Staff Report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Authorities have arrested 59-year-old Karen Ann Wilkes on charges including seven drug-related offenses and child neglect. The arrest follows a search warrant execution that uncovered evidence of drug sales, a toddler bed in her room, and unsanitary living conditions in her apartment.

On April 8, the Gainesville-Alachua County Drug Task Force orchestrated a controlled drug purchase. A confidential informant reportedly bought 0.8 grams of cocaine from Wilkes at her Southern Pines apartment, situated on the 4100 block of SW 17th Place. The residence is notably located within 1,000 feet of Abby Wambach Park and a local convenience store.

On April 30, officials executed a search warrant at the same apartment, discovering approximately 20.2 grams of marijuana, 0.2 grams of cocaine, and a collection of unused apple seed baggies.

After being read her Miranda rights, Wilkes reportedly claimed that her family, including a grandchild, had no involvement in the illegal activities. She further directed officers to locations in the apartment where they could find “weed pipes,” “weed roaches,” and “crack.”

In Wilkes’ bedroom, detectives found a toddler bed and reported the apartment to be in a state of disarray, with a pest infestation and poor hygiene standards. Trash was scattered throughout her bedroom and the living room. The investigators highlighted that these unsanitary conditions pose a significant hazard, with clutter obstructing emergency exits and pathways. Detectives also noted the presence of at least one minor, who has been observed entering and exiting the apartment on various occasions.

Wilkes has been charged with two counts of possession with intent to sell cocaine within 1,000 feet of a park, maintaining a dwelling for the purpose of drug trafficking with a minor present, using a two-way communications device to facilitate a felony, possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana, child neglect without great bodily harm, maintaining a drug dwelling, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Wilkes has two felony convictions (two violent), 19 misdemeanor convictions (three violent), and three criminal traffic convictions. Judge Meshon Rawls set bail at $185,000 and ordered her to have no unsupervised contact with minors.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law