Steve Patterson

2 weeks ago | jacksonville.com | Steve Patterson

A celebration of life will be held for Jane Condon, former principal of Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and LaVilla School of the Arts. The event will feature performances by former students and colleagues, including vocalist Mama Blue. Condon, who died in February, is remembered for her contributions to arts education in Duval County. The celebration will also promote the Jane Condon Outstanding Educators Fund, which aims to support teachers committed to artistic and academic growth.

2 weeks ago | jacksonville.com | Steve Patterson

Former Jacksonville firefighter Fernando Jackman was sentenced to two years in prison for receiving about four pounds of MDA. Jackman pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute the drug, which he received through the mail. His conviction prevents him from being certified as a firefighter again. Jackman resigned from the fire department after his arrest and has been working in restaurants.

2 weeks ago | jacksonville.com | Steve Patterson

Jacksonville City Council rejected Elizabeth Andersen's nomination to the library board. The Duval County GOP opposed Andersen's nomination, citing concerns about protecting children from "liberal activists."The vote highlighted the political divide between the Democratic mayor's administration and the Republican-led City Council.

3 weeks ago | jacksonville.com | Steve Patterson

Marlon Canas Trochez, a 26-year-old Honduran immigrant, pleaded guilty to transporting a 15-year-old girl from South Carolina to Florida for sex. Trochez faces a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison. The girl was reported missing after she didn't attend school, and Trochez was later apprehended by Clay County deputies. Trochez kept the girl in a trailer in Putnam County for over two weeks before being caught.

3 weeks ago | yahoo.com | Steve Patterson

A Honduran immigrant who authorities said was in the country illegally has pleaded guilty to bringing a 15-year-old girl from South Carolina to Northeast Florida for sex. Marlon Canas Trochez, 26, faces 10 years to life in prison if a federal judge accepts the plea entered May 20 before U.S. Magistrate Patricia Barksdale in Jacksonville's federal court.