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Local/State News for week ending 4/26/2008
Manatee
Cold Case Murder Series:
Sam Belluccio; Professional Hit or
Just a Botched Murder Cover-Up?
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Last year, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and other local law enforcement agencies, along with Crime Stoppers of Manatee County, pooled 52 of their cold case murders and caused the basic information regarding each case to be printed on card decks resembling playing cards. Those playing card decks were then distributed to inmates at the Manatee County Jail, in hopes that one of the prisoners would recognize the dead person and/or have information concerning his or her untimely death and report it to Crime Stoppers of Manatee County for a cash reward.
Playing card photo supplied by
Straight Line Services, Inc.,
producers of the cards
NewsManatee joined those law enforcement agencies in a series featuring those unsolved murders. We continue to feature one of those from time-to-time.
Today we feature Sam Belluccio, who was 34 years old when he was found dead on April 15, 1987.
On that date, Belluccio was found in the Manatee River near the I-75 bridge, in Ellenton.
Belluccio had been shot, his body bound and he had been weighted down with a heavy chain and thrown off the I-75 bridge.
Sam Belluccio had been reported missing from his place of employment, Bordens, in Tampa.
If you have any information about this case, call Crime Stoppers of Manatee County, toll-free, 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.
Crime doesn't pay, but Crime Stoppers does.
Wanted Gang Leader Arrested
for Racketeering; One at Large
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a wanted gang member on Thursday and charged him with Racketeering. According to the sheriff's office, another gang member is still at large.
Above, L to R, Andrew Coronado and Sergio Viera
At approximately 2:45 Thursday afternoon, April 24, 2008, detectives arrested Andrew Coronado, 20, on an outstanding warrant for Racketeering.
Earlier today, information as to the possible whereabouts of Coronado, was called into Crime Stoppers. Deputies responded to the Gates of Bradenton Apartment complex at 4515 26th Ave W. and Coronado was taken into custody without incident.
Last year, the Sheriff’s Office obtained arrest warrants on 14 members of the criminal street gang SUR 13.
With the arrest of Coronado, who was considered the local leader of SUR 13, only one suspect remains at large.
Sergio Viera, 17, is wanted for Racketeering.
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 Men Arrested in Stolen SUV
with 2+ Ounces Cocaine, Gun
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two Hispanic men were arrested on Wednesday, April 23, 2008, at about 1:45 p.m. when they were spotted driving a stolen SUV, allegedly out of Orlando. Inside the vehicle, deputies found a package containing 2+ ounces of powder cocaine and a handgun.
Above, L to R, Jesus Aguirre and Raul Cervantes
The arrest report said a Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy spotted a stolen Ford Explorer. The vehicle passed another deputy in the 500 block of 59th Avenue East. The deputy conducted a felony traffic stop.
The driver, Jesus Aguirre, 34, of 5713 10th Street East, in Manatee County, was handcuffed and searched. He had a cell phone in one pocket and in his left front pocket the deputy found a clear zip-lock bag with a large white block, which tested positive for cocaine. It later weighed out to 59.1 grams, or just over two ounces.
Also, in the center console of the SUV, deputies found a loaded .9mm handgun.
A passenger in the SUV, Raul Cervantes, 32, of unknown address, was also arrested.
Aguirre told deputies he got the SUV from a lady in Orlando, but did not know her name. He said he found the cocaine under the seat and didn't know about the gun.
The keys to the SUV were in the ignition, the report said.
Aguirre did not have a driver's license.
Jesus Aguirre was charged with Armed Trafficking in Cocaine, Grand Theft Auto and No Valid Driver's License.
Raul Cervantes, was charged with Grand Theft Auto and Possession of a Concealed Firearm.
Woman Busted for Child Abuse
After Striking Girl, 3, with Belt
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Deirdre Flores, 45, of 5723 Lexington Drive, in Parrish, after a doctor confirmed marks on Deirdre's granddaughter, 3 years old, were consistent wit Child Abuse.
Deirdre Flores
According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, at about 7 p.m., Deirdre hit the little girl with a belt multiple times.
The strikes with the belt caused multiple red marks on the little girl. She had a small cut below the left eye, a red mark on the left side of her neck about 3 inches long, and multiple red marks on her buttocks.
The child was seen by Dr. Isaac, of Manatee Children's Services, who confirmed the marks were consistent with abuse.
Flores was arrested and charged with Child Abuse.
Manatee Deputy Arrests Man
for Strong Arm Robbery
of Woman's Cell Phone
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, at about 11:00 p.m., a Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested William H. Caldwell IV, 21, after Caldwell beat and bit a woman and stole her cell phone.
William H. Caldwell IV
According to the arrest report, the female victim, Shakera Brinson, was going out to her car in the parking lot of Holiday Inn Express, 648 67th Street Circle East. As she got to her car, William Caldwell, an acquaintance of hers, got out of a Toyota Corolla and grabbed the woman by the neck and hit and bit her.
He pushed her into the car and, as she tried to get away out the passenger's side, her shirt came off and she ran inside.
Caldwell took Brinson's phone, a Verizon Chocolate, got into the Toyota and left.
Calwell was located at his residence, 136 10th Avenue Way, in Bradenton, in the car that Brinson had described. He had Brinson's phone in his possession, the report said.
Brinson suffered a bleeding middle right finger when her fingernail was ripped off.
Calwell was arrested and charged with Strong Arm Robbery.
Manatee County Clerk Honors
Teen Court Volunteer
Award Winner
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, R.B. “Chips” Shore spent some time Tuesday afternoon, April 22nd, 2008, with Kavonte Packer and his family. Kavonte, a 6th grade student at Lincoln Middle School and a Manatee County Teen Court volunteer, was recognized at the Twelfth Circuit Juvenile Justice Youth Recognition Luncheon held Friday, April 18th, at Manatee Technical Institute. Kavonte was honored for his participation in Teen Court and for his success in overcoming adversity and demonstrating self-improvement.
Above, L to R, R. B. “Chips” Shore, Manatee
County Clerk
of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, Kavonte Packer,
his mother Torina Packer, and Manatee County
Teen Court Supervisor, Lou Gregory.
In the narrative nominating Kavonte for this award, Lou Gregory, Supervisor of the Manatee County Teen Court Programs, wrote, “Kavonte Packer has demonstrated that he has the ability to make a change in his life for the better. Kavonte has shown a keen interest in the justice system after being a participant in the Manatee County Teen Court Too Program. Kavonte has successfully volunteered several times to participate as an attorney in the Teen Court Too program and has completed a training session for attorneys. Kavonte’s volunteerism highlights the path that all participants in the program can inspire to follow. In learning to prosecute and defend other youth in the program Kavonte has gained the insight to help himself continue to be a good citizen and give back to his community.”
Shore expressed his delight with Kavonte’s success, saying, “It is thrilling to me to meet young people who have successfully completed the Teen Court program and then decide on their own that they want to come back to the program and give and grow as a volunteer. That’s exactly what Teen Court and Teen Court Too are about.”
With his mother, Torina Packer, grandmother, Loleater Packer, uncle Maurice Packer and several younger cousins present Tuesday to meet with Chips Shore, Kavonte said the thing he likes best about Teen Court is being a prosecuting attorney and he plans to become an attorney after college. Kavonte, who is also a junior active deacon and serves on the Finance Committee of New Inspiration Ministry Church, encourages other kids to get involved in Teen Court. He says, “It’s fun and you learn a lot. It’s very educational.” Kavonte’s grandmother, Loleater Packer, says she sees a change in him since he became a Teen Court volunteer, “Now he tries to tell others how to act and it’s taught him to be independent.” His aunt and uncles, Melissa Packer, Maurice Packer and Melvin Calhoun, say they are “just so proud of Kavonte.”
As 5:30 p.m. approached, Teen Court Supervisor Lou Gregory said, “This young man and I have to head upstairs and get ready for court!” Kavonte beamed as he grabbed his paperwork and ran out the door. Kavonte’s mom, Torina Packer, watched her son go with a proud smile, “I’m just so glad he got involved with Teen Court.”
Manatee County Sheriff's Office
DUI Checkpoint Results
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriffs Office hosted a DUI checkpoint on Friday April 18, 2008, at 7045 North Trail within Manatee County and the following are the results of that detail.
The checkpoint started at 10:38 p.m. on Friday and ended at 3:16 a.m. on Saturday
During the 4 hour and 38 min. checkpoint, 904 cars passed through the checkpoint and 55 of those cars were pulled off the road and further investigations took place for DUI, Drivers license violations and safety violations.
Nine (9) people were tested for suspicion of driving impaired and two (2) of those were over the limit and were arrested for DUI.
Twenty-one (21) persons were issued citations or arrested for driver’s license violations and an additional eight (8) citations were issued for equipment violations and lack of insurance.
The participating agencies were the Florida Highway Patrol, Bradenton Police Dept., Holmes Beach Police Dept. and the Sheriffs Office Reserve Unit.
Mothers against drunk driving (MADD), and the Salvation Army were present for support services.
Crime Prevention Survey Offers
Businesses, Residences
Reduced Burglaries
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to Sgt. Lori Millard, of the Bradenton Police Department, a helpful, free service offered by the City of Bradenton Police Department aims to reduce burglaries at homes or businesses through a simple survey, checklist and suggestions for the property owner.
For example, those long, graceful palm fronds may look neat, but they also may be blocking essential security lighting. And oleanders in full bloom are attractive, but a better idea for an outdoor plant just underneath that bay window of your home may be a thorny bougainvillea or even a cactus plant.
Surveillance methods, access issues, territorial reinforcement, security lighting and maintenance are some of the areas covered by a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) survey, offered by the City’s Crime Prevention Unit.
“A lot of businesses don’t know we offer it,” said Sgt. Millard, who conducts the surveys and is a certified CPTED Practitioner through the Florida Attorney General’s Office – but says word hasn’t quite caught on yet in the City. “A lot of residents don’t know it’s available to them.”
After surveying a business, Sgt. Millard issues a report to the business owner or manager describing which existing security measures are adequate and where steps can be taken to increase security. Surveys of residences are similar.
Property owners in the City of Bradenton can set up an appointment for a CPTED survey by calling Sgt. Millard at 941-932-9351 or emailing to lj.millard@cityofbradenton.com.
Teacher Sentenced to Five Years
for Child Pornography
TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- Kenneth Fire, 50, a former Maximo Elementary school teacher in Pinellas County, Florida, was sentenced Wednesday, April 23, 2008, in U.S. District Court in Tampa, Florida, to 5 years imprisonment for distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography.
According to court records, Kenneth Fire was involved in the distribution and receipt of child pornography over the internet, and actively traded child pornographic images with numerous individuals, specifically including individuals residing in Germany. Fire was found in possession of hundreds of depictions of child pornography, including images of young boys.
At the time of his arrest in this case, Kenneth Fire had been employed with the Pinellas County School District for twenty-five (25) years, and was working at the Maximo Elementary School.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony E. Porcelli.
Environmental Det. Arrests Man, 70,
for Illegal Dumping of 1,000 Pounds
of Construction, Yard Waste Debris
PIRATE HARBOR, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff's Environmental Detective Anthony Cimino arrested a Pirate Harbor man this afternoon and charged him with violating Florida Liter Law, a felony, for dumping and burying construction and yard waste debris weighing almost five tons.
Above, Leonard Mizio and some of the dumped debris
A witness notified the CCSO Apr. 14, 2008, that Leonard Mizio, 70, 24308 Treasure Island Blvd., was using a track hoe to bury large pieces of plywood, lumber, metal pipe, scrap metal, landscape debris, tree trunks and large plants in plastic containers in a large hole dug along the bank of the waterway on Jean Lafitte Blvd. also in Pirate Harbor.
Det. Cimino contacted Public Works and on Apr. 16, 2008, county equipment dug up the illegally buried items. About 50 feet from the dump site they found a large pile of yard waste; under it were several tires and wheels. As the tires were being removed, they found a county issued Unsafe Building Notice dated Mar. 29, 2007, issued to Mizio who owned the property. The county had been after him for code violations to clean up the property after the home was destroyed by Hurricane Charlie and removed. David Harris of the Department of Environmental Protection was called in to see if there were any hazardous materials but there were none.
The county took three (3) dump trucks full of items to the Zemel Road Landfill weighing 9,900 pounds and $215 in dumping fees.
Det. Cimino arrested Mizio at his home and took him to the Charlotte County Jail.
Fake Valet Attendant Steals
Woman's SUV at Hospital
PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 5:55 p.m. Tuesday from a woman who said her SUV was stolen from a hospital parking lot after she handed a fake valet attendant her valet receipt.
Beverly D. Cutter, 57, of 14501 Kipling Ct, Port Charlotte, told deputies she was visiting her husband in Fawcett Memorial Hospital when a man approached her and identified himself as a valet parking employee. He said there was a problem with the valet parking service and requested she give him her valet receipt for inspection. Cutter handed the receipt over to him; he walked away and never returned. After a period of time waiting, Cutter went to the valet parking desk and discovered the man was not an employee.
The valet parking attendant, Harold Moore, 65, told deputies a man handed him the valet receipt and he gave the man the keys to Cutter’s black 2001 Ford Expedition Sport-Trac., with Florida tag R110YN.
The suspect is described as a White male, mid to late 20s, 5 foot 10 inches tall, medium build, reddish blond hair, goatee, and was wearing a long sleeve plaid shirt. Deputies entered the SUV as stolen and a BOLO was issued.
The investigation remains open at this time.
If anyone has information which may help solve this case, please call the CCSO at 941-639-2101; or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).
100 Sex Offenders Missing
in Orlando
ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG has reported dozens of sex offenders are missing in Orlando, an investigation has uncovered.
WKMG has learned that the Orlando Police Department has fallen seriously behind in tracking down offenders, and the list of people who are unaccounted has grown in recent months.
For the past few years, Orlando police Officer Vernita Brown has been the only person dedicated to verifying sex offender addresses in the city.
But in February, she was reassigned.New Orlando
Police Chief Val Demings decided to shift all of Brown's duties to four sex crimes detectives.
In the past two months, 97 sex offenders and predators have not been verified in the city of Orlando. Four have absconded and several have not re-registered, WKMG reported.
~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
South
Manatee County
CVS Pharmacy Robbed at
Knifepoint; Hydrocodone Stolen
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the CVS Pharmacy located at 6204 14th Street West, in South Manatee County, was robbed at knifepoint early Wednesday morning at about 1:30 a.m.
Above, CVS store at 6204 14th Street West
(Photo by Craig Herbert, NewsManatee)
A sheriff's report said two unknown White males entered the CVS store.
One of the men, dressed in a red and black hooded pullover, blue jeans, and white sneakers, went to the back of the store where the pharmacy is located.
Above, CVS surveillance photo
showing one of the suspects
The man pulled out a knife and jumped over the counter. He told the pharmacist to "Hold it," but the pharmacist ran out of the pharmacy toward the front of the store.
The robber then took three to five bottles of Hydrocodone. He exited the pharmacy and ran out of the store.
Meanwhile, the second White male went to the photo counter and asked about photos. When he saw the other man run out of the store, he followed the first one out.
They fled in a white car, sedan type, which was parked in front of the BB&T bank next door.
There were no injuries.
The robbers were described as two unknown White males in their 20s. One of them was dressed in a red and black hooded pullover, blue jeans, and white sneakers. The other was dressed in a gray sleeveless T-shirt and a black ball cap.
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.
Bicyclist Charged with Burglary,
Possession of Burglary Tools
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy stopped a bicyclist for having no light and wound up arresting him for burglary and possession of burglary tools on Tuesday, April 23, 2008, at about 11:30 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
James Nipper
The report said Deputy Davis stopped the man, later identified as James Nipper, in the 6100 block of 9th Street East. Nipper, 38, was on a bicycle with no light.
While Dep. Davis was talking with Nipper, he asked him if he had anything illegal on him and Nipper said he had a crack stem and handed it to Davis.
Dep. Davis arrested Nipper for Possession of Paraphernalia when Donald Thompson drove up to Dep. Davis and said "Tell that guy to stay out of my yard and stop stealing stuff from me."
Through investigation, it was discovered that Nipper had entered a porch area of Thompson's and stole a window air conditioning unit but was confronted by Thompson's neighbor.
Nipper dropped the air conditioner on the sidewalk and fled the area on his bicycle.
Nipper was found to be in possession of a set of bolt cutters and two screw drivers.
He was additionally charged with Burglary and Possession of Burglary tools.
Bradenton Man, 75, Dies After
Collision in His 1931 Ford
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 75-year-old Bradenton Man has died following an accident on Saturday, April 19, 2008, at about 2:20 a.m., in which his 1931 Ford automobile struck the rear of a 2007 Lexus on University Parkway, just west of Lake Osprey Drive, the Florida Highway Patrol said Tuesday.
FHP said the 1931 Ford, driven by Glenn M. Smith, of Bradenton, was eastbound on University Parkway in the inside lane directly behind and approaching the Lexus, being driven by Arun Khazanchi, 38, of Bradenton. The Lexus was stopped for the red traffic signal at Lake Osprey Drive.
Mr. Smith failed to use due care in that he failed to stop the antique car safely behind the Lexus, FHP said.
The Ford's front struck the Lexus's rear, which was shoved forward into the vehicle ahead of it, but no damage was sustained.
Smith was taken to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg, by Bayflight, where he succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday at about 12:20 p.m.
The Lexus driver and two other passengers, 5-year-old Mira Khazanchi and Shahani Shalini, 33, of San Jose, California, suffered no injuries, FHP reported.
Wisconsin Man Dies After Illness
Forces Him to Roadside on I-75
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol, Kent Klepinger, 73, of Stoughton, Wisconsin, died Tuesday afternoon, April 22, 2008, after an undisclosed illness forced him to pull over to the side of the road on I-75 at about the point where I-75 intersects with I-275.
The FHP report said Klepinger and his wife, Barbara, were traveling northbound on I-75 in the right lane, when Klepinger became ill.
Klepinger pulled his Ford F-450 onto the right hand emergency lane and stopped, then became unconscious.
The Ford, which was still in drive, rolled down a slight embankment and its right front side struck a concrete pillar that holds up the I-275 overpass.
Klepinger was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital, where he later died.
Ms. Klepinger suffered no injuries.
The incident occurred at about 3:00 p.m. in the afternoon, FHP said.
Security Guard Critical After
Being Run Over by Nissan
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported John W. Sherrill, Jr., 51, of Bradenton, was in critical condition when he was flown to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Pete by Bayflight medical chopper on Tuesday, April 22, 2008. Sherrill was run over by the driver of a Nissan at about 3:50 p.m., FHP said.
The FHP report said the Nissan, being driven by Rene Ferrara, 53, of Sarasota, was stopped in a parking stall facing south in a lot at 2100 47th Terrace East.
Sherrill, a security guard at the location, was walking eastbound in the lot approaching Ferrara to stop her, thus allowing westbound traffic in the lot to proceed.
Sherrill accelerated the Nissan, turning right from the parking stall. The Nissan's right side struck and knocked Sherrill to the ground, driving on top of Sherrill.
The Nissan came to final rest with Sherrill partially underneath the Nissan in the parking lot.
Ferrarra was charged with Careless Driving (with mandatory court hearing).
Palmetto High JROTC Cadet
Receives Award from SAR
PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Junior ROTC Cadet Michael Tillett received a Bronze ROTC Medal and a Certificate during the April 15th awards ceremony at Palmetto High School.
Above, L to R, Harold Crapo, Jr., SAR
and JROTC Cadet Michael Tillett
(Photo by Billie Lowe)
Michael was recognized by the Sons of the American Revolution for his superior leadership abilities and accomplishments, military bearing and overall academic excellence.
Cadet Tillett was selected because he exemplifies the high ideals and principles which motivated and sustained our patriot ancestors.
Sarasota Police Investigating
Pedestrian Traffic Death
SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police Department Traffic Unit crash investigators are investigating a vehicle accident which resulted in the death of a pedestrian on Tuesday.
An SPD report said at approximately 6:55 p.m., a vehicle traveling northbound on U.S. 301 in the outside lane struck a pedestrian who was attempting to cross the road in an easterly direction.
Preliminary information indicates that a second vehicle traveling northbound on U.S. 301 also struck the pedestrian.
The pedestrian was pronounced dead on scene by responding paramedics.
The pedestrian in this case has been identified. However, next of kin has not been notified; SPD is not releasing the pedestrian's information at this time.
3 Guns, Ammo Found in Girl's
Tree House in East Englewood
EAST ENGLEWOOD, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call Monday at 7:25 p.m. from an East Englewood man who said he was cleaning up his 13-year-old daughter’s tree house in the back yard and found three guns and ammunition wrapped in a bed sheet.
Thomas O’Connell, 41, of 11814 van Loon Ave., said he took the bundled items into his house and called the CCSO. Responding deputies made the weapons safe then began their investigation. A Jennings Bryco 9mm pistol, identified by serial number, was stolen Dec. 7, 2007 from a home on Coliseum Blvd. in Port Charlotte. A Hi-Point 9mm carbine rifle with serial number was not listed as missing, but a Mossberg 12 gauge shotgun with no visible serial number was sawed off with only a pistol grip.
Also recovered was a plastic baggie contained 343 rounds of 22 caliber long rifle ammunition and another plastic bag with 94 rounds of 9mm ammo. There were also seven empty cigar containers, two folding knives, a pair of ear plugs and an empty Crown Royal liquor bag. O’Connell said the last time he was inside the tree house was on Apr. 13 and the bundle was not there at that time.
All items were turned into the CCSO as evidence. District-1 detectives said they are continuing the investigation on how and by whom these items were left in the girl’s tree house.
Anyone having information, please call the CCSO at 941-639-2101; or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).
Teen Charged with Elder Abuse
over 'Gangsta Granny' Video
LAKE WORTH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported an 18-year-old was charged with abuse after putting a gun into his mentally incapacitated 85-year-old grandmother's hand and forcing her to shout profanities for an online video on thug life in Palm Beach County, police said.
Above, the 'Gangsta Granny'
(Photo courtesy WKMG)
Officers in Lake Worth said Michael Alfinez admitted that he dressed up his grandmother and told her what to say, according to a sheriff's report.
The 85-year-old, who appears disoriented, can be heard shouting curse words and making statements like, "This is for all the pigs" and "I'll shoot you."
Alfinez said a producer of the "Gangstas and Thugs" videos contacted him through MySpace.com and asked for footage of his grandmother, the report said.
Alfinez admitted to firing off the same chrome pistol seen in his grandmother's hands from a car window, WKMG reported.
He was arrested on charges of elderly abuse, discharging a firearm in public and improper exhibition of a dangerous weapon.
Deputies said they found the video during a traffic stop.
The boy's mother said it was all a misunderstanding.
~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
Manatee
County Sheriff's Deputies
Arrest Man for Lewd & Lascivious
Exhibition After He Showed His
Hoo-Ha To Woman, Toddler
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, at about 1:45 p.m., a woman who was pushing her toddler in a stroller on 5th Street East, in the 6400 block, told Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies that Gustavo Antonio, 37, displayed his private part to them both.
Gustavo Antonio
The report said the woman told deputies that a Hispanic male, later identified as Antonio, exposed himself to her and her toddler daughter.
She said while he was in his vehicle, Antonio "raised his body up to the window and had his penis in his hand, waving it back and forth, flashing it at her."
She then left the scene and called the sheriff's office to file a report.
Antonio was later found and identified as the Hispanic male the woman told deputies about.
Antonio admitted being in his vehicle and seeing the woman.
He said he stopped and nodded to the woman because "he thought she was hot."
Antionio was arrested and charged with Lewd and Lascivious Exhibition.
Man, 37, Caught Red-Handed
Stealing Two Lady's Earrings
for Unspecified Reason
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Bradenton Police Department, Gary Robert Salvas, 37, of 112, 12th Avenue East, in Bradenton, was spotted leaving a residence in the 400 block of 7th Street West, Bradenton, with two lady's earrings.
Gary Robert Salvas
A report from BPD said on Monday, April 21, 2008, at about 9:30 p.m., Salvas broke a window to the residence and entered the apartment, where he took two earrings. He also attempted to remove an Internet router from a wall, the report said.
Salvas was apparently startled by a neighbor, who knocked on the door.
The victim arrived shortly after that and saw Salvas exit through a patio door and flee the area.
Other BPD units located Salvas a short time later at 200 12th Avenue East, Bradenton.
Salvas was arrested and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling.
Man Covers Child, 9 Months Old,
with Blanket, Punches Him
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Investigators have arrested Joshua Wortham, 24, of 5816 26th Street West, and charged him with Child Abuse.
Joshua Wortham
Wortham's arrest report said on Wednesday, April 16, 2008, Joshua Wortham was frustrated when his 9-month-old stepson would not stop crying.
While walking back from a Sweetbay Supermarket with the 9-month-old child in the stroller, Joshua stopped out in front of his residence, put a blanket over the 9-month-old and punched the child three times.
The 9-month-old had significant bruises, including a black eye and forehead.
Child Protection took the 9-month-old into custody for further investigation.
On Tuesday, April 22, 2008, Wortham was brought to the Crimes Against Children Unit and interviewed by Detectives. Wortham admitted to being frustrated with the 9-month-old and striking him twice in the face, causing the child to have a black eye. Joshua also admitted on Thursday, April 18, 2008, he was getting frustrated because the child would not stop crying and he took the child outside, then began shaking the baby to make it settle down.
Joshua was arrested and charged with two counts of Child Abuse.
Woman Arrested for Burglary,
Theft of Washer, Dryer
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's deputies have arrested Laurie Ann Patino, 37, of 2905 51st Avenue Terrace West and charged her with Burglary after she allegedly stole a washer and dryer and sold them.
Laurie Ann Patino
According to the arrest report from the sheriff's office, on Sunday, April 20, 2008, at about 12:30 p.m., Patino and her girlfriend removed a washer and dryer from a residence at 2908 51st Avenue Terrace West, by means of a dolly.
Apparently, the victim and Patino had broken up and the victim gave Patino permission to take some chairs from the residence, but only after he was there.
Patino knew another person needed a washer and dryer and sold them to that person for $200 dollars.
Patino was arrested and charged with Burglary.
Teen, Other Juvenile Robbed
At Gunpoint Monday Evening
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A teenager and a juvenile friend were both robbed at gunpoint on Monday, April 21, 2008, at about 7:15 p.m., by three gunmen, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
The report said Charles Woodson, 18, was driving north on 43rd Street West when "ZR," a 17-year-old juvenile acquaintance, waved him down.
Woodson pulled into the south parking lot of Bradenton Baptist Church at 1305 43rd Street West and ZR asked if Woodson would give him a ride.
Woodson agreed and as ZR was about to get in the car, an older white Mercedes pulled up and the three suspects get out of it, all armed with pistols.
The three suspects demanded that ZR and Woodson give them everything they have.
Woodson gave them his wallet, keys and his cell phone. The suspects also got a cell phone from ZR.
The suspects then fled and were last seen eastbound on 15th Avenue West. ZR left the scene and couldn’t be located.
The highwaymen were described as 3 Black males, 18-20 years old, armed with pistols, driving an older model white Mercedes-Benz with a broken rear window.
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 Roommates Fight; One
Was Robbed, Other Arrested
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, April 18, 2008, at about 11:00 p.m., two drunk roommates got into a fight. One punched the other, then proceeded to take money from his pants pocket. The thief was arrested.
Jamie Gonzalez-Martinez
According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Jamie Gonzalez-Martinez, 24, of 4615 4th Avenue East, in Palmetto, and Meligo Mendez are roommates.
On the above date and time, both men were very intoxicated and got into a verbal argument over Meligo playing the music too loud.
Jamie became irate and grabbed Meligo and punched him several times.
After punching Meligo, Jamie forcibly removed $153 dollars from Meligo's pants.
Meligo suffered a bloody nose and lip.
Jamie was arrested and charged with Strong Arm Robbery.
Girl, 18, Brother, 14, Arrested By
Bradenton Beach Police for
Battery on Law Officer After
Boy Calls Cop N-word
BRADENTON BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- A scuffle started with a Bradenton Beach Police Officer when a 14-year-old boy blew him a kiss and called the Officer the N-word.
Above, L to R, Veronica Ashley Lewis and Lance Lewis
A report from the Bradenton Beach Police Department said on Sunday, at about 2 p.m., Officer Tim Matthews was driving through Coquina Park and observed a White male, Lance Lewis, 14, blow him a kiss.
The Officer asked what his problem was. Lance said, "I don't have a problem, (N-word)."
Officer Tim Matthews happens to be White.
The Officer then asked why Lance would blow him a kiss and the boy said, "F _ _ _ You."
There were many young children in the area, the officer noted in his report.
When the Officer attempted to arrest Lance, his sister, Veronica Lewis, 18, stepped between them. The Officer told her to move and Veronica pushed the Officer, saying she didn't want her brother arrested.
The Officer then pushed her out of his way and attempted to grab Lance and he pushed the Officer away, the report said.
The Officer grabbed Lance in a headlock and Lance kicked the Officer in the leg.
The Officer then took Lance to the ground and handcuffed him.
Meanwhile, Veronica was grabbing the Officer, trying to pull him off her brother, so the Officer called for assistance from other Officers and she was arrested.
Both Lance and Veronica, who are from Tampa, were charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer.
UPDATE: Inebriated Brother
Shoots Brother with Rifle
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported a shooting on Sunday. NewsManatee carried a brief report of the incident on Monday. This is the detailed update.
Scott Lennon
According to the sheriff's office, On Sunday, at about one minute past midnight, the sheriff's office responded to a shooting at 3985 Hina Drive, in Sarasota County.
When deputies arrived, they encountered Scott C. Lennon, 43, in the garage of the residence. He pointed them to the living room, where the victim, Christopher McDuffee, was found.
McDuffee was found lying on the floor bleeding from his left hip.
In the master bedroom, deputies discovered a .22 rifle lying on the floor.
McDuffee was transported by Bayflight to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Pete for treatment, where he was interviewed by detectives.
McDuffee told detectives that he and his brother, Scott Lennon, had a verbal argument. At one point, Lennon walked into the living room with a .22 rifle in his hands. Lennon pointed the rifle at McDuffee's head and said, "You're going to leave right now."
McDuffee, in fear for his life, grabbed the rifle to redirect it away from his head, at which time, Lennon fired the rifle. The bullet struck McDuffee in his left hip.
Meanwhile, Lennon was transported to the sheriff's office. There, he submitted to a Gun Shot Residue test (GSR) and a breath test. The breath test showed a reading of .241 and .226.
In Florida, the legal limit for driving under the influence of alcohol (being drunk) is .08.
Lennon invoked his rights at that time.
Lennon was charged with Attempted Murder and was jailed with no bond.
Detectives Arrest Man in $41,500
Grand Theft Case
PORT CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff's Economic Crimes Unit this morning arrested Charles Bennett Porter, 49, 5335 Bryan Terrace, Port Charlotte, in connection with a $41,500 Grand Theft case.
Charles Bennett Porter
Last June 2007 the ECU George Nowak of Tampa said his company, Stratford Corporation, was the victim of a $41,500 theft. Porter, DBA Porter Packaging, received a check as deposit on an $88,000 bottle filler machine manufactured in Brazil. Nowak said he contacted Porter in late spring 2006 and sent him the check which was deposited in Porter's business account at Englewood Bank on Aug. 3, 2006.
Porter told
Nowak that the machine was completed and at a Miami port waiting delivery,
but the machine did not arrive; he made several excuses about the delay.
Last November, detectives contacted Porter who said he did receive the
check from Nowak and he wired the deposit money to the company in Brazil.
ECU detectives subpoenaed Porter's Englewood
Bank information which showed the $41,500 deposit from Nowak. There
were no wire transfers out of his account to Brazil. The account showed
Porter withdrew $77,100 through checks payable to himself and his wife
from Aug. to Dec. 2006.
Last January,
Porter told ECU detectives he was working on paying the money back to
Nowak. A few weeks later Nowak said Porter did not respond to phone
calls or e-mail. Detectives compiled a photo lineup and Nowak identified
Porter. On Feb. 13, detectives talked to Porter again who said he sent
a certified check and would FAX a copy of the check. Porter then said
he sent the check through the Farr Law Firm in Punta Gorda but did not
know the attorneys name. Detectives said they would get a subpoena from
the location where he obtained the certified check from. Detectives
said Porter than admitted he did not send the money, did not have an
attorney at that law firm, and did not borrow the money to repay Nowak.
He again said he still wanted to pay back Nowak so he would not go to
jail. Another chance to repay Nowak passed and nothing happened.
ECU detectives charged Porter with Grand Theft based on probable cause
that he took the $41,500 deposit from Nowak for the Brazilian equipment,
but he never ordered or delivered the machine. Porter turned himself
in to detectives and was booked into the Charlotte County Jail.
8-Foot Gator Wanders Into
Woman's Kitchen
OLDSMAR, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando televisions station WKMG reported a 69-year-old woman found an 8-foot-long alligator roaming in her home's kitchen Monday night, police said.
Sandra Frosti said the alligator must have pushed through the back porch screen door and gone inside through an open sliding glass door.
It then walked through the living room, down a hall and into the kitchen.
A trapper with Animal Capture of Florida removed the alligator, which had been cut when a plate was knocked to the ground.
No one inside the house was injured, WKMG said.
~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
Manatee
County Sheriff's Office:
Hispanic Man Who Carjacked
Other Hispanic Man Arrested
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Hispanic man who carjacked another Hispanic Man early Sunday morning at about 1:30 a.m. was located and arrested later that morning at about 7:30 a.m., according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
Jorge Antonio Mercado
The arrest report said Jorge Antonio Mercado, 37, of the 6000 block of 11th Street East, was observed driving the stolen vehicle eastbound by a deputy in the 1100 block of 57th Avenue East. The deputy turned around on it and began following it.
The vehicle turned southbound on 14th Street East, then into a driveway. The deputy pulled in behind it and blocked it in.
There was only one occupant in the vehicle, later identified as Mercado. The deputy ordered him out of the vehicle several times before Mercado finally exited through the passenger side door.
Mercado was taken into custody without incident. A knife presumed used in the carjacking incident was located inside the vehicle.
Mercado was charged with Armed Carjacking.
The original report said a Hispanic man was carjacked by a Hispanic man at the Sunoco gas station located at 5912 15th Street East on Sunday, at about 1:30 a.m.
Carius Tellez-Espinoza, 32, of the 500 block of 58th Avenue Drive East, was sitting in his white Ford Expedition on the north side of the Sunoco gas station.
An unknown Hispanic male. now known to be Mercado, approached him and told Espinoza to get out of the vehicle, then punched Espinoza in the face.
Espinoza got out to confront the carjacker, but the carjacker pulled a knife on Espinoza.
Espinoza told the carjacker, "Take it."
The carjacker jumped in the Expedition and fled in an unknown direction.
A BOLO was quickly put out and the area canvassed, with negative results.
Espinoza suffered a split lip, but did not require medical treatment.
Two Men Arrested in Attempted
Robbery of Large Sum of Money
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested two men who followed another man from Lakeland, Florida, who was allegedly carrying a large sum of money.
Above, L to R, Basilio Bron and David Duran
According to the arrest report, Basilio Bron, 27, of Cape Coral, Florida, had information that the unnamed victim would be receiving a payment of between $15,000 to $60,000 dollars through a payment facility in Lakeland, Florida.
Bron and the driver of the vehicle that Bron was in, David Duran, 19, also of Cape Coral, Florida, staked out the payment facility.
When the victim left to come to Bradenton, Bron and Duran followed him.
When the victim stopped at a gas station, Bron asked the victim for travel directions, but the victim said he didn't know where Bron was asking to go.
The victim left the gas station and Bron followed him in Duran's car, with Duran driving.
At one point, Bron brandished a firearm at the victim, which turned out to be a pellet gun, and fired it at the victim's vehicle.
It was then that the victim noticed that he was being followed by the pair and made evasive maneuvers until he spotted a Bradenton Police Officer and notified the Officer he was being followed.
The would-be robbers, now in the 300 block of 9th Street West, noticed the victim contacting the BPD Officer and attempted to flee, throwing the firearm out of the vehicle. The Officer caught up to the fleeing pair and conducted a traffic stop in the 700 block of Manatee Avenue West.
Bron allegedly admitted he was planning on robbing the victim, but didn't intend to hurt anybody. He said the robbery would be "easy money" and it was "very tempting" because he "wanted to make a better life for his son."
Both Bron and Duran were charged with Attempted Robbery. Duran was additionally charged with Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer and No Valid Driver's License.
The incident occurred on Friday, April 18, 2008, at about 7:00 p.m.
Part-Time Sleepover Leads To
Theft from Woman, Report Says
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Jerry Marshall, 20, of 1208 38th Avenue West, was arrested on Saturday after he allegedly stole some items from a woman in whose house he slept at "on occasion."
Jerry L. Marshall
On Friday, April 18, 2008, at about 10:15, Marshall allegedly entered the woman's apartment uninvited through the unlocked door. The apartment is located in the 400 block of 26th Avenue West.
The report said he has never lived there, but has stayed overnight on occasion.
Once inside, Marshall made his way to her room and took her purse, valued at $125 dollars. She was in the room and saw him do that.
He also took some sheets and a radio that belonged to him, but left the sheets on an air conditioner outside because he though he would look silly walking down 14th Street with sheets under his arm.
The woman got her sheets off the air conditioner and took them inside and called the sheriff's office.
After Marshall's arrest, he told deputies she called him and asked him to come over. When he got there, she started to kiss him, but he told her to leave him alone. He told deputies he only took his radio.
Marshall was charged with Burglary of an Occupied Dwelling.
The purse was not located.
Shooting Reported: Man Shot
in Back Three Times
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, April 20, 2008, at about 10:30 p.m., a man was shot at least three times in the back, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred in the 5500 block of 19th Street West.
The report said the victim, Pedro Rodriguez, 29, was sitting in the carport area of his residence.
An unknown person came up and fired what witnesses described as 3 to 6 shots. At least 3 shots from an unknown type firearm struck the victim in his back.
The shooter(s) fled possibly northbound from the location.
K-9 tracked to a house in Westberry Villas about the 1800 block of 55th Avenue West, but no suspect(s) were located at that residence.
EMS responded and Bayflighted the victim to Bayfront Medical Center.
At last check, at 12:30 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2008, the victim was stable but in critical condition, and medical staff was evaluating for surgery.
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 Robbed of Drugs, Cash
in Strong Arm Robbery
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a 45-year-old man was struck and robbed on Sunday, April 20, 2008, at about 11:00 p.m., as he was working on a parking lot repair at 5605 Manatee Avenue West.
Jon Halliwell, of the 7500 block of 3rd Avenue Northwest, was mixing up some concrete to repair the parking lot at the above location when someone hit him in the back of the head.
Halliwell fell to the ground and was kicked in the ribs by this unknown person and then the person went through his pockets, removing his wallet and 10 to 15 generic Xanax. The unknown person took $22.00 from the wallet and then dropped it on the ground before fleeing in an unknown direction.
Halliwell received minor injuries but refused EMS treatment.
There was no description of the assailant in the sheriff's office report.
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.
Middle School Students on
Cleanup Duty Find Grenade
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Some Johnson Middle School students doing voluntary cleanup duty in a local cemetery found a grenade partially buried, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported on Monday, April 21, 2008.
The report of the incident said Vicki White, of the Manatee County School Board, was at the Adams-Rogers Cemetery in the 4300 block of 3rd Avenue Northwest, with students from Johnson Middle School.
The students were doing a voluntary cleanup for Earth Week.
While cleaning up the cemetery grounds, a hand grenade was located partly buried.
Sheriff's Office patrol units responded to secure the area until the Bomb Squad could respond.
Dep R. Sehorne of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad responded to the scene and recovered the grenade.
The report didn't say if the grenade was live or not.
Junior ROTC Cadet Captain
Receives Award
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Junior ROTC Cadet Captain DanielleStrutt received a Bronze ROTC Medal and a Certificate during the April awards ceremony at Braden River High School on Wednesday, April 16, 2008.
Above, L to R, Danielle's father, Michael Strutt,
Danielle, and her mother, Lisa Strutt
(Photo by Elaine Crapo)
Danielle was recognized by the Sons of the American Revolution for her superior leadership abilities and accomplishments, military bearing and overall academic excellence.
Cadet Strutt was selected because she exemplifies the high ideals and principles which motivated and sustained our patriot ancestors. Danielle maintains a grade point average (GPA) of 4.1.
She has been in the JROTC program for three years and she considers her participation on the ROTC Drill Team as her hobby.
Cadet Strutt's favorite school subjects are science and biology, which she plans to use for training into the medical career field as an anesthesiologist.
The Sons
of the American Revolution said, "Congratulations to Cadet Danielle
Strutt."
County Clerk's
Office Announces
Change in Operating Hours
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Clerk's office has announced it will revert to usual hours of operation, beginning in June.
With the completion of major downtown construction and the opening of the new Manatee County Judicial Center, the Manatee County Clerk’s Office will return to their traditional hours of operation, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., effective June 2, 2008.
These hours will be effective for the Historic Courthouse, their annex offices in the Judicial Center and all satellite offices and locations.
Traffic Stop Leads to Discovery
of Burglary, $10,000 in Items
PORT CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s deputies made a traffic stop Friday night in Port Charlotte and arrested the driver for DUI which lead to discovery of stealing $10,000 worth of items from a home burglary. A stolen camera even had a photo of the man they arrested.
Paul Dustin Hemeon
The traffic stop was made because the tag was not visible. The driver, Paul Dustin Hemeon, 21, 247 Salem Ave., Port Charlotte, was arrested for driving an unregistered vehicle and not being insured. Deputies noticed a strong odor of alcohol and following tests, he was arrested for DUI.
Hemeon’s vehicle was inventoried prior to towing and deputies found a huge amount of items in his car. Dozens of rare coins, uncirculated, U.S. Mint proof sets, U.S. currency, foreign coins, and commemorative medals were found, plus collector’s model trucks, rings, watch, tools, amplifier, tape deck, turntable, marine clock, and Jacksonville Jaguar Certificates. A label was found with the owner’s name of Clarence Diaz of Jacksonville.
Deputies called Jacksonville Police who said Diaz moved to 197 Salem Ave. in Port Charlotte. Hemeon’s home is a few doors away from where Diaz lives. A cell phone number was obtained and Diaz was contacted. He and his wife were on vacation and told deputies there was a safe in a closet with a lot of valuable coins and other items.
When deputies arrived they found a broken window.
The home was secured until the owners arrived home; they entered and said their safe was missing, plus a 27-inch TV, a digital camera, laptop, stereo and portable house phone.
Hemeon was asked where he got all the items found in his vehicle and he said he had been collecting them for seven years. His story changed several times, saying he found all the items, and then said he bought items at a garage sale. When confronted with all the evidence, Hemeon admitted he was on his way to use the coins to buy gas and cigarettes when he was stopped by deputies. The stolen camera found in the car contained photos of Hemeon wearing the same shirt he had on during the interview.
Hemeon was booked into the Charlotte County Jail for Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling and Grand Theft ($10,000). He remains in jail in lieu of posting a $7,500 bond.
Detectives Investigate Shooting
Inside Circle K Convenience Store
ENGLEWOOD, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 8:42 a.m. Monday morning concerning a man who may have accidently shot himself in the leg inside the Circle-K in Englewood at 2805 S. McCall Rd. (S.R. 776).
The name of the man who accidently shot himself in the leg is Angel Gonzalez-Ramos, 44, of 1192 Clearview Dr., Port Charlotte. He was flown to Lee Memorial Hospital Trauma Center; his injuries were not life threatening.
Detectives said he went into the convenience store with a derringer pistol in his pocket and it went off, shooting him in the leg.
Detectives are still checking to see if Gonzalez-Ramos had a permit to carry the handgun and the investigation continues.
An unknown man in the store reportedly picked up the handgun and fled with it on foot. CCSO K-9 and helicopter were called out, but the man has not been located. A BOLO was issued for the man described to be a White male, 6-foot tall, 150 pounds, blond hair, wearing a white tank top tee shirt, black shorts, with tattoos on his left arm.
No other details are available at this time.
Husband Sought After Shooting
Estranged Wife, Another Man;
Wife Dead, Man Critical
OCALA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Police are searching for a man after his estranged wife was shot and killed and another man was critically injured while sitting in a car outside a busy restaurant, Orlando television station WKMG reported.
Christopher Ronson
(Photo courtesy WKMG)
Officers said Christopher Ronson, 39, shot and killed the woman outside of a Chili's restaurant located at 3501 South-West 36th Street and then took off running.
An unknown man was also shot by Ronson in the same car, police said.
Ronson may be traveling in a silver 2001 Pontiac with a Michigan tag, WKMG said.
Anyone with information about the crime is urged to call Orlando's Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS.
~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~
Former
Female Employee,
Male Companion Arrested in
Major Theft from Gas Station
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A woman who is a former employee of the Shell gasoline station and convenience store located at 6600 Cortez Road West, in Bradenton, were arrested last week after the station's owner identified the pair from a surveillance video tape following a break-in and major theft from the gas station.
Above, L to R, Elisha Frisoli and Timmy Priest
An arrest report from the Bradenton Police Department said on Tuesday, April 15, 2008, at about 5:00 a.m., Elisha Frisoli, 28, of 11712 40th Avenue West, in West Manatee County, and her male companion Timmy Lee Priest, 23, of the same address, broke into the gas station and made off with nearly $5,500 dollars worth of cash and merchandise.
Frisoli is a former employee of the Shell station and had a key. The business wasn't due to open until 6:00 a.m.
Once inside the station, Frisoli opened a cash register and removed over $600 in cash. She also removed over thirty cartons of cigarettes valued at $2,535 dollars and numerous scratch off lottery tickets, valued at $2,285 dollars.
While Frisoli was inside, Priest stood outside as a lookout.
Then Frisioli put $26 dollars worth of gas into their vehicle.
Detectives later obtained surveillance video from the gas station in which Frisoli can be seen removing merchandise and Priest can be seen standing outside, looking inside.
After the burglary, Frisoli and Priest then checked into a motel in Sarasota, where detectives found them.
In a garbage can inside the room, detectives found 11 scratch off tickets that matched the ticket inventory missing from the gas station.
Frisoli and Priest were arrested on Thursday, April 17, 2008, at about 2 p.m.
They were both charged with Grand Theft.
Latent Fingerprints Pin Burglary
On Woman Now in Jail
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Investigators have managed to charge Amy Gaylord, 25, of 6343 Rock Creek Circle, in Ellenton, with yet another burglary, after latent fingerprints pointed to her as the burglar.
Amy Gaylord
Detectives said Gaylord, currently in the Manatee County Jail on other burglary charges, broke into a residence in the 6400 block of 32nd Avenue East on February 18, 2008, between 1:30 p.m. and 5:15 p.m.
Entry was gained by forcing open the master bedroom window, Gaylord's arrest report said.
While inside, Gaylord stole approximately $14,240.21 in property and caused about $2,650 in damages. The stolen property included firearms and amunition.
Latent fingerprints left on the window were lifted and submitted for identification; they came back to Amy Gaylord.
Gaylord was arrested at the jail and charged with Burglary on Thursday, April 17, 2008.
Two Arrested in Attempted
Sweetbay Parking Lot Theft
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Willie Burgos, 24 and Irvin Burgos, 19, after the pair allegedly attempted to steal a CD player from a vehicle in the Sweetbay parking lot, 2501 Cortez Road West, on Thursday, April 17, 2008, at about 6 p.m.
Above, Willie Burgos and Irvin Burgos
According to an arrest report, Wilie and Irvin Burgos were in a gray PT Cruiser that pulled in next to the victim's vehicle at Sweetbay. Then they got out and broke the window of the victim's vehicle and attempted to remove a CD player, but were having difficulty.
A witness spotted them and confronted the pair. One of the Burgos boys jumped in the PT Cruiser; the other was almost caught by the witness, but he managed to escape the witness' grasp and got in the PT Cruiser, which then fled the scene.
A BOLO was given out by Manatee County Sheriff's dispatchers and the PT Cruiser was spotted on 53rd Avenue West by a deputy who initiated a traffic stop and called for backup.
Other deputies arrived and the Burgos brothers were arrested and charged with Vehicle Burglary after witnesses identified them.
U-REPORT: Gas Leak in
100 Block 25th Street West
BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A NewsManatee reader reported a gas leak on Thursday, April 17, 2008, at about 12:30 p.m. in the 100 block of 25th Street West, Bradenton.
Above, Bradenton Firefighters work on the leaking gas
pipe
(Photo courtesy a NewsManatee reader)
According to the reader, "I was working on the house next door when the Bradenton Fire Department showed up. Apparently, there was a gas leak about 50 feet from where we were working. We did not know because we were upwind."
The reader went on to say, "The guy who severed the pipe while putting in a sprinkler system never even told us.
Bradenton Fire Department clamped off the pipe.
[Ed. Note: "U-REPORT" is a new feature on NewsManatee.com -- if you have a report and/or a photograph of an incident that you, as a reader, spot, just send it to NewsManatee@aol.com and we'll check it out and report it.]
Two Groups of Hispanic Men
Exchange Gunfire
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two groups of Hispanic men exchanged gunfire on Thursday night at about 9:30 p.m. in the 5800 block of 5th Street East. However, apparently nobody was injured and nobody could be identified in the gun fight.
The report said at 9:30 p.m. an exchange of gunfire was heard in the area of 5800 5th Street East. Deputies responded to the area almost immediately.
Two large groups of Hispanic males were in the areas that were later identified as coming from 5731 5th Street East and 507 58th Avenue Drive East.
According to the report, the two groups were yelling and screaming at each other, trying to start a fight even in the presence of law enforcement officers.
After canvassing the neighborhood, residents said that two large groups of Hispanic males were shooting at each other but no shooters could be identified.
A pickup truck registered to Sergio Morales has a bullet hole in the door and a smashed out window but it was not believed to be the intended target.
Multiple shell casings were found in the area of differing caliber; they were collected and placed into property.
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.
Hispanic Man Carjacked By
Hispanic Man at Gas Station
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Hispanic man was carjacked by a Hispanic man at the Sunoco gas station located at 5912 15th Street East on Sunday, at about 1:30 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
The report said Carius Tellez-Espinoza, 32, of the 500 block of 58th Avenue Drive East, was sitting in his white Ford Expedition on the north side of the Sunoco gas station.
An unknown Hispanic male approached him and told Espinoza to get out of the vehicle, then punched Espinoza in the face.
Espinoza got out to confront the carjacker, but the carjacker pulled a knife on Espinoza.
Espinoza told the carjacker, "Take it."
The carjacker jumped in the Expedition and fled in an unknown direction.
A BOLO was quickly put out and the area canvassed, with negative results.
Espinoza suffered a split lip, but did not require medical treatment.
The carjacker
was described as an unknown Hispanic Male, 5'7" tall, 140 pounds,
last seen wearing a blue T-shirt with blue jean shorts; he was wielding
a knife.
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 Black Males Ambush,
Punch, Rob Hispanic Male
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery Saturday at about 11:15 p.m.
The report said Hector Hernandez-Sanchez, 25, was walking down 12th Street East carrying a gas can to a friend's house.
When he was in the 5900 block, he was approached by 2 unknown Black males who told him to give them his money.
Sanchez told them he had no money, at which point the two began hitting him and knocked him to the ground.
The two then proceeded to go through his pockets and removed cash and a pack of Marlboro cigarettes.
The two then ran up to a red 4-door vehicle driven by another unknown subject, and the crew then fled north on 12th Street East from the 5900 block.
Sanchez received minor scrapes to his arms and legs, but did not require medical treatment for his injuries.
The area was canvassed for the suspect vehicle, with negative results.
The Violent Crimes Task Force responded to this incident and are conducting follow up investigations.
The robbers were described as 2 unknown Black males, both wearing black shirts. One was wearing blue shorts; the other was wearing black shorts.
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 Man Killed Changing
Overhead Sign Light Bulb on I-75
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol said Douglas R. Seth, 46, was killed when a tractor-trailer slammed into the back of Seth's repair truck as he was changing light bulbs on I-75 in an aerial bucket attached to the truck. The incident occurred on Friday at 12:15 a.m. at the intersection of I-75 and State Road 64 East, FHP said.
The FHP report said a tractor-trailer driven by Ernesto Reyes, 51, of Miami, was traveling north on I-75 in the right lane approaching the exit to eastbound State Road 64.
Two repair vehicles which had been subcontracted by the Florida Department of Transportation to repair interstate lighting were stopped in the right lane of northbound I-75, below the overhead street sign at the exit ramp. Vehicle 2 was stopped behind Vehicle 3. Attached to the rear of V-2, a van, was an arrow board for directing traffic around the two trucks. Ten traffic cones were set up behind the arrow board, FHP said.
The driver of Vehicle 3, Mr. Seth, had exited his vehicle and had climbed into a bucket and lift attached to his truck. Mr. Seth then raised his bucket up to the overhead sign to change a light.
The driver of Vehicle 1, Reyes, failed to observe the traffic control warnings and the two stopped vehicles. Reyes slammed into the rear of the van, and pushed it forward into Mr. Seth's truck. Mr. Seth was ejected out of the bucket and was thrown approximately 130 feet to the north, where he struck the roadway.
The two struck vehicles were pushed forward 271 feet after the impact and both Reyes' tractor-trailer and the van caught fire.
Ms. Seth was flown to Bayfront Medical Center, where he died at approximately 4:00 a.m.
The Florida Highway Patrol cited Reyes for Careless Driving.
Traffic Homicide Investigator Corporal David Brunner is asking anyone who witnessed the crash to call him at FHP's Bradenton barracks at (941) 751-7647, ext. 131.
Possible Diesel Fuel Thief
Arrested in Parrish
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Tampa man considered a possible diesel fuel thief has been arrested by Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies near the site of a farm in the 21000 block of State Road 62, in Parrish. Yuniel Benet-Doval, 20, of Tampa, was charged with Loitering and Prowling and Trespass.
Yuniel Benet-Doval
A sheriff's office arrest report said on Friday, April 18, 2008, the East Manatee County Cops/Agricultural Crimes unit was conducting an operation to combat the recent rash of diesel fuel thefts. At approximately 12:55 a.m., the unit interrupted a possible fuel theft when the gate at Goodson's Farm #1 was checked. The lock was missing and numerous tracks were around the gate leading into the farm.
Upon driving onto the property to check the fuel tank, vehicles fled the area.
When deputies caught up to the vehicles, a F-150 Ford van and a smaller car, they were stopped.
The gasoline-powered van smelled strong of diesel fuel and when deputies asked Benet-Doval to open the rear of the van, two empty 250-gallon tanks, along with a gas-powered pump and green-colored 2-3 inch hose were found in the back of the vehicle. dripping fuel.
The man in the van, Yuniel Benet-Doval, was charged with Loitering and Prowling, Trespass and No Motor Vehicle Registration.
Multiple Vehicles Burglarized
in Parrish Subdivision
MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported three vehicles were burglarized in the Lexington subdivision in Parrish sometime between Friday, April 18, 2008, at 10:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 19, 2008, at 8:00 a.m. The burglaries occurred in the 5700-5800 blocks of Lexington Drive.
Purses and electronic equipment were taken from the vehicles. One vehicle had approximately $18,000 worth of electronic equipment taken from it.
All the vehicles entered were SUVs. Two had windows smashed out and the other's door was left unlocked.
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, in Serious Condition
at Bayfront Medical Center
SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported a man was shot at about one minute past midnight on Sunday morning.
Deputies responded to 3985 Hina Drive, in Sarasota County, regarding the shooting.
After Investigation, deputies learned the victim, whose name is being withheld by the sheriff's office, got into an argument with Scott C. Lennon, 43, a White male.
Lennon shot the unnamed victim, the report said.
The victim was flown to Bayfront Medical Center with serious injuries, but is expected to recover.
Deputies arrested Lennon and charged him with Attempted Murder.
The investigation is continuing.
Detectives Arrest Man on 56 Felony
Prescription Fraud Charges
NORTH PORT, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office arrested a North Port man on 56 felony charges concerning fraudulent prescription drug charges following a lengthy investigation.
Roger Leon Swore
Roger Leon Swore, 36, of 3654 Island Club Circle, was arrested Thursday evening, April 17, 2008, after he turned himself in to face the charges. He remains in the Charlotte County Jail on $140,000 bond.
On Jan. 28, a Publix Pharmacist contacted the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office in reference to 28 fraudulent prescriptions that had been issued since Nov. 16, 2007, and another had been requested that day. Detectives said an unknown woman called in the bogus prescriptions saying she was from a Port Charlotte doctor’s office. Detectives contacted the doctor and the prescriptions were never issued by his office. The prescriptions were in the name of a Port Charlotte man and not in Swore’s name.
Swore’s asked his mother to pick up the prescription for him in another man’s name on Jan. 28 and told her it was okay to do so. Detectives contacted his mother who said her son developed a drug problem from prior injuries and she had taken him to a rehab center in Sarasota. She told detectives there was a man there whose name appeared on the prescriptions. She said that man helped her son when he was at the hospital. Detectives finally located the Port Charlotte man whose name was on the prescriptions; he said he knew Swore but never had any prescriptions called in to Publix Pharmacy. The man said he only helped Swore with giving him rides or loaning him money.
CCSO detectives developed a photo line-up and pharmacy employees positively identified Swore as the man who picked up 28 illegal prescriptions, except for the 29th which was attempted by his mother at Swore’s request. Swore obtained 25 prescriptions for Hydrocodone (Vicodin) and three for Carisoprodol (Soma).
Swore is charged with 28 counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud, and 28 counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance Without a Prescription.
Pregnant Woman, 27, Missing;
Cops Ask Public's Help
KISSIMMEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Authorities are seeking the public's help in locating a pregnant woman who was last seen 10 days ago at her home in Kissimmee, Orlando television station WKMG reported.
Above, Arlene Michelle David
(Photo courtesy WKMG)
Arlene Michelle David, 27, was last seen April 8 at about 6 p.m. at her home on Lake Villa Way in Kissimmee.
David was reported missing by her family on Wednesday. Her family told Osceola County sheriff's deputies that she is pregnant.
David does not have her needed medication with her, deputies said.
Osceola County sheriff's deputies said there is nothing suspicious about the woman's disappearance and there's no evidence that foul play is involved at this time.
David is described as a White woman with brown hair and brown eyes and is about 5 feet 2 inches tall and 150 pounds, WKMG reported.
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