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Briefs

Corrections Department under FBI investigation

By wire services
Published September 14, 2005

TALLAHASSEE - The FBI confirmed Tuesday it is investigating the Florida Department of Corrections, though the nature of the probe is unclear.

FBI agents are working with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, said FBI spokesman Jeff Westcott in Jacksonville. He declined to provide details.

"I can confirm that the FBI, along with FDLE, are involved in an investigation that concerns the Department of Corrections," Westcott said.

A high-ranking state prison official, Region I director Allen "A.C." Clark, quit last week without explanation. Clark rose through the ranks under Corrections Secretary James Crosby, who also has declined to discuss why he quit, other than citing "personal reasons."

Gov. Jeb Bush suggested Monday that he knew details but could discuss them.

Clark, 40, is a former warden at New River Correctional Institution.

Four current or former Corrections Department employees were charged in February with illegal distribution of steroids. The case involved the Justice Department, FDLE, Clay County Sheriff's Office and federal postal inspectors.

Samurai restaurantgoer orders a slice of cash

JACKSONVILLE - A robber swinging a samurai sword sent condiments flying before fleeing with $32 taken from a restaurant's lunchtime crowd.

Patrons of the Mudville Grille said the man burst in about 11:30 a.m. Monday, waving the sword as he announced a holdup. He whipped the sword across two tables, clearing the tabletops, and slammed his hand on the counter.

Several patrons emptied their pockets. The robber grabbed the cash and fled, driving a stolen minivan that was found abandoned later with the sword inside.

[Last modified September 14, 2005, 02:15:34]