GROWING UP ASHLEY

John Ashley’s great niece shares memories of her infamous family

BY GREGORY ENNS

Sandra Provence learned a thing or two from her grandmother, the sister of outlaw John Ashley, about how to comport herself as a descendant of Florida’s most notorious crime family.

For starters, you didn’t talk to strangers, and you didn’t share information about the family. 

“Growing up my grandmother always told me you can’t trust people,” Sandra said. “Don’t trust anyone, and don’t talk to anyone about your family. Your family business stays in your circle.”