Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 5/3/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 5/3/2008

Bradenton Police Department:
Shooter of Bradenton Man
Arrested By BPD

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Dominique M. Campbell, 20, for shooting Nathaniel Young, 21, in the leg last Thursday, April 24, 2008. Campbell turned himself in Friday at the police department, according to Major J.J. Lewis.

Above, L to R, Dominique M. Campbell and Nathaniel Young

NewsManatee's original report of the shooting said a man with a gunshot wound was driven to Manatee Memorial Hospital Thursday afternoon at about 3:00 p.m.

Nathaniel Young had been shot in the leg, according to hospital information. He was listed in stable condition Thursday afternoon.

The vehicle that was used to drive Young to the hospital had an assault weapon inside, according to authorities.

Bradenton Police SWAT Team members surrounded the hospital emergency room area for a short time.

At least one suspect was at large in connection with the shooting.

The hospital was in lock-down mode, according to NewsManatee U-Reports.

According to Manatee County court records, Young was previously arrested on April 12 for Possession of Marijuana.

Police said a neighbor videotaped the shooting, which showed Campbell getting out of a Chevy Camaro and shooting Young.

Woman Arrested for Chasing
Boyfriend Around Yard with
Large Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Sarah T. Moore, 24, of 128 12th Street Court East, in Palmetto, for chasing her boyfriend with a knife.

Sarah T. Moore

A sheriff's office arrest report said on Wednesday, April 30, 2008, at about 1:50 p.m., Sarah found her boyfriend, named only as Howard in the report, inside the apartment they share.

Moore wants Howard to move out so she became upset with him and began yelling.

Moore then picked up a large knife and began to chase Howard around, swinging it in his direction.

The chase moved outside to the front yard where Moore continued chasing Howard, swinging the knife in his direction.

Howard was afraid to be stabbed, so he fled to a neighbor's home to call 911.

The neighbor saw Moore chasing Hoard, but did not see the knife.

However, Moore allegedly admitted she did have a knife and said she was chasing Howard because she was scared of him.

Moore was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Assault.

White Male Robbed By
Four Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a man was robbed by four other men on Wednesday, at about 6:45 p.m. in the 5400 block of 18th Street East.

The report said the victim, Charles Lipscomb, 25, a homeless man, was sitting on the railroad tracks when he was struck from behind with an unknown object.

Four Black males began demanding Lipscomb's money and one of them reached into his pockets and took his wallet and pocket knife.

The robbers then fled on foot.

Lipscomb received a laceration to the back of his head and was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital by his aunt for treatment.

Lipscomb's injuries were not life threatening, the report said.

The robbers were not further described.

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.

New MCC Exhibit Questions
Price of Freedom

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- In a new exhibit at Family Heritage House Museum at Manatee Community College (MCC) Bradenton, four regional artists present, “What Price Freedom?”

The opening reception will be from 5 p.m. to 7 pm. on Friday, May 9, 2008. Founded by Fredi and the late Ernest L. Brown, Jr., the museum is a gallery and a resource center for the study of African American Achievements. It is located on the south side of the MCC campus library, 5840 26th Street West in Bradenton, near the 60th Avenue West driveway entrance.

Admission to the reception and the museum is free. The public is invited.

Featured artists are: Arthur Dillard, Eleanor Merritt, Gale Fulton Ross, and Gregory Rumph. The exhibition, curated by Fulton Ross, derives its name from a collage donated to the museum by Merritt. In this exhibit, the mixed-media paintings and text intend to evoke dramatic remembrance of black people who risked imprisonment, and even death, in pursuit of freedom.

“What Price Freedom?” will remain on display through late fall 2008 during the museum’s regular hours of operation. The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

For more information, contact (941) 752-5319 or visit the Web site at familyheritagehouse.com.

Man, 19, Arrested for Raping
Girl, 15, Giving Her Gonorrhea

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Edwin K. Smith, 19, of 1675 22nd Street, Sarasota, after they say Smith raped a 15-year-old girl for about an hour and gave her gonorrhea.

Edwin K. Smith

The arrest report said on April 1, 2008, Smith was at a residence in Sarasota and the unnamed 15-year-old girl was asleep in the bedroom.

About thirty minutes later, Smith entered the bedroom and asked the girl for a kiss. She refused. Smith then allegedly said, "Okay, then I'll rape you."

Smith then proceeded to hold the girl's hands with his left hand and pulled down her panties with his right hand.

He then raped her for about an hour, the report said. He also touched her breasts. The girl repeatedly yelled, "No!" the report said.

The girl later learned she had contracted gonorrhea from the rape.

On April 30, 2008, detectives met Smith at his home. However, he invoked his rights to an attorney.

Smith was arrested and charged with Sexual Battery on a Child and Infected Person Having Sex with an Uninformed Person.

Three Grow Houses Busted
in Sarasota County

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, April 30, 2008, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Bureau’s Narcotics Task Force which includes the Northport Police Department executed search warrants on three grow houses in the County.

Lazaro Rodriguez-Alfonso

Sixty marijuana plants were seized from a house located at 8380 Edmiston Avenue, Northport. Lazaro Rodriguez-Alfonso, 37, was arrested and charged with one count of Trafficking in Cannabis, one count of Producing or Cultivating Marijuana, and one count of Manufacture or Delivery of Drug Paraphernalia. He is currently being held at the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

One hundred and eleven plants were seized from a house located at 2842 Dumont Lane, Northport. This investigation is ongoing.

Twenty-nine marijuana plants were seized from a house located at 2210 South Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. This investigation is also ongoing.

Electrical power had been diverted at both Northport locations.

1/4 Ton of Pot Seized When
Two Grow Houses Raided
in Charlotte County

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- Two marijuana grow houses were raided in Charlotte County this week that produced a total weight of pot in the two raids of ¼ ton or 527.60 pounds.

Above, Lt. Dale Ritchart counts plants
(Photo by Robert Carpenter, CCSO PIO)

Narcotics detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office raided two marijuana grow houses in Prairie Creek Park, about 10 miles east of Punta Gorda Wednesday afternoon, April 30, 2008. The first grow house was at 16050 Ridgewood Ct. and the other several blocks away at 16200 Wildwood Ct. These are the 9th and 10th grow houses raided so far this year in Charlotte County; there were three homes raided as of this time last year.

Detective Kathy Ayers said there were 395 total plants seized at the Ridgewood home in a converted garage, bedroom and bathroom. There were 123 potted plants in a converted detached garage-horse barn at the Wildwood home. Inside the home were numerous marijuana “clone” or starter plants which have not been counted as of this time.

Det. Ayers said they arrested Jose Enrique Ayala-Quijanu, 40, at the Ridgewood Ct. home. She said both grow houses are affiliated with each other, but Ayala-Quijanu has only been charged with growing marijuana in the home he was living in. He is charged with Trafficking in Marijuana, Cultivation in Marijuana, and Using a Residence to Cultivate Marijuana.

Both homes had the usual elaborate lighting, fans, irrigation, nutrient chemicals, air conditioning and electrical systems surrounded by walls covered with shiny aluminum insulation. Animal Control was called to the Ridgewood Ct. home to take two large but friendly dogs, and check on a horse.

Last year, Narcotics detectives raided three homes in the Prairie Creek area; 371 plants were seized on July 19 in a two story home at 16100 Forest Glen Ct., 61 plants on Aug. 14 at 5211 Black Jack Circle, and 211 marijuana plants on Sep. 20 at 38830 S. Washington Loop Rd.

Anyone having narcotics information can call the Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157. Further details will be released later as the investigation continues.

Police Ask Help Searching
for Man Who Attempted
to Kidnap Girl, 10

MELBOURNE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Police are asking for help in finding a man who attempted to kidnap a 10-year-old girl Wednesday night in Melbourne, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The victim told police that the man asked her to get into his vehicle, a black four-door with square headlights, near Hickory Street and Nasa Boulevard at about 9 p.m. When she refused, he pulled her into the car and drove away, police said.

The victim then was able to escape, WKMG said.

"The information that I'm receiving from the detective division is that when he stopped the vehicle, she saw an opportunity and fled," Melbourne police Sgt. Scott Lindsley said.

"Anybody that's brazen enough to take a small child and force them into a vehicle, that's an individual we need to get off the street."

The assailant was described as having dreadlocks and several gold teeth.

The girl was emotionally shaken but did not appear to be injured, police said.

UPDATE: As of late Thursday, Police are now saying the girl made the story up.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Bradenton Police Detectives:
Third Person Arrested in
Tuesday's Bank Robbery

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A third person has been arrested in connection with Tuesday's robbery of the First Priority Bank, 4702 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, at about 9:45 a.m.

Above, First Priority Bank, 4702 Cortez Road West
(Photo by Craig Herbert, NewsManatee)

Takeshia King, 22, of Orlando was taken into custody at about 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday; she was on foot in Palmetto at the time. Detectives had been searching for her and another man who they believe may still be at large. Two suspects were taken into custody earlier. They were Obrian Hawks, 22, and Maxchella P. Zidor, 17, both also from Orlando.

Above, L to R, Takeshia King, Obrian V. Hawks and Maxchella P. Zidor

Police said three people entered the bank and held customers and bank employees at gunpoint while an undetermined amount of cash was obtained; another waited outside in the getaway car.

Following the robbery, the suspects fled in a gold or tan Buick LeSabre through Bradenton, with a number of Bradenton Police cars chasing the Buick.

The Buick fled through Bradenton into Palmetto, where it crashed into a pole at Varnadore Auto & Tire, 1706 8th Avenue West (Business 41).

Then the suspects attempted to carjack two vehicles, according to BPD Major J.J. Lewis.

Obrian Hawks and Maxchella Zidor were apprehended almost immediately in the area. Police K-9 units, a helicopter and multiple police officers were searching the area for the two others, one of whom was Takeshia King.

Five schools in Palmetto were initially placed on lockdown; all have since been released from lockdown.

Police said it was Obrian Hawks who attempted and failed to carjack a passing motorist. He was arrested and charged with Armed Robbery and Attempted Carjacking.

Maxchella Zidor was charged with Armed Robbery. Takeshia King was also charged with Armed Robbery.

Police now say there may not be another man, but they're still checking.

A well-placed NewsManatee source said Obrian Hawks and Takeshia King are husband and wife.

The investigation is continuing by the Bradenton Police Department Detective Division.

Anyone having information about the bank robbery or the whereabouts of the fourth robber, the second male, 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, click here.

https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=348

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 on Bike Arrested for Burglary
Moments After Incident; Deputy
Spots Man Chasing Him on Foot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A chance encounter with a deputy moments after a man was spotted burglarizing a vehicle got the man arrested.

Ray Rodriguez

According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Ray Rodriguez, 37, of 2508 17th Street East, in Bradenton, was pedaling his bicycle hard when a deputy pulled him over for a bicycle violation. The deputy had spotted Rodriguez in the 1400 block of 30th Avenue East, with a man in pursuit of Rodriguez on foot. Rodriguez was then pulled over in the 1200 block of 30th Avenue East. The time was about 10:45 p.m.; it was Monday.

When the man running on foot caught up to the deputy and Rodriguez, he told the deputy he had caught Rodriguez attempting to burglarize his vehicle.

The deputy told the man, also named Rodriguez, first name Benito, to go back to the vehicle and determine if it had, in fact, been burglarized.

Benito went back to his residence at 2920 15th Street East and saw that one of the windows of his vehicle had been broken. He returned to the deputy and told him.

The reason Benito was chasing Ray was because he spotted Ray between his Ford Explorer and another vehicle and interrupted Ray, who picked up his pink bike next door and fled, he told the deputy.

The deputy returned to Benito's residence address and saw that the Explorer window was in fact broken. He also found shoe prints that seemed to match Ray's shoes.

Ray denied the burglary and said he went to the address to sell a tool box. However, the alleged tool box was not in his possession when he was stopped.

Ray Rodriguez was arrested for Burglary to an Unoccupied Conveyance.

Man Arrested for Theft,
Subsequent Sale of
Aluminum

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Lamont T. Poole, 37, of 1706 5th Avenue West, in Bradenton, after they say Poole stole some aluminum and sold it for scrap.

Lamont T. Poole

According to an arrest report, on Friday, April 25, 2008, at about midnight, Poole entered an unoccupied business at 2003 16th Street East, in Palmetto, entered greenhouses at that location and stole some aluminum.

He then recruited another man to help him sell the aluminum as "scrap."

The stolen metal was transported to a nearby recycling center at 2615 29th Street East, in Palmetto, where he was observed off-loading the aluminum.

The scrap valued held an estimated $200 dollar recycle value. The replacement value of the aluminum was said to be $1,500 dollars, not including the cost of labor to install it.

Poole was arrested on scene for Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling, as well as for an outstanding warrant.

Deputies Arrest Man for Swiping
Pack of Cigarettes from Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A complaint was made and the culprit was located, so Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies had no choice but to arrest a man who swiped a pack of cigarettes from a woman on Wednesday, April 29, 2008, at about 6:00 p.m.

The report said as the victim, Katlin Loggins, 21, approached her front door at Manatee Glens in the 2000 block of 26th Avenue East, Raymond McDevitt, 49, of Venice, who was sitting on a bench, asked her for a cigarette.

She told him no and he responded to her by grabbing her around the waist and throat and taking her cigarettes from her.

She called the sheriff's office.

Upon arrival of deputies, Raymond was located in the area and arrested.

The cigarettes were recovered and returned to Katlin.

A mug shot of McDevitt was not available for some reason unknown to NewsManatee.

Lakewood Ranch Resident
Recognized by Sons of
American Revolution

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Lakewood Ranch resident John A. Williams, Jr., received recognition for his 40 years of faithful and dedicated membership in the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Organization during the April meeting.

Above, L to R, SAR Past President ex-officio John A. Williams
and current SAR president Phillip H. Tarpley
(Photo by Elaine Crapo)

Compatriot John has taken great pride in his responsibilities to the SAR. He is a thorough believer in encouraging Early American History for all students in school and for recognizing students who excel in the Junior ROTC program.

As the immediate Past President of the SAR, John thoroughly agrees that, "If we don't know how this country was started, the history that has brought us to this date, then how can we intelligently plan for the future."

Compatriot Williams exemplifies what a true patriot believes and practices, SAR information officer, Harold Crapo, said.

Unidentified Driver Killed
in I-75 Accident

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The driver of a 2002 box truck, who has not yet been identified, was killed on Tuesday afternoon when he veered off southbound I-75, crashed into a disabled vehicle and hit a tree, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

FHP said the box truck was southbound in the right lane of I 75.

When the box truck and its driver reached mile marker 219, about a mile south State Road 64, he encountered an unoccupied and disabled 2002 Saturn that was properly parked on the paved west shoulder of I 75 facing southbound.

For some unknown reason, the box truck exited the right lane and entered the paved west shoulder were the Saturn was parked.

The box truck's right front and right side struck the left side of the Saturn.

The box truck continued southwest after striking the Saturn and left the roadway, entering the grass shoulder. The box truck then entered the tree line on the west side of I 75, where it struck an oak tree.

The driver of the box truck was transported to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, where he passed away from his injuries, FHP reported.

$30-40,000 Burglary Reported
in Myakka City

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies reported a burglary in Myakka City sometime overnight between Monday, April 28, 2008, and Tuesday, April 29, 2008.

According to the report, unknown persons entered David Darby's garage in the 6100 block of Wachula Road, in Myakka City.

Once inside, the suspects removed approximately $30,000-$40,000 worth of tools, fishing equipment, and memorabilia.

No forced entry was evident.

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.

Detectives Arrest Man for Burglary
After Jailed Accomplice Snitches

EAST ENGLEWOOD, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives arrested Geoff Allen Milliken, 19, 18426 Dreggers Ave., Port Charlotte, in connection with three home burglaries they solved in the Englewood area. One home burglarized was on Apr. 14 at 7148 Manniz Rd., East Englewood; the other two were on Apr. 15 at 9236 Prospect Ave., Englewood and 7250 Printer St., East Englewood.

Above, L to R, Geoff Milliken and Windsor Walker

A man who is in jail on other charges and who was with Milliken in the burglaries turned on Milliken to help save his own skin.

Detectives said on Apr. 24, Windsor Owen Walker, 18, 3154 Scranton St., Port Charlotte, was arrested in connection with a Murdock Circle Apartments home invasion robbery; he and three others were arrested and a fifth suspect is being sought. Walker told detectives he and a juvenile male committed the three burglaries in the Englewood area with two homes having weapons. Walker was then driven around by detectives where he showed the places they broke into and stole numerous items.

Items stolen were seven weapons (two rifles, an AK-47, an AR-15 and three handguns), numerous ammunition, custom knives, electronics equipment, golf clubs, laptops, video games, televisions, guitars, a Rolex watch and U.S. currency.

Detectives transported Milliken to the Charlotte County Jail and charged him with six felony charges, two counts of Burglary to an Unoccupied Residence while Armed, Burglary to an Unoccupied Residence, two counts of Grand Theft of Firearms, and one count of Grand Theft of $9,884 in stolen items.

Detectives continue investigating both cases and more arrests and charges are expected.

Police: Boy, 10, Attacks Mom
with Hammer; Didn't Want
To Go To School

ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 10-year-old boy was arrested on charges of domestic battery and aggravated assault on Monday after attacking his mother with a hammer after refusing to go to school, police said.

Officers responding to a report of a dispute in the 8500 block of Josiah Street about 9:30 a.m. were told by the boy's mother that the incident started when he refused to go to school and she grabbed his bicycle to stop him from riding away, Jacksonville television station WJXT reported.

She said the boy tried to push her over his bike, then went in the house, got a hammer and starting swinging it around. He got in a physical altercation with his 13-year-old brother, then swung the hammer at his mother.

The mother said when she grabbed the hammer away from the boy, but he punched her in the back and sides, then went outside and took off on his bike.

Officers were there when he returned and took the boy into custody, booked, then turned over to the Department of Juvenile Justice. His name is not being used because of his age.

According to the police report, the mother was not injured, WKMG said WJXT reported.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Bradenton Police Detectives
Arrest Man, 44, for Rape of
Woman at Knifepoint

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Detectives have arrested Gregory Thompson, 44, and charged him with Sexual Battery with Use of a Deadly Weapon, after a woman claimed Thompson made her give him oral sex and then raped her in her vagina and anus on Sunday, April 27, 2008.

Gregory Thompson

A Bradenton Police Department arrest report said the woman walked into the police station and filed a report; she said she had been raped.

Details of the report said she met Thompson who told her he would smoke some crack cocaine with her. They both went to a residence in the 1200 block of 21st Avenue West.

When they got there, he pulled out a knife and forced her to give him oral sex, the report said. Then he held the knife toward her and made her have vaginal and anal sex with him.

When Thompson went into the bathroom to clean himself, she picked up her clothes and fled, the report said.

The unnamed woman later ID'd Thompson from a photo pack detectives showed her.

Thompson was located in the 3000 block of 14th Street West and arrested. He had a crack cocaine pipe in his possession.

He was additionally charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Thompson denied raping the woman and said the sex was consensual.

Police Seek Help Identifying
Publix Pill Robbery Suspect

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police are asking the public's help identifying a man who robbed the Publix Pharmacy at 5001 Manatee Avenue East of pain medication on Friday evening, April 25, 2008, at about 7:45 p.m.

Bradenton Police officers and detectives responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Publix Pharmacy.

Investigation revealed that a man entered the store and then went to the pharmacy and demanded pain medications.

The man then fled the area on foot after the pharmacist complied with his demands.

A search for the man was to no avail.

The only identifying characteristics of the man issued in the Bradenton Police report can be seen in the surveillance picture above.

If anyone can identify the suspect or has any information regarding the robbery, they are asked to contact the Bradenton Police Department at (941)932-9300, Detective John Thomas at (941) 932-9326 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.

Citizen Stops Burglar at
East Side Wal-Mart

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, April 28, 2008, at about 5:15 p.m., a civilian stopped a vehicle burglar in the Wal-Mart parking lot, 6225 State Road 64 East, and held him until law enforcement arrived.

Mickey D. MacKenzie

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Mickey MacKenzie, 52, of 4406 12th Street Court East, in Ellenton, opened the door of a car belonging to William Hamricks and took Hamricks' wallet out of the vehicle.

William saw Mickey and attempted to stop him.

Mickey got on his bicycle and rode off, the report said.

However, a customer who was in the Wal-Mart parking lot saw this and got in front of Mickey and his bike, stopping him.

Mickey fell to the ground and attempted to leave. However, the customer, Kenneth Nykos, contained Mickey until law enforcement arrived.

Lakewood Ranch High School
Locked Down on Threat of
Man with Gun

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies responded to Lakewood Ranch High School on Tuesday, April 29, 2008, at about 10:20 a.m. on reports there was a man with a gun on the campus.

A report from the sheriff's office said 911 operators received a call from an unknown person regarding suspicious activity at Lakewood Ranch High School.

The caller said an armed man was at the school and was threatening to shoot up the school.

Multiple units were dispatched to the school and deputies conducted a search of the campus. The school was put on lockdown while the search was ongoing.

Nothing suspicious was located and the lockdown was lifted.

Detectives are investigating the incident and anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 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.

Pizza Delivery Man, 55, Robbed
at Gunpoint, Shot in Forehead

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A pizza delivery man was robbed on Monday, April 28, 2008, at about 10:00 p.m., as he attempted to deliver a pizza to a residence in the 600 block of 61st Avenue East.

A report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said Charles Platt, 55, went to 612 61st Ave. E. to deliver a pizza. Platt knocked on the door on the left side of the duplex because he didn't know which side he was supposed to be delivering to. The resident stated that 612 was the right side of the duplex.

Platt went to the other side, but nobody answered. Platt went to go put the pizza back in the car, when he saw some shadows by the fence separating the two duplexes. Platt then observed four Black males, all wearing dark clothing and hoodies. One of the males told him to "Give it up."

Platt pushed the male, and a fight ensued. The suspect was holding an unknown pistol, possibly a BB/pellet gun.

Platt heard a pop, and was struck in the forehead, with what was believed to be a pellet, causing a small laceration.

Platt was knocked to the ground and his glasses were knocked off.

The robbers then fled north from the location.

The area was canvassed with negative results.

The robbers were not further described.

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.

Armed Home Invasion Robbery
Reported; Morphine Pills, Wallet
Taken at Gunpoint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a man was robbed at gunpoint as he was sitting in his living room at Lincoln Arms mobile home park in the 5000 block of 14th Street West on Monday, April 28, 2008, at about 9:10 p.m.

The report said David Dick, 66, was sitting in his living room of his trailer when he saw a White male trying to break the window in the front door. The man used some type of board, finally broke the window and went inside.

The robber held a long barrel revolver to the neck of Dick and demanded his wallet.

Dick turned over the wallet, then the suspect told him to give him all of his medications. Dick gave him the morphine pills he takes for pain.

The robber then fled back out the front door in an unknown direction.

A perimeter was set up and K-9 tracked, with negative results.

Dick was not injured in the robbery, nor were there any shots fired.

The robber was described as a White male in his mid-20s, with long brown hair. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and was carrying a long barrel revolver.

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.

Female Gas Station Customer
Robbed at Knifepoint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A female customer of the Chevron gas station, 3321 Cortez Road West, was robbed at knifepoint on Monday, at about 9:30 p.m., the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

The report said Tamara Cadet, 20, was at the Chevron gas station getting gas. Tamara was in the passenger seat of the car.

A White male approached her and asked her if she wanted to buy some meat, as he had sold her meat in the past.

She stated no, she doesn't eat red meat.

He pulled out a black and silver knife, put it to her throat, and said "Give me everything you got."

At this time she threw her hands in the air, he repeated himself, and she pulled cash out of her pocket and handed it to him.

The suspect pulled the keys out of the ignition and threw them into the middle of Cortez Rd. W. and then he fled Eastbound down Cortez Rd. on foot.

The area was canvassed, with negative results.

There were no injuries.

The robber was only described as a White male about 50 years old.

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.

Armed Robbery Report Delayed;
Hispanic Man Robbed By
Two Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who didn't file a report until the next morning said he was robbed by two unknown Black males on Saturday, April 26, 2008, at about 9:30 p.m. in the 1100 block of 61st Avenue East.

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two unknown black males, approximately six feet tall, 20-30 years of age rushed up behind the victim, Alfredo Mejia Rodriguez, 42, as he was exiting his car at a friend's house.

One grabbed him by the neck and held a knife to his ribs, while the other took his wallet containing $380.00 and a cell phone from his pocket.

The victim suffered no injuries but lost approximately $550.00 worth of cash and property.

The two suspects fled southbound, towards the rear of the property on foot.

The victim advised that he didn't file this report as he was only concerned about finding his identification documents when the sun came up Sunday morning.

He was unable to locate these items this morning and called to file this report.

The robbers were not further described.

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 Male Pistol-Whipped
By Black Male During
Armed Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a Hispanic man was pistol-whipped and robbed by a Black male on Sunday, at about 2:30 a.m., in the 900 block of 21st Street East, in Palmetto.

The victim, Baltazar Perez-Ramirez arrived home and was exiting his car when he observed a white Ford sedan pull up behind him.

A Black male stepped out of the back seat, ran up to him and demanded all his money.

When Ramirez said he had no money, the robber struck him several times about the head and face with an unknown handgun knocking him to the ground.

The robber then went through Ramirez’s pockets and removed his wallet which contained thirty dollars, a phone card, and his passport.

The Black male ran back to the car where two other Black males were waiting and all fled westbound on 21st Street West.

Ramirez suffered lacerations to the back of his head and face and was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment.

The Black males were reported to all be in their 20s, wearing white tank tops and black pants.

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.

SPD Arrests Man for DUI
Bodily Injury and Property
Damage

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, April 27, 2008, at approximately 5:30 p.m., the Sarasota Police Department Traffic crash Investigators investigated a single vehicle crash involving serious injury in the area of U.S. 41 near Main Street where a vehicle struck a tree.

Alex P. Beisler

Inside the vehicle were three (3) individuals. The front seat passenger was identified as Kristi L. Speranza, 38. She was unconscious from hitting her head on the windshield and was flown to Bayfront Medical Center for a possible closed head injury; she remains in serious condition.

The rear passenger was identified as Megan K. Johnson, 19. Johnson was taken by ambulance to Sarasota Memorial Hospital for a possible compound fracture to her lower leg where she was treated and released.

The driver of the vehicle, Alex P. Beisler, 20, was operating a 2003 White Ford Convertible Southbound on U.S. 41 at approximately 55 mph and lost control of said vehicle which struck a tree.

A witness to the crash advised he observed a white vehicle jump the curb and strike a tree. The witness further stated he did not see any other vehicle that contributed to the crash.

The Traffic Investigators interviewed Mr. Beisler concerning the vehicle crash. It was determined that Mr. Beisler was operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage to the extent his normal faculties were impaired and while being impaired caused a crash that resulted in the serious bodily injury to the front passenger, Speranza.

Beisler was arrested and transported to the Sarasota County Jail where he was issued a breath test which revealed the following results: .153% and .161% BAC.

Beisler was charged with 2 counts of DUI with Serious Bodily Injury and 2 counts of DUE with Property Damage.

Boy Accused of Threatening
to Kill Classmates Says
He Was Bullied

DeLAND, Florida (WKMG) -- Orlando television station WKMG reported two of the three teenagers arrested last month in DeLand in connection to a plot to kill their middle school classmates were in court on Tuesday, and the alleged ringleader spoke to the media afterward.

Austin Mohr, 13 years old
(Photo courtesy WKMG)

Austin Mohr, 13, and the other teens were charged with conspiracy to commit murder after authorities learned of the alleged plot to kill students at DeLand Middle School from threats on Mohr's MySpace page.

Mohr said he made the threats because he was threatened himself.

"Someone threatened to slit my throat with a razor blade," Mohr said.

Mohr said he was bullied, punched and beat up and teachers and administrators did nothing about it, WKMG News reported.

"I think there should be more laws and boundaries to stop bullying because I think that's what's tearing schools apart and making children like me do things like this," Mohr said.

Mohr said said he lived in constant fear and turned to the Internet to voice his anger.

"Threatening other people and threatening to do very bad things to them is not the way to go," Mohr said. "Talk to somebody, talk to your parents, talk to somebody you trust, but just don't try to take it into your own hands."

Authorities said Mohr was trying to obtain a gun to carry out the plot, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives:
Three Men Arrested for Beating,
Pistol-Whipping Another

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested three men who were involved in the beating and pistol-whipping of another man on March 17, 2008.

Above, L to R, Keith Thomas Gordon,
Alexander Marcum and Matthew Mallol

According to a report of the incident, on March 17, 2008, at about 7:30 p.m., Keith Gordon, 21, and Matthew Mallol, 20, entered a residence in the 2800 block of 40th Avenue West, without permission or invitation. They were looking for David Thomas.

Once they discovered David was not there, they all left, but not before they told David's brother, Brett Thomas, to tell David they were "gonna return to beat his ass."

Minutes later, Gordon, Mollol and Alexander Marcum, 21, returned to the residence, causing a disturbance.

Brett Thomas could see by a video surveillance monitor in his bedroom the Gordon had a handgun in the waistband of his pants.

Within seconds, Gordon had the gun pointed within inches of Lorenzo Thomas's chest. Lorenzo is Brett's father.

Brett walked to the front of the house where this was occurring and was hit by Alexander Marcum with a board.

Bertt continued to help his father and wrestled with Brett, releasing the magazine from the gun. Brett tried to throw the magazine on the roof of the house, but Matthew Mallol took the magazine from him and loaded it back onto the gun for Gordon.

At that point, Mallol was yelling for Gordon to shoot Brett, but he did not.

Mallol then grabbed Brett from behind, holding him while Gordon hit Brett several times in the face with the butt of the gun. During this time, Mallol and Marcum also battered Brett with their hands and feet, the report said.

Also during this time, at some point, Marcum went to Lorenzo's vehicle and grabbed the small dog by the throat and choked the dog to prevent him from barking at everyone. Marcum released the dog when Lorenzo obtained a mag light from his truck. Lorenzo was in fear for Brett's life and hit Gordon with the mag light, causing Gordon to stop hitting Bertt.

Then the three perpetrators all fled the residence.

Keith Thomas Gordon was arrested on March 24th and charged with Trespassing, Person Using a Deadly Weapon and Aggravated Assault.

Alexander Marcum was arrested on March 24th and charged with Resisting Arrest without Violence, after he attempted to stop a deputy from serving an arrest warrant on Gordon.

Matthew Mallol was arrested on April 27th and charged with Aggravated Battery.

Manatee Deputies Arrest Man
for Child Abuse; Kids Didn't
"Pay Toll," Throws Beer Can

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested John D. Folds, 44, of the 4200 block of 34th Avenue East and charged him with Child Abuse.

John D. Folds

According to the arrest report, Folds and another man blocked 34th Avenue East when an 11-year-old boy and three others were walking there, telling them "You have to pay the toll."

Then Folds allegedly shouted obscenities at the boys.

The 11-year-old then decided to walk away, at which point Folds threw a full beer can at the boy, hitting him on the side of his left upper hip.

The incident resulted in the boy having a bruise on his side with a perfect circular outline of the end of a beer can, the report said.

Folds was arrested and charged with Child Abuse.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Hitting Another with Bat,
Causing Skull Fracture

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Jimmie L. Bell, 61, of 1925 13th Avenue East, Bradenton, after Bell allegedly hit another man in the head with a baseball bat, causing serious to critical injuries to the man who was struck.

Jimmie L. Bell

The arrest report said on Sunday, April 27, 2008, at about 1:00 p.m., Jimmie Bell came out from the front yard at 220 12th Avenue West onto the street, picked up a baseball bat and struck William Christopher in the head and back with the bat.

Doctors reported Christopher had a skull fracture, with possible internal bleeding.

Bell told police he did hit Christopher with a stick.

Police reported Bell said, "He is over there using my name. That might get my family killed."

Bell was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery.

Friend Grabs Friend's Wallet,
Takes Off with Cash in Chevy

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, April 28, 2008, at about 2:00 p.m., a young man was robbed of a large amount of cash by another young man he thought was his friend, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said Casey Londke, 21, was hanging out with two friends in the 6900 block of 26th Street West when one of the friends, Terrence Noone, 20, grabbed Londke's wallet from Londke's hands.

Noone took $800 dollars from the wallet and fled the area with the money in a Blue Chevy Impala.

The area was checked by deputies, along with some possible addresses, for Noone. No contact was made.

Terrence Noone was described as being 6'1" tall, 150 pounds, brown hair and brown eyes.

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 Male Arrested for
Stabbing Another Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Lorenzo Diaz, 24, of Palmetto, after Diaz allegedly stabbed another man with a bottle.

Lorenzo Diaz

According to an arrest report, early Saturday morning, April 26, 2008, at about 3:40 a.m., Lrenzo Diaz and Alberto Lopez got into a fight.

Lorenzo told deputies Alberto was hitting him and Alberto picked up a bottle and hit him again.

Lorenzo then grabbed a bottle and stabbed Alberto, he told deputies.

A witness confirmed the two had been fighting but did not see when Alberto got stabbed.

Alberto was Bayflighted to Bayfront Medical Center for treatment.

Lorenzo was arrested, taken to Lakewood Ranch Hospital to be checked out, and cleared by doctors.

He was then charged with Aggravated Battery and transported to jail.

BPD Arrests Man for Burglary,
Dealing in Stolen Property

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police arrested Kordarryan Riley, 20, of 2128 2nd Street West, Bradenton, after Riley aided in the burglary of a residence and pawned jewelry obtained in the burglary.

Kordarryan Riley

The arrest report said on April 25, 2008, at about 6:30 a.m., Riley was sitting in a vehicle as three of his friends burglarized a house in the 2200 block of 72nd Street Circle West, Bradenton.

According to Police, Riley had knowledge of what was going to take place (therefore Riley was complicit in the burglary).

After the burglary, Riley attempted to pawn two gold bracelets, the report said.

Riley was arrested that night and charged with Burglary and Dealing in Stolen Property.

14 Busted in Manatee Sheriff's
Reverse Prostitution Sting

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, April 25, 2008, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit, led by Sgt. Eric Isola, conducted a Reverse Prostitution Sting.

The operation was set up with an undercover female decoy to target “johns” throughout the county.

They were able to effectively arrest 14 men for Solicitation for Prostitution.

Three men were additionally charged with Having No Valid Driver's License.

1. Danis James Bivens, Black male, 32
2. William Pelham, White male, 59
3. Corey Hayes, Black male, 30
4. Angelo Lauria, White male, 34
5. Nicholas Whitehead, White male, 25
6. Darwin Arita, Hispanic male, 22
7. Wilian Mendez, Hispanic male, 22, also no DL
8. Juan Tejeda-Salazar, Hispanic male, 19, also no DL
9. Romualdo Tejuda, Hispanic male, 23
10. Marvin Ortiz, Hispanic male, 38
11. Manuel Sanchez, Hispanic male, 61
12. Geiner Perez, Hispanic male, 19, also no DL
13. James Chamberlain, Black male, 56
14. Trent Latimer, White male, 70

Man Involved in Shooting Sunday
Suffers Two Wounds

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Tairis L. Ingram, 22, was the victim of gunshot wounds on Sunday, April 27, 2008, at about 11:30 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said while they were patrolling, deputies reported hearing gunshots in the area of the 1800 block of 26th Avenue East, in Bradenton.

As they checked the area, they observed a white Chevy Lumina driving very slowly northbound in the 2300 block of 18th Street Court East.

They stopped the vehicle which was being driven by the victim, Ingram.

While approaching the vehicle, they noticed four bullet holes in the driver’s side of the vehicle and discovered the victim had been shot in the leg and side.

The victim was being very vague with his answers.

When speaking to residents in the area, the incident was believed to have occurred near the corner of 25th Ave. E. and 18th St. Ct. E. where a resident observed a small white car speeding away.

The victim was stopped as he tried to drive home to his residence at 2211 18 St. Ct. E. to get help.

EMS responded and the victim was bayflighted with injuries that were not life- threatening.

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, click here.

https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=348

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.

Palmetto Cops Arrest Woman
for Striking Other Woman
with Vehicle

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- After Shedonne Washington, 26, of 3825 78th Avenue East, in Sarasota, allegedly tried to run down another woman, Palmetto Police arrested her.

Shedonne Washington

Washington's arrest report said Washington and another unnamed woman were involved in an altercation inside Club Nitrous, in Palmetto, on Sunday, April 27, 2008, at about 2:10 a.m.

Washington got into her vehicle in the Walgreens parking lot in the 700 block of 10th Street West, Palmetto, and drove across 10th Street West and into the parking lot of Club Nitrous.

Then Washington allegedly turned her car around and accelerated toward the victim, striking her and crashing the car into the bushes.

Police learned Washington never had a driver's license issued to her.

Four witnesses confirmed the incident.

Washington was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery.

Model Homes in Greenbrook
Village Burglarized

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported three model homes in Greenbrook Village were burglarized sometime between Sunday evening and Monday morning.

The report said between Sunday, April 27, 2008, at approximately 6 p.m. and Monday, April 28, 2008, at approximately 7:30 a.m., unknown person(s) entered three model homes.

The burglaries took place in the 14200 block of Sundial Place and the 14900 block of Bowfin Terrace.

Once inside, the subject(s) removed flat screen TVs from each home.

The TV's were each valued at $2000 dollars each.
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.

Woman Stabbed in Sarasota,
SPD Reported; Man Arrested

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department reported a woman was stabbed in the abdominal area on Saturday, April 26, 2008, at about 11:15 p.m. The man who stabbed her was arrested.

Willie Newell

A report from SPD said the Sarasota Police Department investigated the stabbing of a woman at 1786 24th Street.

Upon arriving in the area, Officers made contact with Julie Clemons, the victim.

Clemons was observed bleeding profusely from the abdominal area.

She was conscious at the time and advised the responding officers she had been in a physical altercation with Willie Newell, when he pulled a knife and stabbed her in the abdomen.

Clemons was taken by Bayflight to Bay front Medical Center, where she was treated for the stab wounds.

A witness on the scene confirmed that Mr. Newell stabbed the victim and left the scene on foot.

Officers began searching for the defendant and located Mr. Newell in the 1700 Block of Martin Luther King, Jr., Way.

Newell was positively identified by the witness to the stabbing.

At that point, Newell was placed under arrest and transported to the Sarasota Police Department.

Two screwdrivers were located inside Newell's pants pocket.

Newell admitted to striking Clemons twice with the "butt end " of one of the screwdrivers.

Two Swimmers Bitten By Sharks
In Florida Waters

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Two different swimmers were treated at hospitals after being bitten by sharks over the weekend, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

A 24-year-old man stepped off of his surfboard in chest-deep water near a jetty in New Smyrna Beach Sunday and was bitten on his right calf.

He was taken to Bert Fish Medical Center and treated.

Also, a 21-year-old man was treated at a hospital after a shark bit his foot while he was surfing in the same area Saturday.

Officials said Mark Pattison of Lake Mary was injured Saturday after he got of his surfboard near a jetty in New Smyrna Beach.

Capt. Jack Driskell of the Volusia County Beach Patrol said the man's injuries were not life-threatening.

He underwent minor surgery Saturday, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Bradenton Man Dies on I-75
When Tire Tread Separates;
Other Bradenton Man Suffers
Serious Injuries, Sarasota Man
Bayflighted in Critical Condition

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Bradenton man was killed on Friday afternoon at about 3:05 p.m. when the tire tread on the Dodge Ram he was driving separated, the vehicle overturned and he was ejected. The incident occurred on I-75 in the northbound lane at the 208 mile marker.

Above, the Dodge Ram overturned
(Photo by U-Reporter Jeff Norris)

According to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol, Jairo L. Nicaragua, 29, of Bradenton, was traveling in the left northbound lane of I-75, just north of Bee Ridge Road. The tread belt on his 2003 Dodge Ram separated, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

The vehicle rotated counterclockwise and traveled off of the roadway and into the median.

The vehicle's right side tires dug into the median, causing the vehicle to overturn one and a half times to the right. It came to final rest on top of the three-cable guard rail in the grassy median.

As the vehicle overturned, Jairo was ejected and came to rest in the southbound lane.

A 2007 Ford Sport Trac, being driven by Perry Moore, 57, of North Port, was traveling in the right southbound lane, approaching the area. As Jairo landed in the roadway, the front of Moore's vehicle struck Jairo.

Also injured in the crash were two passenger's in Jairo's vehicle.

Brian C. Skelton, 42, of Bradenton, suffered serious injuries and was transported to Doctor's Hospital, in Sarasota. Pedro Salazar-Villalpando, 33, of Sarasota, suffered critical injuries and was Bayflighted to Bayfront Medical Center, in St. Petersburg.

Nobody in Jairo's Dodge Ram was wearing a seat belt.

I-75 southbound was shut down for several hours.

Fire Causes $300,000 in Damages;
Several Pet Cats Perish in
Early Morning Blaze

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue reported a duplex structure fire early Friday morning, April 25, 2008, at about 6:30 a.m. in which several family pet cats perished and thousands of dollars in damage was done by the blaze.

Above, 5016 18th Street West, in Manatee County
(Photo by Craig Herbert, NewsManatee)

According to Cedar Hammock Battalion Chief Al Lobeto, a total of four fire engines, a Battalion Chief and two EMS ambulances responded three minutes after they were dispatched.

The first arriving units found heavy smoke and flames coming from the front of the structure.

Nobody was reported inside the structure.

The fire was brought under control about 1/2 hour after Cedar Hammock was dispatched.

One female child and one adult male were evaluated by EMS; neither was transported to area hospitals.

Two adults and two children from the residence were provided assistance from the Manatee County Red Cross.

Several family pet cats perished in the fire.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Damage to the structure was estimated at $250,000 dollars. Damage to the contents was estimated at $25,000 dollars. Three vehicles in front of the structure sustained estimated damage of $25,000 dollars.

No firefighters or civilians were injured, Battalion Chief Lobeto said.

Manatee Marina Manager
Arrested for Diversion of
Funds from Marina Clients

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Richard Francis Biron, 46, of Sarasota, for diverting a large sum of money from the Manatee Marina's customers for his own personal use.

Richard Francis Biron

According to the arrest report, in early March of 2008, a Marina employee observed Biron and another employee making an arrangement with a customer who wanted work done on his boat that seemed "unusual." The customer gave money to Biron in cash. Biron made out a work order and the employee who saw the "unusual" transaction made a copy of that work order.

The owner of the marina, Scott Tibbetts was informed; he was provided a copy of the work order by the employee who had observed the transaction.

Tibbetts did a record search which showed no such transaction. Biron was confronted. He apologized and produced a work order that was different from the copy of the original work order.

Biron was subsequently fired as marina manager because of the incident.

Shortly afterward, Mr. Tibbetts reviewed all of the records since Biron was hired in late 2005. He discovered approximately $28,000 dollars missing that was never deposited in the marina's bank account. The missing money was supposed to be for boat storage and work that was performed on boats.

Biron apologized for the missing money and said he'd pay it back.

On April 3, 2008, Biron sent Tibbetts a cashier's check for $2,300 dollars, with a note that said, "Scott, will send more next week."

After BPD made several attempts to contact Biron, his attorney called to say Biron would turn himself in and that he was invoking his Miranda rights.

Biron turned himself in on April 24, 2008, and was charged with Grand Theft ($20,000 to $100,000).

Bradenton Police Bust Woman
for Theft of Bowling League
Bank Deposit Funds

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Detectives have arrested Dawn M. Stansbury, 35, of 52nd Avenue Terrace West, in Manatee County, and charged her with Grand Theft.

Dawn M. Stansbury

Stansbury's arrest report from BPD said a bowling league president contacted police regarding theft of money that was supposed to be deposited in their bank account; that apparently never happened.

Stansbury was chosen to handle the league's money after another woman was fired for stealing the league's funds. Stansbury was supposed to collect from on a weekly basis from league members. A new bank account was opened for deposit of the money, but no money ever appeared in it.

The league estimated approximately $3,900 dollars in funds were missing.

Stansbury was unable to provide any documentation that she made the required deposits that she had collected, the BPD report said.

Manatee Deputies Arrest Man
for Chasing Two Juveniles
with Metal Baseball Bat

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Luther Snipes, 59, of 900 21st Street East, after they say Snipes chased two juveniles with a baseball bat on Thursday, April 24, 2008, at about 11:00 p.m.

Luther Max Snipes

According to Snipe's arrest report, Snipes thought two juveniles were looking in vehicles. So, he grabbed a metal baseball bat and started to chase both juveniles.

The unnamed juveniles told deputies they were in fear that Snipes was going to hit them with the bat.

One juvenile's mother said she wanted to press charges against Snipes.

Snipes allegedly admitted that he did chase the two kids with the bat.

Snipes was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault.

Black male with a Bat Robbed
Bayshore on the Lake Resident

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a Black man with a baseball bat robbed Russell Armstrong, 50, on Friday, at about 1:20 a.m.

The report said Russell Armstrong was cleaning out his truck in the parking lot of Bayshore on the Lake, in the 2200 block of 38th Avenue West, when an unknown Black male approached him carrying a bat.

Armstrong tried to run, but tripped on the center divider and fell.

The suspect dropped the bat and stuck an unknown sharp object in Armstrong's back.

The victim gave the suspect his wallet containing a bank card, driver's license and a health card, but no cash.

When the suspect asked if he had anything else, Armstrong gave the suspect his heart medication, at which point the suspect fled eastbound through the parking lot.

EMS responded and treated Armstrong for a cut on his leg from the fall. Armstrong suffered no other injuries.

A perimeter was set up and K-9 attempted to track, but found nothing.

The robber was described as an unknown Black male, last seen wearing a yellow shirt, shorts, a hat and glasses; he was carrying a bat.

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 Hispanic Men Ambushed
By Four Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported two Hispanic men were robbed by four Black males early Friday, at about 2:45 a.m., after the two men were ambushed by the four men.

The sheriff's office report said Marco Montoya, 19, dropped off a friend at about the 1000 block of 61st Ave. Dr. East.

When he went to leave, four unknown Black males, all wearing dark clothing, stepped in front of his car and stopped him.

They pulled him and his passenger, Mario Solar-Gama, 24, out of the car and started beating the two, demanding all their money. Montoya didn't have any, but Gama gave them cash.

The two victims then fled on foot to the 500 block of 60th Ave. Dr. E. and called 911.

Upon arrival of deputies, EMS was called, due to Montoya bleeding from the nose. EMS personnel advised that it appeared Montoya had a broken nose. EMS treated Montoya on scene and he refused transport to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The vehicle Montoya was driving was still located at the 1100 block of 61st Ave. Dr. E. The owner of the car responded and picked it up. The vehicle was not disturbed after the victims fled from it.

There were no other injuries and no weapons were seen or implied.

There was no further description of the robbers.

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.

Hours-Old Baby Found
in Palmetto Weeds

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police said a newborn baby, perhaps only one or two hours old, was found in tall weeds in the 600 block of Haskos Road, in Palmetto, by retired Bradenton Police Captain Randy Petroskey, 52, and his son Nick, 17, on Friday afternoon, April 25, 2008, at about 5:30 p.m.

Manatee County EMS confirmed the find. Haskos Road is just off U.S. 301 in Palmetto.

The baby boy was only a couple of hours old, EMS said, and the baby was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital, where he was checked out by neonatal specialists. An EMT who returned to the scene said the child was "doing surprisingly well."

Nick Petroskey's SUV had broken down with transmission problems on Thursday and he had nursed it to an auto shop at the location. When Nick and his father Randy went back on Friday to retrieve the license plate and siphon the full tank of gas from the vehicle, that's when they spotted the pink newborn, with his umbilical cord still attached. Randy called 911.

"It's the luck of God," Randy Petroskey said. "We just happened to be in the right place at the right time."

Palmetto Police are trying to determine who the mother is and are concerned for her well-being.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Palmetto Police Department at (941) 721-2000 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 Stabbed in Chest After
Argument with Girlfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, at about 3:00 a.m., Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies were called to 1028 32nd Avenue Drive East, in Ellenton; a man had been stabbed in the chest.

According to a report from the sheriff's office, Michael Taylor, 29, a White male, was involved in a verbal argument with his girlfriend.

Edward L. Burgess, 41, stepped in to try and calm the situation down, at which point Taylor turned on him and stabbed Burgess in the chest with a small unknown object.

Taylor fled the scene and Burgess gave chase, but lost him.

Burgess returned to his own residence and 911 was called.

EMS responded and transported Burgess to the hospital with a minor chest wound in the area of the sternum. Burgess was conscious, alert, and in stable condition.

Taylor was unable to be located.

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 When
DUI Driver Crashed Into
Motorcycle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- When a Ford van crashed into a motorcycle on Friday, at about 9:00 p.m. in the 4900 block of U.S. 41 in Manatee County, one man lost his life and his passenger on his motorcycle was left in critical condition at a Bay area hospital, the Florida Highway Patrol reported.

An FHP report said a 1998 Ford van, being driven by Paul E. Torrey, 60, of the 4900 block of 14th Street West, in Bradenton, was northbound on US 41 in the left turn lane to 49th Ave. Dr. West.

A 1992 motorcycle, being driven by William H. Swails, 50, of 2904 18th Street East, in Bradenton, was southbound on US 41 in the center lane approaching the intersection 49th Ave. Dr. West.

Torrey attempted to make a left turn onto 49th Ave. Dr. W. entering Swails' path.

Torrey's van front struck the front and left side of Swails' motorcycle.

The motorcycle overturned onto it's right side and was pushed in a westbound direction by the van.

The van came to final rest facing west on the west side of the intersection. The motorcycle came to final rest facing south under the front of the van.

After the crash both vehicles caught fire causing damage to the motorcycle and the front of the van.

Swails was transported to Bayfront Medical Center and passed away from the injuries sustained in the crash. His passenger, Kimberly R. Miller, 44, of 4204 61st Street West, Bradenton, was in critical condition at Bayfront Medical Center. Neither Swails nor his passenger, Miller, on the motorcycle, were not wearing helmets at the time of the crash.

Paul Torrey was charged with Violation of Right of Way, DUI Manslaughter and DUI Serious Bodily Injury, FHP said.

Manatee County Law Library
To Close During Move

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Law Library, located on the third floor of the Historic Manatee County Courthouse, will be closed from Thursday, May 1st through Sunday, May 11th, as the contents of the library are moved to the first floor of the Manatee County Judicial Center.

Attorneys, pro se litigants and the general public will not have access to Law Library materials or the copy machine during the Law Library’s closure.

The Law Library will reopen in its new location on Monday, May 12, 2008 at 8:00 a.m.

Body Found in Sarasota,
Sheriff's Office Says

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating the death of an individual whose body was found on Friday, April 25, 2008, just off shore of a small pond in the 5200 block of Lake Village Drive, Sarasota.

The body was discovered at approximately 8:30 a.m. by maintenance workers from the Meadows subdivision; who then alerted deputies.

The victim is Bertram W. Berube, 77. a White male, of 5266 Lake Village Drive, Sarasota.

Berube was last seen by his wife at 11:00 p.m. Thursday night.

Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Detectives are working with the Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause of death.

Foul play is not suspected, Lt. Chuck Lesaltato, spokesman for the sheriff's office, said.

3 Teens Arrested in Charlotte
County Armed Home Invasion

MURDOCK, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes detectives have arrested three of five teenage boys in connection with a Thursday morning home invasion armed robbery at the Murdock Circle Apartments, 17820 Murdock Circle. The three arrested are Windsor Owen Walker, 18, 3154 Scranton St., Kevin Alexander Reyes, 18, 20206 Rutherford Ave., and Anthony Jerome Phillibert, 17, 1373 Hinton St., all of Port Charlotte.

Around 1:50 a.m. Thursday, Miranda M. Parrish, 28, called the CCSO about a burglary in progress. Parrish said a young Black male with camouflaged cloth over his face, kicked in her bedroom door and pointed a shotgun at her. She grabbed her cell phone, barricaded herself in the bathroom and the subject fled. Boxes of new tennis shoes were taken, along with a backpack.

While CCSO Watch Commander, Lt. Brian Harrison was responding to the scene, he observed a suspicious vehicle that he followed to Hyatt Ave. and Fleetwood Dr. The driver stopped and four young men exited and fled except Walker, the driver, who was taken into custody. CCSO K-9 responded but was unable to locate the other four. Ski mask type “hoodies” were found near the suspect vehicle.

A search of the 1999 Nissan located new boxes of tennis shoes, two 12-guage shotguns and 12 shotgun shells along with other items. Serial numbers were checked on the two shotguns which came back as stolen Apr. 1 in a North Port burglary. Parrish identified the boxes with tennis shoes as hers. Walker said he did take part in the crime and knew the other subjects. Detectives followed up and arrested Reyes and Phillibert. Reyes was also identified by his fingerprints. Reyes told detectives he met with the others and they made a plan to rob the Murdock Circle Apartment. Reyes said he was the lookout and Phillibert pointed the shotgun at Parrish. Phillibert, a juvenile, made no statements when arrested. The incident continues under investigation and a search for the other two suspects continues.

Walker, Reyes and Phillibert were taken to the Charlotte County Jail, all are charged with Armed Burglary with a Firearm, Possession of a Firearm in Commission of a Felony, and Grand Theft of a Stolen Firearm. Walker was additionally charged with Fleeing to Elude Law Enforcement. Phillibert, a juvenile, was booked then transported to DJJ in Ft. Myers. He has been booked nine times with 24 records.

$2 Million in Marijuana Plants
Found In Lake County Home

LAKE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported more than $2 million worth of marijuana plants were found packed inside a Lake County home featuring a high-tech irrigation system snaking through the structure, according to investigators.

Sheriff's deputies said concerns from the power company and the possible theft of electricity Thursday prompted a search of a rural home located along Indigo Road, located off state Road 33 near Mascotte.

Officers arrived and found thousands of plants stuffed in the home and garage.

Officers said the high-tech irrigation system snaked through the house near special lights to cultivate the nearly 20,000 pounds worth of the plants.

The house, garage and a shed were stuffed with plants, WKMG reported.

Officers arrested Mario Guera, 38, in connection with the discovery.

A woman who lives in the home is also under investigation.

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