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Local/State News for week ending 3/14/2008
Manatee
Detectives Arrest Teen
for Touching Female Cousin, 7,
Inappropriately; Charged Teen
with Sexual Battery
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Ericberto Sanchez-Martinez, 18, of the 500 block of 23rd Avenue East, and charged him with Sexual Battery.
Ericberto Sanchez-Martinez
According to the arrest report, the girl, who was 6-7 years old at the time, told Detective Sara Mann of the Grand Island Police Department that during the period of time between May and August of 2005, while her family lived in Manatee County, her cousin Eric abused her.
The girl said the incident occurred in Eric's room. She said he came in and shook her really hard to wake her up and then started to touch her privates with his hand on the inside of her clothing. She said he then got up and left the room.
She told the detective that he never touched her anywhere else and he did not make her touch him.
When Manatee County Detectives interviewed Eric, he admitted touching the girl on her privates. He said it seem right at the time, but it doesn't now.
The teenager would have been 15 years old at the time of the incident.
Eric told detectives it has never happened with any other kids.
Eric was arrested and charged with Sexual Battery.
Man Arrested for Beating,
Kicking 8-Month Pregnant
Ex-Girlfriend, Taking Purse
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Rafael Antonio Diez-Cruz, 45, of 1322 43rd Street, Sarasota, for an incident that occurred on March 6th of this year.
Rafael Antonio Diez-Cruz
According to the report from the sheriff's office, on March 6, at about 2:00 a.m., Marion Phillips, the ex-girlfriend of Diez-Cruz, arrived home to find Diez-Cruz in the parking lot.
Diez-Cruz requested money from Phillips. Phillips refused, at which point Diez-Cruz grabbed her purse and began wrestling it from her with such violence that it caused the leather straps to break in Phillips' hands and caused a small abrasion to her left hand.
Diez-Cruz proceeded to strike Phillips in the face with the purse twice, punch her in the stomach 3 times and kick her in the right leg twice, before fleeing with the purse.
The attack left Phillips with 2 abrasions on her stomach -- one with blood on it, as well as the abrasion to her left hand.
Phillips, the report noted, was 8 months pregnant at the time and "her pregnancy is very evident."
Attempts to locate Diez-Cruz at his home in Sarasota were unsuccessful at the time, but deputies finally located him at 7290 26th Court East, in Manatee County on Wednesday afternoon.
Diez-Cruz was charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery and Strong Arm Robbery.
Deputies Arrest Man at Bar
for Threatening to Kill
Patrons, Cops
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Joseph Perez, 26, of 3999 24th Street West.
Joseph Perez
Deputies reported Perez was at Cheers Bar, at 3601 14th Street West on Wednesday, shortly before midnight, when he became loud in the bar.
Perez was asked to leave the bar by the bartender.
Perez then broke a beer bottle and said, "I'm here to kill everybody and the police."
When the bartender tried to get Perez to leave, Perez said to him, "I'm going to get you," while he waved the broken beer bottle at him, putting the bartender in fear.
Perez was located a few minutes later a few doors away from the bar and taken into custody.
He was charged with Aggravated Assault.
Man Robbed at Gunpoint
in Broad Daylight
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man told Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies he was robbed at about 9:50 a.m. Thursday morning by a resident of the Budget Inn, 668 67th Street Circle East.
Michael Petry, 23, of the 100 block of Alpine Court, called the sheriff's office and alleged that he was robbed at gunpoint of $5 while he was walking by the Budget Inn.
He said he got accosted by the suspect, whom he knows and who lives in room 418. He stated the suspect took $5 from him and indicated that he had a gun or some sort of weapon placed in his waistband when he lifted his shirt.
Petry placed a phone call to Budget Inn management regarding the incident and they advised him to call police.
The room was checked for the suspect, who management could only identify by his first name, but he could not be located.
The alleged robber was described as a Black male by the name of "Shawn," who is 28-29 years old, 6' tall and weighing about 220 pounds.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .
Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Bradenton Woman Loses Life
in Traffic Crash Thursday
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a fatal traffic crash Thursday afternoon shortly before 2:30 p.m. at State Road 70 and 37th Street East, in Manatee County.
Lori Haynes, 47, of 3503 28th Street East, Bradenton, was southbound on 37th Street East in the left turn lane to turn onto eastbound SR 70.
A Chevy truck driven by Randall Deen, 25, of 18355 State Road 62, in Parrish, was traveling westbound on State Road 70 in the inside lane, approaching the intersection of 37th Street East. Deen was facing a red traffic signal.
Deen failed to stop for the red traffic signal and continued into the intersection of 37th St. E. Deen's front struck the left side of Haynes' car.
Haynes traveled in a southwest direction onto the southwest corner of the intersection, where her car came to final rest facing northwest.
Deen's truck came to final rest facing westbound in the intersection.
Ms. Haynes expired at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash.
Deen was cited for failure to obey a traffic signal.
Injured White Male Attempts
Home Invasion Robbery,
Fights with Caregiver at
Palmetto Rest Home
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man attempted to enter an elderly care rest home on Thursday, at about 11:10 a.m., but was fended off by the caregiver, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
The victim, Dionne Powell, 25, reported she was tending to one of the residents at Paradise Rest, 1207 30th Avenue East, in Palmetto, when she observed a man standing inside the lanai.
Powell approached him to find out why he was there and he told her he wanted pills. Powell told him that he was not a resident there and asked him to leave.
At that point, the man pushed her out of the way and attempted to enter the main residence and the two began to tussle. Dionne was fearful for the safety of the elderly residents and was able to fight the suspect off. He never entered the main home and Dionne was not injured.
Powell told deputies he appeared to be on drugs and must have been in an earlier fight, because he had a swollen eye and his face was bloody, as were his tennis shoes.
The suspect fled on foot westbound on 30th Ave. E.
An area search was unsuccessful and a BOLO was issued to surrounding deputies regarding the suspect, who appeared to be homeless, deputies reported.
The intruder was described as a White male, 5'3 to 5'4 tall, 120 pounds, with red hair, presently walking with a limp. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, blue jeans, bloody white tennis shoes with holes in front.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .
Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Suspicious Circumstances Incident
at Bayshore Elementary School
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a man tried to pick up a boy from Bayshore Elementary School who wasn't related to him.
The report said on Wednesday, at about 1:50 p.m., Heriberto Marrero, age unknown, responded to Bayshore Elementary School and saw Deandre Rios, 12, in his P.E. class at the front of the school.
Heriberto used to live next door to Deandre at El Conquistador Apts. and asked him if he wanted a ride home.
Deandre said no because his parents were to pick him up.
A teacher then told Heriberto to go to the office if he wanted to sign him out.
The school called Deandre's mother because the thought it was strange that this man was wanting to take Deandre home.
It was later determined that Heriberto was going there to sign out Destiny Hernandez, who he considers his granddaughter.
At no time did Heriberto commit a crime nor was Deandre in any kind of jeopardy or danger, the sheriff's report said.
Deandre was picked up from school by his father.
Washington Park Neighborhood
to March Against Crime
This Saturday
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The City of Bradenton Central Community Redevelopment Agency and the Washington Park Neighborhood Association will host a Crime Walk starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 15, through the Washington Park neighborhood.
The goal of the Crime Walk is to unite the community in its common cause for positive change in the Washington Park neighborhood.
The Crime Walk will begin at the Church of Christ , 201 10th Ave. E. , and end at the Bradenton Police Department Substation, 1013 6th St. E.
A prayer vigil and refreshments will follow the walk.
Local elected officials are expected to attend. Candidates for the Florida House District 55, which covers parts of Manatee County , have been invited.
Suspect Sought in Vehicle
Burglary, Credit Card Use
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Detectives are investigating a vehicle burglary that occurred Thursday, February 28, 2008, at approximately 12:00 p.m., at 233 Avant Avenue, Sarasota.
Above, surveillance photo from BP gas station
The victim’s wallet was taken from her white Cadillac that was parked in front of 233 Avant Avenue, Sarasota.
On Tuesday, March 4, 2008, at approximately 5:48 a.m. the suspect used the victim’s credit card to make purchases at the BP station located at 5100 Fruitville Road, Sarasota.
The suspect is described as White male, 20-30 years of age, 5’9-6’0 tall, with brown hair. He was last seen wearing a light colored polo style shirt with dark horizontal stripes, khaki colored cargo shorts, and white sneakers.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call Detective Jarek Szalbirak of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s District I Criminal Investigations Bureau at (941) 861-4938 or leave anonymous information with Crime Stoppers by calling (941) 366-TIPS (8477), or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.
Near Drowning of 2-Year-Old
in Family Pool Reported
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, at about 7:10 p.m., Sarasota County Sheriff's Deputies were called to 3410 Fenway Drive, in Sarasota regarding a drowning.
A 23-month-old child had been discovered in the family pool. Exactly how long the child was in the water is unknown.
Responding deputies performed CPR prior to the arrival of paramedics.
The child was then transported to Doctors Hospital where a pulse was obtained.
There is no further information on the child's condition at this time.
The incident is under investigation by the Sarasota Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Bureau.
Off-Duty Firefighter/EMT Shot
in Stomach; Uncle Arrested
PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- Major Crimes Unit detectives from the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office arrested the uncle of an off duty CCFD Firefighter/EMT who was shot last night at his home east of Punta Gorda.
Raymond Andrew Boomhower
Detectives arrested Raymond Andrew Boomhower, 50, of 34725 Washington Loop Rd., after he called the CCSO Dispatch and wanted to speak to the Watch Commander. Boomhower said he wanted to come out of his residence peacefully and there was no need for the SWAT team. Boomhower is a gun dealer and there was concern about him in his home with weapons. When deputies arrived at his home, he was advised to come out with his hands up; he obeyed the command and was arrested.
At 6:31 p.m. Wednesday, the CCSO received a call that Christopher Church, 30, of an address off Washington Loop Road, was shot in the abdomen by his uncle, Ray Boomhower. Church’s girlfriend, Tracey Jewell, 40, told detectives she saw Boomhower drive by, then stop near the fence line. She said there has been a family dispute over property between them that has been ongoing for some time. Jewell said she heard a gunshot and Church yell for help. She also told detectives she has heard Boomhower threaten to kill and shoot Church on several occasions. Jewell said she saw Boomhower drive off and to his residence then called 9-1-1.
Detectives talked to Brian Church, 55, the father of Christopher Church who said he was outside and heard the gunshot and saw Boomhower drive off in his truck. Church said his uncle, Boomhower, was the man who shot him. EMS arrived and stabilized Church who was then flown to Lee Memorial Hospital Trauma Center and was reported in critical condition but is expected to survive his injuries following surgery.
Boomhower was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and was taken to the Charlotte County Jail.
Barracuda Bites Boy, 12,
During School Trip
LITTLE CRAWL KEY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG is reporting a 12-year-old boy was injured when he was bit by a barracuda during a school trip, according to park rangers in the Florida Keys.
The boy was visiting Curry Hammock State Park with a school science program.
The group was casting nets into the shallow water to collect sea life when a barracuda bit the boy on the thigh.
The boy was treated at a hospital for a 5-inch-long gash on his inner thigh, WKMG reported.
~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
FHP Troopers
Stop Vehicle,
Find 2.5 Kilos of Cocaine,
Arrest Four Men
CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, March 11, 2008, at 2:04 p.m., Trooper Adam Heinlein conducted a traffic stop on a red Hyundai 4-door in the area of the 152 mile marker on northbound SR 93. The stop was initiated for excessive speed.
Above, L to R, Carlos Young, George Hall, John Dukes
and Osner Exantus
Trooper Michael Merritt and DOT Officer Todd Harris, along with his police dog, arrived for backup. The dog was walked around the vehicle and alerted to the vehicle indicating that a controlled substance was in the vehicle at some point in time.
Trooper Heinlein and Trooper Merritt requested the four occupants of the vehicle to sit in their patrol cars, for the officer’s safety, while they conducted a search of the vehicle. One of the occupants, Carlos Young, refused to get into the patrol car. He was told multiple times to get into the patrol car. He was then advised that if he did not, he would be placed under arrest. At that point in time, Mr. Young still refused to enter the patrol car. The troopers then attempted to handcuff Mr. Young and he began to physically resist their attempt to handcuff him. The three individuals then fell to the ground. Mr. Young continued to resist and was subsequently sprayed with Trooper Merritt's ASR (Areosol Subject Restraint). He was then subdued and handcuffed.
The three other occupants from the suspect vehicle, George Hall, Osner Exantus, and John Dukes attempted to regain entry to the vehicle while this altercation was taking place. Trooper Merritt observed this and ordered them away from the car at gunpoint. They then walked across the northbound lanes and entered the grassy medain.
Trooper Michael Grider then arrived, along with his police dog, Jackal. Trooper Grider ordered the three individuals to the ground. John Dukes went to the ground immediately. George Hall and Osner Exantus did not go to the ground immediately so Trooper Grider released Jackal to apprehend the two subjects. Mr. Hall was bitten by Jackal on his right thigh and Mr. Exantus was bitten on his right cheek. Those three individuals were taken into custody without further incident.
A search of the suspect's vehicle yielded approximately 2.5 kilograms of cocaine.
All of the subjectes were taken to Charlotte County Medical Center for evaluation. They were cleared and transported to the Charlotte County Jail for processing.
Carlos Young, 31, was charged with possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, trafficking in cocaine, failure to obey a lawful command, and resisting with violence. George Hall, 31, John Dukes, 27, and Osner Exantus, 21, were each charged with possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, trafficking in cocaine, failure to obey a lawful command, and resisting without violence.
Young, Hall and Exantus are all from Pompano Beach, Florida. John Dukes is from Fort Lauderdale.
Bradenton Police Arrest Woman;
Left Scene of Crash with Injuries,
Had Outstanding Arrest Warrant
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Ashley D'Agostino, 21, of the 300 block of 51st Street West, Bradenton, and charged her with Leaving the Scene of a Crash with Injuries. She was also arrested on an outstanding arrest warrant.
Ashley D'Agostino
According to the arrest report from BPD, on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, a BPD Officer was in the parking lot of a restaurant located at 1200 1st Avenue West, Bradenton.
A White male drove into the parking lot and told the officer that the black vehicle that had just pulled into the lot where the officer was parked had just been involved in a hit-and-run crash.
The officer exited his vehicle and walked to the black vehicle. D'Agostino exited her vehicle (the black one) and quickly walked toward the restaurant.
The officer observed severe damage to the passenger side of her vehicle and asked, "What happened?" D'Agostino said, "Oh, the crash, I just got into a crash." The officer asked where and she replied, "Over there, on 10th." The officer asked what happened to the other vehicle and D'Agostino replied, "I don't know. I think they drove away."
The officer had dispatch send a patrol car over to the scene of the crash. There, the other vehicle was still there and the person inside was injured and transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital.
D'Agostino, when confronted with that information, then said, "I'll be honest, I was involved in a Possession of Stolen Property case with the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and I may have a warrant.
The warrant was confirmed and D'Agostino was arrested for that and Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Injuries.
Deputies Arrest Young Man
for Slapping His Ex-Girlfriend
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Office Deputies have arrested a young man who allegedly left his place of employment during his shift, slapped his girlfriend, then returned to work.
Thomas James Holderness
Deputies reported Thomas Holderness, 19, of 2305 Florida Blvd., arrived at Burger King, located at 6722 14th Street West, where he is employed, at 4:00 p.m.
During his shift he went outside twice "to smoke cigarettes." His shift supervisor was unsure of how long Holderness was gone each time. A surveillance tape was unable to be rewound.
However, at approximately 8:00 p.m. Holderness allegedly went to 6030 14th Street West to see his ex-girlfriend.
They got involved in a verbal argument over getting back together.
Holderness allegedly grabbed the girl by her right arm, swung her around to face him and smacked her on the left side of her face.
Deputies observed a large red mark on the left side of her face, near her jaw.
Deputies arrested Holderness at 10:30 p.m. at the Burger King (6722 14th Street West) and charged him with Battery.
Woman Arrested for Stealing
from Employer, Wal-Mart
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Crystal Penaloza, 27, of the 1200 block of 13th Avenue West, in Bradenton, has been arrested for theft of money from her employer, Wal-Mart, at 6225 State Road 64 East.
Crystal Penaloza
According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, while Penaloza was working at the store on cash registers, she scanned in gift cards on three different occasions, March 5th, 7th and 8th, and then used the gift cards to make purchases within the store.
The amount of money missing from her registers were $20, $30 and $25 dollars.
The total amount of money used by Penaloza on the gift cards was $100 dollars.
An affidavit and surveillance tape were provided by store security to deputies.
Penaloza was arrested on Tuesday and charged with Theft ($100-300).
Woman Arrested for Breaking
School Bus Glass Door
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman who confronted a Manatee County school bus driver who had disciplined the woman's daughter on several occasion for breaking rules, allegedly kicked the glass door on the bus, breaking it.
Tehisha Coleman
According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Tehisha Coleman, 30, of Ruskin, drove to Harlee Middle School on 9th Street East on Tuesday to confront the bus driver.
The bus driver had disciplined Coleman's daughter several times for breaking rules. One of those times was for putting makeup on in the bus.
When Coleman confronted the bus driver, words were exchanged between Coleman and the driver. The driver closed the double bus doors, at which time, Coleman allegedly kicked the glass, breaking it.
Then Coleman drove to the school board building on 27th Street East, where deputies caught up to her.
Coleman said her foot got stuck as the doors were closing, and when she tried to get her foot loose, the glass broke.
Coleman was arrested and charged with Criminal Mischief.
Copher's Auto Parts Hit;
Nearly $24 Grand in Parts
Stolen in Overnight Burglary
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Copher's Self Service Auto Parts, 1800 63rd Avenue East, was burglarized sometime overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
The report said unknown persons entered the business and stole 158 catalytic converters valued at approximately $23,700 dollars.
The catalytic converters were kept in storage containers at the business.
The perpetrators disabled surveillance cameras and were knowledgeable of motion detectors inside the storage containers.
Deputies said the burglary took place between 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday and 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, when the theft was discovered.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .
Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Body Found Sunday is
Missing Ex-Marine
PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- A Major Crimes Unit detective from the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office notified the family around 10:00 a.m. Wednesday morning that the Medical Examiner’s Office has officially identified the body found Sunday in a culvert as that of missing ex-Marine Eric W. Hall.
The cause of death has not been determined at this time.
Hall was 24 years old when he died.
The family has scheduled a military memorial service at noon Thursday, March 13th, at the Faith Lutheran Church, 4005 Palm Dr., Punta Gorda.
Arrest Made in November
Grow House Murder
PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff's Major Crimes detectives report the arrest of a Miami man Tuesday in connection with the shooting death of a man at a marijuana grow house operation Nov. 30, 2007 in Charlotte County.
Abel Miranda
MCU detectives solved the murder case and issued a Homicide warrant for Abel Miranda, 33, in the death of 33-year-old Pedro Delio Treto-Garcia. The death occurred at 40091 Suzan Dr., off S.R. 31, southeast of Punta Gorda near the Lee County Line.
Detectives of the CCSO Fugitive Apprehension Unit and acting as U.S. Special Deputy Marshals did a coordinated effort with the Miami-Dade Marshal Service. A house was under surveillance and the arrest of Miranda was made.
With this arrest, all ten 2007 homicide cases in Charlotte County have now been solved.
The Suzan Drive grow house was the 13th of 14 grow house operation found in Charlotte County in 2007; there were only four in all of 2006. So far in 2008, Narcotics detectives have raided six marijuana grow house.
Man Arrested for Chaining Man,
Performing Sex Acts
ORANGE PARK, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- After a month-long investigation, Clay County detectives arrested a 43-year-old man they accuse of chaining and sexually battering a man. They believe he has committed similar crimes on other victims in the area, Orlando television station WMKG reported.
William Filancia, 43, of Orange Park, is charged with sexual battery, false imprisonment, extortion and possession of a controlled substance.
According to the arrest report, a victim told investigators that Filancia threatened to kill him and his girlfriend if he did not submit to having nude photographs taken.
Deputies said Filancia then threatened to distribute the photos to the victim's family and friends and post them on the Internet if he did not allow Filancia to bind him with a chain and perform sex acts.
Authorities said the bondage and sexual assault happened again in January.
Deputies said when the victim confronted Filancia on Monday and demanded he turn over the photographs, he was wearing a hidden camera and recorded Filancia's threats.
Filancia was arrested at his home Monday night and was booked into the Clay County Jail. He was ordered held on $325,000 bond.
Detectives report finding a bag containing powder cocaine and $1,131 in cash in Filancia's car.
Filancia was convicted in New York of forcible sexual abuse and coercion of both juveniles and adults, WKMG reported. His arrest history in Florida includes charges of resisting arrest with violence, petty theft, worthless checks, selling alcohol without a license and failure to pay taxes.
Clay County detectives said they were working with FBI agents, who are also looking into Filancia's criminal activity.
While deputies have only identified one victim in this case, they found evidence in the home that leads them to believe there may be others.
FDLE Agents Arrest Man
for Construction Fraud,
Including of Palmetto Group
for $1,000,000 Dollars
TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) announced the arrest of William Lucia, Jr., in Daytona Beach, Florida. Lucia was taken into custody on March11th without incident. He was booked in to the St. Johns County Jail and charged with one count of Racketeering, a first degree felony, and one count of Organized Fraud, a first degree felony.
Lucia is alleged to have defrauded multiple investors and contractors, including Bella Tramonto, in Palmetto, of $1,000,000 dollars.
The allegations of fraud were first brought to FDLE’s attention in 2002 by former business associates of Lucia. Investigators found that Lucia entered into contracts as a construction contractor, and then knowingly and intentionally failed to perform as specified in the contracts while pocketing investor’s funds. Investigators also alleged that Lucia would fire subcontractors to avoid paying them fully for their services and that he failed to pay suppliers of materials. The services, materials, and labor, should have been paid for by Lucia with the money he received from the investors or owners of the projects through “Draw Requests.”
The subcontractors and contractor supply houses that were not being paid filed liens against the projects. When the owners and investors in the projects realized that progress had slowed or stopped and liens were being filed, they would be forced to cut their losses. They would have to satisfy the liens, in essence paying twice for services, materials, and labor, and resume progress toward a completed project.
The investigation, which encompassed multiple judicial circuits, was worked in conjunction with the Office of Statewide Prosecution.
~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
Deputies
Arrest Man for
Child Abuse, Battery,
Violation of Probation
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Loren B. McCoy, 36, of 5316 53rd Avenue East and charged him with Child Abuse and more.
Loren B. McCoy
According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on Saturday night at about 10:30 p.m., McCoy allegedly pinned his 5-year-old daughter to a bed and then hit her with his fists.
When the child's mother, Lynn, attempted to intervene by covering her daughter, McCoy yanked his daughter from the bed, shoved her and caused her to fall.
McCoy threatened to "blow her head off," the arrest report said, referring to his wife.
McCoy then told the mother to "take your child and get the f _ _ _ out of my sight," the report said.
The mother reported it the next day, Sunday, at the sheriff's office.
Deputies said the mother told them McCoy keeps guns in the house and has told the girl's mother in the past that he would kill her and "feed her to the 'gators."
When deputies arrived at the house on Sunday, they arrested McCoy and charged him with Child Abuse, Battery and Violation of Probation, for a prior DUI charge.
According to Manatee County court records, McCoy has a laundry list of Domestic Relations appearances and Criminal Traffic charges, along with two misdemeanor arrests.
McCoy's bond was set at $22,500 dollars.
Argument Escalates Into Fight;
One Man Arrested
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested David Walker, 32, of 5725 6th Avenue Northwest, after Walker got into a fight with another man.
David Norman Walker
According to the arrest report, on Monday, at about 5:00 p.m., Walker was at the unnamed victim's house in the 7800 block of 43rd Avenue Drive West, and got into an argument.
Walker then allegedly attacked the victim, punching him several times about his face and kidneys.
Walker then told the victim that if he sees him again, he would kill him.
The victim had several facial abrasions, but did not require medical treatment.
Walker left the scene, but was located and arrested a short time later.
He was charged with Battery.
Chinese Food Delivery Man
Robbed at Gunpoint
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man delivering Chinese food was robbed at gunpoint on Monday, at about 9:20 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
The victim, Zai-Hua Zhn, of Sarasota, was in the process of delivering Chinese food and was pulled over in the 1800 block of Tallevast Rd.
A Black male walked up to the victim's car and pointed a silver handgun at him.
The robber then demanded the victim hand over his money.
The robber fled in an unknown direction with approximately $30-$40 dollars.
The victim fled the area and called the Sheriff's Office.
The gunman was described as a Black male, 5'10"-6'0" tall. He was last seen wearing a black shirt and a black hat.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .
Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Heritage Days Open House at
Manatee Village Historical Park;
Music, Crafts, Demonstrations
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Historical Commission and the Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Court’s Office will host an Open House at the Manatee Village Historical Park on March 15th, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This event will honor Manatee Heritage Days.
Entertainment will include the Flake-Spear music duo, a singing group recently elected to the America Old time Music Hall of Fame. Also returning are the Manatee Cloggers.
Over 15 local craft vendors will be on hand as well as weavers, china painters, the Sons of Confederate Veterans, the Celtic Society, Around the Bend Nature Tours, and the Broom man.
Wally Millers, the park’s resident blacksmith will be demonstrating as well as boat builder, Michael Reed. Wooden boats from the Florida Maritime Museum at Cortez will be on display.
New this year is Kate Holmes, noted local storyteller. who will have many stories of local interest to tell.
No Strings Attached Gospel Group will be entertaining in the Historic Park Church.
Jim Wiggins, noted author, who recently completed a Manatee County Pictorial History containing a wonderful compilation of historic pictures from every corner of the county, will also be on hand for a book signing. Mr. Wiggins, a fourth generation Floridian, was born in Ellenton and has written many books including Ellenton, Glimpses of Florida History, More Glimpses of Florida History and Troubled Waters.
Food will be provided for sale including desserts by Mr. Cheesecake.
There is no admission fee, and there is ample free parking.
Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Features Marching Elephant
HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- The 11th Annual Beach Bistro St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Sunday, March 16th, at 4 p.m.
The parade route, which begins at the Holmes Beach City Hall, will march north on Marina and Palm Drives to the Holmes Beach city limit.
All groups are welcome to participate and should be at the Holmes Beach City Hall by 2 p.m. on the day to be guaranteed space.
Featured participants this year will include the Marshall of Honor, Jim Gabaree, a World War II veteran who participated in the D-Day Pointe du Hoc landing, and Mayor Rich Bohnenberger of Holmes Beach, who will lead the parade.
Musical guests include the City of Dunedin Pipe Band, the Manatee High School Fiddlers, Lakewood Ranch High Drum Line, the Braden River High School Marching Band, The Island Hobbits and Howie Banfield.
And yes, there really will be a marching elephant!
Ellenton Man Arrested for
Striking Sarasota Cop
SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- An Ellenton man, Raul Amaya, 22, of 4150 Rocky Fork Terrace, in Ellenton, Florida, was arrested on Saturday, at about 2:10 a.m. Sarasota Police say Amaya was involved in a fight with other men and struck and injured a Sarasota Police Officer.
Raul Amaya
According to the arrest report, SPD Officers were on a disturbance call when a fight ensued at 888 Main Street. Officers responded to the fight located at the parking garage staircase and saw a number of people fighting.
Officer Dubendorf attempted to break up the fight physically and verbally, ordering the subjects to break it up, identifying himself as a Police Officer.
Dubendorf proceeded to separate the subjects when Raul Amaya came from behind and grabbed Dubendorfs' right shoulder, while at the same time striking Dubendorf on the left eye with a closed fist.
Amaya was eventually restrained and arrested.
Officer Dubendorf was transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where he received 7 stitches above his left eye.
Amaya was charged with Aggravated Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Disorderly Conduct.
Amaya's bail bond was set at $250,000 dollars for the Battery on the Officer and $2,500 dollars for the Disorderly Conduct charge.
Two other men, including Raul Amaya's brother, Victor, were also arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
Sarasota Man Arrested on
Cockfighting Charges
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Deputies have arrested Pedro Caldera-Garcia, 28, of the 7800 block of Ibis Street and charged him with 15 counts of Fighting or Baiting animals, after they found 15 roosters at the residence prepared for cockfighting which allegedly takes place in Parrish.
Pedro Caldera-Garcia
Along with the roosters, deputies found a small cockfighting ring and steroids, vitamins and hanging ropes. One of the ropes had blood on it.
The ring was made out of rabbit wire on three sides and a solid wood wall on the fourth side.
There was a .22 caliber rifle propped up against a wall and a hammer. One deputy noted that those weapons, along with the hanging ropes, are used to kill roosters who lose fights.
Some of the roosters were wounded, deputies said.
Caldera-Garcia said the fights take place in Parrish, and that he was only housing and breeding the birds "for a friend," the arrest report said.
The roosters are worth #200 to #300 dollars each, deputies said.
The Sarasota Sheriff's Office Animal Services Unit took custody of the roosters.
'Beer Pong' Game Turns Ugly;
Three People Stabbed
FERNANDINA BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 27-year-old man is accused of stabbing three people during a drinking game called "beer pong" at a Fernandina Beach home, Orlando television station WKMG reported.
"They got into an argument over, possibly, some money," Fernandina Beach Police Capt. David Bishop said. "There was alcohol involved -- possibly drugs. These people were asked to leave. They didn't leave, got into a fight, and then somebody pulled a knife."
According to police, Daniel White pulled the knife. He was arrested and charged with three counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, WKMG reported.
Police say five people, including White, were treated at Nassau Baptist Hospital for stab wounds or lacerations resulting from the fight.
White is being held in the Nassau County Jail on $75,000 bond.
~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
Manatee
Deputy Tasers Man
Running from Scene of
Residential Burglary
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Ira Waiters, 24, of 5828 5th Street East, and India Cokley, of 1024 61st Avenue Terrace East, used to be boyfriend and girlfriend. On Friday, they got into an argument that resulted in Ira being arrested.
Ira Waiters
According to the arrest report, on Friday, after the argument, Ira took India's house keys and left. India told him not to come back. She also sent him a text message not to return.
Just after 3:00 a.m., India was across the street and saw Ira come from behind the house and go to the front door.
India thought he wouldn't be able to get in, because she had removed the front lock.
However, Ira did something to the door and, as India watched and called 911, Ira entered the home through the front door.
When deputies arrived, one of them took up a position near the front door, watching it.
Dep. Vreeland walked toward the back of the house on the west side.
As Dep. Vreeland went behind the house, Ira came out the back door, looked at the deputy and began running.
Dep. Vreeland deployed his Taser and Ira was taken into custody without further incident.
Ira claimed he did not know India did not want him at the house and that he had been living there.
India said that Ira has never lived at the house, but spent the night a few times.
Ira was charged with Burglary to a Dwelling and Resisting Arrest without Violence.
Harlee Middle School Teacher
Arrested for Child Abuse,
Child Neglect
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives arrested Paul David Jones, Jr., 56, of Parrish, and charged him with Child Abuse and Child Neglect in connection with an incident that occurred on March 4, 2008, at Harlee Middle School, in Bradenton.
Paul David Jones, Jr.
According to witnesses, Jones, who is a teacher at the school, told an unnamed 13-year-old student that he could not get a cup of water. The student went ahead and got a cup of water and the teacher proceeded to grab the boy’s wrist and twisted it for a few seconds until the student dropped the cup.
The victim stated he told the teacher his wrist was hurt but the teacher ignored him.
The student was eventually taken to the office and seen by the school nurse. The student later saw a doctor for the injured wrist.
Subsequent investigation led to Jones being arrested at his residence.
He was booked into the Manatee County Jail with bond set $35,000.
Man Threatens Another with
Knife, Hammer; Arrested
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Pedro Martinez, 49, of 103 22nd Street Northeast, has been arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill, according to a report from the Bradenton Police Department.
Pedro Martinez
An arrest report from BPD said Martinez and another man were arguing at his residence about America. The verbal argument soon turned physical.
Martinez then went to the kitchen and retrieved a knife and told the unnamed victim to come in to the kitchen, where he verbally threatened to stab the victim. Martinez then picked up a hammer and threatened to hit the victim with it.
The victim had a minor scratch on his left arm from the physical altercation.
Martinez was arrested and taken to jail.
Jail Inmate Charged with
Burglary to Residence
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have charged Jessica Marsh, 28, in jail on unrelated charges, with Burglary to an Unoccupied Structure.
Jessica Marsh
According to the arrest report, on February 13, 2008, an unnamed victim reported to BPD that while she was at work, someone entered her residence in the 1900 block of 19th Avenue West, took a shower, drank some beer and took several items before leaving.
The victim believed it was her ex-roommate, Marsh, because the burglar also took a bag of Marsh's belongings and left her green jacket in the residence.
On March 7, 2008, detectives interviewed Marsh at the Manatee County Jail.
Marsh admitted to entering the residence through a back window and taking a shower, but denied taking any items.
Marsh was arrested on the burglary charge.
Manatee Detectives Arrest Man
for Construction Site Burglary
WEST MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Ivan Petree, 23, of 4315 123rd Street West, and charged him with Burglary and Grand Theft.
Ivan D. Petree
Detectives say on November 6, 2007, a burglary was reported by Energy Resources, Inc., at their construction site located at 4400 116th Street West.
During the burglary, a 2" pump, a come-along chain and 2 torches were taken, as well as a 200 amp battery charger.
The victim suspected Petree of the burglary, due to his prior employment with them.
On February 5, 2008, Petree was arrested at his residence for an outstanding warrant from Sarasota.
An interview was conducted by Manatee County detectives and Petree confessed to burglarizing the job site and stealing the items during twilight hours.
Petree said he sold the battery charger to fuel his drug habit.
The battery charger was recovered and returned to the victim.
Petree was arrested at his residence on Friday of last week.
Former Bayshore Inn Employee
Arrested for Damaging Bar
After Burglary
PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- John Perie, 41, a former employee of Bayshore Inn, located at 3512 U.S. 41 North, in Palmetto, was arrested on Friday at the Manatee County Jail.
John Perie
According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Perie was apparently angry with the new owners of the Bayshore Inn because they cut his pay from $9.00 per hour to $6.75 and also cut his hours to 17 hours and raised his rent at the motel.
On November 20, 2007, according to a witness, Perie broke into the bar at the motel by smashing a glass window.
Then, detectives say he smashed up a juke box, a change machine, two pool tables and two game machines, causing about $1,700 dollars in damage. Perie then stole a bottle of Captain Morgan to let the new owners know it was him who caused the damage, the report said.
In January, Perie was being interviewed by detectives at the Palmetto Police Department. A Manatee County Sheriff's Office detective interviewed Perie at PPD. Post Miranda, Perie admitted to the burglary, damages and theft.
On Friday, Perie was arrested at the jail and charged with Burglary, Criminal Mischief ($1,000 or more), and Petit Theft (with 2 or more convictions).
Man Who Set Vehicle Ablaze
Arrested for Burglary, More
PARRISH, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday of last week, Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives arrested Jamal Smith, 19, currently incarcerated at the Manatee County Jail, and charged him with Burglary, Grand Theft Auto, Dealing in Stolen Property and Defrauding a Pawnbroker.
Jamal Smith
According to Smith's arrest report, on February 1st, 2008, Smith was arrested for Arson to a vehicle. Smith's fingerprints were all over the vehicle, the report said.
The vehicle was found to be stolen from a residence on Little Country Road, in Parrish, that had been burglarized on January 29, 2008, but not yet reported.
Detectives later discovered that the items stolen in the burglary had been pawned by Smith at several different pawn shops throughout Manatee County.
Smith's fingerprints were on the pawn tickets.
The victim identified the property as belonging to him.
Body Found in Drainage Pipe
May be Missing Ex-Marine
DEEP CREEK, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives are waiting for the Medical Examiner to identify a body found inside a drainage culvert pipe Sunday morning in the Deep Creek area.
A badly decomposed body was found not far from where the ex-Marine Eric W. Hall disappeared on Feb. 3. A massive search by CCSO, many volunteer organizations and friends has been ongoing since Hall disappeared.
A volunteer who has been assisting in locating Hall was searching the area and contacted the sheriff's office at 10:44 a.m. Sunday about a strong odor coming from a drainage pipe located off Sulstone and Partin drives.
Major Crimes detectives and Crime Scene technicians arrived and contacted the county Public Works Dept. to provide a backhoe, as the body was located 40 to 50 yards inside the culvert.
The backhoe was used to dig down to the pipe, and then the culvert was cut open.
The body was transported to the Medical Examiner's Office in Murdock for examination and identification.
At 8:30 p.m. Sunday night, detectives released the scene.
NewsManatee will stay on top of this story and report the findings as soon as they are made available.
FHP Troopers Stop Big Rig,
Find Counterfeit Items, Drugs
ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- More than $1 million worth of merchandise believed to be counterfeit and prescription drugs was found stuffed inside a big rig passing through Central Florida, according to Orlando television station WKMG.
Florida Highway Patrol Troopers pulled over a tractor-trailer on Interstate 4 in Orlando for speeding Sunday and found the items.
Officers spent several hours unloading the truck and then determined the amount of items seized.
Troopers said Pawel Gajowczyk, 50, was charged with possession of counterfeit merchandise and trafficking narcotics with intent to deliver and sell, WKMG reported.
~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
Daughter,
65, Leaves Fallen Mom, 94,
on Floor Several Weeks; Mopped
Mom's Waste; Mom Died
SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Sarasota Police Department, Carole Frizzell, 65, has been arrested and charged with Neglect of an Elderly Disabled Adult, a felony.
Carole Frizzell
In November of last year, Helen Frizzell, 94, of School Avenue in Sarasota, fell in a back room of her home and injured herself.
She lay there for several weeks; nobody called EMS or police.
Her daughter Carole, 65, said her mother was too heavy and she could not move her. She told detectives her mother told her not to call 911.
So Helen lay there, while her daughter used a mop to clean up her mother's waste. She also used bug spray to kill insects that were swarming around her injured Mom.
Carole did bring her mother food, the report said.
By a stroke of luck, a car dealer got suspicious when Carole tried to buy a car with cash and said her mother was dying. When he saw Carole's mother lying on the floor, he called 911.
Then, on November 23rd, Helen Frizzell was taken to Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where she died several hours later.
On February 27th of this year, the State Attorney's Office issued a warrant for Carole Frizzell's arrest.
On March 5th, Carole Frizzell was arrested.
On that same day, Carole Frizzell posted $50,000 bail and was released from jail.
Her Arraignment is set for April 4, 2008.
BPD Arrests Man for Burglary;
Said "Didn't Steal Anything"
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Richard Kirchmeyer, 28, of 4875 49th Avenue West, and charged him with Burglary.
Richard Kirchmeyer
According to the arrest report, on Thursday, shortly before 5 a.m., police were called to an apartment at 4875 49th Avenue West, on a report of a burglary in progress.
The unnamed victim said two people had entered her apartment. One of them opened her bedroom door and shied a flashlight into her eyes, scaring her.
The woman then got out of bed in time to see one of them leave the apartment. The second one, Kirchmeyer, was in her living room.
When cops got there, Kirchmeyer was seated in a chair in the living room.
He told police, "If I went into their apartment, so be it. I didn't steal anything."
Kirchmeyer was arrested and charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling.
Two AR-15 Assault Rifles
Stolen in Gun Shop Burglary
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Red Barn Gun Shop, located at 5233 14th Street West, was broken into Saturday night at about 8 p.m. and two AR-15 assault rifles were stolen, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
Above, photo of AR-15 Assault Rifle
The report said an unknown suspect entered the Red Barn Gun Shop by removing a soffit from the rear of the business. The suspect then kicked down through the insulation and roof into the gun shop.
Once inside, the suspect took two AR-15 assault rifles. Deputies said video was available for view only at the time they responded to the burglary. Once store management gets the video copied on to a disk, they will call detectives to come pick it up.
Deputy Lake processed the scene.
Pictures were taken of the entry and exit point.
The Violent Crimes Task Force responded to the scene and assisted with the investigation.
The only description of the burglar seen on the surveillance video was that he was wearing a green sweat shirt with a hood and a back pack.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .
Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Man Shot, Wounded in Fight
Over His Ex-Girlfriend
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Early Saturday morning, at about 4:25 a.m., a man was shot and wounded when he got into a fight with another man who is the new girlfriend of "the other man" -- the shooter, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
Jesus Rodriguez, 19, of the 1000 block of 26th Street West, Bradenton, was with a friend named Alex at the Sonic Drive-In, 6008 14th St. W. Jesus' ex-girlfriend Natasha was there with her new boyfriend, Carlos.
Carlos and Alex got into a fight in the parking lot of Sonic. Alex ran from Sonic East down 60th Ave. W.
Carlos then grabbed a garbage can lid and began breaking the windows out of Jesus' car. Carlos then fled the area in Natasha's dark colored Dodge Nitro SUV.
Jesus got into his gray Honda and went to look for Alex. Jesus saw what he thought was Natasha's car in the 800 block of 60th Ave. W. Jesus approached the vehicle and when he did, Carlos exited the vehicle and told Jesus he was sorry, and didn't have a problem him.
Moments later, Carlos pulled an unknown type weapon and began shooting at Jesus, firing 5 to 6 rounds. One round entered the front of Jesus' right thigh and exited his buttocks area. Carlos was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital by a male named Miguel.
While deputies were looking for casings in the 800 block of 60th Ave. W., Jesus' vehicle was located with blood in the front seat and empty shell casings on the front floor board.
At the hospital, Jesus was interviewed by deputies. Jesus stated the blood was from a cut on his hand and he didn’t know how the shell casings got there.
Jesus fled the hospital prior to finishing the interview, but was relocated in the area of where he left his vehicle. Jesus stated that he wanted to press charges. Jesus filled out an affidavit, but refused to let the sheriff's office take his vehicle for processing.
The affidavit was taken, but the vehicle was left with Jesus.
Attempted Robbery at Knifepoint
Fails When Intended Victim
Says No, Runs
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man was confronted at knifepoint by a would-be robber on Friday night, at about 10:45 p.m., in the parking lot of Sanctuary Condos, in the 5400 block of 26th Street West, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
Alex Campbell, 24, walked from his condo to his car and went into the glove box through the driver's side door to retrieve some cigarettes.
When he got back out of the car, a White male in his 30's wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans, holding a 6" knife, was standing in front of the door.
The unknown male said "Gimmee your wallet."
Campbell yelled "No," slammed the door to his car, ran back to his condo, locked it and called 911.
The man with the knife was last seen heading westbound through the complex.
K-9 responded and attempted to locate a track, but failed.
The would-be robber got nothing.
The victim received no injuries.
The Violent Crimes Task Force responded and was apprised of the situation.
The perpetrator was described as an unknown scruffy-faced White male in his 30s.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .
Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Several Vehicles Stolen from
ADESA Auto Auction
in Brazen Heist
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported several vehicles were stolen early Friday morning, at about 6:30 a.m., from the ADESA Auto Auction, 6005 24th Street East.
The security guard, Eric Jungquist, 52, who is employed by the auto auction, observed a white truck with a Black or Hispanic male driver crash through the front gate next to his guard shack with three other vehicles following that truck out of the business.
Jungquist did not immediately call it into law enforcement but informed another security guard of the incident who then called 911 which delayed the call by 10-15 minutes.
The security guard was only able to describe the first vehicle, a white Toyota truck, but he could not describe the other three vehicles.
Another employee provided minimal description of two more vehicles but no information is available at this time on the fourth one.
At the present time, there are 3800 cars on the lot and an inventory has to be conducted for exact vehicle information, which may be available by Monday.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .
Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Electronics Stolen from Boats
at Sarabay Marina
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Several electronic items were stolen from boats at the Sarabay Marina, 7040 North Tamiami Trail, in South Manatee County sometime after the business closed on Thursday, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
Between Thursday, March 6, 2008, at 5:00 p.m. and Friday, March 7, 2008, at 8:30 a.m., unknown persons entered 5 boats at the marina which were kept outside.
Once inside, the burglars removed electrical items such as AM/FM/CD players, 1 G.P.S. locator, and 2 flat screen TVs.
The total value of stolen items is under $5,000 and no forced entry was made.
No suspect information is available at this time, the sheriff's report said.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .
Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Two Juvies Busted for
Spray Painting Graffiti
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two unnamed juveniles have been arrested for spray painting graffiti on a residence at Sabal Harbor, in the 3100 block of 22nd Street East.
The report said on Friday, at about 9:30 p.m., two juveniles were caught in the act of spraying painting the victim's residence and arrested for criminal mischief.
The graffiti was recognized by deputies as similar graffiti found on vehicles and residences in Sabal Harbor.
During interviews with the juveniles who were apprehended, one admitted to spray painting 4 vehicles and 4 residences within Sabal Harbor during the past few weeks.
The other juvenile stated that Friday night's incident was the only time he has ever taken part in this type of criminal activity.
Safes HIt, Jewelry Stolen at
East Englewood Store
EAST ENGLEWOOD, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call Friday morning at 7:49 a.m. concerning a burglary at Paradise Jewelers, 3700 N. Access Rd., East Englewood.
Detectives report burglars climbed on top of the building and made entry through the roof.
The burglars were very organized and selective in taking the more valuable items after they used torches to cut into the store's safes.
No dollar amount has been given at this time. Detectives and the CCSO Forensic team were on scene most of the day looking for evidence.
CCSO Watch Commander Lt. Rick McDonald, advised area jewelry store owners to report any suspicious activity and make sure their alarm systems are working properly and all efforts are taken to secure their merchandise.
Anyone who may have seen something Thursday night or has information that may help solve this case, please call the CCSO at 941/639-2101; or Crime Stoppers at 800/780-TIPS (8477).
Charlotte Detectives Solve
Car-Hopping Cases;
Three Teens Busted
CAPE HAZE, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives solved the first of several "car hopping" incidents that occurred last summer in the Cape Haze area to unlocked vehicles. Three high school teens have been arrested by detectives so far.
Above, L to R, Justin Owens, Colton Devoe and Travis
Neff
One of the suspects, Justin Ray Owens, 18, of 9300 Galaxie Circle, Village of Holiday Lake, was arrested last Sunday on four unrelated charges. Detectives questioned Owens who admitted that he and two other juvenile boys were involved in numerous vehicle burglaries to unlocked vehicles from June to August 2007 in the Cape Haze area. Owens identified Colton J. Devoe, 16, 7 Sportsman Circle, Rotonda West and Travis Shane Neff, 16, 8419 Roosevelt St., Grove City.
West County CCSO detectives made contact with Devoe and Neff Thursday at Lemon Bay High School. Travis said he, Colton and Owens went through the unlocked vehicles last summer in Cape Haze. All three teens were taken to the Charlotte County Jail and charged with two felonies of Burglary to an Unoccupied Vehicle and Grand Theft.
These charges stem from just one case on July 21, 2007, to an unlocked pickup truck on Spyglass Alley, Cape Haze. The vehicle was burglarized and a $500 guitar, $300 Xbox 360 and $340 cash were stolen.
Detectives say their investigation is continuing, more charges are expected on the three teens, and, there may be more arrests of others involved. Owens was released on bond, juveniles Devoe and Neff were released to their parents.
Sarasota Construction Company Owner
Pleads Guilty to False IRS Tax Returns
TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, United States Attorney Robert E. O'Neill announced Randall C. Key, 51, of Sarasota, has agreed to plead guilty to three counts of willfully making false federal income tax returns.
The maximum penalty Key faces on each of the three counts is three years' imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
According to the plea agreement, Key was the sole officer and sole shareholder of a construction business, Keyco, Inc (“Keyco”), a corporation operating out of Sarasota, Florida.
During tax years 2003, 2004, and 2005, the defendant caused the preparation and filing of Federal Income Tax Returns, Forms 1040 with the Internal Revenue Service that were materially false. He willfully failed to report income derived from various sources on his individual tax returns.
In each of those years, the defendant had significant unreported income that was derived by depositing checks written from his construction company, Keyco, Inc., into his personal bank account and by charging personal expenses on a Keyco, Inc. corporate credit card.
The defendant also made material false statements on his individual tax returns by including on his Schedule E (relating to supplemental income and loss from rental real estate) fictitious rental expenses that he created in order to fraudulently reduce his tax liability relating to property that he rented to Keyco, Inc.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert T. Monk.
Mother Who Sprayed Child at
Car Wash Turned Herself In;
Charged with Child Abuse
ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A mother videotaped at an Orlando car wash blasting her 2-year-old daughter with a high-pressure hose was charged with child abuse Friday, according to Orlando television station WKMG-TV.
Above, Niurka Ramirez
(Photo courtesy WKMG)
Niurka Ramirez, who is pregnant, turned herself in to police Thursday afternoon after seeing extensive media coverage concerning the incident, which took place at the Magical Carwash, located at 11105 Bloomfield Drive, in Orlando.
Deputies said they believe criminal charges are appropriate.
Ramirez claimed she sprayed the girl to calm the child's temper tantrum, Orange County sheriff's deputies said.
"She indicated to the detective that the child had a temper tantrum and she used the pressure washer to punish the child -- or in her words -- to calm the child down," Orange County sheriff's Sgt. John Allen said.
Detectives spent Friday at the car wash trying to determine if Ramirez used a high or low setting to spray the girl before her arrest.
The hose delivers 1,200 pounds of water per square inch, WKMG reported.
Statewide Drug Sweep Nets 757,
Major Drug, Cash Seizures
TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- In an intensive statewide enforcement effort, local, state, and federal law enforcement officials arrested 757 people and seized more than 4.7 kilos of cocaine, 156 pounds of marijuana, 856 marijuana plants, 670 grams of methamphetamine, 908 grams of crack, hundreds of prescription pills and $1.16 million in currency.
The arrests and seizures came during a one-day proactive, national sweep to fight drugs and drug-related crime, Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Gerald Bailey announced Friday.
"This is a snapshot of the type and scope of activity that goes on every day in Florida," said FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey. "Our law enforcement agencies are constantly and tirelessly working to take down drug traffickers and keep narcotics out of communities."
FDLE coordinated the state’s blitz through its Regional Operations Centers, partnering with 72 other local and state law enforcement agencies. Teams and task forces statewide rounded up drug traffickers, conducted highway interdictions, executed search warrants, and dismantled methamphetamine labs during the multi-faceted operation.
Arrests:
757
Search warrants served: 30
Guns seized: 31
Drug endangered children encountered: 18
Vehicles seized: 19
Some of the
drugs and amounts seized:
156.75 lbs. of marijuana
856 marijuana plants
4.71 kg of cocaine
908.5 g of crack cocaine
670.69 g of methamphetamines
143.1 g of Heroin
19.3 g Oxycodone
6 grams Ecstasy; and
Assorted quantities of prescription drugs
Currency seized: $1.16 million
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