New Drug Charges For Pace Pharmacy Owners And Their Daughter
June 25, 2025
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has released details in the re-arrested the owners of Pace Pharmacy, along with the initial arrest of their adult daughter.
Pharmacy owners Stephen Allen Burklow and Monique Hunter Burklow were arrested this week on drug possession charges, as was their daughter.
FDLE previously arrested Stephen and Monique Burklow on May 14 on racketeering and drug charges. The arrests are a result of FDLE’s ongoing pill mill investigation.
- Stephen Burklow, 54, was arrested on 10 felony counts of possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, five felony counts of identity theft and 10 misdemeanor counts of possession of drugs without a prescription.
- Monique Burklow, 58, was arrested on one felony count of possession of a controlled substance without a prescription and four misdemeanor counts of possession of drugs without a prescription.
- Laikyn Burklow, 22, was arrested on one misdemeanor count of possession of drugs without a prescription.
FDLE obtained arrest warrants for the Burklows and the trio turned themselves in to the Santa Rosa County Jail on June 23. The cases will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, First Judicial Circuit.
Previous story:
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) today arrested Pace Pharmacy pharmacists Stephen Allen Burklow and David Barron Winkles and pharmacy office manager Monique Burklow. The suspects are charged with conspiring to traffic prescription drugs including trafficking over 22 kilograms (48 pounds) of oxycodone, over 26 kilograms (57 pounds) of hydrocodone and just shy of one kilogram of hydromorphone. The Burklows are the owners of Pace Pharmacy LLC.
The arrests are the result of a multi-year, multi-agency investigation led by FDLE with assistance from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Health, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Florida Department of Financial Services, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
“In our communities, there is no room for criminals that greedily profit from the opioid epidemic by trafficking illicit drugs under the guise of a legitimate pharmacy,” said FDLE Pensacola Special Agent in Charge Chris Williams. “I am proud of the complex and dedicated work demonstrated by FDLE’s agents, crime intelligence analysts and forensic scientists, the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office investigators, and the work of all of our partners to get these thugs off our streets.”
“These arrests are a result of excellent teamwork between law enforcement agencies,” said Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson. “This sends a clear message that no one is above the law, not even those entrusted with our community’s health. The illegal distribution of controlled substances puts lives at risk and fuels addiction. We will continue to hold individuals accountable who choose to profit from this type of criminal behavior.”
Stephen Burklow, 54, of Pace, was arrested on conspiracy to traffic oxycodone, conspiracy to traffic hydrocodone, conspiracy to traffic hydromorphone, conspiracy to commit racketeering, conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud and five counts of identity theft.
Winkles, 69, of Pace, was arrested on conspiracy to traffic schedule II-controlled substances and conspiracy to commit racketeering.
Monique Burklow, 58, of Pace, was arrested on conspiracy to commit racketeering, conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to sell controlled substances.
FDLE’s investigation began in December 2020, after learning that a local obstetrician-gynecologist, later identified as Dr. Elaine Sharp, was writing an excessive amount of controlled substance prescriptions and recommending her patients fill the prescriptions at Pace Pharmacy. During this same time, FDLE was working jointly with multiple state, local and federal agencies to investigate numerous allegations of a pill mill operation in the area.
Agents say the Burklows and Winkles accepted and dispensed illicit prescriptions (including oxycodone, hydromorphone and hydrocodone) outside the course of professional practice and not intended for medical purpose or need. Additionally, Mr. Burklow, through the Pace Pharmacy, billed multiple insurance companies, using various physicians’ National Provider Identifier (NPI) numbers without their knowledge or consent to do so, for prescriptions that may or may not have been provided to patients.
Wahoos Begin Second Half With Furious Comeback, 9-8 Win Over Lookouts
June 25, 2025
written by Erik Bremer
The Pensacola Blue Wahoos started the second half of their season with perhaps their most impressive comeback win of the year, scoring seven unanswered runs to defeat the Chattanooga Lookouts 9-8 in 10 innings on Tuesday night.
Trailing 8-2 after five innings, the Blue Wahoos rallied thanks to a seventh-inning solo homer from Cody Morissette and an eighth-inning three-run double from Ryan Ignoffo to tie the game and force extras. An infield pop-up off the bat of Johnny Olmstead in the 10th was misplayed by Lookouts first baseman Cam Collier, allowing Michael Snyder to score the eventual winning run.
Blue Wahoos starter Jacob Miller began the night with 3.0 hitless innings, and was handed a 2-0 lead thanks to a Morissette sac fly and a run-scoring wild pitch from Lookouts starter Donovan Benoit. But Chattanooga charged back, taking a 3-2 lead in the fourth inning on a Jay Allen II three-run homer.
In the fifth, the Lookouts scored five runs on only two hits. A fielding error from Blue Wahoos first baseman Nathan Martorella opened the door for a big inning, and the Lookouts capitalized with a Sal Stewart RBI single and Austin Hendrick two-run double to open up an 8-2 advantage.
The Blue Wahoos chipped away starting in the sixth, when a grounder off the bat of Olmstead was misplayed by Lookouts second baseman Dominic Pitelli to score two runs. Morissette’s homer drew the Blue Wahoos a run closer before Ignoffo completed the comeback with a three-run double in the top of the eighth.
Pensacola reliever Evan Fitterer (W, 4-4) worked 3.0 scoreless innings in his new bullpen role, stranding runners at the corners in the ninth, to force extras. Chattanooga lefty Drew Parrish (L, 0-2) did his job in the 10th, but a two-out pop-up to Collier at first was dropped and then touched in fair territory to allow the Blue Wahoos to take a 9-8 lead.
Nigel Belgrave (S, 1) deftly worked out of trouble in the bottom of the 10th, stranding the placed runner at third base to earn the save and lock down the unlikely win.
The Blue Wahoos continue their series against the Lookouts on Wednesday night. First pitch from AT&T Field in Chattanooga is scheduled for 7:15 p.m.
Teen Killed In Early Morning Double Shooting In Atmore
June 24, 2025
UPDATE: Atmore Police Make Arrest In Double Shooting That Claimed Teen
A 17-year-old was killed and another person injured early Tuesday morning in Atmore.
Around 1:50 a.m., the Atmore Police Department responded to Atmore Community Hospital for reported gunshot victims. They discovered 17-year-old Gabriel Hooks of Atmore had passed away due to his injuries, and a second victim was flown to a trauma center with injuries that appeared to be non-life threatening. Police have not released the name or age of the second victim.
Officers determined the shooting occurred on Carver Avenue near 18th Avenue, where they recovered “dozens” of spent shell casings.
The investigation is continuing.
Escambia County High School in Atmore is offering counseling services Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Courtesy photo.
Cantonment Man Charged With Kidnapping His Girlfriend, Providing Alcohol To Minor
June 24, 2025
A Cantonment man is facing felony charges for allegedly kidnapping his girlfriend during an argument on the beach.
Bryson Taylor Bryan, 23, was charged with kidnapping false imprisonment and furnishing alcohol to a minor.
According to an arrest report, Bryan told deputies that he became involved in a dispute with his girlfriend, and she struck him in the face, leaving visible marks. He then physically restrained her, picked her up, and placed her into this vehicle before driving away. Deputies said he refused her requests to stop the vehicle and let her out.
An Escambia County lifeguard witnessed Bryan physically pick up his girlfriend around the waist and carry her back to hit car, the arrest report states.
The report states he openly admitted to providing whiskey to the victim and felt that she was intoxicated and would not able to care for herself if left alone. The report states the girlfriend is under 21, but does not specify her exact age.
“He believed this was a valid reason to keep her inside his vehicle against her will,” the deputy wrote in his report.
Bryan was released from jail on a $1,500 bond.
Escambia Man Indicted On Federal Charges For 18 Armed Robberies
June 24, 2025
An Escambia County man has been indicted on federal charges related to eighteen armed robberies of gas stations and convenience stores in Escambia County.
Deshawn I. Donson, 21, was arrested last month following his latest alleged heist and a vehicle chase.
“I can tell you his robbery spree is over,” said Sheriff Simmons after the arrest, noting the crimes spanned several years.
Deputies located Donson after an incident around 11 p.m. May 18 at the Raceway on Airport Boulevard. Surveillance video reportedly shows Donson robbing the store, holding the cashier at gunpoint before leaving with a bag of cash.
Having previously identified Donson as a suspect in other robberies, deputies were tracking him. As he exited the Raceway and entered an SUV, deputies attempted a traffic stop. Donson failed to comply, leading to a chase down Davis Highway that concluded when he pulled into the HCA Florida West Hospital parking lot.
A deputy crashed into Donson’s SUV in the hospital parking lot to end the pursuit. Donson then surrendered. Deputies recovered the bag of cash and a gun from the vehicle.
The Indictment charges Donson with interference with commerce by threats or violence, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon for 18 armed robberies between 2022 – 2025.
If convicted, Donson faces up to life imprisonment.
The case is jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office; the Pensacola Police Department; and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jennifer H. Callahan.
One Candidate Qualifies On Monday For Open Century Town Council Seat
June 24, 2025
One candidate qualified Monday for a vacant seat on the Century Town Council.
Lizbeth A. “Sparkie” Harrison is the first candidate for qualify for the seat. Earlier this year, she was defeated in a three-way race for another open council seat by John Bass.
On May 6, Councilmember Sandra McMurray-Jackson resigned from Seat 5 for personal reasons. With more than six months remaining until the end of her term in January 2027, the town charter requires that the council set a special election and appoint a replacement to the five-member body. To date, the council has failed to appoint an interim replacement.
Candidates can still qualify with the Escambia County Supervisor of Elections through 5 p.m. Wednesday. A candidate must be a registered voter in the Town of Century, as set forth in the town charter. The qualifying fee that must be paid is 1% of the annual salary, plus a $12.85 filing fee for a total of $50. There is no option to qualify by petition.
The special election has been set for Tuesday, July 29. If no candidate for the non-partisan seat receives one vote more than 50%, a runoff will be held on September 29. The winner will take office 10 days after certification of the election.
Pictured: Lizbeth A. “Sparkie” Harrison addresses the Century Town Council in January 2025. NorthEscambia.com file photo.
Escambia Sheriff’s Office To Host Fraud Prevention Class
June 24, 2025
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office will host a class titled “Shield Against Scams: A Citizen’s Guide to Fraud Prevention” on July 17 from 10 a.m. until noon.
ECSO Economics Crimes investigators will discuss current scame trents. The class will also include a “Seniors v. Crimes” presentation made by the Office of the Attorney General.
Space is limited. To register, click here. Registration is required.
Dedicated Youth Sports Advocate Murray Johnson Of Atmore Passes Away
June 24, 2025
The Atmore community and beyond is mourning the loss of Murray Johnson, known for his passionate support of youth sports.
Carlton Murray Johnson, Sr., 86, passed away peacefully with his family by his side.
Johnson sold insurance in Atmore for decades.
Murray’s commitment to youth sports in Atmore was unmatched. In 1968, he co-founded the Atmore Pee Wee Football League and served as its president for many years. That same year, he became involved with the local baseball league, where he coached and mentored young athletes. In 1973, Murray became president of both the Atmore Cal Ripken League and the Atmore Babe Ruth League, serving in those roles until 2023. He held the position of Babe Ruth League District Commissioner for Area 10 for an incredible 52 years. Murray oversaw and organized numerous district and state baseball tournaments, creating opportunities for young athletes to showcase their talents and fostering a sense of community among players, coaches, and families.
His civic contributions extended beyond sports. Murray was a past president of the Atmore High School Quarterback Club and served as Drive Chairman and board member of the Atmore United Fund. He was also a dedicated member of the Atmore Education Revenue Committee from 1971 to 2003. His passion for healthcare advocacy led him to serve as county co-chair for the Lurleen B. Wallace Cancer Center Hospital in Birmingham. In 2016, Murray received the Atmore Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award.
A celebration of life for Murray Johnson will be held on Saturday, June 28, at the First Baptist Church of Atmore at 1:30 p.m. until service time of 3 p.m.
Murray Johnson is survived by his wife of 68 years, Jean, three children and numerous other family members.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made to the City of Atmore Recreation Department, P. O. Drawer 1297, Atmore, AL 36504.
For the complete obituary, click here.
Woman Sentenced To Life In Prison For Fatal Fentanyl Overdose Of Escambia Jail Cellmate
June 24, 2025
A 43-year-old woman has now been sentenced to life in state prison for the 2022 fentanyl overdose death of her cellmate at the Escambia County Jail.
An Escambia County grand jury indicted 40-year-old Pamela Faye Schwarz was convicted of first degree murder by unlawful distribution of drugs, introduction of contraband into a detention facility, and tampering with evidence.
According to Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons, Schwarz was remanded into custody from drug court and taken to the Escambia County Jail last May and placed into a cell with a 52-year-old female later identified as Shirley Barney. There was no one else in the cell.
Prosecutors contend that the Defendant smuggled fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl (synthetic fentanyl) into the jail and gave it to her cellmate who later died from an overdose of the drugs.
Instead of calling for help, Sheriff Chip Simmons said Schwarz helped her cellmate into bed before flushing the rest of the drugs down the toilet.
Several hours later, the victim was found unresponsive. Her death was caused by a fentanyl overdose, according to the Medical Examiner’s Office.
Jorey Diamond Back As Jay Baseball Head Coach
June 24, 2025
Longtime Jay High School Coach Jorey Diamond is returning as head baseball coach, marking his third time leading the Royals baseball program.
Diamond will continue to serve as the head coach of the varsity girls’ basketball team.
“We’re excited to have Coach Diamond back at the hehn of our baseball team,” said Jay High Principal Benjie West. “His leadership on and off the field is invaluable, and we’re confident he’ ll continue to build on our proud legacy.”
Diamond’s last stint as head baseball coach was 2019 with time as an assistance since.
Last season, Jay baseball went 17-13 with a loss to Holmes County in the Rural finals, losing both games in the best-of-three series.
Diamond replaces Duane Raley who left after last season. His son, Justin Raley headed across the Escambia River to take the head coaching job at Northview High School.