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ALACHUA – A 42-year-old Alachua woman was arrested Saturday after allegedly striking her boyfriend, threatening him with a knife, and attempting to hit him with a vehicle, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO).

Deputies said the incident occurred around 1:28 p.m. on April 26, 2025, at a residence on Northwest 75^th Street, west of LaCrosse. According to the arrest report, Denetria Shaunte Griffin and the victim, her boyfriend, were involved in a verbal argument that escalated when she allegedly struck him, leaving visible injuries on his chest and hand.

Authorities said Griffin then pulled the victim outside the home and retrieved a kitchen knife from her vehicle. She allegedly threatened to harm him and to cut power to the mobile home and its air conditioning unit. Deputies reported that Griffin then got into her vehicle and attempted to hit the victim.

Responding deputies noted fresh scratch marks on the victim’s chest and left hand. No injuries were observed on Griffin.

Griffin was later located at a relative’s home in the city of Alachua, where deputies said they recovered a kitchen knife consistent with those found in the victim’s residence. After being read her Miranda rights, Griffin reportedly denied trying to run over the victim and could not explain how the knife ended up at her location, according to the report.

She was charged with domestic battery and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Records show Griffin has seven prior misdemeanor convictions, including one involving violence.

Judge Gloria Walker set bail at $5,000.

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NEWBERRY – The City of Newberry Board of Adjustment unanimously denied an appeal from Trackline during a special meeting held May 13, 2025, upholding a Stop Work order issued by the City for unpermitted construction activity.

The decision followed extended discussion regarding Trackline’s failure to obtain proper permits before beginning work. City staff recommended the Board deny the appeal, lift the stay, and enforce the Stop Work order — a recommendation the Board adopted unanimously.

Trackline representatives argued they had requested guidance from the City on how to obtain the necessary permits. City officials countered that they had provided clear instructions but that the company had yet to submit the required documentation.

Public comment during the meeting showed strong community support for upholding the Stop Work order, with audience members expressing unanimous agreement with the City’s position.

Champions Park Water Main

Following a 10-minute recess, the Newberry City Commission convened a special meeting to consider a single agenda item: the installation of a new water main at Champions Park to bring the system into compliance with Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulations.

Assistant Director of Utilities & Public Works Rance Green and project manager explained that the park’s current water system is operating outside its permit conditions, making the upgrade essential. The contractor selected for the job was already mobilized on-site for a nearby project, which allows the City to save significantly on startup costs—bringing the installation cost to roughly $90 per linear foot, compared to the standard $165.

Commissioners approved a motion authorizing City Manager Jordan Marlowe to execute a contract valued at $221,574 for the installation of approximately 2,325 linear feet of 12-inch water main. The project includes owner-directed purchasing.

Mayor Tim Marden noted the total project cost is expected to be about $230,000, with the city manager authorized to approve up to 15 percent in change orders. He also said that when Sandy Park is developed, they will reimburse the City. There was no discussion from the audience or Commissioners and the contract was unanimously approved.

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UF Health President and System CEO Stephen J. Motew, M.D., MHA, FACS, and Santa Fe College President Paul Broadie II, Ph.D., signed an agreement Wednesday to formalize the third-year of a highly successful nurse training partnership. / Photo special to Alachua County Today

GAINESVILLE — UF Health and Santa Fe College have formally renewed a critical partnership aimed at strengthening Florida’s nursing workforce. On Wednesday, leaders from both institutions gathered at Santa Fe College’s Northwest Campus to mark the third year of collaboration that has already yielded millions in combined funding for nursing education.

UF Health President and System CEO Dr. Stephen J. Motew and Santa Fe College President Dr. Paul Broadie II signed the agreement during a late-morning ceremony attended by students, faculty, and staff from both organizations.

UF Health’s $350,000 grant to Santa Fe’s Nursing program for 2025 is being fully matched through the State of Florida’s Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) fund, resulting in a $700,000 investment in the college’s healthcare education infrastructure.

“LINE funding provided by the State of Florida is a powerful example of what can happen when institutions come together under a shared vision,” said Dr. Shakira Henderson, Dean of the UF College of Nursing and Chief Administrative Officer at UF Health. “It is not a financial investment, it is a vote of confidence in programs like Santa Fe, which continue to set the bar when it comes to nursing excellence.”

This year’s grant brings the total support from UF Health and the LINE match to over $1.8 million since 2022. Previous awards totaled $345,200 in 2023–24 and $780,000 in 2022–23.

Dr. Broadie expressed gratitude for the partnership and highlighted the tangible outcomes already seen on campus. With past funding, Santa Fe College has expanded faculty, introduced advanced simulation mannequins, and launched programs like ANEW, which supports working adults returning to nursing.

“UF Health stands right beside Santa Fe College in ensuring that we address the nursing shortage and produce the best qualified nursing graduates on the planet,” Broadie said.

Dr. Motew emphasized the increasing need for well-trained nurses, especially as Florida’s population ages.

“I am very proud of the long-standing relationship UF and UF Health have with Santa Fe,” Motew said. “We have to really put into perspective the opportunity to train together, highly skilled, compassionate nurses who deliver exceptional care to our community.”

Motew also praised the collaboration for allowing both institutions to “chase new paradigms” in integrating nursing education with real-world healthcare delivery.

This year’s funding will go directly toward student scholarships, reducing financial barriers for future nurses. Additionally, LINE funds will support development of a dedicated academic space designed for healthcare-focused study and support services.

Santa Fe College has maintained a strong track record in preparing nurses for the field. The school surpassed both state and national averages in 2024, posting a 93% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX nursing certification exam.

One of those students, Seth Mantio, an Army veteran, attended the signing ceremony and reflected on how the program is shaping his future.

“This program ensures that my patients will feel comfortable with me and instills confidence that I can help them when they need it most,” Mantio said.

UF Health’s support for Santa Fe College extends beyond nursing. In 2021, the health system awarded a five-year, $1 million grant to bolster the college’s Surgical Technology program, focusing on recruitment, outreach, and training for underserved populations.

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ALACHUA – Two individuals have been arrested following an investigation by the Alachua Police Department into alleged criminal conduct involving juvenile victims.

Chiarel Davis, 38, of Chiefland, faces multiple charges, including sexual assault by a person 24 or older on a victim aged 16 or 17, traveling to meet a minor, interference with the custody of a minor, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

According to police, Davis is accused of engaging in sexual activity with a juvenile, providing marijuana to the minor, and sending sexually explicit messages and images. Investigators say she also arranged unsupervised meetings with the victim without parental consent.

Nicholas Scott, 35, of Gainesville, is charged with using a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony and distributing obscene material to a minor. Authorities allege that Scott sent explicit images to one of the victims and communicated with the minor in violation of Florida law.

The investigation began after a report was made by a concerned parent. Police said both suspects were known to the victims and had previously interacted with the families under the pretense of friendship.

“Due to the sensitive nature of the crimes and to protect the identities of the victims, no further information will be released,” said Alachua Police Chief Jesse Sandusky.

The Alachua Police Department expressed gratitude to the assisting agencies that contributed to the investigation. Anyone with additional information or who may be a victim is encouraged to contact Detective Jacob Eady at 386-588-3328 or jeady@alachuapd.org.

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GAINESVILLE — Animal lovers across North Central Florida are invited to meet their future furry family members during North Florida Pet Adoption Day, set for Saturday, June 7, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Humane Society of North Central Florida, 4205 NW 6th Street in Gainesville.

Presented by VyStar Credit Union and supported by a grant from the ASPCA, the event aims to ease the burden on local animal shelters by finding homes for over 100 cats and dogs. Adoption fees for all adult pets—five months and older—will be waived for the day.

This is a great opportunity to not only save a life but also gain a loyal companion. Spring and summer months are the busiest seasons, and kennels are overflowing with animals ready for loving homes.

All adoptable pets are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, and can go home the same day. While no pre-holds or early adoptions are permitted for puppies, adult pets will be available for immediate placement with an approved adoption application.

Visitors can meet animals in free-roaming cat rooms and dog kennels, though entry to dog areas requires a pre-approved application. Prospective adopters are encouraged to preview available animals and submit their applications in advance by visiting humanesocietyncfl.org/adopt.

From playful kittens and seasoned lap cats to energetic pups and mellow adult dogs, organizers say there’s a perfect pet for every household.

“Whether you’re looking for a hiking buddy or a couch companion, you’re likely to find your match at this event,” organizers added.

For more information, visit humanesocietyncfl.org.

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ALACHUA – A period of major growth and expansion is giving way to a new chapter for 399 Sports & Recreation, the Alachua-based nonprofit dedicated to youth athletics and community programming.

The organization announced that founding president Brandon Wilson will step down effective June 1, 2025, after completing a two-year term marked by significant accomplishments.

During Wilson’s leadership, 399 Sports & Recreation increased participation by 233 percent, launched scholarship initiatives, supported local travel ball teams, and formed partnerships with both local and regional groups. The group also generated new revenue through a steady concession stand operation and hosted ceremonial events for its youth basketball and volleyball leagues.

Looking ahead, Wilson plans to remain involved in a consulting role, while he and his family will continue their commitment to youth development through their Crafty Gemini Youth Development initiative. The program offers hands-on learning in the arts, agriculture, and athletics, aiming to help young people discover their passions and create paths to long-term success.

Wilson’s contributions to youth recreation and community programming have earned praise throughout Alachua County, and the organization he founded shows no signs of slowing down.

As the summer season kicks off, 399 is accepting participants for its Summer Basketball League. Registration also remains open for the City of Alachua’s Legacy Summer Camp. In addition, the Alachua Raiders Football & Cheer program has begun sign-ups for its fall tackle football and cheerleading teams.

A Music & Arts Program Film Festival will be held Aug. 30 at the Legacy Park Multipurpose Center. The event, hosted by the City of Alachua, begins at 3 p.m. and is open to the public.

For more information on any of these programs, visit the City of Alachua’s official website or follow 399 Sports & Recreation on social media.

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