. He was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team in 1999 and earned Second-Team All-SEC honors in 2001. By the time he left Gainesville, he ranked among the program’s all-time leaders in rushing yards and touchdowns.

Despite going undrafted in 2003, Graham carved out a successful NFL career with the Buccaneers, rushing for over 2,000 yards and scoring 15 touchdowns across nine seasons. Known for his relentless work ethic, he became a fan favorite in Tampa Bay.

Following his playing days, Graham transitioned into coaching, quickly making an impact at the high school level. He took over a struggling North Fort Myers program and transformed it into a competitive team, going from a winless season to a .500 record within three years. In 2017, he led the Red Knights to an undefeated season.

His coaching career later took him to Oasis High School, Evangelical Christian, and Woodward Academy. At Woodward, he had the opportunity to coach his son, Myles Graham, who is now following in his father’s footsteps as a linebacker for the Florida Gators.

Now, Graham steps into a challenging role at Santa Fe High School, aiming to bring stability and success to a program that has been searching for a turnaround. With his experience, leadership, and deep Florida football roots, many Raiders are surely hopeful that Graham’s hire will mark the beginning of a new era.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

Event to honor all branches of the military, featuring a celebration of "Gators in Space"; static military and civilian aircraft displays; classic cars; children’s activities; live music; food trucks, aircraft rides over “The Swamp”

GAINESVILLE, Fla., Feb. 12, 2025 – Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) and its FBO, the University Air Center (UAC) will once again host the popular Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day Saturday, March 22, 2025.

A fly-in is a gathering for pilots who arrive by air. The event takes place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (pre-event pancake breakfast at 8:30 a.m.) at University Air Center, 4701 NE 40th Terrace, Gainesville, Fla. (Enter at General Aviation Entrance, Waldo Road) and is open to the public. Admission and parking are free, and a complimentary shuttle will be provided.

“Our annual Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day is our way of honoring all branches of the military, including some great dignitaries, military and civil aviators who will be flying in many different types of aircraft to the UAC for the event,” says Allan Penksa, CEO, Gainesville Regional Airport. “It’s an exciting day for our community — especially anyone who is curious about flight — to learn more about aviation. This year we are especially focused on celebrating 'Gators in Space'. And as always, we look forward to sharing this incredibly special celebration at our airport with the community.”

Celebrating Gators in Space and our Military

Planned events include opening ceremonies with a color guard and flyovers, most notably the “Flown West” ceremony for those who have gone before us. The pre-event fun begins with a continuation of our celebration of the late Col. Joe Kittinger, the first Gator in Space, with the third annual “Col. Joe ‘Pamcake’ Breakfast” at 8:30 a.m., with donations going to Col. Joe’s favorite charity, the International Sky Diving Museum & Hall of Fame (www.skydivingmuseum.org). In addition, Col. Joe’s autobiography, “Come Up and Get Me,” will be available for purchase at the event for $25. At 10 a.m., the gates will open to the public, with all participating aircraft in place. Opening ceremonies begin promptly at 11 a.m., with the National Anthem, sung by Mary Jo Wheeler, (USAF, ret.). At 11:15 a.m. a “Flown West” ceremony will commence, planned to include T34 Mentor and T6 Texan aircraft. In addition, invited dignitaries will make speeches. (Invited Distinguished Aviators include Dr. Robert Ferl, distinguished UF molecular biology professor and director of the new UF Astraeus Space Institute; Mike Ginter, Head of Airline Owner and Pilot’s Association’s [AOPA’s] Air Safety Institute, and U.S. National Aerobatic Champion Patty Wagstaff.) Veterans’ groups from the North Central Florida region have been invited to participate.

 Static Display:

All branches of the military have been invited to fly in and participate in the event’s aircraft static displays. We also expect aircraft manufacturers, privately owned aircraft and law enforcement aircraft to be on display. In addition, the Swamp Launch Rocket Team plans to display rocketry at the event.

 Best Aircraft Contest and People’s Choice Awards

A “Best Civilian Aircraft” and “People’s Choice: Best Aircraft” contest will be held, allowing event attendees to vote for their favorite aircraft at the Gator Fly-In. The two winners will be announced and presented with awards at 2:00 p.m.

 Live Music, Classic Cars, Kids’ Activities and All-Day Food Trucks

Activities include touring static aircraft and car displays by ALR Imports and Gainesville Street Rods, military trucks, a kid’s corner with face painting, toy airplanes and coloring, arts and crafts vendors, and food trucks. Live Music by The Treetop Flyers will take place throughout the event. In addition to the “Col. Joe ‘Pamcake’ Breakfast” from 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m., food trucks and a variety of food vendors will operate throughout the event.

 Aircraft Rides for purchase – Commemorative Air Force - Tampa Wing, Robinson 44 Helicopter, Bell 47-G and Cessna 172; “Swamp Tours”

For a fee, attendees can purchase rides in a variety of aircraft. Commemorative Air Force, Airbase Tampa will provide rides in several different aircraft, with specific information on how to sign up to be posted closer to the event. 

Walk-up tickets can also be purchased at the event. In addition, UAC is offering “Swamp Tours” lasting about 15 minutes, in which passengers can fly over the UF Football Stadium in a Cessna 172 ($50) or a Bell 47-G or Robinson R-44 helicopter ($50).

A wide variety of general aviation, corporate, aerobatic, glider and homebuilt aircraft are expected at the Gator Fly-In.

All branches of the military have been invited to fly in and participate in the event’s static display. As of this news release, possible military aircraft include MH-60 Blackhawk, Boeing P-8 Poseidon, Lockheed P-3 Orion, North American T-6 Texan, Lockheed 26-B and T-34B Mentor, as well as Shandscair Helicopter and Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Helicopter, and Life South Bloodplane aircraft. Confirmed military aircraft will be updated as they are scheduled. We also expect aircraft manufacturers, privately owned aircraft and law enforcement aircraft to be on display. All aircraft and pilots are subject to change due to weather, mechanicals and availability.

 A schedule for the day follows:

1. 7 a.m. Vendors arrive for set up
2. Pre-Event: 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Third Annual Col. Joe “Pamcake” Breakfast
3. 9 a.m. – aircraft arrive and park; all aircraft parked by 9:30 a.m.
4. 10 a.m. – Public Arrive; helicopter and airplane rides begin
5. 11 a.m. Opening Ceremony
6. 11:15 a.m. Flown West Ceremony
7. 11:20 p.m. Speakers begin
8. 12 noon Live Music, food trucks
9. 2:00 p.m. People’s choice and Best of Show Airplane Contest Announced
10. 3 p.m. Final thank you and prep for departures

Please tell your flying friends and anyone who enjoys aviation. For more information on the Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day, please contact  paml@universityaircenter.com or phone (352) 416-0787, visit the Gator Fly-In Facebook page  or visit https://www.flygainesville.com.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

HIGH SPRINGS – A devoted guardian dog from High Springs has been named the 2025 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year, bringing national recognition to Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses and their unique mission of healing.

Sirius, a 6-year-old Maremma sheepdog, won the prestigious title in a competition hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) with support from Nestlé Purina PetCare. He was honored at the AFBF Convention on Jan. 26, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas.

Sirius serves as the protector of Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, a multiple award winning 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity celebrating 28 years of service based in High Springs that provides comfort and emotional support to people in hospitals, hospice programs, assisted living centers, and to those who have experienced traumatic events. Their therapy horses have visited children’s hospitals, veterans, first responders, and survivors of tragedies across the country.

While the miniature therapy horses are bringing hope and joy to people in need, Sirius ensures their safety back home. The Maremma sheepdog is a guardian breed, known for its natural instinct to protect livestock from predators. His role on the farm is vital, keeping the horses secure from potential threats such as wild animals or intruders.

Jorge and Debbie Garcia-Bengochea, co-founders of Gentle Carousel, describe Sirius as the “hero behind the heroes.”

“Guardian dogs are like having a 24/7 security system on the farm,” Jorge said. “I feel great about the farm being safe and very proud of what Sirius is doing to protect the horses.”

Sirius performs many tasks essential to farm life, including patrolling the property, watching for predators, and ensuring that the therapy horses can rest peacefully without fear of danger. His presence allows the organization to continue its life-changing work without worrying about the safety of their animals.

The Farm Dog of the Year contest, now in its seventh year, highlights the essential role that farm dogs play on farms and ranches across the country. AFBF President Zippy Duvall emphasized the impact of these hardworking canines.

“Farm dogs often play a dual role as both working dogs and companions to farm and ranch families,” Duvall said. “Farming is very rewarding but stressful at times. Farm dogs can help ease the burden. It has been a pleasure partnering with Purina for the seventh annual Farm Dog of the Year contest, providing the public a glimpse of daily life on the farm.”

Sirius was chosen as the winner by a panel of judges specializing in veterinary medicine, pet care, and communications. As part of his award, Sirius received $5,000 in prize money, a trophy plate, a year’s supply of Pro-Plan dog food, and other Purina products.

This recognition not only celebrates Sirius but also brings national attention to Gentle Carousel’s mission. Their therapy horses have brought comfort to thousands of people, including survivors of natural disasters, mass shootings, and other traumatic events. The organization’s work has been featured in news outlets worldwide, and now, with Sirius in the spotlight, their farm's dedication to both therapy and animal welfare is receiving well-deserved recognition.

As Sirius continues his duties protecting the beloved miniature horses, Gentle Carousel will continue its mission of spreading hope, one visit at a time.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

• Otter training demonstrations
• Keeper talks 
• Crafts and activities 
• A special gift for zoo members

GAINESVILLE – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a sweeping new law Thursday at the Capitol that puts him in charge of a new state board of immigration enforcement, toughens punishments for crimes committed by immigrants in the U.S. illegally and requires state and local governments to cooperate with federal deportation efforts.

The new law, passed during a four-day special session of the Legislature, also cancels in-state tuition for immigrants at Florida’s public colleges and universities who are here illegally and prohibits the state from issuing driver’s licenses to those immigrants. It also permits Florida’s disaster management agency to deport immigrants aboard state planes and seek reimbursement from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The new law also makes it illegal for others to aid or solicit a non-citizen immigrant to vote in elections. It already was illegal in Florida for those immigrants to vote, and there is no evidence such voting has taken place on any significant scale.

In Tallahassee, the governor and legislative leaders billed the new immigration package as a compromise, after DeSantis had criticized an earlier proposal approved Jan. 28 by the Legislature as “weak, weak, weak.” The new bill effectively put DeSantis in charge of immigration policy in Florida, while the previous measure – which DeSantis had threatened to veto – gave that authority to the elected commissioner of agriculture.

“I absolutely anticipate other states will follow what Florida has done as we move forward in the weeks and months ahead.” DeSantis said. “We are ahead of the curve on ending the illegal immigration crisis. We didn't just set our hands. We got to work.”

Under the new law, a new immigration enforcement council will advise the state immigration enforcement board. The council will include police chiefs appointed by the governor, attorney general, chief financial officer and agriculture commissioner, plus sheriffs selected by the Senate president and House speaker. The council’s first meeting must take place by April 1.

Thursday’s action ended a surprisingly bitter and rare disagreement between the Republican governor and GOP-led House and Senate. 

DeSantis said he did not take the disagreement personally and harbored no hard feelings toward Florida legislators, after they snubbed him by immediately adjourning his special session, beginning their own and overriding a previous budget veto for legislative funding in January.

Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Bartow, said the disputes were part of a healthy legislative exercise.

“It's very complex. It's very complicated,” Albritton said. “I'll just tell you that our Republican family, we're together, and we are moving forward together.”

House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, agreed.

“This is just a disagreement. It's normal. It's healthy,” Perez said. “People wanted to make this seem like a feud, but it wasn't. It was just a disagreement on how to get to the finish line.”

The bill passed in the Senate 27-10 and in the House 85-30 largely along party-line voting.

“The recent dynamics between the House, the Senate and the governor's office may have made some of us a little bit uncomfortable over the last couple weeks, but the reality is that experience is healthy,” said Rep. Adam Anderson, R-Tarpon Springs. “It proved that when we all work together, we produce the best possible product for Floridians, and that product is before us today.”

Rep. Wallace Aristide, D-North Miami Beach, acknowledged concerns about crimes committed by immigrants but defended other immigrants working for better opportunities, citing his family’s experiences.

“There's two sides to a story,” Aristide said. “I'm against those that are here, illegally committing crime, doing something wrong. We can't support it, but I got to support those that are trying to make their lives better for themselves and their family.”

Most provisions of the new law took effect immediately after DeSantis signed it. In-state tuition for students who were immigrants in the U.S. illegally will end July 1.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Florida Governor DeSantis is charting a new course for Florida’s recreational boaters, urging state lawmakers Tuesday to prohibit marine law enforcement officers from stopping boats on the water for inspections unless there is reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.

During an appearance at a boat show in Miami Beach, the governor said he was announcing a “boater freedom initiative” that would change Florida’s existing laws permitting inspections and searches of boats under the justification of safety checks. 

The move would represent a major change for maritime law enforcement. DeSantis called the existing law “a wrong that has been an issue in this state for far too long.” It wasn’t clear how any change to Florida law would affect operations by the U.S. Coast Guard in the state’s waters.

“We don’t want to have our boaters to be unnecessarily interfered with,” DeSantis said. He described marine law enforcement officers as “sometimes well meaning.” 

“People who are just out enjoying themselves when there’s no indication that anything is wrong, they should not be subjected to these intensive searches,” DeSantis said at the Miami International Boat Show.

The Legislature’s annual session begins next month for 60 days. 

State law allows authorities to stop and inspect boats, passengers and search any containers on board without probable cause. Officers routinely check a boater’s registration paperwork, fishing licenses or catches, storage containers or coolers, life preservers and required safety equipment – and a boater’s sobriety.

DeSantis said the law has resulted in unwarranted inspections and cited an example that went viral from August, when law enforcement arrested a Jupiter executive who later blew a 0.0 in a breathalyzer. DeSantis met with the executive two weeks ago, on Jan. 29, according to a copy of the governor’s official schedule. 

Michael Christian Arrieta, 36, was on the Loxahatchee River with his wife on board when a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officer stopped him. Arrieta was driving his boat on full plane in a slow speed zone, according to his arrest report.

Per the officer’s instructions, Arrieta performed a series of sobriety tasks before being arrested and accused of operating the boat under the influence. 

“I’m with all my kids right now,” Arrieta told the officer. “You don’t smell alcohol on my breath. There’s not one ounce of alcohol on the boat.” At one point during the encounter, Arrieta told the officer he is a church elder, knows the local police chief personally and said, “Sir, if you Google me, I’m on Governor Ron DeSantis’ council, OK?” 

It wasn’t immediately clear which council Arrieta was describing. A search of the governor’s appointment announcements didn’t show one for Arrieta. He was not among the members of the governor’s Faith-Based and Community-Based Advisory Council, according to the council’s website. The governor’s press office did not immediately respond to a request for an explanation.

According to the arrest report, Arrieta told his wife to “call multiple high-ranking officials” in the state to demand the officer’s name and badge number.

The incident was captured on video through the officer’s body camera and shared online.

Arrieta, who was never charged with a crime, said in a new interview Tuesday the situation was traumatizing for him and his family. He declined to discuss the governor’s new proposal or the incident further.

DeSantis also said Tuesday he intends to repeal a restriction some state municipalities enforce that ban fuel-based boats on the water.

“You don’t need to be driving an electric boat if you don’t want to,” he said.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

~ The suspect has prior charges in California for attempted kidnapping, attempted rape, stalking, luring and enticing a minor, and assault with a deadly weapon ~

FORT MYERS, Fla.- Yesterday, a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) Trooper was approached by a pedestrian at an apartment complex on Eastwood Acres Road in Fort Myers. The pedestrian, a resident of the apartment complex, informed the Trooper that his 12-year-old daughter had missed her bus and was followed by a large male on foot who repeatedly tried to engage her in conversation as she made her way back to their residence.

The resident also reported that this suspect had been seen entering the apartment complex through the bushes at least three times while attempting to conceal himself. The Trooper then activated his emergency
lights and made contact with the indiviual the resident pointed out.

After locating the suspect, the Trooper approached him. Using the individuals California driver's license, he confirmed his identity as Thomas Christopher Karba, 37, from Ventura, California.

Karba advised he was walking through the complex to find a place to rent. When asked why he was attempting to engage a minor in conversation, Karba said he was unaware she was a minor. The Trooper then spoke to the apartment manager, who confirmed that Karba was not a resident and that he did not have any family living in the apartment complex. She also stated that Karba had never entered the apartment leasing office to inquire about renting an apartment.

The Trooper spoke to the juvenile, who explained that after missing the bus, she was walking back home when Karba began following her and asked how old she was and where she lived. She explained that he was walking closely behind her, which made her feel fearful due to his aggressive and persistent questioning, along with his imposing stature. Upon entering her apartment complex, she saw her father working outside and quickly informed him of the situation. Observing this, Karba bagan walking in the opposite direction. The suspect was then seen by the resident/father circling the apartment complex on foot three  times within two hours, causing him to flag down the Trooper for assistance.

Upon conducting a criminal history check on Karba, he was found to have previous charges in California related to kidnapping, assault with intent to rape, and assault with a deadly weapon. Karba also had arrests in Florida for stalking, attempting to lure or entice a child under 12, and loitering or prowling.

Thomas Christopher Karba was arrested by the Florida Highway Patrol and is charged with the following:

• Loitering or prowling
• Luring or enticing a child under the age of 12
• Stalking, following, or harassing

Karba was transported and booked at Lee County Jail without incident; there is no bond. The investigation remains active. The redacted report is linked here. Redactions are in accordance with § 119.071(2)(h)1., Florida Statute. Additional information is unavailable at this time.

#     #     #

Email editor@

alachuatoday.com

GAINESVILLE – In a groundbreaking effort to combat animal cruelty in Florida, the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine has partnered with three State Attorney’s offices to create the North Florida Animal Cruelty Task Force. This initiative represents a significant step toward addressing animal abuse and ensuring justice for the state’s most vulnerable creatures.

The task force includes representatives from Volusia, Flagler, St. Johns, Putnam, Baker, Bradford, Union, Levy, Gilchrist, Alachua, Duval, Clay, and Nassau counties and brings together law enforcement, animal services, veterinarians, and legal professionals to investigate and prosecute cases of animal cruelty effectively.

“The goal of this task force is to enable law enforcement, animal services, veterinarians, and the State Attorney’s offices to collaborate effectively in investigating and prosecuting animal cruelty crimes throughout North Florida,” said Adam Stern, D.V.M., a professor of veterinary forensic pathology at UF and the head of the UF Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory. Stern played a key role in forming the group, which had its inaugural meeting in October.

The task force spans Florida’s Fourth, Seventh, and Eighth Judicial Circuits and includes members from agencies such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, county sheriff’s offices, and local law enforcement.

“There are multiple external factors that impede animal abuse investigations and the successful prosecution of those who commit animal cruelty,” Stern said. He emphasized that the task force represents a major step forward, addressing critical issues such as enhanced collaboration between agencies, educational training for investigators, prosecutors, and others involved in animal cruelty cases, and resource-sharing to improve investigation outcomes.

The alliance also seeks to strengthen Florida’s response to animal cruelty by providing educational programs to task force members, including those not formally trained in investigating such cases.

Stern noted the established connection between animal cruelty and interpersonal violence, often referred to as “The Link.” Research has shown that animal abuse frequently serves as a precursor to, or occurs alongside, other forms of violence, such as child abuse, domestic violence, and elder abuse.

“The development of this animal cruelty task force is an essential step in breaking the cycle of violence,” Stern said. “This task force will enable agencies to pool resources, share intelligence, and develop educational programs to protect animals throughout the region.”

The task force’s mission underscores the importance of providing animals the protection they are entitled to under Florida law. Beyond prosecutions, the task force is committed to raising awareness and training professionals to improve investigations.

The public is urged to report any suspicious activity involving animal cruelty or abuse to the appropriate authorities.

#     #     #

Email cwalker@

alachuatoday.com

We want to thank the Alachua County Today community for strongly supporting the Alachua Main Street Harvest Festival this past Sunday.

There were over 200 vendors with all types of products and a record crowd that was amazing from start to finish.  The vendors do a fantastic job of coming early and setting up for a big day and they were rewarded. 

Our 37^th Alachua Main Street festival was a resounding success!

Marilyn Vanover

Alachua Business League

Small municipalities are currently undergoing numerous changes and financial problems. Elected officials often spearhead projects within their cities, but I do not see much of that taking place in my city of Archer. In most cases we have no oversight, follow up or plans. The lack of these brings about project delays affecting the utilization of grants and other resources in the city.

It is a sad thing to see the newly planned Community Center project for the Holly Hills neighborhood going down the drain and grant funding being returned.

Municipalities are grappling with an influx of grant funds aimed at addressing numerous community projects. As someone who has authored and received numerous grants, I can attest that effective leadership is crucial for fund management. The associated reports alone are intricate. This underscores the importance of well -trained municipal managers and staff, including contingency training.

The city manager should be a proficient communicator, hands-on, and proactive, engaging with the community to address the needs. The city manager assumes a leadership role, ensuring task are completed, while the commissioners act as overseers, bridging the gap between politics and administration and executing the laws.

Citizens and residents in many small towns like Archer often refrain from participating in the political process. Attending meetings become futile when the issue affecting you have already transpired, rendering your input belated.

We all contribute taxes to support our cities and understanding how the funds are spent is crucial.

Roberta C. Lopez

Archer, Florida

Our small town of High Springs is beloved because its elected leaders have done more things right than wrong over time. Just like with big families, there is rarely unanimous agreement on how issues should be addressed. Issues are not simple, and leaders that let you believe the choices are not hard are fooling you. What usually tells the truth is time.

In the past year, High Springs has received no new grant funding, returned over a million dollars in grants, lost leaders in every major department other than police, while retaining an under qualified finance director. Our mayor and other first-term commissioners have blamed former staff and former elected officials for a range of problems and suddenly the city is portrayed as poor.

For the first time in years, our city is being sued. Current leadership has accepted no responsibility and created a budget, that in the coming year, will repeat many of the mistakes previous commissions had been working for years to fix.

The stage is now set for our community to lose our exceptional Fire Department.  Current commissioners have lowered expectations for what a small-town department can offer.  They have hired leadership with little experience and the slow recovery from the recent storms are an example of what we have lost.

Do you see a pattern?

Luckily, we have two citizens who are willing to step up, accept responsibility, make decisions and guide our growing town to its future.

They have experience in public service; they have training in emergency management, large budgets, and leadership. Sue Weller has felt compelled to return to office because of the intentional mistruths spoken by our mayor.

Ross Ambrose

High Springs Resident

To fellow High Springs voters:

I have been a resident of High Springs since 1979 with a unique multi view experience of our City's political climate and government.

Back in the 1980s, I worked as a paralegal for the then High Springs City Attorney. Decades later, my husband served on the High Springs Commission and later became City Attorney for High Springs before the City's current legal counsel. I have spent the past 28 years working for a local developer and real estate investor managing both residential apartments and professional commercial properties in the City of High Springs.

Over the decades, I have witnessed Commissions that have operated as a cohesive body following the Charter, working with the City Manager, and conducting City business with thoughtful, well versed and trained leadership. Unfortunately, I have also witnessed Commissions that have been riddled with partisanship, discourse, and lack of training trying to manage staff at City Hall and make decisions outside of the Commission as a whole.

Unfortunately, we are again experiencing this type of local government climate. Our City is in crisis. The turnover rate from the number of employees leaving the City has resulted in great inefficiency in services to our citizens, not to mention the lack of transparency within our government causing many citizens to be uninformed at best or ill-informed at worst.

We need proven, experienced non-partisan leadership, and that is why I am endorsing Sue Weller for Seat #5 for the High Springs City Commission. As many voters know, Sue served on the Commission from 2010 through 2016.

What voters may not know is that Sue has stayed continually engaged in the governance of High Springs. She has served on multiple boards as well as faithfully followed the City Commission meetings live or online. Her depth of knowledge around our Charter and our history regarding planned responsible growth are pluses in a time when there are many gaps in our City's continuity in leadership.

Sue's professionalism and ability to stay neutral while listening to our citizens is refreshing and supportive of the direction we want to take our City.

A vote for Sue Weller provides an opportunity to begin to restore and rebuild the City's reputation and service to our residents; supports a healthy cohesive working environment for City staff; and strongly sends the message that we believe our commissioners should be willing to attend Florida League of Cities training programs for new commissioners as well as continuing education classes for current commissioners.

I personally am grateful that Sue Weller is willing to serve our community again; especially at a time when we so need proven leadership. I love High Springs and I know that we, as voting citizens, can help our City course correct and return to service and civility. Please join me in making sure this opportunity to have Sue Weller back on the Commission is not missed.

Alvalyn Lancaster

High Springs, Florida 32643

Tim Marden, Alachua County Republican Chairman, seeks to divide us and spew hatred whenever and wherever he can. He recently sent out a letter concerning the upcoming City Commission election in High Springs. Such elections are non-partisan, i.e., the candidates do not list their political affiliations and a candidate’s party affiliation is not listed on the ballot.

Marden tries to create an issue about Precinct 60 voting place being moved from the 1^st Methodist Church to the newly named and remodeled Douglas Community Center. He incorrectly states that Ross Ambrose “quietly initiated” such polling change “earlier this year.”

Mr. Ambrose originally brought this proposed change about four years ago. Polling places are supposed to be in the precinct that they represent. The church is not in Precinct 60. The Douglas Community Center is. Ms. Barton [Alachua County Supervisor of Elections], after the recent renovation of the Center, determined that it is now “a suitable location” in Precinct 60, and moved the polling place to the Center.

Marden questions the “last minute” change, but the renovation was finished only about a month ago and the request to move the polling place from the church originated about four years ago. But don’t let facts get in the way if Marden wants to spew hatred.

He writes that Barton has made two changes that directly affect the votes of Republicans. What about those voters (Republican and Democratic, alike) who live in Precinct 60 and have to drive to the church? No, Marden doesn’t’ care about that. In Marden’s mind Barton’s decision is solely to hinder Republican voters.

Lastly, Marden states that voters in Precinct 60 have to be told of the polling change. I don’t know the date that his letter went out, but voters in Precinct 60 have already received such a notice in the mail.

Marden follows up his imagined tirade with directions to vote for Katherine “against” Sue Weller and Judith Jensen against Kim Barton. Such wording only shows that Marden spews hatred, has no knowledge of the facts (or totally avoids them) and wants to spread his hatred to others. As for Sue Weller’s stand on the issues …. Her campaign sign says it all, “No politics, Just issues.”

Thomas R. Weller

High Springs, FL 32643

We wish to express our gratitude to:

Jeremy Marshall, City Manager of High Springs, and his staff for their continued support of the citizens of High Springs during Hurricane Helene.  Public Works, in particular, was out in full force clearing roads and grinder pumps in addition to many other issues.  

Commissioners were out in force to provide assistance to High Springs residents.

Police Chief Shepherd and his officers and staff for their assistance.  We know that they were out in this storm protecting our community.  

Fire Chief Peters and his firefighters and staff for their efforts in keeping our community safe.

Friends and neighbors were out in force with their tractors and other equipment to clear roads for incoming power trucks.  Also checking on each other to see if assistance was needed.  

Everyone was too busy working to post their efforts on social media.  They did what they did because it was the right thing to do.  

We have had a rough time during the past few years and have come a long way in the past year to bring our City into a better place in leadership and financially.  I have personally talked to city staff about morale and it is at its highest.

There is a small group of people who are intent on bringing the City back into their control.  If you do not follow their lead, they will do whatever is necessary to remove you from office or position in city hall.

It is imperative that you vote!  Vote early or request a mail-in ballot! Vote to re-elect Katherine Weitz, our current mayor.  Vote to elect Julie Rawls Tapia-ruano.  Citizens of High Springs are at the forefront of their mission, which includes supporting the City of High Springs.  We need diversity on the five-member board.  Having two police officers on the board would compromise diversity.

Bob & Linda Jones

High Springs, Florida