⭐ Flagler Deputy Arrested, Mainland Loses, OB Gets Flood Money

Issue #765

05 Dec

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🚓 Flagler County Deputy Arrested After High‑Speed Chase in Ormond Beach

A Flagler County detective found himself on the wrong side of the law after an early morning traffic stop in Ormond Beach took a dramatic turn. Ardit Coma, 28, was clocked at 88 mph in a 55 mph zone on U.S. 1 while driving an unmarked agency vehicle on his way to work. When an Ormond Beach officer attempted to pull him over, Coma allegedly sped off instead — weaving through traffic and accelerating around vehicles.

Rather than continue the pursuit, the officer backed off and radioed other units. Coma was spotted again a short time later, still speeding. Stop sticks were deployed, but Coma drove around them before finally stopping in a turn lane where officers and deputies conducted a felony stop.

When told he was being arrested for fleeing, Coma reportedly laughed and asked, “When did that happen?” claiming he didn’t realize a stop had been initiated. He was taken into custody and has been suspended without pay. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office emphasized their commitment to accountability, noting an internal investigation will follow the criminal case. Coma, who joined the department in 2023, had previously received several commendations, including a Life Saving Award.

🏈 Mainland High Goes Out with Pride Despite Playoff Loss

The Mainland Buccaneers wrapped up a remarkable season with a tough 27–10 loss to Ponte Vedra in the Region 1‑5A final. Despite the setback, the Bucs proved they’re once again a force to be reckoned with, finishing the season at 9–3 — a major leap forward from last year’s 5–6 record.

Head coach Jerrime “Squatty” Bell praised his team’s heart, discipline, and dedication, choosing to focus on their journey rather than the loss. Mainland outgained Ponte Vedra offensively, racking up over 400 yards, but five costly turnovers prevented them from finding their rhythm.

Quarterback Sebastian Johnson led the charge with 328 passing yards, but the night belonged to a disciplined Ponte Vedra squad that capitalized on Mainland's mistakes. Despite the outcome, Bell celebrated his seniors, whose leadership helped take the program to new heights — including big wins over Cocoa, Osceola, and Georgia’s powerhouse, Coffee.

The Bucs’ defense was anchored by middle linebacker Dennis “Tank” King III, while offensive sparks came from junior running back Braylyn Simmons and sophomore receiver Kadin Flores. With a strong core of underclassmen returning, Bell is optimistic about continuing the momentum. He said what he’ll miss most? The smiles of his seniors — a team spirit that carried them far and promises more success ahead.

🌧️ Ormond Beach Gets Major Flood‑Mitigation Boost

Relief is on the way for Ormond Beach residents who are all too familiar with flooded streets and soggy lawns. The Volusia County Council approved a major stormwater project along Fleming Avenue as part of a larger countywide effort to tackle chronic flooding and improve infrastructure resilience.

The project includes a new pump station and the construction of a forcemain that will route stormwater beneath the Florida East Coast Railroad and across U.S. 1 to the Halifax River. By speeding up how quickly water can move out of the neighborhood, the improvements aim to reduce standing water and protect homes in one of Ormond’s more flood-prone areas.

This is one of six initiatives totaling nearly $10.9 million under the federally funded Transform386 program. While each project targets a different community across Volusia County, the shared goal is to improve stormwater systems, enhance resilience, and prevent repeat flooding in vulnerable neighborhoods.

For Ormond Beach, this means more than just new pipes and pumps — it’s a long-awaited investment in peace of mind, especially during Florida’s stormy seasons.

Recent Arrests

Ormond Beach Police Department

  • Dara Jennifer Leins, 49, of Ormond Beach was arrested Nov. 26 and charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of a new or legend drug without a prescription, possession of paraphernalia, and driving with a canceled license; bail was set at $4,000.

  • Megan Marie Hodge, 39, of Ormond Beach was arrested Nov. 26 and charged with possession of a new or legend drug and a controlled substance without prescription, possession of paraphernalia, and introducing contraband into a county detention facility; bail was set at $11,500.

  • Jeffrey Paul Merrill, 46, of Ormond Beach was arrested Nov. 27 and charged with criminal mischief, breach of peace, and obstructing an officer without violence; bail was set at $3,500.

  • Samantha L. Collins, 22, of Ormond Beach was arrested Nov. 27 and charged with grand theft of a motor vehicle, resisting an officer without violence, and driving with license canceled; bail was set at $11,000.

Volusia County Sheriff’s Office

  • Charles Christoph Valentine, 57, of Holly Hill was arrested Nov. 20 and charged with petit theft and dealing in stolen property; bail was set at $7,500.

  • Aaron Gregory Eriksen, 52, of Ormond Beach was arrested Nov. 25 and charged with trafficking in fentanyl and possession of paraphernalia; bail was set at $50,500.

  • Jeremy Arthur Robertson, 44, of Ormond Beach was arrested Nov. 26 and charged with battery; bail was not set.

  • Philip Andrew Conrey, 48, of Ormond Beach was arrested Nov. 26 and charged with burglary of an unoccupied dwelling and petit theft; bail was set at $3,000.

Volusia County Corrections

  • Jacob Albert Williams, 32, of Ormond Beach was arrested Nov. 25 and charged with criminal mischief; bail was set at $2,500.

Get into the holiday spirit with an afternoon of Christmas classics. Bel Canto Singers under the direction of Dr. Adam Stich, will present beloved modern and classic Christmas songs. Tickets are available in advance for $20 or at the door for $25. For additional information visit BelCantoDaytona.org, email [email protected] or call 404-376-2737

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NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info:
 Fri Dec 5

  • Event: 🎭 <CMTW Presents Frozen Jr.>, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Ormond Beach Performing Arts, 399 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach The Children's Musical Theatre Workshop presents "Frozen Jr.", bringing the magical land of Arendelle to life on stage

  • Event: 🎄 <66th Annual Holly Hill Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony>, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Holly Hill Municipal Building (City Hall), 1065 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill Join in one of Holly Hill's most cherished traditions on the front steps of City Hall. Enjoy holiday cheer, festive performances, and a special visit from Santa Claus!

 Sat Dec 6

  • Event: 🎄66th Annual Holly Hill Christmas Parade, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Ridgewood Ave (US-1), 1065 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill
    Celebrate the season with the "Home for the Holidays" parade featuring floats, bands, and performers. The route begins at Sickler Drive and travels north on Ridgewood Avenue to City Hall.

  • Event: ❄️CMTW Presents Frozen Jr., 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
    Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Presented by the Children's Musical Theatre Workshop, this production brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life on stage, featuring memorable songs from the animated film.

  • Event: 💚Grinchmas Seaglass Tree Craft Class, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
    The Salty Mermaid, 1546 Ocean Shore Blvd, Ormond Beach
    Create your own beautiful, perfectly crooked "Grinch" seaglass tree complete with fairy lights and a heart ornament in this guided craft workshop.

  • Event: 🎸TruPhonic brings in the Funk, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
    Saints & Sinners Pub, 1635 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Enjoy a high-energy live performance by TruPhonic, fusing the sounds of Funk, Rock, Jam, Blues, and Soul at Destination Daytona.

  • Event: 🎤Kava Kula's Talent, 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
    Kava Kula Kava Bar & Lounge, 142 E Granada Blvd #213/214, Ormond Beach
    A community talent showcase where singers, musicians, poets, and comedians take the stage to perform and compete.

 Sun Dec 7

  • Event: 🎅Sunday with Santa at Tomoka Outpost, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
    Tomoka Outpost, 2099 N Beach St, Ormond Beach
    Santa will be visiting for photos and wish list collection inside Tomoka State Park. Local vendors will also be on site.

  • Event: 🚗Toys4Tots Vintage Car Show, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
    Teddy Morse's Daytona Harley-Davidson, 1637 U.S. Rte 1, Ormond Beach
    Hosted by the Bad Ass Car Club of Flagler County, this event features a vintage car display, music by Fuse, and awards. Entry is free with a new unwrapped toy.

NOTE: Event information is gathered from online sources without verification. Readers are advised to check with the venue or other sources to confirm info.

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