BREAKING NEWS
Clay County community mourns the loss of sheriff‘s office chaplain who was ’full of love, life, and faith’
Read full article: Clay County community mourns the loss of sheriff‘s office chaplain who was ’full of love, life, and faith’The Clay County community is grieving after the loss of the sheriff’s office’s chaplain who was “full of love, life, and faith.”
Michelle Cook reelected as Clay County sheriff after defeating Darryl Daniels again
Read full article: Michelle Cook reelected as Clay County sheriff after defeating Darryl Daniels againRepublican Michelle Cook will remain Clay County sheriff for another four years after beating out her opponent, former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels for a second time.
Former Clay County deputy accused of using ‘false statements’ on police report to cover up crash he caused
Read full article: Former Clay County deputy accused of using ‘false statements’ on police report to cover up crash he causedA former Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputy was arrested Monday after he was accused of falsifying a police report to cover up a crash that he caused, according to the CCSO.
‘There are a lot of hours going into this’: Clay County sheriff provides look into how agency handles school threats
Read full article: ‘There are a lot of hours going into this’: Clay County sheriff provides look into how agency handles school threatsClay County Sheriff Director Patrick Golemme told News4JAX that as many as a dozen people are involved in every threat, including people from the sheriff’s office, the school district, and school resource officers.
13-year-old arrested in Clay County after saying he wants to go on ‘purge killing spree’ following break-up
Read full article: 13-year-old arrested in Clay County after saying he wants to go on ‘purge killing spree’ following break-upA 13-year-old boy was arrested Monday after the Clay County Sheriff’s Office said investigators found text messages stating he wanted to go on a “purge killing spree” centered around his ex-girlfriend and her friends.
Clay County Sheriff’s Office looking for 2 suspects last seen near Keystone Heights schools
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff’s Office looking for 2 suspects last seen near Keystone Heights schoolsThe Clay County Sheriff’s Office is looking for two suspects who were last seen near the Keystone Middle and High Schools on Wednesday afternoon.
Burglary suspect dies in crash following pursuit in Clay County, deputies say
Read full article: Burglary suspect dies in crash following pursuit in Clay County, deputies sayA 33-year-old man was killed in a crash after leading Clay County deputies on a pursuit that ended on County Road 209 Friday night, according to the sheriff’s office.
Clay County Sheriff’s Office issues warning about Bitcoin ATM scam
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff’s Office issues warning about Bitcoin ATM scamCases of Bitcoin ATM fraud have started popping up in Clay County and now the Sheriff’s Office is warning people to be alert after a deputy saved an elderly woman from becoming the scam’s next victim.
Clay County Sheriff school crossing guard fired after being arrested, accused of exposing himself to a woman: CCSO
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff school crossing guard fired after being arrested, accused of exposing himself to a woman: CCSOA part-time school crossing guard with Clay County Sheriff’s Office was fired after he was arrested Saturday and accused of exposing himself to a woman at a local business.
‘I have no issues’: Clay County deputy says new body-camera pilot program not slowing him down
Read full article: ‘I have no issues’: Clay County deputy says new body-camera pilot program not slowing him downThe Clay County Sheriff’s Office is planning to invest millions in body-worn cameras for deputies.
Clay County sheriff says addition of body-worn cameras shows commitment to ‘transparency, accountability’
Read full article: Clay County sheriff says addition of body-worn cameras shows commitment to ‘transparency, accountability’Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook said the department is still in the process of testing different body-worn cameras to see which one will be the best fit for its deputies.
Clay County sheriff announces potential $7M plan to give all deputies body-worn cameras
Read full article: Clay County sheriff announces potential $7M plan to give all deputies body-worn camerasThe Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) on Monday announced a $7 million plan to issue body-worn cameras to all its deputies over the next five years.
Clay County residents think sheriff’s office move to implement body-worn cameras is a step in right direction
Read full article: Clay County residents think sheriff’s office move to implement body-worn cameras is a step in right directionCommunity members reacted to a social media post from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office saying their deputies are now testing body-worn cameras in a pilot program.
JSO officer resigns after being accused in Clay County sex crime investigation involving 17-year-old
Read full article: JSO officer resigns after being accused in Clay County sex crime investigation involving 17-year-oldA former 34-year-old Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office officer was arrested in connection to a sex crime investigation involving a minor.
Clay County deputies investigating fight at Orange Park Mall, shots heard nearby
Read full article: Clay County deputies investigating fight at Orange Park Mall, shots heard nearbyThe Clay County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fight between a group of juveniles at Orange Park Mall Saturday night and a series of gunshots that were heard nearby, deputies said.
Sheriff unveils ‘Clay Watch Registry’ to allow families to share critical information about those prone to wander
Read full article: Sheriff unveils ‘Clay Watch Registry’ to allow families to share critical information about those prone to wanderOn Monday, Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook is expected to formally unveil the new Clay Watch Registry, which allows families of those who are prone to wandering to easily provide crucial information to law enforcement.
“You have an individual that’s trying to take advantage” retired police officer gives tips on safe dating
Read full article: “You have an individual that’s trying to take advantage” retired police officer gives tips on safe datingFollowing the Clay County Sheriff’s Office arresting a man accused of robbing people he met on a dating app, News4Jax spoke with a retired police officer about safe dating tips.
Arrest report for man accused of firing gun at Middleburg Christmas Parade reveals details of incident
Read full article: Arrest report for man accused of firing gun at Middleburg Christmas Parade reveals details of incidentA man who was arrested early Sunday morning following a shooting incident at the Middleburg Christmas Parade appeared in court Monday.
Man gets ‘agitated’ by Middleburg Christmas parade festivities, starts shooting : CCSO
Read full article: Man gets ‘agitated’ by Middleburg Christmas parade festivities, starts shooting : CCSOA man was arrested Saturday following a shooting incident at a Middleburg Christmas Parade, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.
Clay County deputy arrested, charged with DUI following crash while on duty, deputies say
Read full article: Clay County deputy arrested, charged with DUI following crash while on duty, deputies sayA Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputy was arrested Friday and is accused of driving under the influence following a crash that happened while he was on duty, officials said.
Clay County sheriff says it ‘makes sense’ for the district to turn school policing back to CCSO
Read full article: Clay County sheriff says it ‘makes sense’ for the district to turn school policing back to CCSOClay County Sheriff Michelle Cook is ready and willing to take over the School Resource Officer services next school year after the district voted to turn school security back to the sheriff’s office.
Clay County School District votes to disband police department, turns security back to sheriff’s office
Read full article: Clay County School District votes to disband police department, turns security back to sheriff’s officeFour years after the Clay County School District voted to implement district school police officers following the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High, board members voted Thursday to reverse that decision and turn over school security to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.
Clay County Schools to vote Thursday on the future of its school district police force
Read full article: Clay County Schools to vote Thursday on the future of its school district police forceIn what would be a dramatic turnaround for the Clay County School District, they may decide to disband the district’s police department. If they do, it would turn security back over to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.
Clay County Sheriff gets first check from fund aimed at helping first responders with personal emergencies
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff gets first check from fund aimed at helping first responders with personal emergenciesA newly launched public safety initiative aimed at helping first responders in Clay County is now able to help them in times of need thanks to the donations from the community.
‘A person who has learned from those things’: Former acquitted Clay County sheriff on comeback trail to get his job back
Read full article: ‘A person who has learned from those things’: Former acquitted Clay County sheriff on comeback trail to get his job backFormer Clay County sheriff is willing to get back in the spotlight with hopes of getting his job back after he was acquitted in a trial a year ago following an “embarrassing” scandal.
TELL US: Former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels files to run again in 2024. Would you vote for him?
Read full article: TELL US: Former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels files to run again in 2024. Would you vote for him?On Thursday, the Clay County Supervisor of Elections announced that former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels has filed again to run for the position in 2024, presumably against current Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook.
Clay County Sheriff’s Office announces 52 arrests in drug bust; woman accused of manslaughter in fentanyl overdose
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff’s Office announces 52 arrests in drug bust; woman accused of manslaughter in fentanyl overdoseClay County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 52 people Wednesday for selling illegal drugs.
Father wants answers one year after son was killed by deputies
Read full article: Father wants answers one year after son was killed by deputiesThursday marks one year since Danny Palato was shot and killed by Clay County Sheriff's deputies. Now, his father, Fred, wants more information about what happened.
Authorities: Man shoots at Clay County Sheriff’s Office vehicles, at least 1 deputy returns fire
Read full article: Authorities: Man shoots at Clay County Sheriff’s Office vehicles, at least 1 deputy returns fireNo one was hit by gunfire Friday morning when a man accused of attempted murder fired shots at several Clay County Sheriff’s Office vehicles and at least one deputy returned fire in Green Cove Springs, authorities said.
Report provides new details in Clay County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant’s DUI arrest
Read full article: Report provides new details in Clay County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant’s DUI arrestNews4JAX on Tuesday obtained an arrest report for now-former Clay County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Christopher Coldiron, who was arrested by the Florida Highway Patrol on suspicion of driving under the influence Friday.
Clay County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant fired after being accused of DUI for second time in 10 months
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant fired after being accused of DUI for second time in 10 monthsClay County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant Christopher Coldiron, who was arrested by the Florida Highway Patrol on suspicion of driving under the influence Friday night, was fired on Monday, a spokesman confirmed to News4JAX.
Woman found dead in car at Clay County park; foul play suspected: CCSO
Read full article: Woman found dead in car at Clay County park; foul play suspected: CCSOThe Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is looking for answers after a woman was found dead Saturday evening inside a car parked at a Middleburg park.
Clay County Sheriff’s Office disrupts drug trafficking operation between Florida & California
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff’s Office disrupts drug trafficking operation between Florida & CaliforniaA suspected multi-kilogram drug trafficking organization that brought fentanyl, cocaine and meth into Northeast Florida was disrupted when the Clay County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit got involved.
TELL US: Should Darryl Daniels run for Sheriff again?
Read full article: TELL US: Should Darryl Daniels run for Sheriff again?A jury on Thursday returned a verdict of not guilty on all seven counts against former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels. Since then, we have heard from many News4JAX Insiders.
‘It was chaos’: Clay County deputies close Orange Park Mall due to teens causing disturbances
Read full article: ‘It was chaos’: Clay County deputies close Orange Park Mall due to teens causing disturbancesThe Clay County Sheriff’s Office temporarily closed the Orange Park Mall Saturday evening due to “juvenile disturbances.”
Clay County Sheriff’s Office holds law enforcement memorial to honor the fallen
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff’s Office holds law enforcement memorial to honor the fallenClay County Sheriff's deputies and other law enforcement who lost their lives in the line of duty were remembered in a special memorial Thursday morning.
Man shot during Clay County gas station hostage standoff has history of violent accusations
Read full article: Man shot during Clay County gas station hostage standoff has history of violent accusationsA Palataka man shot by a Clay County Sheriff’s Office SWAT member Saturday night after holding a woman hostage in a Green Cove Springs gas station has a history of violence, past arrest records show.
Deputy shoots suspect at Clay County gas station during hostage standoff: Sheriff’s Office
Read full article: Deputy shoots suspect at Clay County gas station during hostage standoff: Sheriff’s OfficeFlorida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating a deputy-involved shooting that happened Saturday at a Green Cove Springs gas station in Clay County. The incident started with a hostage situation that shut down roads in the area for several hours, investigators said.
Clay County jail program offers incarcerated veterans skills to re-enter society
Read full article: Clay County jail program offers incarcerated veterans skills to re-enter societyA new program inside the Clay County jail is helping military veterans who are now inmates get the skills they need to re-enter society.
Evacuations & road closure lifted after Clay County gas line break
Read full article: Evacuations & road closure lifted after Clay County gas line breakThe southbound lanes of Blanding Boulevard reopened to traffic late Thursday morning after a gas line break led authorities to close part of the roadway.
High-speed chase leads to arrest of Clay County man accused of sex crime
Read full article: High-speed chase leads to arrest of Clay County man accused of sex crimeJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A 39-year-old man wanted on a list of charges in Clay County is in custody following a high-speed chase that stretched from Florida into Georgia. Police tried unsuccessfully to halt the vehicle using a PIT maneuver on Lem Turner Road and then Smith hopped onto Interstate 95 North. AdIt wasn’t until the fourth PIT maneuver attempt — this time on I-95 in Georgia — that the chase came to a stop. (UNCUT BODYCAM: High-speed chase leads to arrest of Clay County man accused of sex crime)A Camden County K9 in pursuit of Smith quickly brought him down and he was taken to the hospital for treatment. Jail logs show he’s wanted in Clay County on warrants charging him with lewd molestation, child custody interference and tampering with a GPS monitor.
Man at center of SWAT standoff identified as ‘sole suspect’ in woman’s killing, deputies say
Read full article: Man at center of SWAT standoff identified as ‘sole suspect’ in woman’s killing, deputies sayST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – A man at the center of a SWAT standoff Sunday in Clay County was identified as the “sole suspect” in the killing of a woman in St. Johns County, authorities said Monday. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office said it received a call Sunday morning from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office about a man, identified as Hopkins, who had driven a vehicle into a home in Fleming Island and barricaded himself inside. Based on the man’s statements, St. Johns County deputies responded to a home in the northwest part of St. Johns County to check on the welfare of a resident. Eventually, with the help of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office SWAT team, members of the Clay County SWAT team entered the home and found him dead. The Betty Griffin Center in St. Johns County can be reached at 904-824-1555The hotline number of Quigley House in Clay County is 904-284-0061.
Clay County Sheriff: Hours-long standoff ends after suspect takes his own life
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff: Hours-long standoff ends after suspect takes his own lifeCLAY COUNTY, Fla. – The man who barricaded himself inside a Fleming Island home after crashing into its garage Sunday morning has taken his own life, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. She said the homeowner was out of state at the time of the incident but was returning to Clay County. AdIn St. Johns County, authorities say the death of a woman in the northwest part of the county early Sunday morning is believed to be related to the SWAT standoff Sunday in Clay County. @wjxt4 https://t.co/6FtnpzAqmd — Brittany Muller (@BrittMullerNews) March 7, 2021A St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson told News4Jax that the agency received a call around 8:30 a.m. Sunday from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office to do a welfare check on a woman in the northwest part of St. Johns County. “We believe this to be a domestic violence incident and related to the active situation in Clay County,” the spokesperson said.
Deputies identify woman found dead in Black Creek
Read full article: Deputies identify woman found dead in Black CreekClay County deputies want to speak with anyone who has information about Lynda Robertson and her truck that might help their investigation. Deputies on Tuesday released the identity of a woman whose body was found in Black Creek in hopes that the public can help with the investigation into her death. The woman, identified as Lynda Robertson, was found Feb. 22 by a kayaker in the North Fork of Black Creek, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office wants to know if anyone has information about Robertson or her white Ford pickup truck (pictured below) that could help with its investigation. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Det.
Jacksonville suspends firefighter accused of beating girlfriend
Read full article: Jacksonville suspends firefighter accused of beating girlfriendJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department engineer could lose his job after he was arrested on accusations that he beat his girlfriend, a city spokeswoman confirmed Friday. The victim said Callahan, her boyfriend of six months, beat her up the night before, according to his arrest report. She told deputies he was drunk when she picked him up at home and he grew more intoxicated as they stopped at multiple bars that night. AdDeputies found blood on Callahan’s front door, which looked like it had been kicked in, according to the report. He told deputies the victim hit and cut herself and suggested that his injuries might have happened while defending himself.
Ex-Clay County Sheriff Daniels enters not guilty plea
Read full article: Ex-Clay County Sheriff Daniels enters not guilty pleaDaniels, 55, is charged with three misdemeanor counts of false statements to law enforcement and a felony count of evidence tampering, according to the latest charging documents. The charges stem from an investigation into Daniels’ relationship with Cierra Smith, his long-time mistress and a former corrections officer who was a subordinate of Daniels while he was chief of the Duval County jail. Daniels accused Smith of stalking him in May 2019 and authorities say he tried unsuccessfully to have her arrested. Court documents show investigators suspect Daniels tried to tamper with, hide or destroy data on his agency-issued cellphone that were related to the investigation. Daniels is also accused of lying to a deputy about his relationship with Smith and about his efforts to get an injunction against her.
Charges filed against ex-Clay County Sheriff Daniels
Read full article: Charges filed against ex-Clay County Sheriff DanielsJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Formal charges were filed Wednesday against former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels, who was removed from office in August while under state investigation over an extramarital sex scandal. Daniels, 55, was defeated by Republican challenger Michelle Cook in the August primary following his arrest and subsequent suspension by Gov. The charges stem from an investigation into Daniels’ relationship with Cierra Smith, his long-time mistress and a former corrections officer who was a subordinate of Daniels while he was chief of the Duval County jail. Daniels accused Smith of stalking him in May 2019 and authorities say he tried unsuccessfully to have her arrested. Court documents show investigators suspect Daniels tried to tamper with, hide or destroy data on his agency-issued cellphone that were related to the investigation.
Man sought in Clay County woman’s death shot, killed by police in Maryland
Read full article: Man sought in Clay County woman’s death shot, killed by police in MarylandCLAY COUNTY, Fla. – Shawn Lequin Braddy, the man who was sought by Clay County deputies in connection to a deadly shooting in Oakleaf, was shot and killed by police Tuesday in Maryland, according to the Sheriff’s Office. Investigators said a Montgomery County police officer was wounded by the suspect. “We ask that you keep the Montgomery County task force detectives in your prayers,” interim Chief Hector Velez, with Prince George’s County Police Department, said during a news conference. Marcus Jones, the Montgomery County police chief, said the officer was shot in the upper body. Family members identified the woman killed Monday in Clay County as Tiara McDaniels, 33.
Man sought in Clay County woman’s killing
Read full article: Man sought in Clay County woman’s killingOAKLEAF, Fla. – Clay County deputies are looking for a man in connection with a deadly shooting Monday in Oakleaf. In a statement, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office said deputies believe Shawn Lequin Braddy was involved in a shooting Monday morning on Grayson Lane in the Oakleaf area. McDaniels’ family said she was at home with her children when the shooting happened. McDaniels had a child with Braddy and filed a domestic violence injunction against him in 2013. Resources availableIf you or someone you know is or has been a victim of domestic violence or abuse, these resources are also available:
Jacksonville man arrested in wife’s killing
Read full article: Jacksonville man arrested in wife’s killingJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A 60-year-old Jacksonville man was arrested over the weekend in the shooting death of his wife. While detectives were working the investigation, they were notified that Cleon McQueen had surrendered to police at the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office headquarters on Bay Street downtown. Cleon McQueen declined to speak with police without an attorney present. Deputies transported Cleon McQueen to the Clay County jail where he’s being held without bond. Ronda Redmond, Terrion McQueen’s sister, and Terrion McQueen’s grown son spoke with News4Jax on Monday about Cleon and Terrion McQueen’s relationship.
Fleming Island woman’s vacant home a reminder of her murder last October
Read full article: Fleming Island woman’s vacant home a reminder of her murder last OctoberFLEMING ISLAND, Fla. – Susan Mauldin, 65, was last seen alive or heard from on Oct. 23, 2019. One year after she disappeared, two pumpkins remain on the porch of Mauldin’s Fleming Island home -- a daily reminder to her neighbors and friends of her loss. “It’s very disappointing to think those pumpkins have been out there for a year," Joy Strickland said. TIMELINE: How detectives uncovered remains of Fleming Island womanTime hasn’t dulled the pain of Mauldin’s loss. “As time goes by, I am hoping that will disappear.”Flowers and a sign join pumpkins and evidence markers that have been at the entry to Susan Mauldin's Fleming Island home for the last year.
No one immune to domestic violence, Clay County sheriff warns
Read full article: No one immune to domestic violence, Clay County sheriff warnsCLAY COUNTY, Fla. – Domestic violence can affect anyone. “In a one-minute period of time, 20 people experience domestic violence,” said Jennifer Rodriguez, director of sexual assault services for Quigley House in Clay County. Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook said no one is immune to domestic violence -- even her own family. Clay County took time Friday during Domestic Violence Awareness month to remind everyone that these aren’t just numbers, they’re family members and friends. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office’s free services are available at 904-529-4081, and the 24/7 Quigley House hotline is at 904-284-0061.
Clay County deputies looking for stolen historical marker
Read full article: Clay County deputies looking for stolen historical markerThe disappearance of a historical marker has the Clay County Sheriff’s Office asking for the public’s help tracking it down as well as the people who stole it. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the Fort San Fransisco De Pupo marker was taken from its location on Bayard Road west of the St. Johns River about two weeks ago. ⚠️COMMUNITY HELP:#CCSOFL is looking for the unknown person(s) who took a historical marker two weeks ago. Located just west of the St. John’s River on Bayard Road, the Fort San Francisco De Pupo marker has been in place since 2012 commemorating the historic site. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/ANQaVxKQYI — Clay County Sheriff's Office, FL (@ccsofl) October 2, 2020Anyone with information about the location of the marker or those responsible for its disappearance is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office by calling 904-687-7340.
Daniels pleads not guilty as shakeups continue at Clay County Sheriffs Office
Read full article: Daniels pleads not guilty as shakeups continue at Clay County Sheriffs OfficeCLAY COUNTY, Fla. Changes at the Clay County Sheriffs Office as former Sheriff Darryl Daniels has a court date over his arrest earlier this month. Daniels did not show up in court on Wednesday morning, instead, he had an attorney enter a plea of not guilty for him. Daniels attorney let the judge know the ousted Sheriff is pleading not guilty on the charges he lied to investigators following his arrest just days before the primary election for Sheriff. Following his arrest, Daniels put a video on the Sheriffs Offices YouTube page professing his innocence. Daniels has maintained his arrest was politically motivated and has not spoken publicly since releasing a statement from his campaign on election night.
Michelle Cook defeats Darryl Daniels in Clay County’s sheriff’s race
Read full article: Michelle Cook defeats Darryl Daniels in Clay County’s sheriff’s raceGREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. – Michelle Cook has defeated suspended Darryl Daniels in the Republican primary for sheriff of Clay County. Cook, a Clay County resident who worked at the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for more than 20 years and most recently was chief of the Atlantic Beach Police Department, got 37% of the vote in a six-way race. Cook joined The Morning Show on Wednesday to discuss her Primary victory (press play below to watch):The race for Clay County sheriff had always promised lots of possibilities with five challengers lining up to unseat incumbent Daniels. “There’s a lot of drama,” Clay County voter Deirdre Martin said Tuesday. I told him who he might want to vote for.”All Clay County primary races
What happens if Sheriff Daniels wins reelection?
Read full article: What happens if Sheriff Daniels wins reelection?GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. – Heading into last week, the race for Clay County sheriff already promised lots of possibilities with five challengers lining up to unseat Sheriff Darryl Daniels. RELATED: DeSantis names FDLE veteran as interim Clay County sheriff | Governor suspends DanielsWhile DeSantis has named a temporary replacement to lead the Clay County Sheriff’s Office in Daniels’ absence, all of these recent developments have people wondering what happens if Daniels wins Tuesday’s primary? RELATED: Woman at center of investigation says Daniels ‘should be held accountable’It’s worth mentioning that Daniels does not need a majority of the vote to win the primary on Tuesday. If Daniels wins, a few things will happen. Unless there’s a big development with Daniels’ legal fight, Chambless said, then the embattled sheriff would likely be sworn into office in January when the new term takes effect.
Gov. DeSantis names FDLE’s Matt Walsh as interim sheriff of Clay County
Read full article: Gov. DeSantis names FDLE’s Matt Walsh as interim sheriff of Clay CountyRon DeSantis suspended embattled Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels, arrested Thursday night on criminal charges stemming from a sex scandal investigation, the governor appointed Special Agent Matt Walsh of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement as interim sheriff. He’s now got five months to make his mark in Clay County, when whoever wins the November election takes over in January. He is prohibited from receiving any pay or allowance and from any privileges of public office during the suspension. “I started thinking (the) Clay County sheriff has to kill a female, young female in her vehicle. King noted in his letter: “I do not know Sheriff Daniels, his politics, his opponents, nor for that matter any citizen in Clay County.
Gov. DeSantis suspends Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels
Read full article: Gov. DeSantis suspends Clay County Sheriff Darryl DanielsCLAY COUNTY, Fla. – A day after Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels surrendered to law enforcement to face criminal charges stemming from a sex scandal investigation, Gov. He is prohibited from receiving any pay or allowance and from any privileges of public office during the suspension. RELATED: Making sense of the charges against Clay County Sheriff Darryl DanielsThe Florida Department of Law Enforcement confirmed an internal investigation last year into a corrections officer, Cierra Smith, who had been Daniels’ mistress while he was her supervisor. News4Jax on Friday spoke with Rep. John Rutherford, R-Florida, a former Jacksonville sheriff who worked with Daniels during his time at the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. King noted in his letter: “I do not know Sheriff Daniels, his politics, his opponents, nor for that matter any citizen in Clay County.
Making sense of the charges against Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels
Read full article: Making sense of the charges against Clay County Sheriff Darryl DanielsJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A day after Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels surrendered to law enforcement to face criminal charges stemming from a sex scandal investigation, newly released court documents are shedding light on the allegations against him. Through his attorney and a video statement posted on social media Thursday, the sheriff has maintained his innocence. In the video clip, the sheriff questioned the timing of the criminal charges, calling it “very suspicious.”RELATED: Facing 4 charges, Sheriff Daniels turns himself in | Why bring charges during an election? While deputies placed Smith in handcuffs, no criminal charges were filed against her. RELATED: Sheriff Daniels accuses corrections officer of stalking him | Sheriff Daniels’ ex-lover: What I did was wrongAttorney Latoya Williams-Shelton, who represents Smith, said her client was licensed to carry a concealed firearm.
Prosecutor: No ultimatum given to Sheriff Daniels
Read full article: Prosecutor: No ultimatum given to Sheriff DanielsJACKSONVILLE, Fla. The special prosecutor handling the criminal case against Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels pushed back Friday against the suggestion that he gave Daniels a choice to either resign and cancel his reelection bid or be arrested, saying there is no truth to that claim. His attorney said Daniels has no plans to step down and will continue to seek reelection. I do not know Sheriff Daniels, his politics, his opponents, nor for that matter any citizen in Clay County. Under the terms of the deal offered by King, Daniels would have been required to resign, withdraw his bid for reelection, forfeit his law enforcement certificate and never run for sheriff in Florida again. As part of that deal, the prosecutor would have agreed not to pursue the criminal case against Daniels.
Special prosecutor appointed to Clay County sheriff investigation
Read full article: Special prosecutor appointed to Clay County sheriff investigationRon DeSantis has appointed a Central Florida state attorney as a special prosecutor to take over the investigation of Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels. She began a relationship with Daniels when she worked for him when they were both at the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the affair continued after he was elected sheriff. A Clay County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson told News4Jax earlier in the month that Daniels has no comment at this time. Daniels has been the subject of a state investigation into allegations of official misconduct since last year. At the time, an FDLE spokesperson acknowledged the state was initially provided information by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Daniels’ former employer and had since received additional information.
2020 Voters Guide: Clay County sheriff
Read full article: 2020 Voters Guide: Clay County sheriffOne-term Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels has drawn five opponents in the August Republican Primary: Ben Carroll, Michelle Cook, Harold Rutledge, Mike Taylor and Catherine Webb are all Republicans. I am retired from the Clay County Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff must assure that dealing drugs in Clay County is as difficult as possible. I have the integrity, experience, and leadership to lead the Clay County Sheriff's Office. Clay County records show Bourrie is a registered Republican and his presence in the race keeps the primary closed to only Republicans.
State attorney seeks independent prosecutor for investigation into Clay County sheriff
Read full article: State attorney seeks independent prosecutor for investigation into Clay County sheriffJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – State Attorney Melissa Nelson is recusing herself from the investigation into Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels, who’s been under scrutiny from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for more than a year. A Clay County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson told News4Jax Thursday afternoon that Daniels has no comment at this time. “I’m still committed to the job that we do in Clay County,” the sheriff said at the time. Daniels has been the subject of a state investigation into allegations of official misconduct since last year. At the time, an FDLE spokesperson acknowledged the state was initially provided information by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Daniels’ former employer, and had since received additional information.
Clay County Sheriff's Office asks for citizens' help with how law enforcement can make Americans feel safer
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff's Office asks for citizens' help with how law enforcement can make Americans feel saferClay County Sheriff's Office asks for citizens' help with how law enforcement can make Americans feel saferPublished: June 25, 2020, 11:27 pmOne of the people attending asked whether chokeholds are illegal in Clay County, Sheriff Daniels assured them they are illegal.
Clay County deputies host Talking for a Change discussion
Read full article: Clay County deputies host Talking for a Change discussionThe Clay County Sheriff's Office opened a discussion Thursday night, reaching out for help from citizens to brainstorm on how law enforcement can help Americans feel safer. One woman who spoke during the meeting shared what she said happened when her daughter was pulled over. Social distancing in small groups, people shared their ideas about how law enforcement and the community can work together. The event, called Talking for a Change, which was moderated by News4Jax anchor Kent Justice, was organized by the Sheriffs Office. "With the police being here tonight, with the community coming out and talking to them, that's the first step," Miller said.
2 men arrested, accused of using Snapchat to lure minors
Read full article: 2 men arrested, accused of using Snapchat to lure minorsA man in New York was arrested and charged with sexual exploitation of three minors throughout the country, after an investigation started by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. — Clay County Sheriff's Office, FL (@ccsofl) June 15, 2020The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York released information about the arrest that utilized the Department of Homeland Security, the Putnam County sheriff’s Office and the Longview Police Department in Longview, Texas. Utilizing the Snapchat name “Ian_Jameson,” Weiss communicated online with three different 13-year-olds, asking each to send him explicit photos. One of the victims was allegedly from Clay County, according to authorities with the Department of Homeland Security. News4Jax has also learned of a Jacksonville man charged after allegedly meeting a 14-year-old girl on Snapchat and then meeting her for sex.
Navy serviceman accused of sexual battery on a minor
Read full article: Navy serviceman accused of sexual battery on a minorClay County deputies on Thursday arrested a Navy sailor accused of sexually battering a minor. Bradley Jonas, 19, of Middleburg, was arrested on a warrant charging him with sexual battery on a victim older than 12 and younger than 18, according to a copy of his arrest report. Instead, he was taken into custody shortly before 3:30 p.m. Thursday in Fleming Island, according to the report. An arrest warrant for Jonas was heavily redacted. Jonas remains in custody at the Duval County jail on $100,000 bond.
Clay County family moved by encounter with deputy
Read full article: Clay County family moved by encounter with deputyOAKLEAF, Fla. Its a moment an Oakleaf man wont soon forget: how a Clay County deputy answering a call about his home security alarm wound up putting a smile on his sons face. Deputy Ryan Perry was called to Jarvis Smiths home Friday after getting an alert from the familys security company that there was an alarm going off at the Smith residence. I was rushing into the house and I cut the alarm off, Smith, a father of three, said. Deputy Ryan was pulling up and I was wondering why the sheriff was in the neighborhood. So, how do we change that to become from a negative thing to a positive thing?Smiths son, Jordan, put it more simply.
Clay County deputies seeking 2 persons of interest in criminal activity at BP gas station
Read full article: Clay County deputies seeking 2 persons of interest in criminal activity at BP gas stationCLAY COUNTY – The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is seeking help to locate two people of interest in reference to criminal activity at a BP gas station. The gas station is located in the Middleburg area of Clay County at 2449 Blanding Boulevard, deputies said. If anyone has information regarding the persons of interest, contact 904-529-5900.
A little birdie reminds Clay County Sheriff’s Office of something important
Read full article: A little birdie reminds Clay County Sheriff’s Office of something importantCLAY COUNTY, Fla. – While the coronavirus pandemic is keeping loved ones apart and restaurants, businesses shuttered indefinitely, many have found the mundane has become a bit more meaningful. Take for example what happened to Lt. Gaden of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office while on traffic duty. Traffic, the issue at hand for Lt. Gaden, was lite thanks to state and local stay-at-home orders. It is very important to see (birds-eye view) beyond what is seen at first glance. Not just looking, but actually seeing" Lt. Gaden, Clay County Sheriff's OfficeThe Sheriff’s Office posted about what happened on Twitter and Facebook.
Murder suspect visited Fleming Island woman’s home a day before her disappearance
Read full article: Murder suspect visited Fleming Island woman’s home a day before her disappearanceMauldin’s friend reported the Fleming Island woman missing Oct. 25 after knocks at her door and several phone calls went unanswered, according to court records. READ | Sources: Missing Clay County woman’s remains found in landfill search | FBI searching landfill in connection with Clay County woman’s disappearanceBinderim was labeled a person of interest in November after leaving the area without explanation. Acquaintances told detectives Mauldin had paid Binderim $12,000 to remodel her bathroom, but he did not finish the job. Speaking with detectives, Binderim said Mauldin hired him for a remodeling job but claimed it was only for $1,200 worth of work. Binderim, who pleaded guilty last week in an unrelated forgery case, was moved Tuesday to the Clay County jail.
Child porn on Facebook leads to arrest of ADT employee
Read full article: Child porn on Facebook leads to arrest of ADT employeeORANGE PARK, Fla. – A child pornography video clip uploaded to Facebook recently led to the arrest of a Clay County man who works for ADT Security Services, authorities said. Chet Silvester Harris, Jr., 30, of Orange Park, was booked Thursday into the Clay County jail on two counts of possession of child pornography and a count of transmission of pornography by electronic device, jail records show. The charges stem from an internet sex crimes investigation that began in December, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. According to Harris’ arrest report, the investigation uncovered a video clip depicting sexual abuse of a child that was uploaded to Facebook from somewhere in Clay County. According to the report, Harris is employed by ADT Security Services, a company that provides surveillance camera services to businesses and individuals.
Clay County sheriff lays out budget for fighting crime, addresses need for employees
Read full article: Clay County sheriff lays out budget for fighting crime, addresses need for employeesCLAY COUNTY, Fla. – Sheriff Darryl Daniels on Wednesday laid out the budget for fighting crime in Clay County and where there are still needs at his agency. In a video posted on the Clay County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, Daniels outlined his first-quarter budget. Daniels said the Sheriff’s Office is still understaffed by 46 positions, around 80% of which are civilian employees. Clay County Commissioner Gavin Rollins told News4Jax last month that the Board of County Commissioners eventually agreed to an increase of about $4 million. “We did give them one of the largest budget increases in Clay County history," Rollins said.
Man charged with murder after remains of missing Fleming Island woman found
Read full article: Man charged with murder after remains of missing Fleming Island woman foundJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Remains that were recovered from a Georgia landfill have been identified as those of a missing Fleming Island woman, and a contractor she once hired has been charged with her murder, investigators revealed Saturday. Human remains were discovered on the ninth day of the search,” said Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels. READ: Sources: Missing Clay County woman’s remains found in landfill search | FBI searching landfill in connection with Clay County woman’s disappearanceAccording to Rachel Rojas, the FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in charge, 213 personnel members were called throughout the week to assist. On the ninth day, investigators found what appeared to be a portion of a skull. TIMELINE: How detectives uncovered remains of missing Fleming Island woman“We know how difficult this news is to Ms. Mauldin’s friends and neighbors.
Sources: Missing Clay County woman’s remains found in landfill search
Read full article: Sources: Missing Clay County woman’s remains found in landfill searchJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The remains of Susan Mauldin, a 65-year-old Fleming Island woman who’s been missing since October, were found during a search of a Georgia landfill, sources confirmed to News4Jax. On Friday, the FBI announced that the extensive search “yielded several items of interest” in the investigation into Mauldin’s disappearance. An FBI spokesperson said those items are now undergoing testing but did not confirm that Mauldin’s remains had been found. Investigators from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, State Attorney’s Office and FBI began searching the landfill Jan. 21. It’s also where Clay County Sheriff’s Office detectives found the body of 7-year-old Somer Thompson in 2009.
Driver pleads no contest in crash that killed Clay deputy
Read full article: Driver pleads no contest in crash that killed Clay deputyORANGE PARK, Fla. – The driver cited in the 2018 crash that killed a Clay County deputy was found guilty Friday after pleading no contest to a traffic infraction. Schioppa was cited last August, nearly one year after the Aug. 19, 2018, collision in Orange Park. The deputy was taken to Orange Park Medical Center with critical injuries, but he did not survive. Schioppa originally entered a plea of not guilty in the case, but he changed his plea on Friday. Pleading no contest does not mean the driver admits guilt, but rather that the plea is in his best interest.
Person of interest named in Clay County woman’s disappearance
Read full article: Person of interest named in Clay County woman’s disappearanceFLEMING ISLAND, Fla. – Detectives have identified a contractor as a person of interest in the disappearance of a Fleming Island woman who hasn’t been seen in almost a month. On Tuesday, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office said investigators believe Corey Binderim has information related to the case of 65-year-old Susan Mauldin, who was reported missing from her Harbor Island home Oct. 24. Mauldin determined she didn’t want to work with him anymore and requested her money back,” Fryer said. Fryer said there’s no reason to believe that Mauldin would have wandered off on her own or that she planned to leave town. Anyone with information related to the whereabouts of Mauldin or Binderim is asked to contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office at 904-264-6512.
Clay deputies conducting investigation in Tanglewood
Read full article: Clay deputies conducting investigation in TanglewoodORANGE PARK, Fla. - The Clay County Sheriff's Office is conducting an investigation in the Tanglewood area. According to the Sheriff's Office, detectives are responding to a scene near the intersection of Blanding and Tanglewood Boulevards. Details surrounding the investigation are unclear. News4Jax is working to obtain more information. Copyright 2019 by WJXT News4Jax - All rights reserved.
Sheriff: Bradford County deputies bust 'crack haven'
Read full article: Sheriff: Bradford County deputies bust 'crack haven'BRADFORD COUNTY Fla. - Deputies with the Bradford County Sheriff's Office have busted what Sheriff Gordon Smith called a "crack haven." The Clay County Sheriff's Office also helped in the operation. The sheriff personally delivered a letter to that house Friday saying its a nuisance and that deputies wont tolerate drugs there. Sheriff Gordon Smith in a Facebook video posted on the Bradford County Sheriff's Office page personally issued Suit a letter declaring the house a neighborhood nuisance. Clay County Fire Rescue was called to clear the scene due to the presence of the chemicals.
SWAT raid in Clay Hill yields arrest, 325 grams of meth
Read full article: SWAT raid in Clay Hill yields arrest, 325 grams of methCLAY COUNTY, Fla. - A man was arrested and 325 grams of methamphetamine were discovered Thursday when the Clay County Sheriff's Office raided a home in the Clay Hill community near Middleburg, authorities said. On Thursday morning, Clay County deputies and a SWAT team served search and arrest warrants at the home on County Road 218 West near Long Horn Road as part of an ongoing investigation, according to the Sheriff's Office. The SWAT team used armored vehicles because deputies said it was a high-risk warrant. During a search of the home, according to the Sheriff's Office, 325 grams -- about half a pound -- of methamphetamine were seized. Deputies told News4Jax earlier this month that various neighborhood walks conducted by the Sheriff's Office have led to drug raids in recent months.
SWAT raid in Clay Hill yields arrest, 325 grams of meth
Read full article: SWAT raid in Clay Hill yields arrest, 325 grams of methA man was arrested and 325 grams of methamphetamine were discovered Thursday when the Clay County Sheriff's Office raided a home in the Clay Hill community near Middleburg, authorities said. Copyright 2019 by WJXT News4Jax - All rights reserved.
Clay County Sheriff's Office searching for missing woman
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff's Office searching for missing womanFLEMING ISLAND, Fla. - The Clay County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in locating Susan Mauldin. The agency shared her picture in a tweet. The Sheriff's Office says Mauldin was last seen in the Eagles Harbor area in Fleming Island. The Sheriff's Office doesn't believe she's in any danger, but want to contact her to check on her well-being. Copyright 2019 by WJXT News4Jax - All rights reserved.
Jacksonville man accused of trafficking meth through mail
Read full article: Jacksonville man accused of trafficking meth through mailJACKSONVILLE, Fla. - A Jacksonville man was arrested after a large amount of crystal meth was found in his mail, according to the Clay County Sheriffs Office. Records with the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office show Marty Wayne Povlitzki, 41, faces charges of trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Povlitzkis longtime girlfriend, Jessica Henke, is also facing drug charges, including possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to use. According to investigators, the United States Postal Inspection Service discovered a package suspected to contain a large amount of crystal meth in early October. Investigators seized one pound of crystal meth, crack cocaine and other drug paraphernalia, including glass pipes and syringes.
Jacksonville man accused of trafficking meth through mail
Read full article: Jacksonville man accused of trafficking meth through mailA Jacksonville man was arrested after a large amount of crystal meth was found in his mail, according to the Clay County Sheriff's Office. Copyright 2019 by WJXT News4Jax - All rights reserved.
Clay County neighborhood walks lead to larger crackdown on drugs
Read full article: Clay County neighborhood walks lead to larger crackdown on drugsCLAY COUNTY, Fla. - Various neighborhood walks conducted by the Clay County Sheriff's Office have led to drug raids in recent months. Smith said the walks through various Clay County communities have led to a larger crackdown on narcotics. Each time a home was raided, the Sheriffs Office left a sign reading, You had options, on the property. "Sheriff (Darryl) Daniels has a strong zero tolerance for drugs and narcotics," Smith said. The walks have become so valuable that the Sheriffs Office shifted from doing them monthly to almost weekly.
Clay County neighborhood walks lead to larger crackdown on drugs
Read full article: Clay County neighborhood walks lead to larger crackdown on drugsVarious neighborhood walks conducted by the Clay County Sheriff's Office have led to drug raids in recent months. Copyright 2019 by WJXT News4Jax - All rights reserved.