Sheriff`s Corner

Hello everyone and welcome to this week's Sheriff's Corner. This week's Corner will cover several topics in an effort to help keep you informed in a number of areas.

First, as you know, we are currently in an Orange or high alert status. Our Statewide Domestic Security Task Force is participating in this alert as it applies to financial services sections in New York City, North New Jersey and Washington D.C. There are no Florida specific items or alerts at this time.

Many people are getting used to Terrorism and it's possible effects. I hope that everyone is still taking this serious. I also hope that you take the proper precautions and consider how vulnerable you and yours are when these notices/alerts are sent out. We'll keep you informed as this alert develops.

Secondly, we have initiated an investigation into Aqua Marine in Chiefland. At this time Aqua Marine is closed for business. We have received a number of complaints surrounding Aqua Marine alleging among other crimes, Theft and Fraud. Because of the large number of complaints and potential victims, our CID section is being heavily taxed. Anyone who has information or questions concerning Aqua Marine please give us a call.

Last. I'd like to give you some arson statistics that might surprise you. In 2002, 74,921 arson offenses were documented in the FBI's Uniform Crime reporting system. They report that the average dollar loss was $ 11,253.00. For structural property, the average was $ 20,818.00. For mobile property is was $ 6,073.00 and the average for "other" property types was $ 2,536.00. Arson is a serious crime and costs us all greatly.

Take care. Please be safe.