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Local/State News for week ending 3/21/2008
HAPPY EASTER!!
NewsManatee will return on Monday, March 24th
~~~~~~~~~~
~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
Jailed
Child Sexual Battery Suspect
Charged with Threats Against
Mother of the Two Victims
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, March 18, 2008, David Trejo-Lozano, 27, already in the Manatee County Jail for sexual battery of his two children, ages 3 years (biological) and 9 years (step-daughter), was charged with retaliating against his wife and their mother through telephone threats, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
David Trejo-Lozano
According to NewsManatee records, on or about December, 15, 2007, Trejo-Lozano placed his penis on the vaginal areas of the two little girls on different days and asked one of them, the 3-year-old, to "kiss his wee-wee," the little girl said. He also digitally rubbed the two little girls in their vaginal areas, he later admitted. The other little girl was 9 years old and the incidents with her occurrred on other days. The children had been dropped off at Trejo-Lozano's house by their mother so he could "visit with his children."
When their mother picked the children up, the 3-year-old told her mother it hurt "where she pees." She later told a detective blood came out from there.
A controlled phone call was placed to Trejo-Lozano from the mother and later a meeting was set up that was recorded between Trejo-Lozano and the mother. In both, Trejo-Lozano made certain admissions about the crimes.
At that time, December 20, 2007, Trejo-Lozano was arrested and charged with seven counts of Capital Sexual Battery and one count of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation on two children under the age of 12. According to arrest records, he molested the 3-year-old girl 3 times and the 9-year-old girl 4 times.
Then, between February 22, 2008, and February 24, 2008, while in jail, Trejo-Lozano called the mother of the victims.
Jail telephone records show that the victim was called forty-eight (48) times.
On at least four of these telephone calls, the phone was answered and during the eight second collect call recording notifying the recipient of the call that the call was from the jail, Trejo-Lozano made threats towards the victims' mother.
The arrest report said Trejo-Lozano called his wife an obscene name, and said, "I'm going to get you when I get out," and "You're going to get it."
The mother reported the incidents and Trejo-Lozano was charged on Tuesday with one count of Retaliating Against a Witness.
Trejo-Lozano remains in the Manatee County Jail.
BPD Arrests Man for Threats
with Gun, Pit Bull
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Gregory Tyrone Jackson, 21, of 1119 7th Street East, Bradenton, for threatening two people with a handgun and a pit bull.
Gregory Tyrone Jackson
The arrest report from BPD said on March 17, 2008, Jackson entered a house in the 1000 block of 7th Street East, without permission and for unknown reasons and started to threaten to shoot up the house.
Jackson allegedly lifted up his shirt and showed the butt of a black handgun and half of the barrel. Then he lifted the weapon up enough for the victim to see most of the barrel.
Jackson also had a pit bull with him when he entered the house, causing a well-founded fear to the victim and a witness.
Jackson then left the house on foot in an unknown direction.
A search of the area at the time did not find Jackson.
However, Jackson was located on Tuesday, at about 6 p.m. in the 1600 block of 3rd Avenue East and arrested.
He was charged with Burglary, with Assault or Battery.
Man Charged with Several
Counts of Aggravated Assault
with a Motor Vehicle
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Samuel Whaley, 20, of the 6900 block of Manatee Avenue West, after Whaley allegedly tried to run down his brother, Daniel, with a motor vehicle.
Samuel Dean Whaley
Whaley's arrest report said on Tuesday, March 18, 2008, at about 1:45 p.m., he went to his parents' house in the 2700 block of 71st Drive East, to borrow a concrete saw to work at his job site at the "Bayshore Recreational Center."
When Whaley learned that his father was using it on a job, Whaley became "extremely angry" and began yelling and using profanity toward his mother and his brother, Daniel.
Samuel then went outside to his truck and Daniel followed him outside.
Samuel then threw a pipe and a glass bottle at Daniel, missing Daniel and breaking his own truck's passenger side window. He also tried to strike Daniel, but missed.
Then Samuel got in his truck, squealed the tires and drove to the dead end of the street.
When Daniel walked toward his truck to leave to go to work, Samuel accelerated forward and tried to hit Daniel, but was unsuccessful.
He drove forward and backed up two more times, trying to hit Daniel, but was unsuccessful each time.
Finally, Samuel drove off, squealing his tires.
Samuel was arrested less than an hour later in the 6800 block of 26th Street West at the Bayshore Recreational Center and charged with three counts of Aggravated Domestic Assault with a Motor Vehicle.
Hispanic Man Shot Early Wednesday
in Bradenton by Two Black Men
in Attempted Robbery
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to Major Bill Tokajer, of the Bradenton Police Department, a 20-year-old man was shot in the stomach by two would-be robbery suspects at about 5 a.m. Wednesday morning as he was walking to work.
The attack occurred in the vicinity of 13th Street and 13th Avenue, in Bradenton.
The man, Maynor Ernandez, was confronted by two Black males who demanded Maynor's money. Maynor gave them nothing.
Then Maynor tried to run away from the men and wound up in a carport nearby.
The men followed Maynor and shot him in the stomach with a 9mm handgun. A 9mm shell casing was found at the carport.
The men then ran off and Manor could not provide a description or tell Police Officers whether they got into a vehicle or fled on foot. He did say the men were dressed all in black and had black masks.
Maynor was airlifted to Bayfront Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition at this time.
Police have no suspects at present.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at (941) 932-9300 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.
Publix Pharmacy Robbed of
$20,000+ Dollars Worth of
Oxycodone Pills
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Bradenton Police Department, on Saturday, shortly before closing at 7:00 p.m., the Publix Pharmacy located at 5001 State Road 64 East, Bradenton, was robbed by an unidentified person of 1,735 Oxycodone pills of varying strengths valued at $20,260 dollars.
A BPD report of the incident said the pharmacist told Bradenton Police Officers he saw a White male standing in the window of the pharmacy.
The man told the pharmacist to, "Give me all of your Roxy's and Oxy's." The man had both hands in the pockets of his sweater. The pharmacist saw a point in the sweater that he though was a gun. However, no weapon was seen. It was possibly a weapon or the man's hand, the report said.
The pharmacist asked the man, "What are you talking about?"
The man replied, "You know, give me all the stuff."
The pharmacist then grabbed a Publix bag and shoveled several bottles of the pills inside and gave the bag to the man.
The man then walked quickly toward the exit and disappeared.
The pharmacist waited a few seconds, then walked outside, but couldn't see the man.
Several Bradenton Police Officers responded to the location, including a K-9 unit.
The K-9 unit tracked for a short distance, then lost the scent.
The robber was described as a White male, 5'11" to 6' tall, about 170-185 pounds in weight, with brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt and black shorts that came down near his knees. He was wearing what appeared to be black Puma shoes with white socks. He was mostly clean-shaven, but had a little "five o'clock shadow." He did not appear to be a transient and his clothes were clean and neat.
Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at (941) 932-9300 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.
Oriental Couple Robbed at
Gunpoint by Three Black Males
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, an Oriental couple was robbed at gunpoint by three Black males on Tuesday, at about 9 p.m. outside their residence in the 3600 block of 72nd Terrace East, in East Manatee County.
The report said the victims, Ms. Lieu Nguyen, 68, and Mr. Lung Pham, 58, arrived at their residence at approximately 9:00 p.m. after leaving their place of business.
Two of the Black males came from the bushes that line the driveway of the residence.
The two victims were outside of the vehicle when the two Black males pointed guns at them and demanded money.
Lieu's bag was snatched from her shoulder.
The two robbers then ran to a waiting car and they fled the area.
The stolen bag contained an unspecified amount of personal cash.
The robbers did not get the store receipts from Lung's pocket.
Neither victim was injured and no shots were fired.
The robbers were only described as 3 unknown Black males of medium height and build.
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.
Deputies Arrest 12 Clerks for
Selling Booze to Underage
Person Working with Sheriff
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, March 18, 2008, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Division (SID) Tactical Unit conducted an underage drinking operation throughout Manatee County. The operation ran from 3 p.m. until 11 p.m.
Detectives utilized a nineteen-year-old informant who attempted to purchase alcohol from various liquor and convenience stores.
Thirty-three (33) different locations were visited and the informant was able to purchase alcohol without showing identification at 12 of those locations. The clerks who sold the alcohol at each of those stores were arrested and charged with Selling/Serving Alcohol to a Person Under 21.
The informant was able to purchase alcohol from the following locations:
1. K&S
2615 9th St. West
2. ABC Liquor 904 301 Blvd. West
3. Shell 816 301 Blvd. East
4. Dan’s Market 3011 15th St. East
5. BP Shop 3101 15th St. East
6. K&S 3403 15th St. East
7. Federal Discount 5027 15th St. East
8. Super Stop 5627 15th St. East
9. Circle K 6228 15th St. East
10. U Gas 6829 15th St. East
11. 7/11 6886 15th St. East
12. H&M Discount 1232 Whitfield Ave.
Sheriff's Office Conducting
Death Investigation
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is conducting an investigation into the death of a man found deceased in his home.
The man, Kenneth Rose, 39, was found dead in his residence on Wednesday, at 11722 Winding Woods Way.
Their were no signs of foul play, the sheriff's office reported.
The case is under investigation.
Manatee Sheriff Plans
DUI Checkpoint
This Weekend
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- As part of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office continuing crackdown on drunk drivers, a DUI checkpoint will be conducted this weekend.
The checkpoint will begin on major a roadway in south Manatee County on Friday, March 21, 2008, at 10:30 p.m. and conclude on Saturday, March 22, 2008, at 4:00 a.m.
The exact location of the checkpoint will not be announced.
Assisting the Sheriff’s Office with the checkpoints will be the Florida Highway Patrol, the Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key and Palmetto Police Departments.
Also assisting will be the Manasota Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (M.A.D.D.) and the Salvation Army.
Drive-by Shooting in Parrish,
No Injuries Reported
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, at about 2:38 a.m., a drive-by shooting occurred in the 2800 block of 72nd Avenue East, in Parrish, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
The report said unknown persons stopped a vehicle in front of the victims' residence and fired numerous rounds at the house. Inside the house were five Hispanic people; one of those was a female.
One of the victims was sitting at a computer in the living room.
Everyone else in the residence was asleep.
None of the residents suffered injury.
The offending vehicle was possibly a small blue of black SUV. There was no further description of the perpetrator(s).
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.
Businesses: It's Tax Time;
Want to Make Some $$,
Instead of Spending It?
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- If you have a business and have paid exorbitant taxes in the recent past (or might be about to do it again), there's a tax auditing business in Bradenton that makes money by making your business money. It's called The Paper Trail, and it's run by Patrick McKenzie.
Businesses who fit a particular criteria can have their last three years of tax returns audited for a "success" fee.
If your business accountant or tax preparer (or you) didn't miss anything, then the audit is free.
However, if something is found where you overpaid your taxes, their auditors will amend your taxes and ask for a fee from the refund -- after you get it.
All amendments
will be backed by a legal defense.
The audits are most successful for business owners making a profit of
at least $30K per year, not being audited by the IRS.
"About
70% of this qualified group has overpaid their taxes, and the average
overpayment is $10,000 dollars," McKenzie told NewsManatee.
The Paper Trail acts as a consultant for this tax audit.
To learn more, send an e-mail to Patrick McKenzie at:
ThePaperTrail@tampabay.rr.com
NewsManatee can vouch for McKenzie; he has done our accounting and taxes for several years and has saved us a lot of money.
We have found him to be quick, efficient, economical and a heck of a nice guy.
You can see The Paper Trail's support ad on the left side of this page.
Sarasota County Sheriff's Office
Reports 17 South County
Vehicle Burglaries; 237
Since January 1st
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday March 17, 2008, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to 17 reported vehicle burglaries in the South Venice Area.
There has been a large increase in reported vehicle burglaries in this area over the last several months.
From January 1, 2008 thru March 18, 2008 there have been 237 vehicle burglaries reported in the south county area. This is an increase of 105 more vehicles when compared to 132 reported vehicle burglaries during the same period last year.
In review of these reports about 85% of the vehicles entered were unlocked. Many of them had valuables in plain sight and several had the keys in the vehicle.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in abating this increase:
~ Secure
all vehicle doors and windows (even in your driveway).
~ Use reliable anti-theft devices (i.e. car alarm).
~ Remove valuables from inside the vehicle (wallets, cell phones, CD’s,
G.P.S. equipment).
~ Report any suspicious activity or person(s).
If you witness a vehicle burglary in progress, do not risk physical harm, call the police immediately.
Pit Bull Attacks 1-Year-Old,
Causes Severe Injuries
To Lad's Face
PORT ST. JOHN, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 1-year-old boy in Port St. John suffered severe facial injuries when he was attacked by a pit bull in a home.
The attack happened at a home located on Allmont Street in Brevard County Tuesday night, sheriff's deputy Alan Moros told WKMG News partner Florida Today.
Moros said the boy was apparently visiting the house with family when he was attacked by the owner's dog.
The boy was flown to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando.
The dog has been taken into custody by the Brevard County Animal Services and Enforcement, WKMG reported.
~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
Two Men
Attack Two Others
Over Girl, One Man Pistol-Whipped;
One Busted, One Not, Two Hospitalized
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday night, March 17, 2008, at about 6:30 p.m., two men attacked two other men in the 2800 block of 40th Avenue West over a girl. One of the victims was hospitalized, as was one of the attackers; it appears that another attacker fled the scene and hasn't been caught.
Above, attackers Keith Gordon and Alex Marcum
(Mug shots are from 2007)
According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two men, Keith Gordon, 21, and Alex Marcum, 20, went to house of Susan Thomas, 58, at 2812 40th Avenue West, to confront victim David Thomas, 20, about an issue involving a girl.
The suspects entered the residence without the permission of Susan Thomas, looking for David.
The suspects, Keith and Alex, came back outside where they engaged in a fight with David Thomas and his brother Brett Thomas, 24.
At some point, Keith produced a black semi-auto handgun and pistol-whipped David in the head causing a small laceration. Keith then began to hit Brett in the face with the gun causing a laceration and missing teeth.
Lorenzo Thomas, 71, tried to break up the fight and Keith pointed the gun at Lorenzo, putting Lorenzo in fear for his life. Lorenzo Grabbed a Mag light and hit Keith in the head, causing him to drop the gun. Keith picked the gun back up and got into a car and fled East.
At this point in the report from the sheriff's office, there is no indication of what happened to Alex Marcum, or what became of him.
Meanwhile, Joseph Thomas stopped the car at gunpoint (unknown where he got the gun) in front of a house a couple of doors away on 40th Avenue West and ordered Keith out. Keith got out of the car and pointed his gun at Joseph. At this point, both Keith and Joseph are pointing guns at each other. Joseph was able to get the gun away from Keith and restrain him until law enforcement arrived.
Brett was Bayflighted to Bayfront and Keith was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital.
The Violent Crimes Task Force responded and assisted greatly with the investigation and preservation of the crime scene, the report said. Detective Schue responded to conduct the investigation. Crime scene responded to collect evidence from the scene.
It is likely that Keith Gordon will be charged with at least Aggravated Battery; more charges may follow.
It is unknown if Alex Gordon will be arrested for his part in the incident.
Two Black Males Rob, Shoot Man,
Steal Other Man's Vehicle; Later
Arrested in North Manatee County
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Early Tuesday morning, March 18, 2008, at about 1:00 a.m., two Black males robbed and shot a man, then stole another man's vehicle, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred in the 1100 block of 60th Avenue Drive East.
Above, L to R, Joshua Mitchell and Demetrious Cunningham
The report said Kevin L. Richardson, 19, of Sarasota, was at 1116 60th Ave. Dr. E. standing by the road, when 2 unknown Black males approached him and told Richardson to get on the ground. One of the Black males struck Richardson in the head, knocking him out.
The suspects took a bracelet, a cell phone, an ID and a ring from Richardson.
Thomas Mills, 19, was inside the residence at the time of the robbery.
When Richardson woke up, he knocked on Mills' door and said he just gotten robbed and they took Mills' vehicle.
Mills, who was still inside the residence, called 911.
Richardson thought he was shot in the buttocks area. Witnesses thought they heard a pop, possibly from a gun.
When deputies arrive, the injury was photographed and a BOLO was issued for the stolen vehicle, which was a 1982, 2-door orange Chevy and had "Reese" written on the sides.
The Violent Crimes Task Force responded to the scene, as did EMS.
Upon EMS arrival, they determined that Richardson may have been shot and he was transported to Bayfront Medical Center.
Northside deputies located the vehicle and pursued it into Rubonia, where the two suspects fled from the vehicle.
K-9 tracked them to a residence where two suspects matching the description of those in the stolen vehicle were located hiding in a bedroom.
The two suspects, Joshua Mitchell, 19, and Demetrious Cunningham, 21, were arrested for Grand Theft Auto, Aggravated Fleeing to Elude and Resisting Arrest without Violence. More charges are still pending.
Man Arrested for Stealing
Bank Deposit from Employer,
Nearly $500 Dollars
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Matthew Peter Beausoleil, 24, of 6136 Bobby Jones Court, in Palmetto, after detectives determined that Beausoleil had stolen nearly $500 dollars meant for bank deposit.
Matthew Peter Beausoleil
Beausoleil's arrest report said he was an employee of Dunkin' Donuts, located at 812 62nd Street Circle East. He held the position of shift leader and was the nighttime supervisor, working from 3:00 p.m. unitl 9:15 p.m.
Another employee, Jennifer Apolinar, is a daytime employee and her shirt if from 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. All employees are responsible for counting their cash registers down to $70 dollars at the end of their shift, then complete a deposit ticket, put the money in a bank drop bag, take it to the safe and put it in the drop slot.
On February 20, 2008, at about 3:00 p.m., Jennifer followed the procedure, made out a deposit for $496.35, and left the bank bag with its deposit on the counter, taking care of an influx of customers. Then she left for the day.
Beausoleil was beginning his shift, noticed the bank bag, pointed it out to another employee and said he was going to call the manager and tell him about it, then make the drop into the safe.
The next day, when the manager opened the safe, the deposit wasn't there. He questioned Jennifer about it and a search began for the bank bag, which eventually led to a dumpster out back, where the bag was found, minus the money, except for the .35 cents.
Meanwhile, Beausoleil called in sick, said he had been arrested and was out for several days.
When the manager heard that Beausoleil had found the bag and was going to call the manager, the manager got suspicious, because he had not been called.
Beausoleil denied taking the money.
Since Beausoleil was the last person in possession of the deposit and no employee saw him make the drop, he was arrested on Monday, March 17, 2008, at the Manatee County Jail and charged with Grand Theft.
The detective wrote in his report that Beausoleil has prior convictions for Theft, Grand Theft, Credit Card Fraud and Burglary.
Deputies Arrest Woman for
Child Neglect, Vehicle Theft
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Dena Irene Crum, 40, after Crum left her 3-month-old baby with a man for several hours in a motel room and drove off with his vehicle, a taxi cab van on Monday, March 17, 2008.
Dena Crum
According to the arrest report, Crum invited Gordon Richardson to her hotel room at 8440 North Tamiami Trail, in Manatee County, to drink with her.
While there, Crum later admitted, she smoked cocaine, smoked marijuana and drank liquor with Richardson.
At about 2 a.m., Crum told deputies, she left Richardson in the motel room with her baby.
At about 5:30 a.m., Crum called the sheriff's office and said he didn't know how to take care of a child and Crum had taken his work van without permission.
At about 7:30 a.m., Crum showed back up at the motel room and was arrested. During the arrest, Crum was resisting, turning from side to side.
She said she had known Richardson for about two weeks -- "Long enough to have sex with him."
Deputies found two crack pipes in Crum's possession.
Crum was charged with Grand Theft Auto, Child Neglect, Resisting Arrest without Violence, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Driving While License Suspended.
The baby was released to Child Protective Services.
Pair Arrested for Burglary
of Mobile Home
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man and a woman were arrested on Monday, March 17, 2008, at about 9:30 p.m., after they were found inside a mobile home in the 600 block of Cortez Road West.
Above, L to R, Stacy Taylor and Michael Kahn
According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Stacy Taylor, 20, a homeless person, and Michael Kahn, 31, of 1223 17th Street West, Bradenton, entered the mobile home by forcing open a window and entering the residence.
The mobile home must have had a burglar alarm, because deputies arrived soon afterward.
When they arrived on scene, deputies found Taylor and Kahn still inside the residence.
They were taken into custody without incident and each charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Structure.
Local Group Announces
Texas Hold 'Em Tournament,
Silent Auction to Benefit
American Cancer Society
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A member of Angels Among Us, a team participating in the American Cancer Society's signature fund raiser, "Relay for Life" has announced an event to raise our community's awareness of how much the ACS does for families fighting cancer. It is also a night to celebrate with those who have beat cancer and remember those who have lost their battle.
Their team is holding it's first annual Texas Hold 'em Tournament & Silent Auction, Saturday evening, March 29th, at The Dog House on U.S. 41 (14th Street West), in Bradenton.
If you or any friends or family would be interested in a great night of fun supporting them in their fight to help cure cancer, come out and join them.
"The Dog house has lots of great food and drink and plenty of room for our event," Cande Brugger told to NewsManatee.
All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society, are tax deductible and most importantly, approximately 90% of these dollars stay here in Manatee County, Brugger said.
Finally, if you would like to support their team and/or promote your business by donating an item, product or service to their silent auction or door prize pool, just let them know and Cande can make arrangements for pick up or delivery. Donations are tax deductible (Fed ID 59-0657320).
Your support can help the event be a huge success.
Contact Sharon at Angelsforacure@hotmail.com for any questions, or to arrange for a pickup and delivery of items for the silent auction or door prize pool.
Sarasota Police Arrest Man
for Walgreens Robbery;
$4,000 in Drugs Stolen
SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police have arrested Adam B. Karel, 21, after Karel allegedly robbed the Walgreens Drug Store at 3901 South Tamiami Trail, in the City of Sarasota.
Adam B. Karel
According to the arrest report, Karel entered the drug store on Monday morning, March 17, 2008, showed a handgun to a pharmacy technician and jumped over the counter as he fled, making off with about $4,000 dollars in prescription drugs.
According to Jay Frank, spokesman for the police department, when police watched a surveillance video, they saw where Karel had put his hand while jumping over the counter. They asked Crime Scene Technicians to see if they could lift his fingerprints. They did, Frank said, and matched the prints to Karel.
Then they located Karel at his home at Bee Ridge and Tamiami Trail near the drug store.
Police set up surveillance on the residence and when Karel left shortly before 2 a.m. that same day, police followed him and made a traffic stop a short distance away, Frank said.
Karel was charged with Armed Robbery.
Two Arrested for Englewood
Armed Robbery Tuesday
ENGLEWOOD, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit arrested two men in connection with an armed robbery that was reported at 12:23 a.m. Tuesday morning in Englewood.
Above, L to R, Ian Rochek and James Avella
Deputies responded to Denny’s Restaurant, 1910 S. McCall Rd., to meet with Kenneth Joseph Hauss, 24, 7124 Totem Ave., North Port, who called 911 after he ran from an apartment at 4 Manor Ct. where the armed robbery occurred. John A. Yacobelli, 24, a friend with Hauss, gave deputies a description of a vehicle and occupants involved. The CCSO issued a BOLO and at 12:57 a.m.; a Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputy made a traffic stop on the vehicle just over the Charlotte County line.
Hauss told detectives he talked to Kristen Hankinson, 20, 1610 Loralin Dr., Englewood, around 11:00 p.m. Monday about buying her Subaru station wagon for $1,000. Hankinson picked up Hauss and Yacobelli at their North Port home and drove them to the apartment on Manor Ct. Yacobelli was told to stay outside while Hauss said he went inside with Hankinson to pick up the car title. Inside, Ian Matthew Rochek, 23, 1050 Capri Isles Blvd., Venice, met with Hauss. Hankinson left the room, and then James Joseph Avella, 37, came in, pointed a handgun at Hauss, ordered him to the floor and hit him with a stick several times. Hauss said Avella demanded his money and gave it to him. Hauss said Avella threatened to kill him and told him to get out of the apartment in 10 seconds or he would shoot him; he began counting. Hauss ran outside where he and Yacobelli then ran to Denny’s nearby and called 911.
However, detectives got a different story from Hankinson regarding the incident. She told detectives she was called by Hauss so he could get some Oxycodone pills from her for someone else. She said she picked up the two men in North Port and drove them to Avella’s Englewood apartment so they could buy the pills from Avella. She said when she came back into the room she saw Avella pointing a handgun at Hauss’ head and heard him threatening to kill him. After Hauss and Yacobelli fled, Hankinson told detectives she and Rochek got into her car and drove back to her house where Avella showed up and wanted her to drive him to a friend’s house. Hankinson drove down McCall Road when they were pulled over by SCSO deputies. All three agreed to come back to Charlotte County to give statements.
Rochek also gave a statement to MCU detectives and said he was at the apartment with Avella when Hankinson brought the two men to the residence to buy $1,000 worth of Oxycodone pills. Yacobelli was told to stay outside. Rochek said Avella came out, robbed Hauss of his money and he stood by while the robbery took place. Rochek confirmed Avella pointed the handgun at Hause and ordered him to give him the money.
Detectives said Avella would only admit that he lived at the Manor Ct. apartment but said he was not there at the time of the incident and denied allegations of an armed robbery. Based on statements obtained from the victims, witnesses and the suspects, Avella and Rochek were both arrested and charged with Robbery with a Firearm and taken to the Charlotte County Jail.
Detectives said they are continuing their investigation into the incident and more charges may be filed.
Bicyclist Finds Body
in Sarasota County
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating the death of an individual whose body was found Tuesday in the woods adjacent to 1095 North Tamiami Trail, Nokomis.
The body was discovered at approximately 12:05 p.m. by a bicyclist, who then alerted deputies.
The victim is Ronald Lee Sulaty, 63, a White male; a homeless man.
Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Detectives are working with the Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause of death.
No foul play is suspected.
Man Arrested for Theft of
Mickey Mantle Baseball Card
ORANGE PARK, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Less than 24 hours after a burglary of baseball cards valued at over $100,000 from an Orange Park business, a man was arrested and charged with the crime, Orlando television station WKMG reported.
David Gonzalez
(Mug shot courtesy WKMG)
Before dawn Monday, a cinder block was thrown through the window of Dan's Sports Cards on Blanding Boulevard and about 1,100 cards were taken, including a 1952 Mickey Mantle card that was worth $30,000.
An Orange Park police officer remembered being suspicious after stopping David Gonzalez on a traffic stop in the area of the burglary. Authorities said Gonzalez was wearing baseball gloves and dressed in all black.
After sharing that information with a detective, they paid a visit to apartment complex in Jacksonville Beach where Gonzalez lives.
Investigators said they found broken display cases taken from the sports store in the dumpster.
Inside his apartment, they found the baseball cards and a small amount of marijuana.
Gonzalez, 27, was arrested Monday night on a marijuana possession charge while authorities obtained an arrest warrant for the burglary,WKMG reported.
Thief Steals Disabled Boy's
Wheelchair While Family
Was at Soccer Game
MIMS, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- According to Orlando television station WKMG, Police are searching for a thief who stole a $4,400 wheelchair from an 11-year-old boy who has scoliosis and other illnesses, leaving him unable to walk.
Michael Thorne and his family said they were at a soccer tournament in Jacksonville when someone grabbed the boy's special wheelchair out of their vehicle.
The family had fought with the insurance company to obtain the wheelchair, according to the report.
"For my son, it makes me feel terrible because it's something that was taken away from him that we worked so hard to get and now we lost it," father Van Thorne said. "It is just one of a kind, so he's got to go around without it and it really makes it hard."
Thorne's insurance company said there is nothing they can do about the stolen wheelchair, WKMG reported.
The family said they are hoping Police can find the person responsible.
~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
OnStar
GPS System Locates
Vehicle Being Stolen; Deputies
Arrest Man After Pursuit, Stop Sticks
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The General Motors global positioning satellite system called "OnStar" was responsible for locating a Mercedes Benz being stolen and notifying the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Deputies were able to locate the vehicle and, after a pursuit, were able to arrest the car thief, according to a report from the sheriff's office.
Michael Wayne Bancs
On Sunday, March 16, 2008, at about 5 p.m., OnStar called the sheriff's office in reference to a 2007 Mercedes Benz being stolen. OnStar had the vehicle located at 5616 16th Street West.
Units were dispatched and located the vehicle at 5601 16th Street West.
Several units were setting up in the area when the would-be thief, Michael Wayne Bancs, 40, apparently spotted them, jumped into the vehicle and fled southbound on 16th Street West.
A pursuit was initiated at 5:15 p.m.
Bancs ran over stop sticks deployed by Dep. Carey and it flattened the front left tire on the stolen vehicle, but the suspect still fled.
With units in pursuit, Banks fled east on 57th Avenue where Bancs again ran over stop sticks and that eventually flattened the left rear tire of the stolen vehicle.
Bancs then fled to 15th Street East where he turned north. Bancs then turned west on 53rd Avenue, then north on 26th Street West.
Bancs continued until he got to Cortez Road, where Bancs turned east and eventually stopped in front of Sports Authority at 1st Street and Cortez Road.
Bancs got out of the car and was tackled by deputies.
Bancs resisted, tensed up and refused to be handcuffed.
Dep. Peel and Lt. Vitaioli both stunned Bancs simultaneously with their Tasers in stun gun mode and Bancs was taken into custody.
Bancs was charged with Grand Theft Auto, Fleeing to Elude Law Enforcement, Reckless Driving and Resisting Arrest without Violence.
[Ed. Note: The sheriff's report identified the man as "Banks," but he was booked under the name "Bancs."]
Citizens Tackle Man Who
Slashed Tires on 3 Vehicles,
Tried to Cut Them with Knife
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Kelly Duane Futter, 39, of 4114 29th Avenue West, after Futter allegedly slashed the tires of three vehicles on Saturday, at about 1:50 a.m.
Kelly Duane Futter
The arrest report said Futter went onto the victims' property in the 4300 block of 81st Street West, armed with a folding knife, and slashed the tires of three vehicles in the driveway and front yard. Futter also allegedly scratched the driver's side of a 4th vehicle on the property.
The residents who were victims heard the noise outside and went out to investigate.
According to the victims and a witness, they saw Futter running away.
Two of the victims and a witness chased Futter and caught up to him.
Futter then turned around and swung at them with the knife, grazing the finger of one of the men, causing a small laceration.
Two of the victims were able to tackle Futter and take him to the ground. They kept him restrained until law enforcement could arrive.
The victims told deputies Futter had been continuously harassing them.
Futter was arrested and charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault and three counts of Criminal Mischief ($200-$1,000).
Motorcyclist Arrested for
Felony Battery; Struck
Complaining Citizen
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Joshua Murray, 26, of 624 64th Avenue East, was arrested on Sunday, March 16, 2008, at about 9:15 p.m. after Murray allegedly struck a man who complained about Murray's motorcycle driving.
Joshua Murray
Murray's arrest report said Joshua and a friend were riding their motorcycles down the roads of the neighborhood in the vicinity of the 600 block of 64th Avenue Drive East.
A citizen said they were driving the motorcycles recklessly and speeding.
The citizen stepped outside of his house and confronted Murray about his motorcycle driving.
Murray and the man first got into a verbal argument, then Murray struck the citizen in the head with his hands, causing the citizen to fall to the ground, striking his head.
An injury to the citizen was reported as a medium sized deep cut to the back of the citizen's head.
The citizen called law enforcement and Murray was located at his house nearby.
Murray was arrested and charged with Felony Battery.
Man Turns Himself In
on Strong Arm Robbery
Warrant from February
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, March 14, 2008, John W. Hicks, 28, a homeless man, turned himself in on an outstanding warrant.
John W. Hicks
According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on February 26, 2008, Theron Lane, also a homeless man, was the victim of a strong arm robbery at a homeless camp near 301 Blvd. East and 44th Avenue East.
A warrant for that robbery was obtained by Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Bill Waldron.
Hicks' attorney made an agreement with Det. Waldron for Hicks to turn himself in at the Manatee County Jail.
Det. Waldron responded to the jail and interviewed Hicks.
Hicks reportedly made incriminating statements to Det. Waldron.
Hicks is being held on a $500,000 dollar bond.
Sarasota Man Arrested for
Lewd and Lascivious Acts
Against Three Children
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday evening, March 15, 2008, Sarasota Police arrested Hussain Alsaad, 39, of 3926 Shade Avenue, Sarasota, on an outstanding warrant from the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office for Lewd and Lascivious Acts against several children.
Hussain Alsaad
According to information from the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, on November 25, 2007, a 12-year-old girl was brought to the sheriff's office by a good samaritan who had found the girl wandering alone in the area of Siesta Drive and Osprey Avenue in Sarasota County. The girl had been crying and told the good samaritan that she had been at an undisclosed address with other children and woke up to find Hussain Alsaad touching her in her private area.
She felt cold when she was awakened, she later told detectives, and found her underwear and pajama bottoms had been removed and that Hussain Alsaad, aka "Tony," had been touching her in her private area.
She grabbed her P.J.s, went into the bathroom and put them on, then ran out of the front door.
Detectives found her unfocused and very sleepy, as if she had been drugged. She was taken to a hospital for a rape kit analysis and drug analysis.
The girl told a nurse at the hospital that "Tony" had touched two other children in their private areas, as well.
Both other children were interviewed by the detective.
Alsaad was contacted. He denied the allegations and volunteered to take a polygraph test, which he failed, the report said.
Hussain Alsaad was arrested and charged with Lewd and Lascivious Molestation.
3 Boys Busted for Burglary,
$5,000 Damage to Home
PORT CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s deputies arrested three juvenile boys in connection with a burglary to a Port Charlotte home and committing $5,000 damages inside.
Above, L to R, Brian Egbert, David Gramling-Jordan and
Nicholas Ortiz
A Port Charlotte couple came home Saturday at 12:50 p.m. at 18842 Ayrshire Circle, and heard people running from their rear porch and called the CCSO.
When deputies arrived, a neighbor said he saw three boys in and around the home and another couple said they saw three male teens run from the victim’s home and across their back yard. The witnesses then gave descriptions of the three boys.
As another deputy was responding, he observed three boys walking down O’Hara Drive and detained them until witnesses were brought to the scene, who positively identified all three.
Deputies said the boys entered the home and caused extensive damage. On the ground floor, chocolate syrup was squirted over the walls and floors in every room; beer was sprayed around the house, and about two dozen holes were punched or kicked into the walls. Upstairs there was a pile of human feces left on the bedroom floor.
The three were identified as Brian Daniel Egbert, 15, 23133 Madelyn Ave., Port Charlotte; David T. Gramling-Jordan, 16, 1233 Hurtig Ave, and Nicholas David Ortiz, 17, 1279 Jacob St., all of Port Charlotte.
All three stated they did enter the home and said Egbert defecated on the floor, Egbert and Gramblin-Jordan squirted the chocolate syrup, Gramblin-Jordan said he created the holes in the walls, and Ortiz sprayed the beer.
All three boys were taken to the Charlotte County Jail, booked, and released to their parents with an order to appear in court.
ALERT!! Be On The Lookout;
$30,000 Dollar 1952 Mickey Mantle
Baseball Card Stolen on East Coast
ORANGE PARK, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A break-in early Monday at a baseball card shop in Orange Park left the owner without one of his prized possessions: a 1952 Mickey Mantle baseball card.
Above, 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle baseball card
The card alone is worth $30,000, according to the manager at Dan's Sports Cards.
Manager J.J. McCormick said burglars broke into the store in the 2100 block of Kingsley Avenue by throwing a brick into the business overnight, WJXT reported. McCormick said before that, power was cut to the entire strip mall.
The 1952 Topps baseball card was part of a set; the set is valued at approximately $90,000. McCormick said the total loss is $100,000.
According to a major collector's Web site, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card is considered to be the most valuable post-war sportscard.
McCormick said the store's owner, Dan Williams, wants to offer a reward for the return of the cards.
~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
CRIME
FORECAST ALERT:
"Travelers" Back in Area;
Gypsy-Style Burglars Struck
Twice in City of Punta Gorda
CITY OF PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- Punta Gorda Police Officers and Detectives were on scene on Friday, March 14, 2008, of what they believe to be several gypsy-style burglaries in the Burnt Store Isles subdivision of Punta Gorda. Charlotte County Canine units were requested and they attempted to track suspects in the investigation, to no avail.
According to NewsManatee information, these "gypsy-style" burglars are likely a group of gypsies from up north known as "Travelers," who prey on people in our area at least once a year, with various scams, burglaries and thefts, including, but not limited to, offers to "do your driveway," or "do your roof." Also, another scenario they use is, while one person of a team of two distracts a homeowner, the other will go into the residence and steal items of value.
On Friday, at 1:47 p.m., the Punta Gorda Police Department received a call from a resident at 358 Portofino Avenue in Burnt Store Isles who reported that she confronted a Hispanic female in her lanai. The Hispanic female was described as light-skinned, stocky, with black hair pulled back into a bun. The only clothing description was that the suspect was wearing Capri-style jeans. The Hispanic female immediately stated that she was looking for her dog. The female left the residence on foot and proceeded down the street. Units immediately responded and searched the area.
Then, at 2:37 p.m. on Friday, the Punta Gorda Police Department received another call from a resident at 3902 San Pietro Court in Burnt Store Isles (approximately 4 blocks from Portofino) who stated that they returned home to find their front door open, dresser drawers open, and jewelry boxes open. Detectives were on scene investigating that crime.
The ‘Hispanic female looking for a dog’ cover is the same MO used in previous gypsy-style burglaries in past years. A driver, usually a Hispanic male, drops off a perpetrator to walk neighborhoods and conduct these burglaries. The driver usually either waits at the end of the block or cruises the area until the crimes are committed. The female will then seek out soft targets (such as homes with garage, lanai, or entry doors open) and will brazenly enter the residence and will immediately seek out jewelry. Upon being confronted by a homeowner, they state that they are looking for a dog, or give some other excuse, and quickly walk away. We have found that they do not respond to requests or orders to stop, and they will resist attempts to physically stop them.
Although many residents are usually stunned and tend to reflect on whether to call the police or not, it is imperative that police be called immediately. Local police are experienced at setting up quick perimeters at choke points and seconds count in these types of responses.
It is also imperative that residents do not hesitate to call the police when they see an individual or a vehicle that is out of place in their neighborhood. This is the key to capturing these types of suspects. Police have also found that gypsy-style burglaries generally don’t occur just once in a given area, they tend to reoccur hours or even days afterward, until the publicity becomes too great for the crooks to overcome.
[Ed. Note: Although these attempts occurred in Charlotte County, please be aware that they could occur at any time in Manatee or Sarasota Counties; once "Travelers" work an area and/or it becomes too dangerous for them, they quickly move on to another area. Report any suspicious activity immediately to your local law enforcement agency.
Man Arrested for Child Abuse
of Boy, 6 Years Old, After
Throwing Boy Twice
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Latroy J. Waiters, 22, of unknown address, was arrested on Thursday, March 13, 2008, by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office for an incident that occurred on March 6, 2008.
Latroy J. Waiters
According to the arrest report, Latroy and Crystal Hicks used to be girlfriend and boyfriend, who lived together as a family.
On March 6, Latroy went to Crystal's house in the 600 block of 60th Avenue Terrace West and wanted to spend the night.
Crystal said he couldn't and told Latroy he needed to leave.
When Latroy refused, Crystal tried to push him out of the bedroom where she and her three children were. Latroy pushed Crystal back, picked up the 6-year-old child and threw him down on the bed.
Crystal and Latroy continued pushing each other and when Crystal pushed him away, Latroy used both hands to pick up the 6-year-old boy by his neck and again threw him down on the bed.
Crystal was then able to push Latroy out of the bedroom and out of the residence, where Latroy began yelling.
Latroy then left in a vehicle and, at the time, could not be located.
Latroy was arrested on Thursday and charged with Child Abuse and Domestic Battery.
Woman Tasered in Arrest Attempt
for Possession of Rock Cocaine
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Laurie Purcell, 40, of 2814 51 Avenue Terrace West, for Possession of Rock Cocaine and Resisting Arrest without Violence. The arrest occurred on Saturday, March 15, 2008, at about noon.
Laurie Purcell
According to a report from the sheriff's office, a sheriff's deputy, along with Child Protective Service, were doing a follow up investigation of Purcell, for reasons not stated in the report.
During the investigation, Deputy Peel obtained a waiver to search Purcell's room.
Dep. Peel found rock cocaine in Purcell's room and started to place Purcell under arrest.
Purcell resisted Dep. Peel's attempts to handcuff her, at which time, Dep. Peel used his Taser to drive stun Purcell in the ankle.
Purcell was then taken into custody without further incident.
She did not complain of any injuries and was then transported to the Manatee County Jail, the report said.
Deputy Tasers Woman After
She Beat Up Boyfriend
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy had to use his Taser on a woman who refused to comply with his orders, according to a report from the sheriff's office.
Dana Cornthwait
The report said on Saturday, at about 10:10 p.m., Gregory Dean, 42, and Dana Corthwait, 40, were at their home in the 4400 block of 56th Avenue Terrace East, engaged in a verbal argument, when Cornthwait struck Dean several times with her fist.
Deputies were called who attempted to arrest Cornthwait for Domestic Battery, but she resisted their efforts by continuing to pull away and refusing verbal commands to comply.
Deputy Bradley deployed his Taser (Electronic Control Weapon), which struck Cornthwait in the front of her body.
Cornthwait fell to the ground but continued to resist the deputy's efforts to handcuff her.
After being warned that the Taser would be deployed again if she did not comply, Cornthwait stopped resisting and was arrested without further incident.
Corthwait was charged with domestic Battery and Resisting Arrest without Violence.
Manatee Fruit Farm
Victim of Burglary
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee Fruit Farm, located at 5200 75th Street West, was the victim of a burglary Saturday morning, March 15, 2008, that cost the business about $5,000 dollars, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
Timothy Cannarile
The report said at about 9:00 a.m. an employee spotted a suspicious vehicle parked at a locked gate to the farm.
Kenneth Hawkins, 65, of Manatee Fruit Farm walked back to their barn where he observed a White male, later identified as Timothy Cannarile, 41, standing in the corner of the barn.
Cannarile was cutting and pulling wire from an electrical panel box on the barn wall and for the farm equipment.
Hawkins held Cannarile at gunpoint until deputies arrived.
Cannarile was taken into custody without incident. He was charged with Burglary and felony Criminal Mischief.
The estimated cost to replace the wiring is $5,000 dollars, the report said.
Holmes Beach Man Arrested
for Slugging Deputy, Tasered
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Eric James Hirzel, 27, of Holmes Beach, on Thursday, March 13, 2008, after Hirzel allegedly slugged a Manatee County Deputy outside a bar.
Eric James Hirzel
According to a report from the sheriff's office, at about 2 a.m. on Thursday, a deputy stopped at the Distillery Bar, in the 100 block of Cortez Road East (44th Avenue), after he saw a man shouting at people inside a taxi.
When the deputy approached the man, later identified as Hirzel, Hirzel began shouting obscenities at the deputy.
The deputy warned Hirzel to leave the premises several times, but Hirzel refused.
When the deputy attempted to take Hirzel into custody, Hirzel hit the deputy in his cheek.
At that point, the deputy used his Taser on Hirzel, but Hirzel pulled out the prongs and continued to resist. A second shot from the Taser also failed for the same reason.
Other deputies then arrived on scene and Hirzel was arrested.
He was charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, Resisting Arrest with Violence and Resisting Arrest without violence.
Jail Inmate Arrested After
Breaking Other Inmate's
Finger, Exposing Bone
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Robert Kolovrat, 41, currently incarcerated in the Manatee County Jail, was arrested on Wednesday, March 12, 2008, and charged with Aggravated Battery after Kolovrat fought with another inmate, Gerardo Escarfullery, and breaking Gerardo's little finger, exposing bone.
Robert Kolovrat
The arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said Kolovrat was upset because he was trying to sleep and Gerardo, Kolovrat's cell mate in a holding cell, was talking too loudly.
Both men started fighting and a jail sergeant attempted to break them up.
After a while, the two men were separated.
Gerardo was evaluated by the medical staff and taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital for a broken pinky finger; the bone was protruding from the skin.
After surgeons evaluated Gerardo, they determined that the finger might have to be amputated.
Kolovrat was charged with Aggravated Battery.
Search Warrant Nets One Arrest,
Over 1 Pound of Marijuana,
Ammo at Palmetto Residence
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Office narcotics detectives served a search warrant on Friday afternoon and bagged almost 1 1/4 pounds of marijuana, some ammunition and one arrest, according to a report from the sheriff's office.
James Shelley
Detectives from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Tactical Narcotics Unit, led by Sgt. Eric Isola, were able to develop probable cause to obtain a search warrant for the residence located at 2349 16th Ave. Circle East, in Palmetto.
On Friday, March 14, 2008, at 2:50 p.m., the Tactical Unit executed the search warrant. The SWAT team was utilized to make entry into the residence.
No one was inside during the execution of the warrant but the three individual who reside there, one of whom is a juvenile, showed up after the house was secured.
After the search warrant was read to the occupants, the search team began their search.
Detectives located 552.9 grams of marijuana (1.23 pounds) in the master bedroom and refrigerator of the residence.
They also located ammunition for a .380 caliber handgun inside the residence.
Narcotics paraphernalia consisting of digital scales, and plastic baggies were also seized.
James Shelley, 25, who resides at the house, was interviewed and claimed ownership of the marijuana.
Shelley was charged with felony Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.
Man Claims $40,000 in Jewelry
Stolen During Burglary
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A residence in the 7200 block of Manatee Street (Sarasota address) was burglarized early Sunday morning, March 16, 2008, between midnight and 4 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office
The victim, Antonio Colon, 27, told deputies that over $40,000 dollars worth of jewelry was taken.
At this time, there is no suspect information.
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.
Ice Cream Vendor Robbed
by Juveniles in Palmetto
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported Crescensio Rios-Juarez, 56, of Plant City, Florida, was robbed of cash he was carrying on Saturday, March 15, 2008, shortly before 1 p.m. by three Black juveniles.
The report from the sheriff's office said Rios-Juarez was selling ice cream bars out of an ice cream cart on foot in the 900 block of 21st Street, in Palmetto, at the Oakwood Apartments.
While walking around the apartments, he was approached by three Black male juveniles, asking to buy some ice cream.
While talking to the three juveniles, the victim bent over to get ice cream bars out of the cart.
At that time, a fourth juvenile came up behind the victim and took 140 dollars out of his left front pocket. The money was removed without a struggle.
The suspect and the other juveniles fled north on foot behind the apartments.
A BOLO was given about the incident and the area was searched, but the suspect nor the other juveniles were unable to be located at this time.
The juvenile who took the money was described as a Black male, 12-13 years old, 5'0 tall, 100 pounds, and was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, blue jean shorts and he was wearing red gloves.
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.
Nokomis Man Killed in
Single Car Traffic Crash
in North Manatee County
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a Nokomis man ran off the road and died in North Manatee County near Rye Road and County Road 675. The day and time of the death are unknown, as the car and body were discovered by a property manager after the crash.
According to the report, a 2008 Porsche convertible was northbound on Rye Rd. approaching CR 675.
The driver of the Porsche failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection of CR 675, entered onto Howling Wolf Run and failed to negotiate the right-hand curve in the roadway.
The Porsche left the roadway onto the north shoulder, continued north and struck a barbed wire fence. The Porsche then proceeded through the fence and struck several small pine trees. The Porsche then continued north and entered a ditch. After leaving the ditch, the Porsche began to overturn several times.
The Porsche came to final rest upside down facing north in the palmetto bushes on the north shoulder of Howling Wolf Run.
The driver of the Porsche was identified as Dennis Forrest Mintz, 60, of Nokomis, Florida.
The Porsche and its driver were found by the manager of the property who came out to repair the barbed wire fence, FHP reported.
The Florida Highway Patrol is asking anyone who heard or saw a crash in this area on Friday, to please call the Florida Highway Patrol station at 941-751-7647 ext 131.
Area Restaurant Counterfeit
Cashier Check Scammer
Captured, Jailed
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, March 14, 2008, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives charged Richard James Wright, 44, of 9186 Forest Lane, Dallas, Texas, in connection with a counterfeit check scheme to defraud which occurred at restaurants in Sarasota and Manatee counties in February, 2008.
Richard James Wright
Wright was charged with 2 counts of Uttering a Counterfeit Note, 2 counts of Felony Petit Theft, and 2 counts of Forgery.
He has also been charged with several felony counts in Manatee County and is being held pending extradition to Texas where he is a fugitive from justice.
Wright also gave statements to Sarasota Sheriff's Detectives that he has been living under an assumed name since 2005 to avoid detection on the outstanding charges from Texas.
Wright had been going into local sandwich/sub shops and placing large catering orders (between $1500 and $2000). He was representing himself as working for AFLAC and that the order was for the company.
He then used counterfeit Bank of America cashier’s checks to pay for the order, taking back the cash difference between the cost of the order and the check.
Wright is currently being held at the Lee County Jail on $100,000 bond.
Charlotte County Sheriff Raids
Home, Arrest Man for Possession
of Crack Cocaine
PORT CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics, assisted by members of the Warrants Squad, Community Policing and K-9 Units, executed a search warrant at 1:45 p.m. Thursday afternoon at 21154 Bersell Ave., in Port Charlotte.
Gregory Tyrone Godwin
During the search, Gregory Tyrone Godwin, 40, was located in a bedroom.
During the search, detectives found a pill bottle in Godwin’s pocket with 4.0 grams of crack cocaine. Detectives also found a digital scale with cocaine residue.
Godwin was arrested and taken to the Charlotte County Jail.
He is charged with Possession of Crack Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and Possession of Narcotics Paraphernalia.
Anyone having narcotics information can call the Narcotics Unit at 941/575-2157.
Pasco County Sheriff's Deputy
Busted on Federal Drug Charges
TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, United States Attorney Robert E. O'Neill announced that Pasco County Sheriff’s Deputy Donald Riggans, 34, Kevin Massimino, 32, and Robert Caddick, 41, were arrested Sunday morning on a criminal complaint charging them with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute hydrocodone.
If convicted they face a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.
The defendants will make their first appearance in federal court on Monday at which time the complaint will be made public.
According to the complaint, Riggans conspired with Massimino and Caddick to distribute hydrocodone and in one case Riggans received $9,000 in cash from Massimino for his assistance.
U.S. Attorney O’Neill stated, "This joint law enforcement investigation is an excellent example of how agencies can work together to weed out corruption. Everyday men and women in law enforcement put their lives on the line and no good deputy wants to work beside a bad one."
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Tampa Police Department, and the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Porcecci.
Five Duffle Bags of Marijuana with
185 Pounds Inside, Assault Rifles,
Guns, Cash Seized, Two Busted
TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, March 14, 2008, United States Attorney Robert E. O'Neill announced the filing of a Criminal Complaint charging Keith Pritchett, 29, of St. Petersburg, and Monique Pruitt, 28, also of St. Petersburg, with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The penalties Pritchett and Pruitt face, if indicted and convicted on the charges, are a minimum imprisonment term of 10 years up to a maximum of life imprisonment and a fine of $4 million dollars.
Above, 185 pounds of marijuana confiscated
According to the complaint, Pritchett and Pruitt are believed to be multi-pound marijuana distributors operating in the St. Petersburg area.
On February
15, 2008, a search warrant was executed at Pritchett's and Pruitt's
residence located at 4225 Cortez Way South, St. Petersburg. Prior to
the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement personnel observed
Pruitt and three children exit the residence. Pruitt was seen rapidly
dragging a large duffel bag out of the residence and placing it in the
rear
passenger seat of a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) parked in the driveway.
Pruitt then hurriedly returned inside the house and dragged another
duffel bag out of the house and also placed it in the rear of the SUV.
Pruitt then entered the driver’s seat of the SUV and attempted
to leave. As law enforcement personnel approached the SUV, they observed
Pruitt in the driver’s seat and an individual in the rear seat
of the vehicle.
With their weapons drawn, law enforcement personnel opened the driver’s door of the SUV and ordered Pruitt out. Pruitt then jumped out of the SUV and attempted to flee by crawling under the vehicle. Pruitt was apprehended and in the back of the vehicle, the police found a child, approximately 8 to 10 years old, crying hysterically and sitting on top of the duffel bags filled with marijuana.
Above, weapons seized during operation
Inside the master bedroom of the residence, the police located three more duffel bags filled with marijuana. Above the duffel bags on a shelf was a .223 caliber rifle equipped with an infrared sight labeled “Law Enforcement/Military” and a 30 round magazine. On the same shelf was a .223 caliber pistol with an unloaded high capacity double-drum magazine. On the night stand next to the bed, was a loaded .45 caliber handgun. Inside a safe, police found approximately $6000 in cash, expensive jewelry (approximately $135,000 in value according to appraisals found with the jewelry), and drug ledgers.
The weight of the marijuana in the 5 full duffel bags was approximately 185 pounds and the drug ledgers indicated another approximately 801 pounds of marijuana had been distributed.
Pritchett and Pruitt made their initial appearance in federal court Wednesday afternoon. Pritchett was detained without bond. And bond in the amount of $100,000 was set for Pruitt.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the St. Petersburg Police Department, and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Perry.
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