Gilchrist County Fire Rescue Performs

A dash camera in a 2016 GMC Terrain SLE captures Johann Sebastian Bach’s (March 31, 1685 -July 28, 1750) Violin Concerto No. 2, a renowned three-movement Baroque concerto for solo violin, strings and continuo. The SUV driver, in the middle of vehicles facing north on U.S. Highway 129 (Main Street) in Trenton on April 20, a bit after 5 p.m., sees and hears a Gilchrist County Fire Rescue engine approaching from behind him. The fire engine passes the stopped vehicles by going into the empty lane for oncoming traffic, and turns to the east on State Road 26 (Wade Avenue) on the way to help people. Click on PHOTO to see and hear video.
Video By Jeff M. Hardison © April 20, 2026 at 11:15 p.m.
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Smoke carries from neighboring counties
Dixie County starts burn ban

The graphic above is clipped from a screen shot of a weather alert. It is from MSN Weather. Microsoft MSN Weather is a weather service and application provided by Microsoft that delivers current weather conditions, forecasts, and related information for any location worldwide. Another good site for weather information via the Internet is WeatherBug (https://www.weatherbug.com/), which has a link just below the banner at the top of the Home Page of HardisonInk.com. The colors on the map above show the Tri-County Area is in an extreme fire hazard zone at this time (Monday, April 20, at 2 p.m.)

By Jeff M. Hardison © April 20, 2026 at 2 p.m.
* Updated April 20, 2026 at 11:30 p.m.
     LEVY COUNTY – The Levy County Sheriff’s Office noted on a social media platform Sunday night (April 18) at about 8 p.m. that the 9-1-1 dispatch center was receiving an inordinate amount of calls about smoke in Levy County.

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     Concerned callers may have been wondering if they should start preparing to evacuate and the like.
     “Additional reports of heavy smoke are being received from other areas of the county. Levy County Emergency crews have no reports of active fires in Levy County. This smoke appears to be blowing in from surrounding counties. 
     “Heavy smoke in Bronson: Initial reports are the heavy smoke in the Bronson area is being produced by a fire in Alachua County. Emergency Crews are actively searching for any additional sources originating from unreported fires in Levy County. None have been located at this current time. Residents with respiratory issues are advised to stay inside.”
     Another note, not on a social media site but listed in an email to astronomers who were enjoying a picnic and swap meet in Chiefland this weekend, including some astronomer who were camping in tents, noted “There is a smoke and fire weather watch in place for north central Florida. If you are in a tent in Chiefland, I recommend leaving as the smoke can be unhealthy. Stay inside. In Gainesville, the air is currently unsafe to breath.”
Many Counties Have Burn Bans
     Levy County is currently still under a burn ban until April 21, when it may be extended for another seven days. Counties declare a local state of emergency and start a burn ban, which is reviewed and may be extended for seven days at a time.
     Alachua County currently has a mandatory countywide burn ban in effect, through April 24. The ban prohibits all unauthorized open burning, including campfires, bonfires, unpermitted controlled burns, burning yard or household trash, burning construction or organic debris, and igniting fireworks.
    Gilchrist County, like Alachua County, has a burn ban in effect until April 24 currently; however, there is a likelihood that is may be extended for another seven days after that.
    Marion County starts its burn ban effective at 5 p.m. today (Monday, April 20).
    Lafayette and Columbia counties also have burn bans currently.
    * Dixie County started a seven-day burn ban today (Monday, April 20).

Suspects Jailed April 13, 2026 through April 19, 2026
Published April 20, 2026 at 11:15 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time

Suspects Jailed April 13, 2026 through April 19, 2026
Published April 20, 2026 at 11:15 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time

Suspects Jailed April 13, 2026 through April 19, 2026
Published April 20, 2026 at 11:15 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time

FHP arrests
suspected hit-and-run driver
By Jeff M. Hardison © April 18, 2026 at 6:30 a.m.
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     MARION COUNTY – On Friday (April 17), the Florida Highway Patrol located the driver suspected of the hit-and-run vehicle that caused injuries to students on a school bus earlier this month, according to information in an FHP press release.
     That suspected felon was placed under arrest for one count of leaving the scene of a crash with property damage, and five counts of leaving the scene where injuries were involved, according to records.
     Enmanuel Coto-Rosales, 31, of Ocala was booked into the Marion County Jail on April 17, according to records, and as of 7 a.m. on April 18, he remains there in lieu of $12,650 in combined bonds for the six charges.
     The FHP had sought the driver of a pickup truck that hit a school bus, causing students to be injured, according to a previous FHP press release, and that law enforcement agency had requeste the public’s help in finding the suspected driver. The FHP press release did not mention if people helped the investigators to find the suspect.
     Coto-Rosales has been arrested at least four times previously in Marion County, according to records.
     An orange and blue pickup truck was westbound on Southeast 145th Street near the intersection of 38th Terrace at 8:22 a.m. on April 13, the FHP said.
     A Marion County school bus driven by a 66-year-old Summerfield man, was westbound on Southbound on 145th Street near the intersection of 38th Terrace, when it had stopped at a bus stop to pick children up, the FHP said.
     The pickup truck failed to slow down in time, in the truck’s front to hit the rear of the bus, the FHP said. After the collision, the driver of the pickup truck fled the scene of the crash without providing any information, the FHP said.
     The bus was relocated from final rest, the FHP said, having sustained rear end damage as a result of the traffic crash. 
     The school bus was occupied by 54 high school students, the FHP said. Five students were transported to an area hospital for treatment of relatively minor injuries, the FHP said.
     Leaving the scene of a crash involving injuries in Florida is a felony, with penalties determined by the severity of the injury. It is a third-degree felony for non-serious injuries (up to 5 years prison/probation) and a second-degree felony for serious bodily injury (up to 15 years prison), according to Florida law.

Public records workshop set for April 21
Information Provided
By Tacia Guthrie, Administrative Assistant II
Levy County Board of County Commissioners
Published April 16, 2026 at 8:30 p.m.
     BRONSON -- The five members of the Levy County Board of County Commissioners are scheduled to host a joint workshop focused on public records training on Tuesday, April 21, starting at 1 p.m. 
     Chairman Tim Hodge (District 4), Vice Chairman Charlie Kennedy (District 1) and commissioners Rock Meeks (District 2), Desiree Mills (District 3) and
Johnny Hiers (District 5) are the individuals who comprise the County Commission.
     The workshop is slated to be in the Auditorium at the Levy County Government Center, 310 School St. in Bronson.
     Eighth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Brian Kramer is set to conduct the training, and State Attorney Kramer will provide an in-depth overview of Florida’s public records laws, including statutory requirements, recent updates, and practical guidance for ensuring compliance.
     Topics are expected to include proper handling of public records requests, records retention responsibilities, exemptions under Florida law, and best practices for maintaining transparency and accountability in local government operations.
     This joint workshop is intended for county commissioners, constitutional officers, department staff, and any personnel involved in the creation, maintenance, or release of public records. It
will serve, too, as an educational opportunity for members of the public who wish to better understand their rights regarding access to government records and the processes involved in requesting information.
     The Levy County Board of County Commissioners is committed to upholding open government principles and ensuring that all officials and staff are well-informed about their responsibilities under Florida law. By offering this training, the county intends to promote consistency, accuracy and transparency in the management of public records.
     The workshop is open to the public, and all interested individuals are encouraged to attend.
     For more information, please contact the Levy County Board of County Commissioners’ Office at 352-486-5218.

Levy County extends burn ban to April 21
Ban started again on April 8
Information Provided
By Tacia Guthrie, Administrative Assistant II
Levy County Board of County Commissioners
Published April 13, 2026 at 11:30 p.m.
     BRONSON -- The Levy County Board of County Commissioners declared a local state of emergency due to worsening drought conditions and an increased risk of wildfire. 
     The action was approved April 8 by resolution. County officials report that prolonged dry weather, drought indicators, and forecasted winds have created conditions where fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly, threatening lives, homes, infrastructure and natural resources.
     On April 13, county officials announced the ban is now extended at least until April 21.
What the Burn Ban Means
     The following activities are prohibited throughout Levy County:
     • Burning of yard debris, trash, household paper products, bonfires, campfires, warming fires, outdoor fireplaces, land-clearing fires, and cooking fires.
     • Any outdoor activity that creates flames or sparks, including fireworks and sparklers.
Allowed Activities (Exemptions)
     The resolution provides limited exceptions, including:
     • Cooking within an enclosed gas or charcoal grill, used according to manufacturer instructions and attended at all times by a responsible adult.
     • Agricultural, silvicultural, or land-clearing burns authorized by a valid state permit and supported by appropriate personnel and equipment.
     • Properly permitted public fireworks displays conducted by a municipality or the county with fire protection in place.
     • Emergency flares used on navigable waters.
     • Authorized firefighter training.
Enforcement
     Violating the burn ban is a second-degree misdemeanor under Florida law. In addition, anyone responsible for an illegal burn may be billed for the cost of emergency response and fire suppression. Levy County Fire Rescue will respond to suspected violations as quickly as possible and take immediate action to control or extinguish any fire.
Duration
     The local state of emergency and burn ban will remain in place for seven days unless lifted sooner, and may be extended in seven-day increments if hazardous conditions continue.  County leaders urge residents to use extreme caution, avoid activities that could spark a fire, and report concerns promptly.

Toddler dies in Marion County tragedy
By Jeff M. Hardison © April 13, 2026 at 6:30 a.m.
     MARION COUNTY – A 3-year-old girl died Sunday afternoon (April 12) in a single-vehicle incident, according to information in a Florida Highway Patrol press release.
     A 21-year-old man with a Silver Springs residential address was driving a pickup truck in reverse to leave the driveway of a residence at 5431 N.E. 35^th St., Ocala, at 3:51 p.m. on April 12, the FHP said.
     The press release, based on information from crash investigator FHP Trooper Dillon Brown and homicide investigator FHP Cpl. Brett Detweiler, noted next-of-kin notification was not applicable before the press was sent.
     A 3-year-old girl with a Silver Springs residential address was a pedestrian in the driveway behind the pickup truck, the FHP said.
     The rear of the pickup truck hit the pedestrian, the FHP said.. The pickup truck came to a controlled final rest in the driveway, the FHP said.
     The toddler was pronounced dead by personnel with Marion County Fire Rescue at approximately 4 p.m., the FHP said.
     As of April 12 at 8:02 p.m., when the press release was sent, this incident was still under investigation.

LCSO and FHP catch couple who fled
Dangerous felon apprehended
Teen released to family members

Photo By LCSO – Graphic By HardisonInk.com

By Jeff M. Hardison © April 10, 2026 at 11 a.m.
     LEVY COUNTY – The Levy County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) with help from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) caught two suspected felons after a car chase that was ended by the FHP performing a PIT maneuver west of the Town of Otter Creek, according to information in an LCSO press release sent Friday Morning (April 10).     On April 8, at 2:24 a.m., LCSO Cpl. Dean MacIntyre observed a vehicle fail to stop at a stop sign at Northeast 94th Terrace and 66th Lane, the LCSO said. MacIntyre turned in behind the vehicle and attempted to conduct a traffic stop, and the driver fled in the sedan, the LCSO said.
     The vehicle went toward Bronson, ultimately turning onto State Road 24 going westbound toward Otter Creek, the LCSO said. The pursuit continued to the intersection of U.S. Highway 19 where this driver, without any regard for the safety of any other, made no attempt to stop at the stop sign and blinking red light, the LCSO said.
     The FHP joined into this pursuit and a trooper performed a precision immobilization technique (PIT) west of Otter Creek disabling the vehicle and ending the chase, the LCSO said. The occupants were ordered out of the car.
     To see and hear the 24-second FHP dashcam video of the PIT, click HERE.
      The driver was identified as Angela N. Birkholz, 42, of Port Charlotte. She told deputies she fled from law enforcement because she knew her driver’s license was not valid. She was placed under arrest, the LCSO said.
     The front seat passenger gave deputies a false name. The investigation determined he is Travis W. Merrell, 33, of Arcadia. Merrell is wanted by law enforcement in Charlotte County for multiple violent felony offenses, which may be why he attempted to conceal his identity. He, too, was arrested, the LCSO said.
     A 15-year-old was a rear seat passenger. The juvenile was taken into protective custody and later picked up by a family member, the LCSO said.
     Deputies found Merrell was in possession of methamphetamine that he attempted to destroy after the car was stopped by the FHP PIT maneuver. Merrell was charged with providing a false name to law enforcement as well as possession of methamphetamine, resisting arrest by obstruction and tampering with evidence. His bond total is set at $150,000.
Birkholz was charged with fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement, driving while license suspended or revoked and child neglect. Her bond was set at $110,000.
     Merrell was also booked for the outstanding Charlotte County warrants and are as follows:
     ● Aggravated assault with a firearm, bond $50,000;
     ● Discharging a firearm from a vehicle, bond $100,000;
     ● Shooting at/into and occupied vessel or conveyance, bond $100,000; and
     ● Possession of firearm by a convicted felon, bond $100,00o.
     “Thank you to the Florida Highway Patrol for their assistance in helping bring this dangerous criminal into custody,” Levy County Sheriff Bobby McCallum said. “This type of cooperative work is the essence of law enforcement’s commitment to the safety of our community. This was great work by our deputies and this trooper, who by the grace of God, were not injured performing this dangerous work.”

Levy County Sheriff's Office
to take over animal control
By Jeff M. Hardison © April 9, 2026 at 8 p.m.
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     BRONSON – As part of a marathon length meeting of the Levy County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday (April 7), a significant change came to fruition.
     The Levy County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) is taking over animal control from what used to be done by Levy County Animal Services (LCAS).
     As part of this agreement with the County Commission, Sheriff Bobby McCallum is accepting LCAS employees who want to transfer to work with the LCSO, which will be operating out of the same refurbished location, in animal control. Those employees will need to pass a screening process as any new LCSO employee must pass. Other employees from LCAS will be provided with employment opportunities at other posts, County Manager Mary-Ellen Harper said.
     County Commission staff recommended approval of transfer of Animal Control to the sheriff, with an anticipated effective May 1.
     The change in operations will result in an increase during the Fiscal Year 2026 in appropriations to the Sheriff by $650,000.
     The $650,000 would be transferred from capital projects. The balance of the LCAS operating budget would be transferred on or before July 31.
     As noted, all current LCAS employees will have the option to apply to work for the sheriff or be transferred to another position with the Couty Commission, subject to the availability of such positions.
     All vehicles assigned to LCAS will be transferred to the LCSO pursuant to the interlocal agreement and the county’s procedures for surplus property. 
     Sheriff McCallum said he started speaking with the county about his office taking care, custody and control of animal services in Levy County back when Commissioner Mills was the chair, and he continued discussing it with Commission Chair Hodge.
     On April 7, he said he is ready to move forward with the recommendations noted by County Commission staff.
     The sheriff has inspected the facility, met with the staff, including veterinary staff there, he said.
     The LCSO is involved with law enforcement, detention, 9-1-1, and it handled more than 1,280 animal complaints in 2o25 (more than 100 animal complaint cases a month). Sheriff McCallum said LCAS has improved over the years. He plans to run a humane shelter that will be for the benefit of the people and the animals of Levy County, McCallum said.
     The sheriff said the LCSO is an accredited law enforcement agency. There is a lengthy process before an employee becomes part of the LCSO. Therefore, any LCAS employee who wants to join the LCSO will need to go through the same process as any other possible LCSO employee.
     Sheriff McCallum said he is not asking for more money at this meeting, and that the proposed fiscal element would be acceptable.
     The sheriff said there will be a need for more cameras, new locks on the doors, and more fences for security. Building construction, repair and maintenance for the structures there will be under the County Commission’s budget, the sheriff said.
      Horses, cows and other large livestock are already under the LCSO, and that will continue, McCallum said.     
     After McCallum’s opening speech, Chairman Hodge thanked the sheriff.
     All of the other commissioners commented about the issue as well.
     Some members of the public provided their comments.
     County Clerk Matt Brooks asked about the transfer of funds in certain areas, including from contingency reserves, and details related to the budget – payrolls and benefits for employees.
     May 1 is the date for the change of this operation. Brooks urged the county manager, the County Commission budget officer, and the LCSO finance staff to work closely with the Levy County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s Office to ensure funds are recorded and transferred judiciously.
     On a motion by Mills, seconded by Kennedy, staff have been directed to create an ordinance to provide for the LCSO to take over the duties of the LCAS, effective May 1. That passed by a 5-0 vote.
     

Murder suspect still in state hospital
Million-dollar bond
set for alleged illegal immigrant

The Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Rober K. Groeb looks at case notes for one of the many cases he ruled on Wednesday (April 8).

Story, Photos and Video By Jeff M. Hardison © April 9, 2026 at 9:15 a.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     BRONSON – Kimberly Dawn Barba, 48, remains in Florida State Hospital -- a hospital and psychiatric hospital in Chattahoochee (Gadsen County).
     Barba is still ruled to be incompetent to participate in her own defense due to mental health problems, according to records.
     She remains accused of first-degree murder, as a result of her allegedly shooting to death a retired Levy County Extension 4-H educator. Barba was arrested March 14, 2024, as the suspected murderer of Brenda Sue Heberling (July 19, 1956-March 14, 2024), who was 67 when she was killed at her horse ranch in Levy County. Heberling was 67 years old when she was shot to death.
     Records at the Levy County Sheriff’s Office show Barba was released from the custody of the Levy County Jail on Dec. 18, 2025, when the State of Florida took custody of the suspected cold-blooded killer and placed her in Florida State Hospital.


This video shows the April 8 review hearing in the murder case against Kimberly Dawn Barba, where she is accused of murdering with premeditation and with a firearm, Brenda Sue Heberling (July 19, 1956-March 14, 2024. Click on PHOTO to see and hear video. This still photo is taken from video and shows Assistant State Attorney Daniel Rex Owen looking at cases he is prosecuting as the Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Rober K. Groeb sets the next case review hearing for this first-degree murder case.
Video By Jeff M. Hardison – All Rights Reserved


Eighth Judicial Circuit Assistant State Attorney Arielle Screws and Eighth Judicial Circuit Assistant Daniel Owen are seen in Levy County Courtroom B on April 8 as they look at the many cases they will be dealing with that day, before the start of actions.


Levy County Deputy B. Ambrose is seen near a door where defendants who are coming from the jail enter the courtroom. Ambrose was joined by several other deputies in the courthouse that day as Levy County Sheriff Bobby McCallum provides security for everyone in the Courthouse. There were several felony criminal cases dealt with on April 9 in Levy County Courtroom B. This bailiff let people know to turn off their cell phones and that no food or drink was allowed in the courtroom. One person who was involved with a case early in the set of felony criminal cases that day failed to show proper decorum as he left the courtroom and walked down the hallway yelling about his displeasure with a bond not being reduced by the judge as much as he wanted for his son, a defendant charged with grand theft auto and dealing in stolen property.

     On Wednesday morning (April 8), the Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Rober K. Groeb ordered another review hearing to be conducted in Levy County regarding the competency of Barba to stand trial. This next hearing is scheduled for Nov. 18 at 9 a.m. The judge also granted Grant's request to "appear" in court via Zoom. 
     Barba’s defense attorney William John Grant of Grant Law Partners of Inverness (Citrus County), “appeared” in Courtroom B via Zoom from his office on that morning. Barba was not to be seen. Also on the Zoom meeting were Barba’s mother and father, who were in a conference room at Grant’s office – about 15 feet from where he was broadcasting.
     During the hearing, Judge Groeb asked attorney Grant, “Where are we at?”
     His client maintains her level of incompetency to be tried, Grant said. The hospital will continue Barba’s care, Grant said.
     Barba could regain an ability to be competent in six to 12 months, Grant said the hospital reported.
     Grant said he is grateful to the State of Florida to have received this report that he saw two days ago -- on April 6.
     Eighth Judicial Circuit Assistant State Attorney Daniel Rex Owen is prosecuting this case.
     Before Judge Groeb was presiding over this case, the Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Judge William E. Davis had this among those on his docket for 14 different court appearances in the Barba case.
Other Actions
     Among the many other criminal felony cases where Judge Groeb ruled on April 8, defendant Amar Lamar Barnwell, 35, of Gainesville sought a bond reduction from his $675,000 combined bail bond amount on the charges of selling cocaine, selling methamphetamine, using a two-way communication device to facilitate the commission of a felony, and possession of a structure of vehicle as a known place to sell drugs.
     Eighth Judicial Circuit Assistant Public Defender Emily A. Llerena sought to reduce the bond to $150,000.
     Eighth Judicial Circuit Assistant State Attorney Owen spoke about an extensive criminal record for Barnwell, including completed state prison sentences.
     The judge recited facts in the record of this defendant and then said the $675,000 bond remains intact.
     Among the change of plea actions, a defendant heard what she may consider as good news.
     In regard to Amanda Maria Wilkerson, 44, of Bronson, the judge accepted her plea of “no contest” to the charge of passing a counterfeited bank bill, check, draft or note. Wilkerson had been booked into the Levy County Jail on March 18, according to records.
     The judge ruled that if Wilkerson completes a two-year probation sentence, then he will withhold an adjudication of guilt from Wilkerson. This means she would not have a felony conviction. If, however, she violates any condition of her two-year probation and is convicted of that, then the adjudication of guilt for this felony will be applied to her record.
     Among the conditions of probation are that she is banned from entering or being on the property of ALL Dollar General Stores, not just the one in Bronson. She must not drink any alcoholic beverages or use illegal drugs. She will be tested randomly to determine if she has used alcohol or other drugs. She must pay all court costs and costs for probation. She must be gainfully employed or prove to her probation officer that she has applied to at least a certain number of jobs every week until she becomes employed.
     Wilkerson's defense attorney Susan Ward needed to speak with Wilkerson because the plea-negotiated agreement the defendant thought was being offered was to be “trespassed” only from shopping in the Dollar General Store in Bronson.
     Judge Groeb explained that given the charge, he was imposing a two-year probationary sentence to not be allowed for Wilkerson to shop in any Dollar General Store – anywhere. If the defendant did not accept that condition, then this felony case would be put on the calendar for trial, the judge explained to the defendant.
     Wilkerson agreed to that condition as well as recognizing all of the terms of this plea-negotiated agreement. 
     A different defendant found a bail reduction hearing led to his bail being increased.
     One man who the state determined was in the United States illegally had his state charges delayed until that issue was resolved. The judge imposed a $1 million bail and said that bail cannot be paid for 30 days, meaning there is no bail for that defendant for 30 days.
     Another defendant had his bail reduced from $50,500 to $50,000, according to records and actions in the courtroom on Wednesday morning.
     Andrew James Campbell, 42, of the Town of Otter Creek is charged with possession of drugs, grand theft of a vehicle and dealing in stolen property.
     The defendant’s father spoke to the judge, and the man cried as he addressed the Court from a lectern in the courtroom. The father said he is dying, and while he does not fear death, he is torn by the grief of thinking he will not be able to visit with his son before his pending death arrives and his son is still in custody in the county jail or in the state prison system.
     Despite the judge reducing bail, the man’s father cussed loudly as he went through the exit door of the courtroom and walked down the hallway away from the courtroom. The man who proclaimed in court that he is dying, cursed loudly as he spoke about people in "coats and ties" in an extremely disrespectful manner.
     A bailiff exited the courtoom and approached the man down the hallway and spoke to him about his behavior. A visiting journalist who was in close proximity as those two men left the courtroom at the same time, going around a corner in the hallway and leaving the courtroom, essentially ignoring the man who reported his impending death as well as loudly expressing his dissatisfaction with the ruling regarding the reduction of his son’s bail amount.
     To see the March 14, 2024 story, photos and video from the story titled 3 women – 1 dead, 1 wounded, 1 arrested; Suspected killer identified (Updated); ShandsCair 1 launches from Fowler’s Bluff (Video), click HERE. 
     To see the March 18, 2024 story titled Murder victim identified as Brenda Heberling, click HERE.
     To see the Sept. 3, 2025 story, photos and video Court contends with competency conundrum; Murder suspect sees case continuing, click HERE.
     To see the Feb. 18, 2026 story, photos and video Murder suspect still hospitalized, click HERE.

Horse rescue owners
arrested for animal cruelty
Search and seizure nets 69 horses,
two horses euthanized

Janine Chaux and David Palacio

Information and Mug Shots Provided
By MCSO Public Information Officer Zach Moore
Office of the Sheriff, Marion County
Published April 7, 2026 at 7 a.m.
     MARION COUNTY – Yesterday (Monday, April 6), Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Agriculture Detective Kraig McClaskey arrested 57-year-old David Palacio, 57, and 58-year-old Janine Chaux, 58, for 22 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and 16 counts of animal cruelty.     MCSO Det. McClaskey and Agriculture Investigator Justin McClure responded to Happy Valley Horse Rescue, 4250 N.W. 95th Ave. Road, Ocala, in reference to an anonymous complaint about neglected horses. Upon arrival on Nov. 4, 2025, the two law enforcement professionals contacted Palacio and Chaux, who agreed to provide a tour of the property and horses. 
     Investigators found that most of the horses were underweight, with bony structures visible, hooves in deplorable condition, and some appearing to be in pain while walking. The stalls in the barn had not been cleared of excrement and soiled bedding for an extended period of time. When confronted about the conditions, Palacio and Chaux could not explain the neglect and were unable to provide a total number of horses on the property. A total of 54 horses were found on the property on that day in November of 2025.
     On Nov. 5 and 6, 2025, MCSO personnel executed a search and seizure warrant at Happy Valley Horse Rescue for a total of 69 horses. While at the location, an additional 17 horses were discovered on the neighboring property that showed similar signs of neglect. These horses were also in the care of Chaux.
     An equine veterinarian examined the body conditions of the horses on a scale from 1 to 9 (1 being emaciated and 9 being obese). He assigned a score of 1 or 2 to 20 of the horses and a score of 3 to 16 of them. Two of the horses were in such poor condition that medical professionals determined euthanasia was the most humane option.
     On April 6, after the necessary due process following the law enforcement actions from last November, Palacio and Chaux were placed arrested and transported to the Marion County Jail, where they are held in lieu of bonds totaling $71,000 each.
     After the horses were seized, they were transported to the MCSO Agriculture Investigations Farm for treatment and care, and they have been successfully rehabilitated. 
     The MCSO extends its gratitude to community partners and the horse rescues who have worked alongside the MCSO to provide care and have now taken custody of the horses.

Dixie County Commission
brought into alcohol awareness

Sheila Frierson, R.N., of the Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition, speaks to the Dixie County Commission on April 2

Story and Photos By Jeff M. Hardison © April 3, 2026 at 4 p.m.
     CROSS CITY -- April is National Alcohol Awareness Month. Excessive alcohol use is a leading preventable cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
     With that in mind, Sheila Frierson, R.N., of the Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition (DCADC) spoke for a few minute Thursday morning (April 2) to the Dixie County Board of County Commissioners during their regular twice monthly meeting in Cross City.
     She said that during National Alcohol Awareness Month there is a focus, too, on the impact of this drug on mental health and subsequent behavior.
     Information in the 2024 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey shows the percentages of Dixie County and Florida Statewide youth who reported having used various substances in their lifetimes.
     Under the heading “Alcohol,” this report showed the following percentages for Dixie County children: Middle School - 27 percent; High School - 41.6 percent; Female - 35.9 percent; Male - 34.3 percent; Ages 10 to 14 - 28.8 percent; Ages 15 to 17 - 42.2 percent; total - 35.2 percent; in their lifetimes, so far.
     The Florida statewide averages showed, under the same heading in the same report: Middle School - 19.3 percent; High School - 32.5 percent; Female - 30.5 percent; Male - 23.5 percent; Ages 10 to 14 - 19.8 percent; Ages 15 to 17 - 32.4 percent; total- 26.9 percent.
     That report shows more results including percentages of children who have blacked out from drinking, as well as data on smoking cigarettes, vaping either nicotine or marijuana, and various data on other drugs used by children in Florida, and each of its 67 counties.
     Adults who choose to participate in alcoholic beverage consumption are different from the children who make that choice, Frierson said the DCADC reminds people.
     She then switched to speak about a potential danger for marijuana consumers, young and old.
     Frierson said she had just returned from a drug summit, where she heard from a doctor based in Washington, D.C., who told listeners at the summit that marijuana sellers who add opiates to the leaves or buds of that plant, which are smoked, are causing those consumers to suffer from overdoses.
     Dixie County Fire Rescue paramedics recognized just such an opiate overdose -- resultant from a patient smoking laced marijuana a couple of years ago, Frierson said.
     Frierson said she just wants the Dixie County Commission to be aware of the DCADC’s concerns for the local youth who may abuse alcohol or other drugs, and that by doing so, this can be a contributing factor in mental health issues as well as behavioral issues in the community.

Other Actions and Information

Karen VanAernam holds up a flyer with information about Doing It In Dixie – Countywide Cleanup Day – April 25. During her presentation on April 2 to the Dixie County Commission, she said the flyers are at various places in Dixie County. 

     ● Nikki Waits of Road 2 Redemption provided information about one of the programs she uses to help people. On Monday (April 6) Waits said she plans to conduct the first Moral Recognition Therapy with some of the young people of Dixie County. Th essence of this program is to encourage the youth of Dixie County to “take the high road” rather than to lie, steal and behave in a manner that is irresponsible and uncaring for others. This will allow them to make better decisions and create a future they will take pride in having created.
     ● Kay McCallister of the Dixie County Tourism Development Council reminded the commission about fishing tournaments in the county during springtime.
     ● Karen VanAernam told about the planned cleanup program of April 25 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. when there will be people in all five County Commission districts to guide people in a program to reduce litter by picking it up and disposing of it properly. She also mentioned that Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins will be touring the county on April 29. Collins is a candidate for governor in the 2026 gubernatorial election. A Republican appointed to his role by Ron DeSantis in August of 2025, Collins officially announced his candidacy in January, Collins is among at least 13 Republican candidates in the primary field to succeed the current governor. There are at least 40 active candidates seeking to be the next governor, according to records.
     ● John Locklear, owner of Locklear and Associates, said there are pre-construction meetings on April 27 for dredging projects in the Horseshoe Beach area and the Community of Suwannee area. At that meeting, Locklear said he expects the contractor to provide a schedule for that work to start, and Locklear will report back to the County Commission with that information at a future meeting.
     ● Dixie County Road Superintendent Michael “Monk” Gainey reported on road grader work and other matters related to Dixie County Roads. Every Dixie County Commission member thanked Gainey for the work by the Road Department, as did Sheila Frierson on behalf of the Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition, for the Road Department’s help in placing certain containers properly throughout the county.
     ● Solid Waste Director Tim Johnson found the County Commission collaborating with him to complete certain projects as quickly as possible.
     Among the many other items approved 4-0 by the Dixie County Commission were the following requests by County Manager John Jenkins:
     ● A resolution sent to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Suwannee River Water Management District, and the Saint Johns River Water Management District Opposing the Water First Florida Aquifer Recharge Project, which would put treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the aquifer.
     ● The SHIP HHRP Demolition and Reconstruction Reimbursement for Susan Sowards in the amount of $169,336.15.
     ● The SHIP HHRP Demolition and Reconstruction Reimbursement for Darlene Powell in the amount of $77,895.99.
     ● The SHIP HHRP Demolition and Reconstruction Reimbursement for Lou Watson in the amount of $178,033.45.
     ● The Notice of Award for Foundation Professionals of Florida Inc. for the Dixie County Sheriff Evidence Building Grout Injection not to exceed the amount of $560,750. 
     ● For Locklear and Associates to apply for the Florida Commerce Community Planning Technical Assistance grant FY 2026-2027. This is for scanning and archiving documents for the County Manager Office.

Williston woman dies
after crash with farm tractor
Williston man is critically injured
By Jeff M. Hardison © April 2, 2026 at 8 a.m.
     MARION COUNTY – A 73-year-old woman with a Williston residential address died after the sedan she was a passenger in crashed into a farm tractor at about 8:30 p.m. on April 1, according to information in a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) press release.
     The next of kin were notified before the press release was sent, the FHP said. The press release was based on information provided by an FHP crash investigator and an FHP homicide investigator.
     The fatal traffic crash happened on U.S. Highway 27 just west of Northwest 160th Avenue in Marion County, the FHP said.
     The four-door sedan, driven by a 69-year-old Williston man, the FHP said, was northbound on U.S. 27 in the outside lane. 
     A large farm tractor, driven by a 28-year-old Ocala man, also was northbound on U.S. 27 in the outside lane ahead of the sedan, the FHP said.
     The front of the sedan hit the back of the tractor, the FHP said.
     Both occupants of the sedan were transported to an area hospital, where the female passenger was later dead, and the driver was listed in critical condition, the FHP said.
     Both sedan occupants were wearing seatbelts, the FHP said.
     The driver of the tractor was no injured, the FHP said.

Governor signs another death warrant
Lethal injections set for April 21 & 30
By John S. Koch of Independent News Service
HardisonInk.com Correspondent © April 1, 2026 at 12:45 p.m.
Edited By Jeff M. Hardison
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     TALLAHASSEE (INS) – Gov. Ron DeSantis signed another death warrant on Monday (March 30) to complete the death sentence imposed on James Ernest Hitchcock, 69. 
     Hitchcock is a death row inmate currently scheduled for execution by lethal injection on April 30 for the 1976 rape and murder of his 13-year-old step-niece Cynthia Driggers, in Orange County.
     Like many individuals before him, Hitchcock is scheduled for execution on May 7 at the Florida State Prison (also known as Raiford Prison) near Starke (county seat of Bradford County). 
     Hitchcock’s current destiny with planned death by execution includes a history of court proceedings, with three re-sentencings due to changes in Florida statutes on death penalty cases over the decades since he was found guilty or raping and murdering with premeditation at 13-year-old girl.
     In one argument, the man’s inhaling of gasoline fumes affecting his mind was noted for consideration as a possible mitigating factor, as noted in part in the case titled “James Ernest HITCHCOCK, Petitioner v. Richard L. DUGGER, Secretary, Florida Department of Corrections,” which was argued Oct. 15, 1986, and decided April 22, 1987, according to records.
     Hitchcock’s most recent sentence was upheld despite arguments for a new hearing centering on the lack of a unanimous jury’s decision. The Florida Supreme Court ruled that that specific challenge did not apply retroactively to his case.
     Court records show Hitchcock has had three sentencing phases: the first was a 7-5 decision in favor of death by execution, the second was a unanimous 12-0 vote, and the last showed a 10-2 decision for death by execution to be carried out by the State of Florida.
     Hitchcock joins two others on death watch, which is a special prison section at Florida State Prison for condemned prisoners with active death warrants.
     James Duckett who had his March 31 execution delayed due to legal issues revolving around DNA testing and results, and Chadwick Willacy who has his execution set for April 21.
     Willacy, Duckett and Hitchcock are the three convicts currently sentenced to death and who are closer now than ever before to meet that end.
     Duckett, though, may move to some other part of the prison after April 7, depending on more DNA testing and results, as noted in a story previously published in HardisonInk.com.
     As of the end of 2025, DeSantis had signed 19 death warrants in 2025 alone, setting the current record for the state. 
     The 19 death warrants signed in 2025 represented the highest number of state executions in Florida since the death penalty was reinstated in the 1970s.
     Prior to 2025, DeSantis had signed nine death warrants during his governorship, according to records. Due to term limits, DeSantis cannot run for reelection.
     The 2026 Florida gubernatorial election is scheduled to take place on Nov. 3, alongside other state and local elections, according to records. Taking a stance on the executions completed by the state government in Florida is a plank on candidates' platforms for election to governor.
     The primary elections for governor and other posts will take place on Aug. 18. While it is a primary election, the Aug. 18 votes are when the final decisions to determine who sits in certain positions of trust in the Tri-County Area will be decided, given the current set of candidates seeking election or reelection in Levy County, Dixie County and Gilchrist County, according to records.