Florida Town Manager Candidate in Trouble Again
A candidate for town manager in Florida, previously convicted for engaging in sexual relationships with three high school boys, found herself back in prison this week. This time, it was for not complying with sex offender registration requirements.
April Watson’s aspirations to become manager of the Town of Jay—where she served as operations manager—hit a snag after her arrest during a roundup by the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office aimed at catching violators of sex offender regulations. The small town, with a population of just 525, faces quite a dilemma now.
The 50-year-old former teacher was convicted in 2007 for her relationships with three students from Jay High School and reportedly spent about a year in prison. This week, she was handcuffed again after failing to notify authorities that she was residing at an RV park roughly 45 minutes away from Town Hall, as noted in the arrest report.
According to investigators, they recently learned that Watson had been staying at Splash RV Resort from May 29 to June 5. However, she did not register this location as a temporary address.
Those convicted of sex-related offenses in Florida, like Watson, are legally obligated to inform local authorities about changes in their personal circumstances, including address or employment. The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office conducts these “round raids” multiple times each year but has not disclosed how many individuals were apprehended this time, nor what charges are being brought against Watson.
In light of her arrest, the Jay Town Council has voted to suspend Watson with pay. However, they acknowledged that details surrounding the charges remain vague.
“We’re currently in the process of gathering relevant information and will carefully assess all facts before deciding on any further actions,” said a statement from town leadership.
Interestingly, just last month, the council decided to delay a vote on Watson’s appointment as superintendent, despite reassurances from Jay Mayor Shon Owens. The mayor had previously expressed great confidence in Watson’s capabilities, stating that she was the right person for the job.
Now, however, he seems to tread lightly, indicating they are waiting for further details before making any decisions regarding her future with the town.
Watson’s past is complicated. In August 2009, she and another teacher were arrested for similar offenses involving three 17-year-old male students over a four-month span when she was 31. She ultimately accepted a plea deal in 2010 and served part of her 15-month prison sentence. Since then, she has had to check in with authorities multiple times, including a recent report last week.
As of late Tuesday, Watson was released on a $2,500 bail. The sheriff’s office has not responded to inquiries regarding this case.
