Century Awarded $75,000 To Study Municipal Water System

Escambia County, FL (NewsRadio 92.3) -- The Town of Century is getting seventy-five-thousand dollars from the state to develop a hydraulic model of its municipal drinking water system. The funding is part of nearly eight-point-eight-million dollars Governor Ron DeSantis awarded to twelve small and rural communities across Northwest Florida, aimed at supporting infrastructure, resiliency, and long-term economic growth. Freeport in Walton County also received seventy-five-thousand dollars, to be used updating its comprehensive plan for future industrial and commercial development.

Charges Dropped Against Case Worker In Foster Abuse Case

Pensacola, FL (NewsRadio 92.3) -- Charges have been dropped against a caseworker accused of failing to report a toddler's injuries in a Pensacola foster abuse case. The State Attorney's Office says there wasn't enough evidence to prove thirty-five-year-old Loren Dabbs knew or suspected abuse during her monthly visits between January and April. Sheriff Chip Simmons says he's deeply disappointed by the decision, citing photographs and injury timelines he believes should have raised red flags. The child's foster parents and a daycare director remain charged in the case, with their next court date set for September fifteenth.

Two Arrested After Drugs Found During Court Visit

Two Baldwin County residents are facing drug charges after police say they showed up to court with drugs and a child. Daphne police say 30-year-old Cody Hicks of Bay Minette was seen smoking marijuana in a vehicle outside the courthouse Tuesday. Officers found marijuana and drug paraphernalia near a child’s car seat. Police say the vehicle’s owner, 25-year-old Autumn Barker of Spanish Fort, had methamphetamine in her purse and admitted it was hers. Both were arrested, and the three-year-old child was turned over to a family member.