Willie Gardner, of Palm Coast, faces four felony charges of animal abuse. The six dogs, all pitbulls, all showed signs of abuse and neglect when authorities surveyed the scene at 508 South Railroad Street in Bunnell. They’d been left all chained in the backyard of the abandoned property.
Cops/Courts
No, There Is No Security Issue at Indian Trails Middle School
Flagler County school officials and the Sheriff’s Office this morning have been scrambling to dispel false alarms of an impending shooting that started within Indian Trails Middle School and quickly spread among parents on social media.
Patricidal Richard Dunn Is Allowed Out of Psychiatric Hospital and Back to Halfway House
Richard Dunn, the former Palm Coast resident found not guilty by reason of insanity in the gruesome killing of his elderly father in 2006, will be allowed out of a state psychiatric hospital and back to the Daytona Beach halfway house where he lived for several years before he started acting bizarrely again a year ago.
FireFlight’s Chief Dana Morris, Flagler County’s Legend of the Air, Is Retiring After 12,500 Flight Hours
After 20 years flying Flagler County FireFlight, the emergency helicopter, and more than 12,500 flight hours later, Dana Morris will power down the rotorcraft one last time as its pilot on November 13, five days before his official retirement after 43 years of flying.
Luke Ingram, 19, Charged In Murder of Grandfather and Assault of Father and Cops in Clermont Ct. Incident
Luke Ingram, a 19-year-old resident of Dunwoody, Ga., was charged with second-degree murder in the death of his grandfather, Darwin Larry Ingram, 85, at 34 Clermont Court early this morning.
After nearly 6,000 Flights, County Hails Dana Morris, FireFlight’s Chief Pilot, on Eve of His Retirement
After nearly 6,000 flights and 4,300 flight hours, FireFlight Chief Pilot Dana Morris’s career in Flagler is ending. His co-pilot Todd Whaley gifted him a replica of FireFlight today as the County Commission recognized his 20-yuear career in Flagler.
Five Inmates Graduate from Flagler Jail’s Immersive Addiction Recovery Program, for Total of 42
Inmates in the addiction-recovery program live, breathe and eat together at the Flagler County jail, replicating the value of an in-patient recovery program and vastly improving its success rate, as most of those who are released–with follow-up care–do not return to the jail.
Porsche-Driving Man Gets Impatient With Road-Crew Worker–and Drives Into Him
Donald Steimle of Palm Coast faces an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge after driving his Porsche into a flagman at a job site where Steimle allegedly lost patience.
Palm Coast Loses Firefighter-Paramedic Brant Gammon to Cancer Days After He Is Honored for Milestones
The Palm Coast Fire Department’s Firefighter-Paramedic Brant Gammon died today of an inoperable brain tumor less than three months after he was diagnosed, and barely two weeks after he was recognized in a ceremony for earning his paramedic certification. He had just turned 51 on Tuesday.
Brittany Myers, Former NICU Nurse, Sentenced to 14 Months in Prison Over Child Beatings
Brittany Ann Myers, the 39-year-old former neonatal intensive care nurse and mother of five, was sentenced Monday to 14 months in prison followed by three years on probation for brutalizing her 14-year-old son, acts captured on video by the boy’s sister.
The Next Medical Examiner for Flagler, St. Johns and Putnam: Powerful Panel Narrows List of Candidates to 5
The committee tasked with recommending a new medical examiner for Flagler, St. Johns and Putnam County this morning narrowed its search to five applicants who will be interviewed for the $320,000-a-year job on December 6 in St. Augustine. The five candidates are Kent Harshbarger, Keng-Chih Su (he goes by Kenny), Stacey Simons, Catherine Miller and Wendolyn Snead.
Sheriff’s SWAT Team Assists FBI in Serving Warrants in ‘Multiple Locations’ in Flagler
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office’s SWAT team joined agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation early this morning to serve warrants in “multiple” locations around the county, Sheriff Rick Staly said. But details about the operation, as is common when federal agents are the lead agency, are scant to none.
Flagler County Emergency Management Planner Nealon Joseph Deploys to Lee County
Flagler County Emergency Management Planner Nealon Joseph, a mass care (sheltering, victim/evacuee care) specialist, was requested to deploy to the Lee County’s Emergency Operations Center to relieve existing mutual aid support from Brevard County.
Inmate with Competency Issues Is Tased Twice Into Submission After Challenging Deputies With Broken Plunger
Isaac Brevil, 35, whose competency has been ordered examined by a Flagler court, was twice tased and subdued in a violent scuffle with deputies at the county jail after he allegedly broke a plunger, turned it into a weapon and attempted to stab a deputy with it.
Carlos DuPree, 36, Sentenced to Life in Prison for Armed Home Invasion in Palm Coast’s P-Section
Carlos DuPree, a St. Louis man who’d been in Palm Coast just 10 days the night he said he wanted to buy $400-worth of pot at a house on Prospect Lane, was sentenced to life in prison this afternoon at the end of a four-day trial on six charges, including armed robbery during a home-invasion on Prospect Lane.
Flagler County Voters Will Vote on Whether to Retain 11 Judges, Most of Whom They’ve Never Heard Of
On the Nov. 8 ballot, 11 of the 26 boxes where voters will be asked to fill an oval are retention votes in judicial elections for five Supreme Court and six appeals court judges. They’re not races. Voters are merely asked: should so-and-so “be retained in office” or not. It’s the merit-retention system. In the overwhelming majority of cases, voters have no idea who those names, and the judges are invariably retained.
Cody’s Corner Is Again the Scene of a Fatal Crash as 44-Year-Old Woman is Killed in T-Bone
Cody’s Corner, the intersection of State Road 11 and County Road 304 in southwest Flagler County, was again the scene of a fatal crash Sunday afternoon as a 44-year-old woman lost her life in a t-bone collision.
Culinary Course Offered To Inmates at Flagler County Jail Through FTC
The Homeward Bound Initiative (HBI) launched last year in partnership with Flagler Technical College (FTC) now offers a certificate in Culinary/Food Service Management to go along with its current certificate programs in Pre- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) and Vinyl Graphics Applications.
At Flagler Tiger Bay, Bluish State Attorney Aronberg Talks Trump Prosecutions, Death Penalty and Election Predictions
Part stand-up, part roast, part prognosticator, and always the analyst, Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg, a Democrat, dove right in as he faced a decidedly Republican crowd in his appearance at Flagler Tiger Bay today, talking about Donald Trump and Hunter Biden prosecutions, predictions for the coming election, and his view on the death penalty and the Nicholas Cruz verdict.
Computer-Generated Approximation Ties Human Remains Found at Toscana to Black Man, 35 to 50
A team of forensic anthropologists has issued a computer-generated “facial approximation” portrait of the person whose remains were discovered by a construction crew at the Toscana subdivision off Old Kings Road in mid-July.
Flagler School Board May Approve Stocking Narcan-Like Agents in Schools to Prevent Overdose Deaths
Taking advantage of a new law, the Flagler County School Board will develop a plan enabling school personnel, starting with nurses, to carry and administer Narcan, the effective naloxone agent in reversing the risks of a fatal drug overdose. A physician will develop the protocols to be used. The Flagler County Drug Foundation is making Narcan available to the district for free for at least two years.
Two Motorcyclists Are Killed in Crash on Seminole Woods Boulevard Near Grand Landings
A man and a woman were killed this evening in a single motorcycle crash at Seminole Woods Boulevard just south of Grand Landings in Palm Coast. It is the county’s first fatal crash this Biketoberfest, and second grave crash of the day.
Flagler Cares and Paramedics Launch Innovative Overdose Response Force as Part of $1.3 Million Grant
Flagler County’s fire services and Flagler Cares are launching a medically assisted drug-addiction treatment program that will involve community paramedics providing immediate care where the addicts are and laying the groundwork for a follow-up system that aims to keep addicts from falling back into using.
Chief 21: Kyle Berryhill Takes Command of Palm Coast Fire Department In Poignant Ceremony
It was continuity and change today as Kyle Berryhill took over as Palm Coast Fire Chief before 200 people at the city’s community center, after Jerry Forte’s five-year tenure. Continuity, because both men are cut of the same cloth–unassuming, humble, impossibly emotional at times, but also unequivocally commanding. And change, because Berryhill, at 42, represents a generational change for a rapidly evolving department.
How Courts Take His Drug and Gun Charges More Seriously Than Repeat Violence Against Women
Joseph Westervelt, 28, has repeatedly faced felony charges for attacking pregnant women. He’s yet to be convicted on more than a misdemeanor. He was arrested again on Wednesday on identical charges that got him arrested only last May. Those charges were dropped or reduced.
Sheriff’s Office Lands $1.3 Million Grant to Expand Drug-Abuse Treatment at the County Jail
The Flagler County jail is the only residential treatment facility in Flagler County for drug-addicted men, and a rare location where they may get medically-assisted treatment. The Department of Justice is noticing, awarding the Flagler Sheriff’s Office a three-year, $1.3 million grant to expand the Successful Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Treatment, or “Smart” program at the jail.
Hyped by Joe Mullins in July, Sale of Ex-Sheriff’s Building for Drug-Treatment Facility Collapses
The in-patient drug-treatment facility that Commissioner Joe Mullins–to considerable skepticism at the time–said was soon to be housed in the former Sheriff’s Operations Center in Bunnell will not become reality as the sale of the building fell through.
Flagler Beach Smoking Ban on Beaches Set to Take Effect This Weekend, Cigars and Vaping Exempt
The Flagler Beach City Commission Thursday is set to approve banning smoking almost any tobacco product on beaches, in parks and on the city’s boardwalk, with the exception of unfiltered cigars. Enforcement will be an issue: there are no intentions to police the ban, which does not extend to the beaches under county jurisdiction. The ordinance is silent on vaping and marijuana products.
Public’s Help Sought to Name Flagler Sheriff’s Explosives Detection K9
The Sheriff’s Office is asking the public for naming suggestions for the newest addition to the K9 Unit, a black Labrador Retriever who will be trained in explosives ordinance detection before going on duty next February.
Florida Center for Government Accountability Sues DeSantis Over Migrant Flight Records
The Florida Center for Government Accountability filed the lawsuit in Leon County circuit court and alleged that the governor’s office did not comply with requests to release a series of records about the migrant flights.
A U.S. Prison’s Scandinavian Make-Over Shows the Way to More Humane Penal System
At a medium-security prison outside of Philadelphia, a correctional officer-guided team has worked since 2018 to incorporate Scandinavian penal principles into its own institution. Prisoners reported feeling safer and having more positive relationships with staff and other people living in the prisons. They also indicated greater satisfaction with their access to food and the reintegration support available to them.
Palm Coast Fire Department and Flagler Sheriff’s Deputies Dispatched to Help Hurricane Victims
Members of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and the Palm Coast Fire Department have been sent to assist recovery efforts in southwest Florida, in the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Ian.
Therapist Who Groomed and Molested Under-Age Patient Fails to Remove Possibility of Life in Prison
Robert Neal Batie, the former Palm Coast therapist, concedes that he molested a 16-year-old patient in his office, but his attorney tried unsuccessfully to dismiss a charge that he had custodial authority over the patient. A sex assault with that authority carries a maximum penalty of life in prison.
‘It Makes No Sense,’ Biden Says of Criminalizing Pot as He Pardons Thousands
President Joe Biden on Thursday pardoned thousands of people convicted of marijuana possession under federal law and instructed his administration to consider whether cannabis should get a new drug classification.
2 Men Syphoning Off Cooking Oil at Woody’s BBQ Charged with Felony Burglary
Two men face felony burglary charges after being caught allegedly syphoning gallons of used oil from Woody’s BBQ’s supplies in back on the business early Thursday morning. Used cooking oil theft is frequent, feeding a $6 billion global business that recycles the product into diesel fuel.
Video Shows Demoted Flagler Sheriff’s Cpl.’s Contempt for Colleague and Procedures at Traffic Stop
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Rob Myers was pulled over by deputy Seth Green after Myers’s pick-up brushed very close to Green at a traffic stop. Myers, who was demoted, repeatedly met Greene’s professionalism with defiance, flouting Green’s police procedures in a way no cop would tolerate long from civilians.
Creekside Festival and Chili Challenge Are On, With Venue Change to Agricultural Museum
Rather than cancel or postpone the annual Creekside Music and Arts Festival at Princess Place Preserve, which is waterlogged, it’s been moved to the Florida Agricultural Museum, where it is expected to generate thousands of dollars for charity over the weekend.
Palm Coast City Council Proclaims Oct. 14 Chief Jerry Forte Appreciation Day
The Palm Coast City Council recognized retiring Fire Chief Jerry Forte at the October 4 City Council Meeting with a proclamation. Mayor David Alfin has proclaimed October 14, 2022, as “Chief Jerry Forte Appreciation Day”.
Flagler’s ‘Victory Lap’ as Circuit’s 1st Black Women Judges Are Celebrated, With Pointed Sidebars
Alicia Washington and Joan Anthony were among nine judges of the Seventh Judicial Circuit marking the historic occasions of the two Black judges’ election, along with the accessions of Supreme Court Justice Jackson and Florida Supreme Court Justice Francis, in a “Night of Celebration” at the Flagler County courthouse Monday evening.
Only One Arrest for Curfew Violation Throughout Flagler During Ian Emergency
Law enforcement authorities in Flagler County and its cities made all of one arrest for a curfew violation, and even then, only because the woman was also in violation of drug laws. A companion she was with was only issued a warning.
Flagler’s Ian Tally: 132 Homes With at Least 20% Damage, FEMA Aid Coming, So Are More Floodwaters
A tally of Hurricane Ian’s impacts on Flagler County reveals damage to 132 homes, with only seven experiencing severe damage or flooding from rainfalls totaling 15 inches in places. Flagler County is qualifying for three levels of aid from the Federal Emergency Management Administration, including aid to individuals. But there may yet be more flooding as the St. Johns River’s surge continues flowing north through Flagler.
Hurricane Ian’s Death Toll in Florida Is Up to 67 as Lee County Grapples With Delayed Evacuation
Gov. Ron DeSantis defended officials in Lee County, who delayed evacuation orders until Tuesday, while several other counties had issued evacuation orders and the National Hurricane Center was warning of a storm surge regardless.
Pier’s End Collapses, More Flagler Areas Evacuated, 70% of County Without Power, Dunes Damaged
The severity of tropical Storm Ian continues this afternoon, demolishing parts of the Flagler Beach pier, inundating larger areas of Palm Coast and Flagler Beach, and downing trees and power lines as 57 percent of residents are without power.
Toddler’s Father Faces Kidnapping Charge After Fleeing with Child; He Is Tased and Bitten in Arrest
Brandon Leohner, 27, of Palm Coast, was arrested on charges of kidnapping after taking the toddler he has in common with his girlfriend and driving off against his girlfriend’s wish. He drove recklessly through Palm Coast and was arrested after a violent encounter with deputies and a police dog at McDonald’s.
If You’re Sheltering In Place in Hurricane Ian’s Path, Fill Out This Survey For Your Safety
If you’re sheltering in place and your home is in the path of Hurricane Ian or Tropical Storm Ian, the state wants you to fill out a survey that may help in rescuing you should you need it in the immediate aftermath of the storm.
Rymfire Elementary Will Open as Special-Needs Shelter, Bunnell Elementary as General Population and Pets Shelter
The special-needs shelter at Rymfire Elementary will open at 1 p.m. Wednesday in anticipation of deteriorating weather from Hurricane Ian. The timing of the first shelter for general population and pets, to open at Bunnell Elementary, has not yet been determined. That time will be announced Wednesday morning.
Sheriff Preparing to Mobilize Over 200 Deputies and Air Boat, Courts Ramping Down Ahead of Ian
Courts are ramping down, law enforcement is ramping up in Flagler County in preparation for Hurricane Ian’s impact, now projected to be more serious than projected even as late as Monday evening. Curfews could become a possibility in the days ahead.
Hurricane Ian’s 2-Day Stall Off Tampa Could Bring Flooding Rains and Wind to Flagler
Hurricane Ian is expected to nearly stall as a major hurricane off the coast of Tampa Bay, lashing the northeast of Florida with torrential rain and raising the potential for floods in addition to some tropical storm-force winds. Flagler governments are beginning to shut down regular operations and declare states of emergency.
Canopy Walk Resident Faces 4 Felony Charges After Confrontation with 3 Boys He Claims Were Trespassing
58-year-old Gerald McCarthy faces two second-degree felony charges and other charges after a physical confrontation with three boys–13, 13 and 12–at Canopy Walk, where he claims they were trespassing. The boys claim they’d been given the code to get in.
Palm Coast Man Points Loaded Gun at Deputy Jacob West During Traffic Stop
A 42-year-old Palm Coast driver who appeared drunk allegedly pointed a loaded gun at a Flagler County Sheriff’s deputy during a traffic stop on Palm Coast Parkway late Thursday night before complying with orders to drop the gun. It was the latest successful de-escalation of what could have resulted in an officer-involved shooting.