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Volusia County Prepares for Potential Flooding with Sandbag Distribution

Volusia County is taking precautionary measures as a tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico is predicted to bring significant rainfall to Central Florida. The county will open sandbag distribution sites to help residents prepare for potential flooding. The weather system is expected to impact the region from late this weekend through the middle of next week.

On Saturday, Oct. 5, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., residents can collect sand and fill sandbags at Volusia County Fire Rescue Stations 23 and 34, located in New Smyrna Beach and Osteen, respectively. Residents should bring their own shovels, and there is a limit of 10 sandbags per household.

Additionally, the Volusia County Corrections Division will offer pre-filled sandbags at the Volusia County Branch Jail in Daytona Beach from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the same day. The drive-thru service allows each vehicle to receive up to 10 sandbags.

Proof of residency is required at all locations. Volusia County officials will remain in contact with state authorities and the National Weather Service to monitor the disturbance's impact. Updates are available through the Volusia Emergency Management app and the county's official website.

Source: Volusia County

New Victim Advocate Supports Ormond Beach Residents in Times of Crisis

Courtney Fraine, the Ormond Beach Police Department’s new Victim Advocate, brings seven years of experience in supporting victims of crime. Her role is to provide emotional support and practical assistance during crises such as domestic violence, sexual crimes, and death notifications. In her second week, she responded to a drowning, helping the victim’s partner navigate the aftermath. The OBPD Victim Advocate Program, established in 2001, offers critical support for victims of various emergencies. Fraine’s background includes work with the Domestic Abuse Council and Daytona Beach Police Department, and she values the distinct role advocates play within law enforcement, where their presence can aid in investigations. Despite the emotional challenges, Fraine focuses on making victims feel informed and supported, ensuring they know they can rely on her after the initial crisis. She’s embraced her new role at OBPD, where she’s felt welcomed and is grateful for the sense of community.

Source:  See Full Interview at Ormond Observer

Central Florida Police Focus on Assistance, Not Arrests, Under New Homeless Law

Central Florida law enforcement agencies are responding to the state's new law prohibiting public camping with a focus on assistance over arrests. HB 1365, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in March, enables municipalities to take action against public camping, but many sheriff’s offices in the region, including Orange and Seminole counties, plan to prioritize helping the homeless access resources. The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office emphasized collaboration with shelters, mental health professionals, and social services to address the root causes of homelessness. Similarly, Orange County deputies will provide information on resources to those they encounter. However, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office expressed a stricter stance, committing to enforcing the law while still offering help. Volusia County’s sheriff’s office is studying the law before taking action. Law enforcement agencies across the region remain committed to a balanced approach that addresses homelessness with compassion and practicality.

Source: See More at Spectrum News 13 $

Grand Jury Declines to Indict Ex-Holly Hill Police Chief on Harassment Charges

A grand jury has declined to indict former Holly Hill Police Chief Jeff Miller, who faced accusations of sexual harassment from female employees. Miller resigned in March after an internal affairs report highlighted allegations of inappropriate behavior, including exposing himself and manipulating a female officer into sexual activity. Multiple women testified before the grand jury, but no charges were filed. Miller’s attorneys have said he will not seek a return to law enforcement, asserting that his life has been permanently affected by the accusations. In the wake of the investigation, several other officers resigned, including former Captain Christopher Yates and former Sergeant Shannon Fountain. Additionally, Investigator Michael Ballentine was suspended without pay for making inappropriate remarks. Miller had served nearly 18 years with the Holly Hill Police Department before his resignation.

Source: See More News Daytona Beach

Disaster Relief Organizations Helping With Helene

The situation in Western North Carolina is dire as we have all seen. These organizations are all active in the area. Donations in any amount would be appreciated.

• Samaritan's Purse U.S. Disaster Relief
  https://www.samaritanspurse.org

• Mercy Chefs (Provides Hot Meals)

  https://mercychefs.com/donate-helene

• United Cajun Navy (Extreme Search and Rescue)
  https://unitedcajunnavy.org/

• American Red Cross (Local Disaster Response)
  https://www.redcross.org/local.html

• Lutheran Disaster Response
  https://www.elca.org/Our-Work/Relief-and-Development/Lutheran-Disaster-Response

• The Salvation Army (Local Disaster Services)
  https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/disaster-relief

• Southern Baptist Disaster Relief
  https://www.sbcv.org/disaster-relief

• United Way Worldwide (Disaster Recovery Fund)
  https://www.unitedway.org

These are all reputable organizations however, we do not endorse or recommend any of these organizations. Use your own due diligence when donating.

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