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The Alachua Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit was honored as the 2025 FCPA Crime Prevention Unit of the Year (Small Agency category) during the Florida Crime Prevention Association’s annual conference in Orlando. Accepting the award were, from left, Lt. Jason Moses, Lt. Daniel Chalker, Sgt. Thomas Stanfield, Chief Jesse Sandusky, and Lt. Carl Newsome./Photo special to Alachua County Today

ALACHUA ‒ The Alachua Police Department’s commitment to proactive community engagement and public safety has earned it statewide recognition. The department’s Crime Prevention Unit (CPU) was awarded the 2025 Florida Crime Prevention Association (FCPA) Crime Prevention Unit of the Year in the Small Agency (100 or fewer officers) category.

The award was presented during the FCPA’s annual conference on Oct. 23, 2025, in Orlando, recognizing agencies that demonstrate outstanding innovation and dedication to public safety through prevention initiatives. Representatives from the Alachua Police Department were on hand to accept the honor, including Lt. Jason Moses, Lt. Daniel Chalker, Sgt. Thomas Stanfield, Chief Jesse Sandusky, and Lt. Carl Newsome.

“This recognition highlights our department’s commitment to innovation, community engagement, and proactive crime prevention throughout the City of Alachua,” the department said in a statement announcing the award.

Under the leadership of Police Chief Sandusky and Sgt. Stanfield, the CPU has expanded its role in connecting residents with safety resources and educational programs designed to prevent crime before it happens.

Among its recent accomplishments:

• EZ Child ID Kits: The program provides parents with tools to create identification packets for their children, ensuring vital information is available in the event of an emergency.
• Back 2 School Backpack Giveaway: In collaboration with the department’s School Resource Officers, the CPU distributed 500 backpacks filled with supplies to local students, supporting families ahead of the new school year.
• radKIDS Safety Training: School Resource Officer A. Payne recently became certified to teach the radKIDS program, which empowers children with personal safety skills and confidence to make positive choices in potentially unsafe situations.
• Public Education Through Media: The department has embraced digital outreach to reach broader audiences. One of its educational videos, a Fourth of July 911 awareness message, drew more than 12 million views nationwide, significantly increasing awareness of emergency response protocols.

Sgt. Stanfield said the recognition reflects a team effort across the department. “While the CPU may be a one-person unit, this award truly belongs to the entire Alachua Police Department,” he said. “Without the support, teamwork, and dedication of every member of this agency, none of this would be possible.”

The Florida Crime Prevention Association serves as a statewide network supporting law enforcement agencies in their efforts to reduce crime through education, partnerships, and prevention programs.

The Alachua Police Department expressed its gratitude to the FCPA for the honor and extended appreciation to the local community for continued trust and engagement.

“Community partnership is the foundation of effective policing,” the department stated. “This award reinforces our shared mission with Alachua residents — to build a safer, more informed, and connected community.”

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HAWTHORNE ‒ A 38-year-old Hawthorne woman is facing multiple charges of child neglect after her medically fragile four-year-old child was found unclothed and unsupervised near a roadway earlier this month.

The woman, identified as Casey Kay McDowell, was arrested Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, and charged with child neglect without great bodily harm, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. She was also booked on an outstanding warrant related to a March case involving the same child’s medical care.

The recent investigation began at approximately 10:12 a.m. on Oct. 6, when a caller reported seeing a naked child near a road in Hawthorne. Deputies responded to McDowell’s residence after the concerned witness called 911 and stayed on the line while checking the property.

The caller reportedly knocked on the front door with no response, then walked to the back of the house, where the door was open. Calling out several times but hearing nothing, the witness entered the home fearing a medical emergency. Inside, McDowell was found waking up in the bathroom. The witness remained with the child until deputies arrived.

Deputies noted that the four-year-old child has multiple medical conditions requiring frequent monitoring and treatment. Reports indicate the child was unattended, unclothed, and vulnerable near the roadway when discovered.

McDowell reportedly told deputies she takes suboxone, a medication prescribed for opioid addiction treatment, and had taken her morning dose that day. She declined medical treatment at the scene.

Prior March Case

McDowell’s latest arrest also stems from a March 14, 2025, incident that raised serious concerns about the same child’s care. At that time, deputies were attempting to locate Sean Burnham, McDowell’s then-boyfriend, who is a registered sexual offender. Burnham had reportedly been staying at McDowell’s home several nights a week but had failed to register her address, a violation of state law.

During that visit, deputies reported that McDowell appeared unaware of her three-year-old child’s whereabouts. She reportedly blamed an older child for failing to supervise him.

A neighbor eventually brought the toddler home, describing him as dirty, wearing only shorts, and with medical ports exposed. Deputies noted that the child required specialized care, including a medical cast. They reported that McDowell had been told on March 16 that the cast needed replacement but delayed treatment until March 20, resulting in wounds to the child’s foot from the wet cast.

Further inspection revealed a burn on the child’s hand, which McDowell reportedly could not explain.

Following the March incident, the child was hospitalized, and medical staff later told authorities that McDowell appeared under the influence while visiting. She was reportedly found asleep in a hospital bathroom while her child lay in a hospital bed without the safety guard rail raised.

Connected Cases

Burnham was subsequently arrested and entered a plea of nolo contendere (no contest) to two counts of failing to register required information as a sexual offender. He is now serving a state prison sentence in that case.

McDowell’s new charges include two counts of child neglect — one tied to the March case and another from the October incident — as well as obstructing justice for allegedly lying to law enforcement about Burnham’s location earlier in the year.

Authorities say McDowell has no prior local criminal record, but the two cases have prompted ongoing review by child welfare officials.

Judge Adam Lee set McDowell’s bond at $50,000, and she remains in custody pending further hearings.

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NEWBERRY – The City of Newberry took a step toward economic growth on Monday, approving a new business tax exemption for a confidential company known as Project Hydro, expected to bring jobs, investment, and innovation to the community.

The measure, passed unanimously by City Commissioners during the Oct. 27, 2025, City Commission meeting, allows the city to grant an Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemption to qualifying new or expanding businesses.

Assistant City Manager and Chief Financial Officer Dallas Lee said the proposal met all state and local criteria. “All applicable requirements under state law and Ordinance No. 2018-20 have been met,” Lee said, referencing the city’s 2018 ordinance that established the guidelines for such incentives.

The Florida Constitution and Florida Statutes authorize local governments to offer tax exemptions to attract new business investment and create jobs, provided such programs are approved by voters. Newberry’s authority to do so originated with a 2017 city referendum, followed by the passage of Ordinance No. 2018-20 a year later.

Under that ordinance, businesses must demonstrate measurable economic benefits such as new job creation, higher-than-average wages, and capital investment.

Though details of the company remain confidential under state law, Project Hydro has represented that it will:

• Employ at least 50 full-time equivalent workers,
• Provide average annual wages at least 115 percent above the local average, and
• Make a significant capital investment in building a new facility within city limits.

The incentive, if all compliance requirements are met, will reduce the company’s City of Newberry ad valorem taxes on improvements and tangible personal property over a nine-year period. The tax break applies only to city taxes — not to those levied by Alachua County, the school district, or other taxing authorities.

Exemption Schedule

The exemption period will begin Jan. 1, 2027, and end Dec. 31, 2034, contingent on the company maintaining its promised jobs and wage levels. The approved schedule phases out over time:

• Years 1–2: 100 percent exemption
• Years 3–4: 80 percent exemption
• Years 5–6: 60 percent exemption
• Years 7–8: 40 percent exemption
• Year 9+: 0 percent exemption

Should the business fail to meet those conditions, the city retains the right to revoke the exemption and recover abated taxes.

According to city figures, Newberry’s current ad valorem tax revenue totals $5.28 million. The city anticipates no loss in revenue this fiscal year, since the exemption does not begin until 2027. However, the estimated reduction for the first fiscal year of effect is projected at $203,029.

Despite the short-term impact, officials said the tradeoff is well worth it. The project is expected to expand Newberry’s tax base, diversify employment, and stimulate private-sector growth in the coming decade.

“The City Commission … finds that Project Hydro has met all requirements of Ordinance No. 2018-20 and Section 196.012(15), Florida Statutes,” Lee said. “Granting the exemption will result in an economic benefit to the City of Newberry.”

Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the measure following brief discussion on compliance assurances.

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NEWBERRY ‒ In a meeting that addressed long-term infrastructure planning and growth, the Newberry City Commission on Oct. 27, 2025, approved several key measures designed to prepare the city for continued development and utility expansion.

With Mayor Tim Marden absent, Chairperson Pro-Tempore Tony Mazon presided over the meeting, which included loan authorizations, land use amendments, and routine procurement approvals on a packed agenda.

Infrastructure Projects

Commissioners voted unanimously to apply for a State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to finance construction of the city’s new wastewater treatment plant.

The city has already been approved for $20 million in funding, including $14.5 million in loan forgiveness, and must now submit formal documentation to move into the next phase.

Newberry will also apply for Phase 2 SRF funding in the upcoming cycle. Because of its prior approval, the city will receive priority status in the process.

Elevated Water Storage Tank

In a separate vote, commissioners authorized execution of an SRF Construction Loan Agreement to fund a new elevated water storage tank along State Road 26.

The project, essential for maintaining system pressure, fire protection, and future service capacity, reflects the city’s need to accommodate growing residential and commercial demand.

The loan amount totals $4.43 million, including capitalized interest and service fees, with a 20-year repayment term at 2.39 percent interest. Semiannual payments of $142,572 will begin in August 2027, with the construction completion target set for February 2027.

The project will be partially offset by a $1 million grant, reducing the overall loan burden.

Land Use and Zoning Updates

Commissioners also approved Ordinance 2025-50 and Ordinance 2025-65, which finalize the land use and zoning for approximately 111 contiguous acres south of State Road 26, between Southwest 298^th Street and County Road 337. The property, owned by Patrick M. Post, was annexed into the city on Aug. 11, 2025, and will now shift from Alachua County Rural/Agriculture to City of Newberry Agriculture designations under the city’s comprehensive plan.

Both ordinances passed unanimously following quasi-judicial public hearings. City officials said no development plan has yet been submitted for the site.

Additional Actions

As part of the consent agenda, commissioners approved a piggyback agreement with GAI Consultants, Inc., allowing the city to use an existing contract competitively procured by Palm Bay for architectural and engineering services on capital projects under $4 million.

The agreement will allow Newberry to obtain design and planning services more efficiently while complying with procurement rules. Commissioners also authorized the city manager to approve change orders up to 10 percent of the contract value — a standard procedure in city contracting.

Following a brief recess, the commission reconvened as the Board of Adjustment to approve a rear setback variance in CountryWay of Newberry Phase VII, reducing the setback from 10 feet to 4 feet for a tiny home at 24409 Southwest 16^th Lane.

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Frankie "Bubba" Hall (middle) received the Florida Farm Bureau Federation Pat Cockrell Lifetime Achievement award at the organization's 84th annual meeting in Daytona Beach on Oct. 27. The award was presented by Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb Smith and state board member Henry McCrone. /Photo special to Alachua County Today

DAYTONA BEACH – A familiar name in Florida agriculture, Frankie “Bubba” Hall of Alachua County, has been honored with one of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s highest recognitions — the 2025 Pat Cockrell Lifetime Achievement Award.

Hall received the honor during the President’s Awards Banquet at the Florida Farm Bureau’s 84th Annual Meeting, held Oct. 27 at the Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort.

The prestigious award recognizes Florida Farm Bureau employees who have provided exemplary, long-term service to the organization and to the state’s agricultural community.

Hall dedicated more than 30 years to the Florida Farm Bureau Federation as Director of Agricultural Policy, where he championed legislation and initiatives designed to increase farmers’ and ranchers’ net income and improve the quality of rural life across the state.

His work was instrumental in developing policies that strengthened the voice of Florida’s producers and ensured that agriculture remained at the forefront of statewide economic and environmental discussions.

Even after his retirement, Hall has remained active in the agricultural community, continuing to mentor, advise, and advocate for the industry. He currently serves in consulting roles with Highlands Precision Ag, Vanguard Renewables, and Sustain RNG, companies focused on advancing sustainable agricultural practices and renewable energy solutions.

Throughout his career, Hall has been known for his deep understanding of agricultural issues, his approachable leadership style, and his commitment to collaboration among producers, legislators, and advocacy groups.

In addition to his Farm Bureau service, Hall has devoted time to youth agricultural programs, remaining actively involved with both the Florida Farm Bureau and FFA. His dedication to mentoring future leaders reflects his belief in the importance of preparing the next generation to sustain and innovate within Florida’s farming industry.

Hall’s long record of achievement also includes recognition beyond Farm Bureau. A U.S. Army veteran, he was honored by the University of Florida College of Agricultural and Life Sciences with its Award of Distinction in 2010 — one of the highest honors presented to alumni who have made significant contributions to UF/IFAS, the agricultural industry, and natural resource management.

The Pat Cockrell Achievement Award, named in honor of the late Pat Cockrell, celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication and long-term service to the Farm Bureau’s mission.

Cockrell himself served more than 35 years with the organization, where his deep agricultural expertise and mentorship left a lasting impact on Florida’s farming community. He was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame in February 2011, shortly before losing a year-long battle with cancer.

Like Cockrell, Hall’s career has been defined by his commitment to the values and people at the heart of Florida agriculture. His decades of leadership have contributed to shaping policies that support farmers, protect natural resources, and strengthen rural economies.

Florida Farm Bureau leaders described Hall’s contributions as a lasting example of how sustained commitment and advocacy can make a measurable difference in the lives of agricultural producers.

The organization, which represents more than 133,000 member-families, continues to recognize individuals whose work has strengthened the foundation of Florida agriculture through leadership, innovation, and service.

Through his ongoing consulting work and involvement in agricultural education, Hall remains a vital voice for farmers and rural communities across the state. His lifetime of dedication to agriculture continues to inspire new generations of producers who share his passion for the land and the people who work it.

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ALACHUA COUNTY – The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office (ASO) is asking residents in several Jonesville-area neighborhoods to review their home surveillance footage following a series of vehicle burglaries that occurred overnight between Saturday, Sept. 27, and Sunday, Sept. 28.

Deputies said multiple incidents were reported in and around the communities of Turnberry Lake, Saddlebrooke Farms, and The Trails. Investigators believe residents’ home security cameras could provide valuable evidence to help identify those responsible for the crimes.

ASO officials are urging anyone who lives in or near these neighborhoods to check their surveillance systems for any suspicious activity recorded during the late-night and early-morning hours of that weekend. Residents who find footage that could aid the investigation are encouraged to submit it through the agency’s online tip portal at acso.us/blog/report-a-crime.

The sheriff’s office emphasized the importance of community involvement in solving crimes such as these, where timely video evidence can help track the suspects’ movements and strengthen potential leads. Detectives are working to determine whether the burglaries were connected and whether any stolen items can be recovered.

Vehicle burglaries are among the most common property crimes in Alachua County, particularly in residential areas where cars are left unlocked or valuables are visible inside. Law enforcement continues to remind residents to lock their vehicles, remove personal belongings, and report any suspicious behavior immediately.

ASO expressed appreciation for residents’ ongoing cooperation and partnership in helping maintain public safety throughout the county. “Your help could be key in holding those responsible accountable,” the agency stated in its release.

Residents can find more information about submitting evidence, crime prevention tips, and updates on ongoing investigations through the sheriff’s office website or official social media channels.

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