Guardianship Policing Results in Arrest of Burglar and Recovery of Stolen Property and Illegal Narcotics
On Monday, September 20, 2021, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) responded to a call about a suspicious person and vehicle and arrested the suspect, Jason Pack (DOB: 1/15/1988) for construction theft, burglary, and illegal narcotics.
The victim reported that he was driving into his gated community when a suspicious truck trailed behind him to get through the gate. The victim got behind the truck to write down his license plate number, and then the victim drove to his house to collect his phone to call dispatch.
Upon going to the victim’s new residence, which was under construction, he saw the same suspect in the garage and his truck parked in the driveway. The victim was already on the phone with FCSO dispatch reporting the suspicious vehicle and person. The victim asked Pack what he was doing in his garage and Pack stated that he worked for the window and door company and was checking on them. When the victim asked Pack what company he was with, he provided the wrong answer to the victim.
Upon arrival, deputies found Pack getting into his truck to leave. Deputies questioned Pack and he stated he was visiting a friend who lived nearby. Inside the truck Pack was driving, in plain sight was: a DeWalt circular saw, Estwing blue hammer, Stanley Fatmax 30-foot tape measure, one piece of plywood, and two boxes of Cultura Spring Pebble tile. Pack did not have receipts for any of these items. The victim told deputies the tiles that were located in Pack’s truck were the tiles being used in his house under construction.
While conducting the investigation it was determined that Pack had also burglarized a second home that was under construction. During a search of Pack’s vehicle, deputies located a crystal-like substance that weighed 2.82 Grams. The substance was field tested and came back positive Methamphetamine.
With all the construction occurring in Palm Coast and Flagler County reported larcenies from construction sites have seen an increase in 2021. FCSO reminds construction workers to always secure their tools when they leave a jobsite. Guardianship policing helped quickly solve this case and apprehend the suspect and is a good reminder to everyone to always be observant and report suspicious people and vehicles to the Sheriff’s Office by calling 386-313-4911 for a Deputy Sheriff to respond and investigate. Working together we can prevent and solve crime.
Pack has a history of theft. In October 2020, he was arrested for Shoplifting in Flagler County.
“In 2017 we implemented guardianship policing where residents partner with the Sheriff’s Office to help protect their community,” said Sheriff Staly. “This is a great example of how it works. You ‘see something suspicious, you say something’ by calling the Sheriff’s Office and deputies respond to investigate. In this case, it resulted in the arrest of a burglar who had entered homes under construction and stole construction materials and tools, and was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Great job by our observant citizen and our responding deputies.”
Jason Pack was arrested and transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Center. He was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine, two counts of Burglary of an Unoccupied Structure Unarmed, and Grand Theft from a Construction Site. He is being held on a $6,000 bond.
Listen to the 911 call here: https://youtu.be/ZemiT8xTmW0
Media Release:
Date: September 21, 2021
Prepared by: Aviva Edrich
Phone and Email: 386-281-9880; aedrich@flaglersheriff.com Release #: 2021-217
Solar-Fit Donates $50,000 to Race to Stop Suicide
Daytona, FL (September 21, 2021) — Entrepreneur Bill Gallagher, founder of Solar-Fit solar solutions in Daytona Beach, Fl. and his Solar-Fit team donated $50,000 from the last 100 installations his company has performed to the “Race To Stop Suicide”, a philanthropic initiative driven by Daniel Dye Racing and other community partners. The “Race to Stop Suicide” cause connects at-risk teens with mental health resources in our community. The message is simple: Suicide is not inevitable for anyone. By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, RTSS Race to Stop Suicide can prevent suicides and save lives.
Gallagher was presented with a plaque of appreciation from Randy and Daniel Dye on Thursday for his generosity and community spirit. “Thank you to our loyal customers for making it possible for us to make this donation to this important cause,” said Gallagher. “We look to continue to contribute in the future, plan specific events, and hopefully make a difference in our community.”
At the check presentation summary, Daniel Dye of Daniel Dye Racing and the “Race to Stop Suicide” cause commented: “We are super thankful to Bill and his team (at Solar-Fit) for his generous donation. We are excited to see how we can support our community with the additonal resources.”
About Solar Fit
Solar-Fit is the most trusted solar energy system company furnishing homes and businesses in Daytona Beach and Palm Coast, Florida, with an endless supply of clean and renewable power solutions. Solar-Fit Solar systems help heat pools, power maximum appliances, and generate the most energy for homes and businesses in our community. For more information please visit Solar-Fit.com.
Media Release: Kevin Striegle, Kevtron Media.
Daniel Dye Racing
PC Firefighters Bring the BOOM For Breast Cancer Awareness
Palm Coast, FL – It was a battle of pure muscle and determination as teams of challengers stepped up to move 40,000 pounds of steel on Tuesday night.
As one of the largest crowds of the season, it was the battle between guns and hoses that drew families from across Flagler County to the September Food Truck Tuesday event in Town Center, all for a good cause.
A portion of the evening’s proceeds go to benefit the battle against breast cancer and raise awareness of the importance of screenings among people in need.
Decked out in the signature vibrant pink t-shirts, it was a memorable evening for the effort’s biggest cheerleader John Subers, director of the AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation, and his team, who had received a proclamation recognizing October as breast cancer awareness month from the City of Palm Coast during the business meeting Tuesday morning.
Seeing the turnout and knowing it would bolster efforts to raise awareness was heartwarming for Subers.
“The City of Palm Coast has outdone themselves by coming up with an idea of a guns and hoses fire truck pull,” said Subers.
“It’s bringing excitement. It’s the camaraderie of seeing the different departments out here, pulling a pink truck which is apropos for what we’re trying to do for the month of October, (that makes it) a great evening,” he said with admiration.
Flexing muscles for bragging rights, members of the Palm Coast Fire Department, Local 4807 nabbed the championship belt, and speaking on behalf of the team Lt. Jeff Poeira said he was proud of their efforts.
“We did well. We got lucky this time,” said Poeira modestly, enthused to be part of something bigger for the community.
“It feels great. Me and my wife with the local fire department and union, we try and get together and do a lot, whether it’s the 5K runs and all, so this is a good switch up, and bringing the community together, it can only get better from here,” he said.
Good natured ribbing took place among Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and Palm Coast Fire Chief Jerry Forte who even while serving as the interim Palm Coast assistant city manager, was out to cheer on the home team.
“It is exciting to see all of these groups come together. We work in the streets together, we work in the stations together. These folks share the same dinner tables together, go to the same functions together, and I think this is a great way of bringing everybody together for just a simple day,” said Forte.
“I’m proud of all of them for coming down and doing their wonderful best that they can just to make the community feel a bit better, and especially something as important as breast cancer awareness,” said Forte, paying homage to the evening’s cause.
“I’ve known John Subers and his staff for a long time and he wants the best for the community. Just by coming down and showing their support, it took a couple of hours out of their day and that’s a big deal. I appreciate everybody coming down and spending their time. This is what community is about.”
To find out more about the upcoming AdventHealth’s Pink On Parade 5K set for October 10th to raise funds for breast cancer awareness and screenings, visit https://www.adventhealth.com/pink-on-parade.
Check out the full gallery of photos at here.
FCSO Purchases 15 Mobile Comprehensive Rescue Systems for Patrol Cars to help Save Lives
On Tuesday, September 21, 2021, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office FCSO placed 15 Mobile Comprehensive Rescue Systems into the patrol cars. The units are being issued to deputies that patrol western Flagler County where rescue response can take longer. Additional units were issued to FCSO’s SWAT and ERT teams as they are often deployed to high-risk situations.
The Mobilize Comprehensive Rescue System includes an extensive set of medical supplies to help in life-threatening medical issues. Some of the medical issues that this Mobilize Comprehensive Rescue System treats are severe bleeding, seizures, choking, hypothermia, broken bones, allergic reactions, and much more.
The automated computer will prompt Deputy’s through a series of questions to help guide the on-scene deputy. The computer’s questions will ask Deputy to determine what area of the body needs help, or what the medical issue is, and then it will instruct the deputy on how to use the supplies to treat the person. This technology and equipment will supplement the Automated External Defibrillator (AED’s) currently issued to every marked patrol car.
“Often our deputies arrive on the scene first and I’m excited to add this capability to help them render first-aid and save lives,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “This capability will enhance emergency medical response, especially in western Flagler County.”
Flagler deputies are already trained in first-aid and CPR. These units cost $2,100.00 each.
For more information about the Mobile Comprehensive Rescue System, please visit: www.zoll.com/products/mobilize/comprehensive–trauma–kit.
Media Release:
Date: September 21, 2021
Prepared by: Aviva Edrich
Phone and Email: 386-281-9880; aedrich@flaglersheriff.com Release #: 2021-210
Ground Up: Palm Coast Welcomes Restoration Supply Company
Palm Coast – The Northeast’s largest restoration supply company, Ground Up Inc., has announced they are relocating their operations from Connecticut to Palm Coast. Ground Up is more than just a restoration supply company; they are an innovator in the industry leveraging technology and e-commerce delivering quality parts with quick delivery through their popular website SS396.com.
“The City of Palm Coast welcomes Ground Up and we’re excited to see this business and its customer base grow,” Mayor David Alfin said. “And with this move, they bring additional job opportunities to grow with the company. We welcome them to Palm Coast and thank them for their investment and commitment to our community.”
Ground Up cited lower costs of doing business, regulations, a significant portion of their customer base within 25 miles of Palm Coast, great quality of life, and ease of working with the City as drivers in their decision to move to the area. The company has made a significant investment in the community acquiring the facility at 2 Commerce Blvd with plans for renovations. This new facility expands their operations from 40,000 square feet to over 70,000 square feet and brings 30-40 jobs and exciting opportunities for local students to the community.
“When thinking about where we wanted to settle our business for the long haul, we knew Palm Coast would be the perfect location,” said Joseph Santoro, co-owner of Ground Up with his father, Ken Santoro. “We’ve successfully grown our business to have a close-knit family-feel and we are excited for the opportunity to work with young adults here in Palm Coast and help them grow their careers with Ground Up.”
Ground Up Inc. is a trusted company in the industry with a solid history of growth. The company began in 1990 in Long Island in a 500 square foot warehouse. By 2004, the company had continued to expand and moved to Connecticut to a larger facility. In 2010, the company relocated again to a 40,000 square foot distribution center and showroom in Naugatuck, CT.
Job opportunities are available now at www.ss396.com/cars/employment. The Santoro’s plan to hold a job fair in November to share additional career opportunities and meet potential candidates. Ground Up plans to begin operations at the Palm Coast location before the end of the year.
Media Release: City of Palm Coast. Brittany N. Kershaw, Director Public Information & Engagement
Boston Whaler Set To Host Mega Job Fair on October 1st
Flagler Beach, Fla. (September 21, 2021) – The Boston Whaler Group is pleased to announce a Mega Job Fair on Friday, October 1, 2021 at their Flagler Beach location, with morning and afternoon job fair sessions.
The world class facility opened their doors on May 21, 2021 and is home to the expanded operations of the globally recognized watercraft manufacturer. Positions available include assemblers, laminators, warehouse, finishers, mold repair, trim and grind, mold builders, prefabricators, tooling, gel coating, part and prep, with training available.
Offering competitive pay and benefits including medical, dental and vision, 401K match and profit sharing, Boston Whaler prides itself on creating a workplace atmosphere conducive to long-term employment, and invites those looking for steady, reliable opportunity or a career change to become part of the Boston Whaler team.
“Boston Whaler provides the safest, easiest to own, most exciting boats on the water. Since our founding over 60 years ago, we have conceived and built peerless designs that meet boaters’ diverse and changing needs. Only Whaler can bring you a legendary, innovative boat that is engineered for a lifetime of enjoyment and dependability. Only Whaler can bring you the Unsinkable Legend,” according to Julia Levesque, Senior Human Resources Business Partner for the Boston Whaler Group.
For those unable to attend in person, please visit www.bostonwhaler.com/careers and a recruiter will respond to your application.
Details:
Boston Whaler, Flagler Beach Mega Job Fair
Friday October 1, 2021 from 7:00 AM – NOON, and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Boston Whaler in Flagler Beach:
1958 Unsinkable Street, Flagler Beach, FL 32136 (Located off Roberts Road)
Details or Apply Online: www.bostonwhaler.com/careers
Underwater Escape No SWET for Flagler County FireFlight Medics
September 21, 2021 – All seven Flagler County Fire Rescue FireFlight medics trained September 18 to complete their Shallow Water Egress Training (SWET) to ensure they can escape from the helicopter’s cockpit should an accident leave it and its crew upside down in the water.
“You become so disoriented,” said Flight Operations Chief Dana Morris, who provided instruction at the Integra Woods swimming pool with Flight Medic Andy Thomas. “It is critical to have your reference point.”
Morris in 2018 worked with other county departments to build a training cage, also known as a dunker, to allow him, fellow FireFlight pilot Todd Whaley, and the medics to train annually to meet FAA standards without having to pay a premium to train with an outside agency.
Top-heavy helicopters inherently rollover and their blades to snap off upon hitting the water, which makes the training critical as it simulates what the crew – strapped in with breathing apparatuses for every flight – must do to safely escape within seconds. Developing muscle memory is the goal.
Thomas, a trainer, told his fellow medics what to expect.
“While strapped in the aircraft, the pilot will say, ‘Brace. Brace. Brace,’” Thomas said. “It’s important to have a reference point. Use your left hand (critical for medics on FireFlight as their exit is to the left) to grab the seat cushion, and never let it leave that spot until you are clear about where the exterior of the aircraft is.”
Once the helicopter rolls over and submerges into the water, the radio communication cord must be disconnected from the helmet, the seatbelt released, and then the occupant can exit and swim to safety. The training also emphasized clearing debris on the water’s surface with an arm before coming to the top.
The crews are also trained on how to use the HEEDS (Helicopter Emergency Egress Device) – a miniature SCUBA tank – that gives them several breaths of air in case of an extended escape. HEEDS are carried in each crew member’s life vest.
The medics who were not practicing the underwater escape techniques remained in the pool to assist if necessary – one serving as the keeper of the backup oxygen tank.
“This training is very important, and it could very well save the life of the crew,” Morris said. “Of course we hope we’ll never have to use it, but we do fly over the ocean and the Intracoastal. It will enable the crew to safely get out of the aircraft if we were to end up in the water.”
Flagler County’s FireFlight Medic Team:
- Thomas Cope
- David Dufek
- Frank Mesta
- Prince Mack
- Kyle Najpaver
- Andy Thomas
- Sean Walker
Media Release: Flagler County. Julie Murphy, MPIO. Lacy Martin, Marketing Media Manager
Love It Or Hate It, Palm Coast City Council Decides On Commercial Vehicle Ordinance
Palm Coast, FL (September 21, 2021) Addressing the Palm Coast City Council from both perspectives, a handful of residents and members of the business community available to share their thoughts on the commercial vehicle ordinance were on hand Tuesday morning for what has been a persistent issue for the City of Palm Coast over the years.
From residents like Mike Cocchiola’s support of putting the issue out to vote, as suggested by Palm Coast City Councilman Nick Klufas, and previously by Councilman Eddie Branquinho, to business owner Stephen Swarner’s support for local small business owners, speakers were about evenly split, as Dorothy Sperber, executive officer for the Flagler County Association of Realtors talked about the impact on curb appeal and Pam Richardson voiced her concerns.
Speaker Mary Vasilevsky, who was later appointed to the Flagler County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee representing Palm Coast, noted an important fact: those most heavily impacted were unable to speak for themselves at the meeting, as they were currently at work.
“I do not have an educated and informed opinion on this matter but I do support Councilman Klufas for making a study and really getting an accurate pulse. One of the things I’d like to remind everyone sitting here is we have a lot of angry and emotional people, and the ones who are angry and emotional do show up and it might be a minority, it might be a majority we don’t know,” said Vasilevsky.
“But the thing I did want to point out are the people who this ordinance directly impacts, most of them, and me working for a builder, I am really grateful that I have the flexibility of my job to come here, except the people that this affects, cannot make it here today. They are currently at work. They’re not able to speak up on their opinion.”
The parking of commercial vehicles overnight has been an ongoing point of discussion among residents and members of the city council. While those parked overnight with commercial displays larger than three square feet on the vehicle can be cited, code enforcement chief Barbara Grossman said those parked at home between the hours of 11:30 am and 2:30 pm during “lunch hours” would not receive a citation.
After robust discussion and debate, the Palm Coast City Council voted 3-2 to allow the current ordinance to remain unchanged.
ITEM: COUNCIL DECISION AND DIRECTION TO STAFF ON WHETHER TO AMEND THE
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ORDINANCE IN CHAPTER 44, ARTICLE II
Photo: City of Palm Coast
