Local

Right: Terri Moody recognized for pioneering programs in Alachua County

ALACHUA ‒ This past Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, the 399 Sports organization once again demonstrated the power of community by hosting its annual opening ceremonies for youth basketball. The highlight of the day was the heartfelt recognition of three local heroes who have been pivotal in shaping the culture of mentorship and character development for the youth in Alachua and High Springs.

The 2025 399/Horace Jenkins Award honored Deacon Horace “Skeet” Garrison, Terri Moody, and Brandon Wilson—three individuals who have gone above and beyond in building a foundation of support and positivity for young athletes.

Honoring a Legacy: Horace “Skeet” Garrison

Deacon Horace Garrison, affectionately known as “Coach Skeet,” left an indelible mark on the community through more than five decades of volunteer service. As one of the founding members of the youth basketball organization, Garrison’s leadership and mentorship touched the lives of countless individuals in Alachua and High Springs. He also dedicated his time to coaching youth football for the Santa Fe Pop Warner League, leaving a legacy of teamwork and perseverance. While Garrison passed away in March 2024, his memory and influence live on as a cornerstone of the “Good Life Community.”

Pioneering Progress: Terri Moody

Terri Moody’s contributions to youth sports began in the late 1990s when she spearheaded the creation of Alachua County’s first youth volleyball league. Known as the “founding mother” of recreation volleyball in the area, Moody’s initiative has grown into a thriving program, with volleyball now one of the most popular youth sports in the region. Her efforts not only provided opportunities for young athletes but also set a precedent for future leaders in the community.

Leading with Passion: Brandon Wilson

Brandon Wilson, the founder and current president of 399 Sports, continues to make a difference in the community every day. Under his leadership, the organization has become a beacon of unity and growth. Wilson and his family’s tireless volunteer efforts—from organizing uniforms and managing concessions to producing rosters—have made youth sports accessible and memorable for all participants. His commitment ensures the tradition of community-centered recreation thrives for years to come.

Saturday’s opening ceremonies culminated in thrilling basketball games, bringing together families and fans to cheer on the young athletes. It was a reminder of the incredible impact sports have in fostering connections and character development.

Looking ahead, 399 Sports is excited to welcome the community back for the next home games on Feb. 1, 2025, at the Legacy Multipurpose Center. With leaders like Garrison, Moody, and Wilson who have paved the way, the future of youth recreation in Alachua and High Springs is bright and inspiring.

This weekend wasn’t just about basketball—it was a celebration of the values that make a community strong: dedication, mentorship, and the joy of coming together for a common goal.

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HIGH SPRINGS –The holiday spirit was in full swing on the morning of Dec. 23, 2024, as the High Springs Police Department (HSPD) teamed up with the City of High Springs and the High Springs Fire Department to spread Christmas cheer to local families. Known as Operation Holiday Cheer, the initiative brought gifts, clothing, and much-needed support to over 60 children and 30 families, ensuring a joyous holiday season for many in the community.

This annual tradition, dating back to 2008, relies on the generosity of citizens, local businesses, community groups, and churches. Starting in the fall, donations of new toys, shoes, books, and clothing pour in so that HSPD and other first responders can organize deliveries directly to the homes of families in need.

This year’s event grew larger than ever, bolstered by a Dec. 9, 2024 donation from representatives of Cox, who presented HSPD Police Chief Antoine Sheppard with 75 Walmart gift cards, each valued at $50. These gift cards provided an extra layer of support to families facing financial strain during the holidays.

Chief Sheppard expressed gratitude for Cox’s contribution:

“We would like to thank Cox and all of our community partners who help us provide support to those families in need.”

In addition to supplying the gift cards, Cox went above and beyond by fulfilling the holiday wish list of one local 10-year-old and surprising the child’s mother with a special gift. This personal touch exemplified the generosity and kindness that underpins Operation Holiday Cheer each year.

Before the big day, HSPD staff carefully planned the distribution route, ensuring they could visit each selected home and personally deliver gifts. The coordinated effort allowed first responders to connect with families on a personal level, offering a reminder that the season is about more than presents—it’s about community.

At the conclusion of deliveries on Dec. 23, Chief Sheppard expressed his appreciation for everyone who participated, “Your generosity and support remind us of the power of community and kindness,” said Sheppard. “From all of us at the High Springs Police Department, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

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ALACHUA ‒ The Alachua Police Department (APD) has released its 2024 year-in-review report, offering a comprehensive look at the top 10 calls for service and highlighting the department’s commitment to safeguarding the community. Over the course of the year, APD responded to 16,357 calls, ranging from routine citizen assists to critical incidents requiring speedy intervention.

Top 10 Calls for Service in 2024

1. Increase Patrols (5,364) The most frequently requested and conducted activity was increasing patrols, reflecting both proactive policing efforts and community concerns. Whether addressing speeding complaints, suspicious behavior, or simply providing a visible presence in neighborhoods, officers took steps to deter criminal activity and reassure residents.
2. Traffic Stops (3,437) Traffic enforcement remained a key focus, as APD cracked down on unsafe driving practices. By conducting stops for speeding, running red lights, and other infractions, officers aimed to reduce collisions and protect motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
3. Traffic Issues, Disabled Vehicles, or Hazardous Conditions (1,147) From clearing road debris to assisting stranded drivers, APD handled a variety of traffic-related issues. Quick responses to disabled vehicles, malfunctioning traffic lights, and road obstructions helped alleviate congestion and prevent accidents.
4. Citizen & Business Assist (742) Calls for assistance spanned everything from locked-out motorists and lost property to local businesses requesting guidance during peak hours.
5. Disturbances (688) Officers often dealt with noise complaints, arguments, and other civil disagreements. By mediating conflicts and restoring order, APD helped maintain peace in residential areas and commercial areas.
6. Assist Other Agencies (670) Collaboration remained central to APD’s mission. Whether backing up county deputies or supporting emergency medical services, these calls demonstrated how joint efforts across agencies can enhance public safety and resource sharing.
7. Unsuspicious Vehicles, Persons, or Activity (636)       While many calls initially appeared concerning—such as unknown parked vehicles or unidentified individuals near businesses—further investigation frequently revealed no criminal intent.
8. Follow-Up Investigations (611) Once initial reports were taken, officers often returned to gather more information, check new leads, or maintain contact with victims and witnesses.
9. Vehicle Accidents (482) Crashes varied from minor fender benders to more serious collisions. Prompt responses not only aided those involved but also helped prevent secondary accidents by clearing roadways and offering immediate assistance.
10. Alarm Calls (405) Residential and commercial alarm activations ranged from false triggers to authentic security breaches. Every alarm call received a swift investigation, reinforcing APD’s emphasis on deterrence and rapid response.

Additional Significant Activity

• 911 Hangups (286) These nearly 300 calls posed challenges for dispatchers and officers alike, as they often had limited information. Quick follow-up helped confirm emergencies or dismiss accidental dialings.
• Well-Being Checks (235) Family, friends, and neighbors frequently contacted APD to ensure a loved one’s safety. Officers typically assessed living conditions, checked for signs of distress, and provided referrals to social services if needed.
• Animal Issues (177) APD tackled a variety of animal-related calls. Coordinating with animal control, officers worked to reunite lost pets with owners or address dangerous situations.
• Thefts (129) Common theft scenarios included shoplifting and stolen personal belongings. APD encouraged community members to remain vigilant, lock doors, and report suspicious behavior to deter property crimes.
• Burglaries (64) These incidents affected both homes and businesses, underscoring the importance of security measures like proper lighting and alarm systems. APD continued to investigate patterns and collaborate with residents to prevent further break-ins.
• Baker/Marchman Acts (51) Officers assisted individuals in crisis, ensuring those struggling with mental health or substance abuse received appropriate evaluation and care. These interventions highlight APD’s dual role in law enforcement and community welfare.
• Vehicle Thefts (17) Though a smaller category, auto thefts still demanded coordinated efforts to recover stolen vehicles and apprehend suspects.
• Suicide Investigations (4) Each of these calls required a measured, compassionate response. APD officers facilitated immediate crisis support and later followed up with grief counseling resources for affected families.

While the list above encompasses the most common calls, APD noted other frequent requests for service—such as reports of suspicious incidents, trespassing, or noise disturbances—further reflecting the department’s wide-ranging responsibilities.

Additionally, in 2024, APD’s Criminal Investigations Division received 15 cyber tips concerning internet crimes against children. These complex investigations underscore the department’s dedication to identifying and assisting at-risk minors, collaborating with state and federal agencies to combat online exploitation.

Throughout the year, APD continued engagement with residents and local businesses. Neighborhood watch programs, safety workshops, and community policing events all helped foster open dialogue and mutual respect. Police Chief Jesse Sandusky emphasized the importance of these partnerships moving into 2025, “We thank our residents for their continued trust and support.”

For details about the Alachua Police Department’s services, safety resources, or to learn how to participate in community initiatives, visit the City of Alachua Police Department website or follow APD on social media.

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HAWTHORNE ‒ Wesley Robert Fickett, 44, was arrested on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, for allegedly sexually abusing a young teenage girl over a six-month period in various locations, including a secluded area in Lochloosa known as “Long Bridge.”

The incidents reportedly took place over six months and in several locations, including an area in Lochloosa known as “Long Bridge,” a secluded bridge that crosses a creek. Wesley Robert Fickett allegedly gave the girl alcohol at least once before having sex with her. The victim told an investigator from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office that they had sexual intercourse approximately 10 times.

Deputies apprehended Fickett as he was driving away from his home. During a post-Miranda interview, Fickett denied having any sexual relations with the victim but admitted to taking her to “Long Bridge” on several occasions to drink alcohol. He claimed their interactions involved “talks about sex” to answer her “sexual questions” and noted that a few of those encounters were “hazy.” He denied any inappropriate activity and ultimately requested an attorney, ending the interview.

Fickett has been charged with three counts of lewd or lascivious battery and three counts of a person over 18 causing a person under 18 to come into contact with certain bodily fluids.

Fickett’s complete criminal history is unavailable, but he successfully completed a deferred prosecution agreement following a 2000 arrest for marijuana possession, and the charge was dropped. Two domestic battery cases from 2018 were later dropped. Also in 2018, he was charged in Putnam County with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and property damage and entered a plea of nolo contendere to a reduced charge of simple battery and property damage, with a sentence of 120 days in jail, followed by 12 months of probation.

Judge Adam Lee ordered Fickett held without bail pending a hearing on a motion from the State Attorney’s office to hold him without bail until trial.

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HAWTHORNE – A 26-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, at 2:36 p.m. after allegedly shooting a squirrel on private residential property and being found in possession of 38 grams of marijuana and a scale.

Deputies from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report from a resident in the 22600 block of Southeast 62^nd Avenue in Hawthorne, who said a man was walking through her yard with a rifle. The resident provided deputies with still images and video footage showing a black man in a reddish-orange shirt, black pants, and carrying a backpack, a long gun, and a white bag. One video reportedly captured the man picking up a squirrel and placing it into the bag while on the resident’s property.

Deputies later located Adrion Keith Flowers in the 5900 block of Southeast 226^th Street. He was reportedly wearing the clothing seen in the images and carrying a rifle. Upon being ordered to drop the weapon, Flowers complied. As he was being handcuffed, Flowers allegedly stated that he was using a pellet gun to kill squirrels. Deputies reported finding multiple dead squirrels in the white bag Flowers was carrying.

A deputy noted a strong smell of marijuana coming from Flowers. A subsequent search of his backpack reportedly revealed 38 grams of marijuana in three separate bags, a scale, and two mason jars containing additional marijuana. Flowers allegedly told deputies he had a medical marijuana card and that his marijuana was legal. However, the arresting deputy reported that the packaging and weighing of the marijuana in separate bags suggested an intent to sell.

The rifle carried by Flowers was identified as an air pellet rifle. Post-Miranda, Flowers reportedly declined to answer any questions.

Flowers has been charged with firing a potentially dangerous projectile across private property to take wild game, possession of marijuana with intent to sell and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Flowers’ criminal history includes juvenile convictions between 2013 and 2016, two adult felony convictions, and five adult misdemeanor convictions, two of which were for violent offenses. In April 2024, he was arrested for domestic battery at Harbor Cove in Gainesville, but those charges were later dropped.

Bail was set at $50,000 by Judge Adam Lee.

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ALACHUA ‒ The Alachua County Arts Council has announced the return of its annual Artists Conference, scheduled for Friday, April 25, 2025. Now in its fourth year, the event aims to foster connections and learning within the local arts community.

The council is currently seeking presenters for the conference. Prospective speakers are encouraged to propose sessions that would engage and benefit the arts community. Each presentation should run between 30 to 60 minutes, including time for audience questions and answers.

Additionally, the council is welcoming sponsors to support the event. Both presentation and sponsorship applications can be found on the council’s website under the “Artists Conference” section at alachuacounty.us/Arts-Council. The deadline to submit applications is Jan. 31, 2025.

The conference aligns with the council's mission to enhance the quality of life for Alachua County residents by promoting arts exposure, supporting local artists, and expanding community resources for the arts.

For more details, interested individuals can contact Gina Peebles, Alachua County Assistant County Manager – Chief of Staff, at 352-538-8265 or via email at gpeebles@alachuacounty.us.

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