Former School Employee Gets 10 Years On Federal Child Sex Crime Charges
July 28, 2026
A former school employee has been sentenced on federal charges for attempted sex trafficking of a minor in Escambia County.
Christopher W. Glover, 47, of Semmes, Alabama, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for one count of attempted sex trafficking of a minor, and one count of traveling in interstate commerce to engage in illicit sexual conduct.
According to court documents, Glover communicated with who he believed to be a 14-year-old female and offered to pay her hundreds of dollars in return for sexual acts in October 2025. Glover then traveled from Alabama, where he worked for the Baldwin County School District, to Pensacola to meet with the minor. The purported minor, however, was an undercover law enforcement officer. When Glover reached Pensacola to engage in the sexual acts with the child, he was taken into custody. He possessed over $200 in cash in order to pay for the illicit sexual acts.
Glover’s prison term will be followed by 10 years of supervised release. Glover will also be required to register as a sex offender.
“This case demonstrates the unwavering dedication of our investigators, whose meticulous undercover work helped secure a 10‑year federal prison sentence and protect future victims,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass. “Their steadfast determination is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when law enforcement works tirelessly to pursue justice, making our communities safer and uphold the values we stand for every day.”
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case is a reminder that parents need to be aware of the online threats facing our kids from sexual predators, like this defendant, who seek to sexually exploit and victimize children. Our state and federal law enforcement partners are relentless in their pursuit of these sick individuals preying upon our kids, and my office will continue to follow through on those investigations and arrests with aggressive prosecutions to keep our children safe online.”
Escambia County Gas Prices Jump 17 Cents On Average in A Week
July 28, 2026
Florida gas prices continue to climb, inching closer to an average of $4 per gallon.
The average price per gallon of regular unleaded in Florida was $3.96 on Monday, up three cents from a week ago, 15 cents from a month ago and 86 cents from one year ago.
In Escambia County, the per gallon average was $3.91, up from $3.74 a week ago and $3.46 from one month ago.
In North Escambia, a low price of $3.77 was available at a station on Highway 29 in Cantonment, while in Pensacola $3.75 was the price at the warehouse clubs.
The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline jumped 15 cents from last week, to $4.09. Most states are now averaging $4 per gallon or higher. Rising crude oil prices are behind the spike at the pump, according to AAA. Volatility along the Strait of Hormuz and instability in the region have pushed crude oil prices into the $90 per barrel range and could continue driving up costs during the second half of summer.
Ice Flyers Re-Sign Forward Andrew Poulias For Upcoming Season
July 28, 2026
The Pensacola Ice Flyers have s re-signed forward Andrew Poulias for the 2026-27 season.
Poulias returns to Pensacola after recording 27 points on 10 goals and 17 assists in 57 regular-season games during his first season with the Ice Flyers. The Whitby, Ontario, native added an assist in three postseason appearances.
“Andrew is a proven offensive player who has been consistent and plays with great hockey IQ,” Head Coach Jeremy Gates said. “He brings leadership, skill and creativity to our lineup. What really stands out to us is his competitiveness and desire to win. We’re excited to have Andrew back, and we know our fans enjoy watching him play.”
A right-shot center, Poulias joined the Ice Flyers ahead of the 2025-26 season following the conclusion of his collegiate career and an 11-game stint with the Peoria Rivermen. He produced 90 points (44g, 46a) across 117 games at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
Known for his speed, intelligence and competitive edge, Poulias established himself as a versatile presence in the Pensacola lineup last season. He returns focused on contributing in every situation and helping the Ice Flyers compete for a championship.
“I want to be a difference-maker night in and night out,” Poulias said. “Whether it’s through physicality, production or leadership, I want to help bring a championship back to Pensacola.”
Poulias grew up playing for the Whitby Wildcats and was introduced to hockey by his father and older brother at an early age. His older brother played goaltender, giving the two plenty of opportunities to compete against one another while growing up.
The 2026-27 campaign will mark Poulias’ second season with the Ice Flyers.
Molino Man Facing Felony, Misdemeanors After Being Caught With Drugs, Dollar General Shopping Basket
July 27, 2026
A Molino man is facing multiple charges, including a felony drug violation and a misdemeanor for possessing a Dollar General shopping basket, following a routine patrol encounter at a Pensacola convenience store early this month.
Matthew Wayne Flores, 50, was arrested by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office after a deputy spotted him riding a bicycle through a local parking lot with an unusual accessory.
According to the arrest report, a deputy on uniformed patrol at the Circle K located at 330 Kenmore Road noticed a white male, later identified as Flores, riding a bicycle that had a yellow Dollar General shopping hand basket attached to the front handlebars. The deputy approached Flores on foot, informing him that it is illegal to be in possession of a clearly marked shopping basket off store property.
When asked for identification, Flores reportedly refused to comply. Despite multiple demands from the deputy, who advised Flores that he had a reasonable suspicion a crime had been committed, Flores continued to refuse to identify himself, the report states.
Flores was subsequently detained in handcuffs and placed in a patrol vehicle while law enforcement searched the hand basket, which contained his backpack and personal belongings. Inside the basket, the deputy discovered a green smoking product package containing a green leafy substance. A field test kit yielded a positive result for synthetic cannabinoids, weighing approximately 6 grams.
The incident took place directly across Pensacola Boulevard from a Dollar General location. According to the report, Flores spontaneously claimed that he had been given the shopping basket by the Dollar General in Molino, and alleged that the items found by the deputy would be “thrown out.”
The Dollar General shopping basket was photographed for evidence and returned to the retail store.
Flores was transported to the Escambia County Jail and booked on four charges: felony possession of a synthetic cannabinoid, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia, misdemeanor resisting an officer without violence, and misdemeanor illegal possession of a shopping cart. He remained in jail with his bond set at $4,000.
Emily King Named Principal At Tate High School
July 27, 2026
Emily King has been named principal at Tate High School.
Her appointment was approved this week by the Escambia County School Board to replace Laura Touchstone, who was appointed director of high school education for Escambia County Public Schools.
“To be entrusted with the leadership of a school that is so full of traditions and legacies beginning in 1878 is an honor I do not take lightly,” King said of Tate, which recently earned the distinction of being the only traditional high school in Escambia County to ever earn an A school grade. “Together with the faculty and staff at Tate High School, we will continue to foster a culture where every student is challenged to reach their highest potential and graduate ready to become a productive citizen.”
“I am ready to get to work for the students and staff, and the entire Tate community. Go Aggies!” she said.
Most recently, King served as an assistant principal at Pine Forest High School for five years, overseeing curriculum, master scheduling, testing, and Title I planning while serving on the district START Review Board. Prior to that, she spent two years as assistant principal of discipline and facilities, managing school safety, student deans, transportation, and campus maintenance.
Before entering high school administration, King spent 11 years at Woodham Middle School, where she served as an instructional coach and Language Arts Department chair from August 2013 to June 2016, leading district writing data initiatives and professional development. She began her career at Woodham as an English Language Arts teacher from August 2005 to June 2013, earning selection as a top-five district Teacher of the Year in 2011, and served as the school’s head swim coach throughout her tenure.
King is a veteran educational leader with over two decades of experience in Escambia County Public Schools. A certified school principal, she holds State of Florida credentials in Educational Leadership, English 6–12, and Gifted Education. She was named the ECPS Assistant Principal of the Year for the 2024–2025 school year and selected for the Chancellor’s Leaders Academy.
Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Cantonment Man Jailed On Multiple Child Sexual Abuse Charges
July 27, 2026
A Cantonment man is being held without bond following his arrest on multiple felony warrants alleging the sexual abuse of children.
Carlos Deonte Dubose, 42, remains in the Escambia County Jail. His bond is set at $1.5 million, but jail records show he has a hold from the Butler County Sheriff’s Office in Greenville, Alabama, and an Arkansas jail.
The charges stem from two separate investigations conducted by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit. In the first case, Dubose faces two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim 12 to 15 years old by an offender 18 or older and one count of lewd and lascivious exhibition by an offender 18 or older on a victim under 16. Authorities state these incidents occurred during a three-month span in a timeframe centered around August 2024. The victim in this case was a female under the age of 16.
In the second case, Dubose is charged with two counts of lewd or lascivious battery, promoting a sexual act with a victim under 16 with a previous conviction, and one count of lewd or lascivious exhibition by an offender 18 or older on a victim under 16. According to arrest reports, that investigation covers a timeframe throughout 2020. The allegations involve a male child who was between the ages of 7 and 8 at the time, as well as a second male child and a female child who were also under the age of 16.
Dubose remains booked in the Escambia County Jail with no bond pending a court appearance.
Northview High’s First Graduating Class Holds 30th Reunion
July 27, 2026
The NHS Class of 1996 held the reunion at Travis Nelson Park in Bratt on Saturday, just a short distance from their alma mater.
Northview High School was established in 1994 and opened its doors in 1995 after the consolidation of Century High School and Ernest Ward High School in Walnut Hill.
Photo by Andrew Garner/Atmore Advance for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Florida Teachers Can Now Add First Resiliency Endorsement In The Nation
July 27, 2026
Florida educators can now add a first-in-the-nation resiliency endorsement to their state teaching certificates following a new initiative approved by the State Board of Education.
First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the launch of the Resiliency Educator Endorsement, a specialized professional learning program designed to help teachers equip students with the necessary life skills to navigate obstacles and achieve long-term success. The new credential expands upon the state’s existing Resiliency Florida initiative.
“For several years, the Resiliency Florida initiative has led the nation in reframing the way mental health is taught in schools,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “Building upon the eleven resiliency characteristics, we are thrilled to announce the Resiliency Educator Endorsement and continue to empower our educators with the tools they need to instill these important characteristics into young Floridians.”
The new program marks one of 14 endorsements certified educators can add to their credentials in Florida. The coursework focuses on practical, classroom-ready strategies that integrate Florida’s 11 Resiliency Characteristics directly into daily instruction.
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State education officials highlighted the program as a significant step forward for both teacher training and student development.
“Thanks to First Lady Casey DeSantis’ leadership through the Resiliency Florida initiative, Florida continues to successfully prepare students not only for academic achievement in the classroom but also for success in life,” said Commissioner Henry Mack. “The Resiliency Educator Endorsement will give teachers access to high-quality professional learning to better support students as they develop the skills to overcome the obstacles within their lives and become more resilient.”
State Board of Education Chair Ryan Petty added that the endorsement provides teachers with actionable tools to foster perseverance among students.
“Florida continues to lead the nation by equipping educators with innovative professional learning opportunities,” said Ryan Petty, Chair of the State Board of Education. “The Resiliency Educator Endorsement empowers teachers with practical strategies to cultivate resilience in the classroom, helping students build the confidence, perseverance, and life skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.”
Certified educators who complete the training modules and satisfy all state requirements can formally add the endorsement to their valid Florida educator certificate.
Here Are This Week’s Road Construction Delay Areas
July 27, 2026
Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads and project in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities.
Escambia County:
- Interstate 10 (I-10) Resurfacing from east of U.S. 29 to east of Davis Highway (State Road (S.R.) 291) – Drivers on I-10 may encounter intermittent lane closures, traffic shifts and periodic ramp closures, between mile markers 11 and 14, Sunday, July 26 through Thursday, July 30, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. for paving operations and roadway construction.
- S.R. 292 (Gulf Beach Highway) from east of Bauer Road (County Road 293) to Manchester Street – The week of Sunday, July 26, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on S.R. 292, from east of Bauer Road to Manchester Street, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for construction activities. Additionally, a new traffic configuration has been implemented on S.R. 292 between Mills Avenue and just east of Patton Drive, with travel lanes shifted to the outside of the roadway to provide space to construct a median traffic separator. Channelizing devices are in place to delineate the work zone. The speed limit has been reduced to 35 mph through the work zone.
- U.S. 90 (Scenic Highway) Resurfacing, from south of I-10 to south of Hyde Park Road – Drivers on Scenic Highway may encounter intermittent lane closures, from south of I-10 to south of Hyde Park Road, Sunday, July 26 through Thursday, July 30, between 8 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., for placement of thermoplastic striping. Law enforcement will be on site, and traffic flaggers will direct drivers safely through the work zone.
- Business U.S. 98 (Garden Street) Construction from Pace Boulevard to the Interstate 110 (I-110) ramp – The week of Sunday, July 26, drivers may encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- Garden Street, between Pace Boulevard and North Donelson Street, is reduced to two travel lanes (one in each direction) as crews perform construction activities on the north side of the street. This temporary traffic configuration will be in place through late 2026.
- Temporary side street closures north of Garden Street for stormwater drainage system reconstruction. This week, drivers may encounter a closure with detour at F Street. Signage will be in place to direct drivers through the work zone.
- On-street parking is closed on Garden Street, between A Street and L Street.
- I-110 Resurfacing from I-10 to U.S. 98 – Drivers on I-110 may encounter intermittent lane closures, traffic shifts and periodic ramp closures, between I-10 and U.S. 98, Sunday, July 26 through Thursday, July 30, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., for paving operations and roadway construction.
- I-10 Resurfacing from the Perdido River Bridge to west of U.S. 29 – I-10 drivers may encounter intermittent and alternating lane closures between the Perdido River Bridge and west of the U.S. 29 interchange (Exit 10), Sunday, July 26 through Thursday, July 30, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., for construction activities.
- I-10 at Nine Mile Road Interchange (Exit 5) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- Intermittent lane closures on I-10 westbound near the Nine Mile Road interchange, Sunday, July 26 through Thursday, July 30, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- Nine Mile Road will be reduced to one travel lane in each direction between the I-10 ramps, Sunday, July 26 through Saturday, Aug. 1, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. Law enforcement will be on site, and directional signage will be in place to guide drivers through the work zone.
- Temporary reconfiguration of the I-10 westbound on-ramp, which will remain in place through mid-2026.
- I-10 at U.S. 29 Interchange (Exit 10) Construction – Beginning the week of Monday, July 27, West Hope Drive will be closed at North Palafox Street for drainage construction. During the closure, traffic on North Palafox Street will be detoured via Tower Drive and Burgess Road. Signage will be in place to direct drivers through the detour. Additionally, drivers are reminded of the following ongoing construction-related traffic impacts:
- I-10 is reduced to two travel lanes in each direction between U.S. 29 and I-110.
- I-10 travel lanes are shifted away from the median area of the roadway, near the U.S. 29 interchange.
- The U.S. 29 southbound access to the I-10 eastbound on-ramp has been reduced.
- The U.S. 29 northbound ramp to I-10 eastbound is closed. U.S. 29 northbound drivers are being detoured to make a U-turn at Broad Street onto U.S. 29 southbound to access I-10 eastbound.
- S.R. 97 (Atmore Highway) Resurfacing from U.S. 29 to the Alabama State Line – Motorists will encounter the following traffic impacts:
- Intermittent lane and shoulder closures are to be expected throughout the project limits on Monday, July 27 through Friday, July 31
Santa Rosa County:
- U.S. 98 Widening from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive – Motorists will encounter the following traffic impacts:
- Median and turn lane closures from Bayshore Road to Tiger Lake Drive.
- Intermittent lane closures and additional median closures between Bayshore Road and Tiger Lake Drive, Sunday, July 26, through Saturday, Aug. 1, from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. for paving operations.
All activities are weather dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.
Compton Strikes Again In 4-2 Wahoos Win
July 27, 2026
Another big game from Brandon Compton powered the Pensacola Blue Wahoos to a 4-2 win over the Columbus Clingstones on Sunday evening.
The Blue Wahoos (51-44, 15-11) finished the series with a 5-1 mark over the visiting Clingstones (43-48, 14-13) and closed out the regular season against Columbus with a dominant 13-5 record.
Compton continues to make a splash in Pensacola. He was responsible for driving in all four runs of the evening and managed his second home run in as many days.
Compton has hit 11 home runs since joining the Blue Wahoos on June 30, the third-most on the team behind Fenwick Trimble (13) and Dillon Lewis (17).
Both sides traded blows to open the series finale. Columbus put a run up first with a Jordan Groshans sacrifice fly in the first inning, yet Pensacola responded in the bottom of the frame with a Compton RBI double. The line drive was buried into the corner of right field at an eye-popping rate of 116.6 miles per hour to knot the game at 1-1.
The Clingstones wrestled a one-run edge back in the fifth. A high-flying hit by the Clingstones’ Colby Jones disappeared in the sun, allowing him to reach third and score on a subsequent groundout.
The lead would be short-lived as the Pensacola offense surged in the sixth. Brendan Jones and Cristian Hernández got on base with back-to-back singles into right field, and Compton handled clean-up duty with a scorcher over left field off of Columbus’ Owen Hackman (L, 2-3). The three-run homer put the Blue Wahoos ahead 4-2, which they would not relent through the remainder of the game.
The Pensacola pitching staff put together a great performance from the mound. Newly-acquired Joey Volini made his second start of his Double-A career and pitched 5.2 innings that saw two runs on six hits, earning four strikeouts. Nigel Belgrave (W, 4-5) delivered 3.1 innings of strong relief to take the win, allowing no hits and picking up five K’s.
The Blue Wahoos scored their four runs on seven hits, drawing one walk. The team was led at the plate by Compton and Hernandez, who each went 2-for-4. Jones, Juan Matheus, and Emaarion Boyd collected a hit each.
The Blue Wahoos will take Monday off before hitting the road for a series with the Knoxville Smokies, the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, beginning on Tuesday.
written by Maddy Branning