At the time, the only thing known about the burglary and theft was that an unknown person had climbed over the rear fence, entered into the gated area of the business and smashed out the window on two vans and took tools.

During the investigation, blood was seen on some old toilets that were sitting inside the fence. A blood sample was collected by a Bradenton Police Department Crime Scene Investigator and sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for analysis.

The blood was identified as belonging to Shock, who was in the Manatee County Jail on unrelated charges. A swab of Shock's mouth was done at the request of FDLE to make certain of Shock's identity from the blood sample. It came back positive.

At the jail, Shock said he knew about the vans, but was always high on heroin, so he didn't remember being involved.

Shock was arrested on Monday, May 12, 2008, and charged with Burglary to a Conveyance.

BPD Arrests Woman for
Threats with Metal Pipe

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Mikeil Hill, 18, of 1831 13th Avenue East, Bradenton, after Hill allegedly threatened three other people with a metal pipe.

Mikeil Hill

The arrest report said on Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at about 2:30 p.m. there was a confrontation involving Hill, an unnamed victim and two other people.

When a BPD Officer arrived on scene, he witnessed Hill go after the victim with a 4 foot metal pole.

Hill dropped the weapon after she was told to do so by the Officer several times.

The victim told the officer she was afraid Hill was going to harm her.

Hill was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault.

Attempted Robbery of Wallet,
Camera Foiled By Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman foiled an attempted robbery Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at about 7:30 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The victim, Jennifer Seabolt, 29, of Hollister, Florida, was at the front entrance of Walgreens Drug Store located at 1504 53rd Avenue West, when an unknown Black male approached her and grabbed a camera and a wallet.

Seabolt held on tight and yelled, "Oh no you don't." She would not let go.

The would-be robber turned and ran empty-handed to a waiting vehicle occupied by another Black male.

Seabolt was not injured.

The robbers were described as being both Black males, 18-25 years of age, both about 6' tall, 150 pounds, wearing dark clothes.

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.

Horizons Student, 17, Threatened
By Three Other Horizons Students

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 17-year-old boy from Horizons School had his bicycle temporarily stolen and he was threatened by a group of three other Horizons students on Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at about 3:00 p.m., the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

The victim, Anthony Vanslyke, was in the 2000 block of 26th Avenue East, in front of Johnson Middle School, when he was approached by three Black males.

The three boys surrounded Vanslyke and began to beat him up by punching and kicking him.

One of the three boys took Vanslyke's bike and took it down the road. The boy brought the bike right back and told Vanslyke he would give his bike back if he stole him another one.

Vanslyke refused and was threatened physical violence again but he was able to get away with his bike.

As he was getting away the three boys told him that he better bring money tomorrow, or else.

Vanslyke told deputies he knew two of the boys by first name only, as Charles and Andrea. The third boys name was not known. The victim knows all the suspects because they all attend the same school (Horizons). Charles is actually in the same class Vanslyke.

Vanslyke was not injured, other than a small laceration to his ear not requiring medical attention

Palmetto Police Arrest Man
for Aggravated Child Abuse

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police Detectives have arrested Rogelio Cruz, 33, of the 1000 block of 7th Avenue West, Palmetto, after they say he burned and struck his 7-year-old daughter.

Rogelio Cruz

The arrest report from PPD said on Friday, May 2, 2008, Cruz intentionally inflicted bodily harm on his unnamed 7-year-old daughter.

A CPS case worker stated in a report that the child was burned with a "charging device" on the left arm and had bruising on her left upper leg, consistent with belt marks.

The child was examined by a doctor on Tuesday, May 13, 2008. His report stated that the child suffered from physical child abuse.

On that same day, Cruz was confronted about the allegations by the PPD detective and the CPS case worker. He admitted to striking the child with a belt, but denied burning the child with any burning or charging device.

Cruz was arrested and charged with Aggravated Child Abuse.

Grandpa Raped Granddaughter
in Graveyard

CITRA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A Central Florida man was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of raping his granddaughter at a church graveyard, according to Orlando television station WKMG.

Obie Robinson, 63, a Black male, was arrested on a charge of domestic sexual battery.

According to Marion County sheriff’s deputies, Robinson’s granddaughter asked him for a ride from her boyfriend’s house. He picked her up and drove to the graveyard of a church under construction in Citra, deputies said.

The girl told deputies that her grandfather asked if she would have sex, and she said no.

Robinson pulled her out of the vehicle and said he was going to “do it anyway” and forced her to have sex, deputies said.

Marion County sheriff’s deputies said Robinson told his granddaughter on the drive home that “he needed her help to stop,” WKMG reported.

An investigation showed that Robinson had been sexually assaulting his granddaughter since she was 7 years old, deputies said.

Citra, Florida, is about 20 miles southeast of Gainesville.

Governor Crist Plans Meetings;
"Citizens Hours" in Bradenton

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- Governor Charlie Crist is coming to Bradenton on Friday to meet with citizens.

Above, Governor Charlie Crist

On Wednesday, Governor Charlie Crist encouraged Floridians to participate in Citizens Hours in Bradenton, in Manatee County, on Friday, May 16, 2008.

Governor Crist and Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp will meet with citizens to hear their concerns.

The purpose of Citizens Hours is to provide Florida citizens who might never have a chance to interact with the Governor; an opportunity to have their voices heard. Previously, the Governor held Citizens Hours in Lake Worth in Palm Beach County in March 2007.

“The people of Florida are our bosses, and it is important for us to have the opportunity to listen to their concerns and needs,” said Governor Crist. “Their priorities should be our priorities, and I look forward to hearing about the issues and concerns important to them.”

This event is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will register for a five-minute individual meeting with either Governor Crist or Lt. Governor Kottkamp. A representative from the Governor’s Citizen Services office also attends each meeting to document the discussion and the appropriate follow-up needed.

Members of the Governor’s staff will also be available for conferences.

Details for the Bradenton Citizens Hours are as follows:

Registration Begins: 8:00 a.m.

Meet with thee Governor, Lt. Governor or Staff: 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Location: Bradenton City Hall Council Chambers, 1005 Barcarrota Blvd., Bradenton.

 

 

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Vern Buchanan Staffer Busted
for DUI at 53rd Ave., U.S. 41 W.;
Thought He Was On Clark Road
in Sarasota; Refused Breath Test

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Ronald Allen Turner, 39, of 6126 Nutmeg Avenue, in Sarasota, is Congressman Vern Buchanan's District Director, but he told deputies he was Buchanan's Chief of Staff when he was investigated for a DUI charge on Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at 12:42 a.m., according to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Ronald Allen Turner

A concerned citizen notified the Manatee County Sheriff's Office that a Mercedes had just blown by him driving erratically at University Blvd. and U.S. 41 at a high rate of speed, heading northbound. The citizen continued to follow the Mercedes until sheriff's deputies caught up with it. At one point, the Mercedes slowed to 5 mph, the concerned citizen reported in a witness affidavit.

By the time deputies arrived, the Mercedes was at 53rd Avenue West and 14th Street West. The Mercedes made a wide right turn at the intersection and deputies conducted a traffic stop. The Mercedes pulled into the Shell gas station at the southwest corner of 53rd Avenue West and 14th Street West.

The driver was identified as Turner. A deputy asked Turner where he was going and Turner slurred, "Home...around the corner." The deputy asked Turner what the road behind him was and Turner replied, "Clark Road."

Turner's eyes were "watery, glassy and bloodshot," the deputy wrote in his report. He appeared "dazed and euphoric and slow to respond to questions."

As Turner exited the Mercedes, "he swayed and appeared to stagger to have to gain his footing. He had a side-to-side sway and appeared unsteady. There was a strong odor of alcoholic beverage coming from his breath," the report went on to say.

In response to whether he was taking any medications, Turner told the deputy he was taking Lexapro and Xanax. Both drugs are for treatment of depression and/or anxiety.

Turner kept asking for Sarasota County Sheriff Bill Balkwill. When he was told he wasn't in Sarasota County and that he was in Manatee County, Turner then began asking to speak to Sheriff Brad Steube.

When Turner refused a breath test and refused to sign a citation, saying, "I'm not signing anything," he was arrested and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

BPD Chief's Estranged Brother
Arrested for Grand Theft Auto,
Possession of Crack Cocaine

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Joseph M. Radzilowski, 52, of no known address, has been arrested by a Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy for Grand Theft Auto and Possession of Crack Cocaine. The incident occurred on Monday, May 12, 2008, at about 7:45 p.m.

Joseph M. Radzilowski

Radzilowski, who gave his place of birth as Washington, D.C., was seen by a deputy at Seagate Drive and North Tamiami Trail, in South Manatee County, driving a white 2006 Chevrolet Silverado pickup that had been reported stolen. Radzilowski had been listed as the suspect in the stolen vehicle report.

The deputy pulled the vehicle over and Radzilowski was secured in the deputy's cruiser.

A search of Radzilowski revealed a piece of crack cocaine inside the sweat band of his cap. Inside the deputy's cruiser, in the back seat, the deputy found a crack pipe that hadn't been there before.

Radzilowski was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto, Possession of Crack Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Driving While License Suspended.

According to Sarasota County court records, Joseph Radzilowski was arrested in 1993 for Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell.

A NewsManatee source who asked not to be identified said Joseph Radzilowski is the "ne'er do well" brother of Bradenton Police Chief Michael Radzilowski.

A local media report said Chief Radzilowski "has not had contact with his brother in a while."

Murder Suspect Charged with
Burglary, Theft of Firearm

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Michael Heckerman, 22, currently in the Manatee County Jail charged with 2nd Degree Murder in the January shooting death of James Holderness, 16, has been additionally charged with Armed Burglary and Grand Theft of a Firearm from his grandfather's business, Picture This, located at 8615 Cortez Road West.

Michael Heckerman

According to this latest charge report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office dated Monday, May 12, 2008, Heckerman broke into his grandfather's business sometime between February 17, 2008, and February 19, 2008, by destroying a side jalousie window. Once inside, Heckerman removed a Smith & Wesson .38 caliber revolver from a holster inside a drawer.

When Heckerman was arrested at his home in Whitfield Estates on February 24, 2008, for the Holderness murder, he had the stolen .38 caliber revolver in his possession, the report said.

Holderness was inside a mobile home in Wilhelm Mobile Home Park in the 6300 block of 14th Street West at about 11:30 p.m. on January 15, 2008, when shots were fired into the home, according to NewsManatee archives.

In addition to the new charges, Heckerman faces charges of 2nd Degree Murder with a Firearm, a life felony; three counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, and Possession of a Short-Barreled Shotgun by a Convicted Felon.

The murder of James Holdernes was Manatee County's first homicide of 2008.

Detective Arrests Man, 22, for
Oral Sex on Boy, 12

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Detective has arrested Christopher Kirkland, 22, of 805 5th Street East, in Bradenton, and charged him with one count of Lewd and Lascivious Battery for giving a 12-year-old boy oral sex.

Christopher Kirkland

The arrest report said in late January 2008, the unnamed 12-year-old victim was at his residence in the 900 block of 61st Avenue Terrace East for a birthday party.

His cousin, 22-year-old Christopher Kirkland, asked the victim to go next door so he could show him something.

Once next door, Christopher pulled down the victim's pants and performed oral sex on him. The boy later said he was scared and hoped someone would walk in. The boy told the detective he told Christopher to stop.

During the investigation Christopher was located and questioned about the incident.

Christopher confessed to performing oral sex on the victim and was arrested without incident.

Christopher said the incident only occurred once and "it has been bothering me ever since it happened," the arrest report states.

Armed Home Invasion Robbery
in Residence with 12 Victims

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion robbery on Tuesday, at about 4:20 a.m. by three Black males at a residence in which 12 people, ranging in age from 11 months to 48 years of age, were living.

The report said Javier Ramires, 22, and Victor Vergara, 24, were standing outside their home in the 6600 block of 12th Street West, near the front entrance and in the driveway, when the suspect vehicle pulled into the driveway.

The three suspects got out of the vehicle and ordered Javier and Victor to lay on the ground. The suspects went through their pockets and took a wallet and money.

One of the suspects pointed his gun at Javier and told him to open the front door.

The suspects pushed Victor and Javier through the opened front door and into the living room.

The suspects entered the residence and took cash and jewelry.

The suspects then fled out the front door to their vehicle and then towards 66th Avenue and 14th Street West.

The robbers and their vehicle were described as 3 Black males from a silver or gray 4 door Pontiac type vehicle; #1, unknown age 5'10'', 170 pounds, wearing black shirt, black hoodie with eye holes, blue jeans, and carrying a silver handgun; #2, black male with bleached hair that is blonde, 5'07", medium build wearing black shirt, a blue bandana covering nose and mouth, black jeans, light shinned and carrying a black handgun; #3, dark skinned, 5'09", medium build, wearing black clothing and carrying a black handgun.

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.

Brazen Daylight Robbery of Man
by Two Black Teens Reported

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at about 11:15 a.m., Javier Gomez, of unknown age and address, was robbed by 2 Black male teenagers in the 1900 block of 1st Avenue, in Palmetto, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said at approximately 11:15 a.m., 2 Black males in their teens jumped out of a green or blue newer model Kia 4 door with dark tinted windows.

The teens ran at the victim and began fighting.

The victim did not speak English.

One of the teens had a small bat or a stick.

The teens took one half of a fifty dollar bill from the victim.

The teens fled the area in the same Kia 4 door, east on 19th Street West.

The teens are described as:

#1; Black male, 6'00 tall, 145 pounds, last seen wearing a long white T-shirt, long baggy blue jeans, and was armed with a small stick or bat.

#2; Black male, 5'06 tall, 140 pounds, last seen wearing black clothes and a black "tam" (Rastafarian Style Hat).

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Man Robbed at Gunpoint
at Palmetto Overpass

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a Hispanic man was robbed by two Black males in the 300 block of 12th Street Drive West, in Palmetto. The incident occurred on Monday, May 12, 2008, at about 7:45 p.m.

The report said the victim, Fernando Antonio Fuentes-Antune, 27, was walking home taking his usual path under the overpass at the above location when he was confronted by two Black males. One of the robbers was armed with a black semi-automatic pistol.

The robbers took a cellphone and cash, then fled west along the tracks while the victim went to Wal-Mart and called 911.

The suspects are still at large.

They were only described as two Black males in their 20s.

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.

Six Black Males Attack Lone
Hispanic Male, Rob Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported on Monday, May 12, 2008, at about 6:15 p.m., a lone Hispanic male was attacked by six Black males in the 500 block of 21st Street East, in Palmetto.

On the above date and time, the victim, Leonardo Antonio, 29, reported that as he was walking home the six men attacked him and stole a wallet containing cash.

The robbers then fled in different directions.

The victim received no injuries during the incident.

The robbers are still at large. They were not further described in the sheriff's 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.

Bradenton Police Asked To Assist
in 2009 Presidential Inauguration

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The assistance of the Bradenton Police Department has been requested for the 56th Inauguration of the President of the United States on Tuesday, January 20, 2009.

Police Chief Cathy Lanier of the Washington , D.C. , Metropolitan Police Department recently contacted Bradenton Police Chief Michael Radzilowski with the request. All salaries, lodging, travel and meal expenses will be reimbursed by the Metropolitan Police Department.

Bradenton Mayor Wayne Poston said the City of Bradenton is honored to have its police department involved in the inauguration.

“It’s a great honor and great recognition for the police department and what we’ve been able to accomplish,” Mayor Poston said. “We’re looking forward to participating.”

In addition to seeking volunteers from Bradenton ’s force, Chief Radzilowski plans to reach out to surrounding law enforcement agencies. The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking a minimum of 40 volunteers to join the thousands of law enforcement officials assigned to the inauguration.

About 20 Bradenton police officers assisted the Metropolitan Police Department during the previous inauguration. Chief Radzilowski said the officers enjoyed it immensely.

“It’s a once in a lifetime thing,” he said. “The last time our officers went up there – naturally, many of them are from Florida – it snowed, and it was the first time some of them had even seen snow, much less worked in it.”

Two Local Events To Be Held
During National Police Week

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- May 11th through May 17th is National Police Week. Two law enforcment events are being held during the week.

On Thursday, May 15, 2008, the local Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 70, will hold it annual Police Memorial Day Service to honor and recognize officers who have died in the line of duty. The public is invited.

The event is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. in front of the Manatee County Courthouse.

Also, on Thursday, the 100 club of Manatee County Officer of the Year banquet will be held at the Bradenton Country Club at 7:00 p.m. This is not a public event.

The 100 club will announce the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

Hillsborough Sheriff: Mother,
Children Found Mutilated,
Dismembered

LUTZ, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a mother and her two young children found dead in a mobile home north of Tampa had been mutilated and dismembered, authorities said.

Hillsborough County Sheriff David Gee said on Tuesday that one body had been decapitated at the home in Lutz.

The bodies were found on Monday morning.

The victims were identified as Lisa Freiberg, 26, her 7-year-old son Zachary and her 2-year-old daughter Heather Savannah. The family's dog also was killed.

Gee said more than one weapon was used, but no further information was released.

A man identified as Freiberg's live-in boyfriend was found hiding in a closet in the home. His name is not yet known.

Gee said the man had ingested an unknown substance and was hospitalized for treatment.

No one has been charged, WKMG reported.

 

 

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Ware's Creek Crime Watch
Catches Gang Member, 15,
in Burglary Incident

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Members of the Ware's Creek Crime Watch caught Angel Rodriguez-Perez, 15, said to be a member of the SUR-13 criminal gang, when "Angel-Baby" was seen walking through a crime watch member's yard on Friday, May 9, 2008, at about 6:30 p.m., carrying items which appeared to be from a burglary.

Angel Rodriguez-Perez

According to a report from the Ware's Creek Crime Watch, the crime watch member and a neighbor didn't think it looked right when "Angel-Baby" (our name for him) and another boy went through the yard carrying a computer and some bags.

The crime-watchers yelled at the boys and the boys ran.

Not to be outdone, the crime watch member and the neighbor chased after them and caught up to "Angel-Baby" as he was going into an apartment in the 2300 block of 9th Avenue West. They waited there until Bradenton Police arrived with a K-9 unit.

The K-9 unit flushed the 15-year-old's "underwear-clad butt" out of the apartment and arrested him.

"Angel-Baby" was charged with Burglary to a Dwelling.

The burglary occurred in the 2400 block of 6th Avenue West, a Bradenton Police follow-up investigation discovered.

The stolen items were returned to the unnamed victim.

The other guy got away, the Ware's Creek Crime Watch reported to NewsManatee.

Their comment: "Grrr...."

[Ed. Note: To all would-be crooks -- You've gotta watch out for the Ware's Creek Crime Watch; they mean business...obviously.]

Woman Accuses Boyfriend of
Cheating on Her, Stabs Him;
He Refuses to File Complaint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who was stabbed in the leg by his girlfriend on Sunday afternoon at about 2:15 p.m. refused to file a formal complaint of the incident, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

Charlene Riddle
(Prior mug shot)

A sheriff's office report said Deputies responded to a stabbing call at 5812 20th Street West.

The victim, Theodis Peterson, 31, and the suspect, Charlene Riddle, 30, who reside at the above address together had a verbal altercation.

Riddle accused Peterson of cheating on her and walked up to Peterson and stabbed him one time on the outside of the left calf.

Riddle fled the scene in a white Lexus prior to arrival of deputies.

Peterson's wound was 1 1/4" in length and is not life-threatening. He was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Peterson became uncooperative and refused to let deputies take pictures and sign an affidavit.

A capias request for the arrest of Riddle for Aggravated Domestic Battery was submitted to the State Attorney's office.

Bradenton Police Arrest
Man for Robbery

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Kevin Kinney, 26, of 4424 4th Avenue East, Bradenton after Kinney allegedly stole a man's money.

Kevin Kinney

The arrest report from BPD said on Saturday, at about 3:50 a.m., Kinney was at 1839 14th Street West with a woman when the unnamed victim came out of his residence.

Kinney approached the victim and asked if he had any change on him.

When the victim pulled out his wallet, Kinney allegedly took $50 dollars from the victim.

When the victim went to get his money back, Kinney allegedly grabbed a blunt object off the ground and struck the victim in the back of his head.

The victim suffered a laceration from the strike.

Kinney was arrested. He was charged with Robbery.

SAR Recognizes Bayshore High
School JROTC Cadet

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Sons of the American Revolution has recognized yet another Junior ROTC student; this one from Bayshore High School -- Cadet Stewart Jasmer.

Above, L to R, Cadet Jasmer's mother, Karen; Cadet Jasmer
and Stewart's father, Dale Jasmer.
(Photo by Harold Crapo)

Junior ROTC Cadet Stewart Jasmer received a Bronze ROTC Medal and a Certificate during the May 7th Awards Ceremony at Bayshore High School.

Stewart was recognized by the Sons of the American Revolution for his superior leadership abilities and accomplishments, military bearing and overall academic excellence.

Cadet Jasmer was selected because he exemplifies the high ideals and principles which motivated and sustained our patriot ancestors.

He has been in the JROTC program for two years and considers his participation on the Physical Education Team, boating and fishing as his hobbies. Cadet Jasmer's favorite school subject is mathematics, which he plans to use for training into the medical career field as a Doctor.

The Sons of the American Revolution congratulate Cadet Stewart Jasmer.

Man, Woman Shot in Drive-By
in Bradenton on Friday

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A man and a woman were shot early Friday, at about 2:53 a.m. in a drive-by shooting in the 400 block of 10th Avenue East, in Bradenton.

According to a BPD report of the incident, the two people had just arrived home and were standing in the driveway by the road.

While standing there, a black 4-door SUV or truck was traveling westbound on 10th Avenue East. When it got close to the address listed above, an unknown person began shooting from the vehicle.

A witness to the shooting said there were approximately 7 or 8 shots fired from the vehicle. The witness also told police that they all attempted to dive to the ground to avoid the shots being fire, but in doing so, the two people were shot.

Wounded in the incident were George Gutierrez, 27, of 428 10th Avenue East, Bradenton, and Vanessa Diaz, 22, of 415 10th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Gutierrez was shot in the right ribs/chest cage. Diaz was shot in the right shoulder.

Gutierrez was lying in the street when Bradenton Police Officers arrived and was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital by EMS.

Diaz was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital by a relative.

Crime Scene technicians, detectives and the gang unit responded to the location.

Bradenton Police Detectives are investigating the incident.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at (941) 932-9300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Boy, 15, Killed; Other Boy, 18,
Critically Injured in Dirt Bike
Crash, FHP Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a 15-year-old boy was killed Sunday evening, at about 6:15 p.m., and another boy, 18, was critically injured when the boys collided with each other at Sylvan Oaks Park on Memphis Road (17th Street East) in Manatee County.

FHP said a dirt bike, driven by Trevion Murray, 18, of 4021 9th Street East, Bradenton, was westbound in a grass field on the south side of 17th Street East.

Another dirt bike, driven by Danzel McClellan, 15, of 5616 23rd Street East, Bradenton, was eastbound in the same field on the south side of 17th St. E.

The boys were heading towards each other in the field and failed to take evasive action to avoid each other, the FHP report said.

The front of the bike driven by Murray front struck the front of the bike driven by McClellan.

Both boys were ejected off their motorcycles and came to rest on the ground in the grass field.

Neither Murray nor McClellan were wearing helmets at the time of the crash.

Murray was flown to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg in critical condition. He is a Junior student at Palmetto High School.

The McClellan boy died at the scene. He was a Freshman student at Bradenton Prep.

Charges are pending further investigation, FHP said.

This is the twentieth fatal traffic crash to occur in Manatee in 2008.

Palmetto Police Arrest Man
for Possession of Over a Pound
of Marijuana, Firearm, Resisting

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police have arrested James Shelley, 25, of Bradenton, after Shelley was caught in possession of 20 ounces of marijuana and a firearm.

James Shelley

An arrest report from PPD said an officer noticed a vehicle parked illegally in front of a residence at 1101 11th Avenue West, Palmetto. The officer also observed the driver of the vehicle involved in what appeared to be a narcotics transaction with a person standing in the yard at that address.

Officer Martinez stopped to conduct a traffic investigation of the driver of the illegally parked vehicle, James Shelley.

When Officer Martinez attempted to talk to Shelley, Shelley fled, abandoning the vehicle and 658 grams of marijuana.

After a brief foot chase, Shelley was caught and arrested.

When officers searched Shelley's vehicle, they located a loaded .380 pistol in the center console.

Shelley was charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

The incident occurred on Friday, May 9, 2008, at about 7:00 p.m., according to Lt. Scott Tyler, of the Palmetto Police Department.

Three Teens Caught in Six
Palm Island Burglaries

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- According to Charlotte County Sheriff’s Watch Commander Sgt. Matt Dowling, deputies arrested three teens from Winter Haven, Florida, Sunday morning, May 11, 2008, after they admitted committing numerous burglaries to several homes and golf carts on Palm Island. One of the victims was Senator Connie Mack. The burglaries were first reported to have occurred last Friday night and early Saturday morning.

Above, L to R, Joshua Schmucker, Derek Wise and Matthew Marone

CCSO deputies beefed up patrols Saturday night in hopes of catching the suspects who might commit further burglaries, and it paid off. At 10:40 p.m. Deputy Ryan Clifton observed three teens driving recklessly on a golf cart and stopped them. The teens were questioned and subsequently admitted to committing burglaries to homes and golf carts that started Friday night.

All three were taken to the Charlotte County Jail and each was charged with five counts of felony Burglary and six counts of felony Grand Theft. They are Joshua James Schmucker, 18, Derek Layton Wise, 19, and 17-year-old Matthew David Marone. The trio has been charged with six burglaries on Bocilla, Palm, and Kettle Harbor drives on the island.

The items stolen included GPS units, watches, currency, fishing rods, reels, satellite radio, wallet, two purses, credit cards, clothing, and two golf carts. Total amount stolen is $8,036. All four of the vehicles burglarized were unlocked.

The teens stole a golf cart from the area under Senator Connie Mack's stilted house, and took clothing and a GPS unit out of his vehicle.

Detectives said the teens admitted to getting into at least 15 vehicles on the island.

Marone and Schmucker told detectives where the stolen items were located on the island. A detective took Marone and found many of the stolen items.

The investigation continues and more charges are pending. Marone, a juvenile, was released to his parents.

All three of the teens had been staying on the island, Charlotte County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Bob Carpenter reported.

Mother Arrested; Children Found
Locked Inside Home, Abused

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a woman in Kissimmee was charged with abuse and false imprisonment after screams led officers to her children locked inside a home, police said.

Investigator said homeowners heard screams coming from a home on Warrior Lane in Kissimmee Sunday.

When officers investigated, they found Sameena Jaweed's children locked inside the home with special dead bolts.

There were also signs of abuse found on the children, officials said.

Deputies said the family was living in sub-standard conditions.

Sameena Jaweed was taken into custody along with another 22-year-old family member inside the home.

Deputies said the children's father may be arrested as well, WKMG reported.

 

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Traffic Stop Leads to Huge
Counterfeit Credit Card Scheme;
4 Arrested; GPS Shows 49 Stores,
Including 7 in Manatee, Were Hit

PORT CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff’s road patrol deputy stopped a white Dodge minivan for a headlight out on S.R.776 at Torrence St. in Port Charlotte around 8:45 p.m. Wednesday night, May 7, 2008. The minor infraction resulted in a major investigation underway into trafficking in counterfeit credit cards. Detectives found an operational GPS system that revealed 49 business locations in its memory that they may have hit, including 7 in Manatee County.

Above, L to R, Carolina Cuadra, Martin Garcia,
and Christian Martinez-Rio; not shown is Caridad Suarez

The driver was identified as Carolina Cuadra, 29, and passengers Martin Antonio Garcia, 23, Christian Martinez-Rio, 26, and 72 year old Caridad Suarez, all of Miami. A search of the van located a large duffle bag containing 47 cartons of cigarettes. Also found were numerous credit cards and gift cards. Garcia then told deputies they had purchased the cigarettes at several Wal-Mart stores and Hess gas stations from St. Petersburg to Venice using fraudulent credit cards. Deputies then learned that at 8:30 p.m. a Hispanic male tried to buy 12 cartons of cigarettes at the Wal-Mart/Murphy’s Oil in Englewood. The clerk told the man that the credit card was refused; he then fled the scene. A photo line up was made after the traffic stop and the clerk positively identified Garcia as the one who presented the bogus credit card.

Martinez told detectives Suarez supplied the credit cards and they went to approximately thirty stores making purchases using fraudulent credit cards. Martinez said he’s been involved with the group for the past two months.

As deputies were about to take all four to the Charlotte County Jail, Suarez complained of chest pains and was taken to an area hospital; he will be charged upon release.

The GPS found 49 programmed business locations that had the current route in progress from Englewood Wal-Mart to the Wal-Mart in Murdock.

Other positions in the GPS memory were as follows: 23 Wal-Mart stores; 6 in Melbourne, 4 in Sarasota, 4 in Bradenton, two in Palm Bay, and one Wal-Mart each in Englewood, Venice, Vero Beach, Largo, Pinellas Park and St. Petersburg.

Hess gas stations had 4 locations in Melbourne, two each in Bradenton and St. Petersburg, and one each in Port Richey, Sarasota, Palm Beach and Hialeah.

There were three FINA gas stations that were positioned; two in Miami and one in Palm Beach Gardens.

Publix stores included two in Boca Raton and one in Palm City.

Two Ross Department Stores were in the GPS, one each in Bradenton and St. Petersburg.

Mobile gas stations had one each in Palm City, Tampa and Palm Beach Gardens.

There was also one Tampa Wachovia Bank, one at Starbucks in Miami, and one to Izabell’s Pilothormolony in Tampa.

CCSO detectives continue working on the case and the investigation continues due to multi-jurisdictional crimes and numerous pending charges by other agencies.

Idol Contestant Syesha Mercado
Breezes Into Bradenton; Visits
Idol Sponsor AT&T Store

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- American Idol contestant Syesha Mercado just about flew through Bradenton on Friday, May 9, 2008, on her way to Sarasota. Mercado, known to her fans as Syesha, placed in one of the top three spots Wednesday night on the popular American Idol television show. NewsManatee's Carole Atkins caught up to her at the AT&T store located at 4708 Cortez Road West. The crowd of about 150 waiting for Syesha paled in comparison to the large crowd that greeted her in Downtown Bradenton, where she received a key to the city earlier in the day.

Above, Syesha Mercado at the AT&T store
(Photo by Carole Law Atkins, NewsManatee)

Syesha Mercado and her entourage arrived in style at the AT&T store on Cortez Road around 11:40 a.m. Two stretch limos carried her, along with a film crew, American Idol and People Magazine representatives.

"Miss Mercado was in good spirits and appeared overwhelmed by all the adoring fans," Atkins said.

William Luff of Bradenton said he came because she represents the true character of a talented person who deserves to win American Idol. As for voting for Syesha, Luff and his wife spend about 2 hours on three phones and send as many votes in as they can before they are cut off after each show.

Gretchen Schultz, the AT&T spokesperson, said that everything came together really fast at the store with the help of all involved. AT&T has been a sponsor of American Idol for 6 seasons. The store arranged for a small stage and a chained off area for the long line of autograph seekers. Syesha was very gracious and signed all the photos that were presented to her.

In a matter of 15 minutes she was gone again.

Syesha was off to the Ringling Museum in Sarasota and then to the Rays game Friday night where she sang the national anthem.

Mercado, 21, attended Daughtrey Elementary and Manatee School for the Arts. She graduated from Sarasota’s Booker High School in 2005.

Man Suffers Life-Threatening
Injuries in Stabbing Incident;
Suspect Later Found, Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man who stabbed another man early Saturday morning, at about 1:50 a.m., in a homeless camp in the 1000 block of 53rd Avenue East.

Joshua Whited

According to a report from the sheriff's office, the victim, Kenneth James Hettel, 44, suffered multiple stab wounds to his back.

Witnesses said Hettel stumbled into their tent bleeding heavily; 911 was called.

When deputies arrived on scene, Hettel could not even give his name.

He was immediately transported to Manatee Memorial via ambulance because Bayfight was not transporting due to weather. EMS classified his injuries as life-threatening.

Hettel did make a statement to deputies that he was in a fight. Deputies were able to obtain his name and locate two crime scenes in the woods.

At the time of the report, a weapon had not been found. The area was searched for the suspect, but he was not located.

The latest from the hospital was that Hettel was going to be admitted.

Hettel's attacker was described as an unknown White male in his early 20s, 6'00" to 6'02" tall, with brown hair, and was last seen wearing a sleeveless gray shirt and blue jean shorts, he had a possible name of "Joshua," the report said.

Then, at approximately 6:00 a.m., the sheriff's office received a phone call from a person at 4910 10th Lane East stating they believed the suspect the sheriff's office was looking for was at this location. Several units from patrol and the Violent Crimes Task Force responded to that address and found a man by the name of Joshua Whited there. Detectives spoke with Whited on scene, post-Miranda. Whited admitted to stabbing the victim and agreed to show detectives where he disposed of the weapon claiming it was near his camp in the woods at the 1100 block of 53rd Avenue East.

Upon arrival at Whited's camp, he showed deputies where he remembered throwing the knife he claimed was approximately 10" in length without the handle; he said it broke off when he stabbed the victim. A thorough search of this area did not yield the weapon even though Whited claimed it was the area. The decision was made for a Crime Scene Tech to go to the lab and retrieve several metal detectors in a further attempt to locate the weapon. Shortly after the detectors arrived, the blade was found in the brush near where the suspect directed detectives. The handle to the knife was then located in the leaves where the stabbing occurred.

The crime scene, as well as all evidence, was photographed and collected by the Crime Scene Unit, to include Whited's shorts, which had blood on them.

The suspect gave an audio recorded statement of his account as to what had happened during this incident. He fully admitted to stabbing the suspect but claimed it was all in self defense. He was then transported to the Central Jail for processing.

Joshua Whited, 24, was charged with Aggravated Battery.

Bradenton Cops Arrest Man for
Armed Robbery of Publix
Pharmacy Twice

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Ray Cavedo, 35, of the 7000 block of 12th Court East. Detectives say Cavedo robbed the Publix pharmacy at 5001 State Road 64 East on two occasions.

Above, L to R, Ray Cavedo and robbery suspect surveillance photo

According to NewsManatee archives, on the first occasion, Saturday, March 15, 2008, a man walked into the store shortly before closing at 7:00 p.m. and robbed the pharmacy of 1,735 Oxycodone pills of varying strengths valued at $20,260 dollars.

He told the pharmacist to, "Give me all of your Roxy's and Oxy's." The pharmacist thought he might have a gun by the way the man's hands were inside a sweater.

On the second occasion, Friday, April 25, 2008, the same man entered the pharmacy at about 7:45 p.m. and demanded pain medication, saying, "You remember me; I want the same stuff."

This time the man had a handgun tucked in the front of his pants, Police said. He made off with about 2,200 oxycodone pills in the second robbery.

On both occasions, Bradenton Police arrived rapidly and K-9 tracked for the suspect, but he couldn't be located.

Police learned that a man by the name of Ryan Goodwin drove Cavedo to the Publix store in the second robbery. Goodwin took Police to the location where Cavedo was 'holed up.'

Bradenton Police arrested Cavedo on Thursday afternoon, May 8, 2008.

He was charged with two counts of Armed Robbery.

Wal-Mart Personnel Had Thief
Pinned to the Floor
When Cops Arrived

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Bradenton Police Department, personnel at the Wal-Mart store in West Manatee County at 5315 Cortez Road West had a shoplifter pinned to the floor when they arrived.

Nicole M. Blanicole

A BPD arrest report said Nicole M. Blanicole, 18, of 925 51st Avenue East, entered the store and collected $77.52 worth of merchandise and concealed the items in an empty bag and on her person.

Blanicole then attempted to exit the store without paying for the items.

But Wal-Mart personnel caught her. She resisted, so they had her pinned to the floor near the exit doors by the time police officers arrived.

Blanicole asked if she gave the store the money, would they let her go.

She told police, "I stole the stuff because I don't have anything."

Blanicole was arrested and charged with Retail Theft.

The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, May 8, 2008, at about 2:45 p.m.

BPD Arrests Man for Various
Drug, Financial Crimes

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Alan Joseph Riccio, 47, of 3012 59th Street Court West and charged him with several drug and financial crimes.

Alan Joseph Riccio

On May 7, 2008, Riccio was arrested for passing a counterfeit prescription and having illegal drugs in his possession.

On May 8, 2008, Riccio was interviewed by Detective Giddens, of the Bradenton Police Department, about the theft, forgery and cashing of some checks.

According to the report, Riccio allegedly stole several checks, forged the victim's signature and cashed them. The total value in the report was $2,820 dollars.

Riccio allegedly admitted to the crimes.

Riccio was additionally charged with Forgery and Grand Theft.

Woman Arrested in Theft From
2 Desoto Square Mall Stores

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Amanda N. Connery, 22, of 11758 Hidden Forest Loop, in Parrish, after Connery allegedly stole items from two stores on Thursday, May 8, 2008.

Amanda N. Connery

According to the arrest report, Connery entered the junior department of a department store at Desoto Square Mall, selected some items, entered a fitting room and concealed the items in her bag.

She then exited the store without paying for the items, valued at $110 dollars.

Store security was not able to stop Connery, but continued observing her while she entered another mall store and repeated the process, taking items valued at $30 dollars.

Connery was eventually stopped and deputies were called.

She was arrested and charged with two counts of Retail Theft.

Armed Home Invasion Robbery
Late Thursday Reported

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a Hispanic woman was robbed by three armed Black males on Thursday, May 8, 2008, at about 11:30 p.m. in her residence located in the 1000 block of 63rd Avenue West.

A sheriff's report of the incident said Maria Martinez-Pena, 22, heard a knock on the front door.

Maria started to open the door, when 3 unknown Black males pushed their way into the residence. Two of them were carrying semi-automatic handguns and one was carrying a wood handled hammer.

One of the men held a gun to Maria's head and said, "Where's the money at?"

The men ransacked the residence, searching for valuables. The robbers took Maria's purse containing a cell phone, Florida I.D., two credit cards and a blue wallet.

When the robbers found the purse, they fled back out the front door and ran westbound down 63rd Ave. W.

A witness told deputies the robbers got into a 1990s model red Ford Taurus and fled south on US 41.

One of the robbers left a black goalie-type mask behind.

No shots were fired and there were no injuries

The robbers were only described as 3 unknown Black males of unknown age, all wearing black shirts and blue jean 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.

Woman Stabbed By Juvenile,
Manatee Deputies Report

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Leigh Ann Lawson, of unknown age, was stabbed by a 16-year-old juvenile, named only as "P" in the report. The incident occurred on Saturday, May 10, 2008, at about 6:00 p.m., in the 4500 block of 27th Avenue West.

Lawson was going to see a movie, but had her friend stop at the above location to talk to "P." Lawson went inside while her friend stayed outside in the car.

While inside, Lawson and "P" got into an argument over $20. Witnesses then saw Lawson run from the residence with no apparent wounds.

Lawson jumped into the car her friend was waiting in, with "P" running after her with a knife. Lawson managed to get into the car and get the door closed before "P" got there.

But the passenger side window was half open and "P" was armed with a steak knife. "P" stabbed Lawson through the window, once in the right forearm and once in the right quadriceps. "P" stabbed a third time but struck something hard and the blade to the knife broke off.

The driver and Lawson sped off down the street while calling 911.

Lawson was questioned and identified "P" as the suspect. Witnesses confirmed "P" was the suspect.

Lawson’s wounds were deep, but not life threatening. Lawson was transported to and treated at Manatee Memorial Hospital.

"P" was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery. "P" was taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center.

Burglary Reported On
30th Avenue East

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman reported a burglary to her home in the 1600 block of 30th Avenue East, a Manatee County Sheriff's Office report said.

The burglary occurred on Thursday, May 8, 2008, between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., the woman told deputies.

The burglar entered her home by removing a pane of glass and screen from the window of the back bedroom of the house.

Items valued at an estimated $700 dollars were taken, the report said.

$20,000 in Jewelry Stolen
in Parrish Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman told the Manatee County Sheriff's Office her residence in the 3800 block of Twin Rivers Trail, in Parrish, had been burglarized and over $20,000 in jewelry had been taken.

A sheriff's office report on May 8, 2008, said between the dates of April 27, 2008, and May 1, 2008, unknown suspect(s) entered the above address through the back bedroom window.

Once inside, the suspect(s) took all the jewelry out of the jewelry box located in the master bedroom closet. They also took the jewelry out of the vanity dresser drawer located in the master bedroom.

The suspect(s) then fled the residence through an unknown exit point.

The victim, Janet Amar, 54, told deputies that she checked the house and noticed her jewelry missing but nothing else was out of place.

She said she called her insurance company, but waited to call law enforcement until Thursday, May 8, 2008.

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, Man Slashed in
Palmetto Bar Fight

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- According to Corporal Johnston, of the Palmetto Police Department, two women were taken to jail and a man and woman were transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital following an altercation at The Hall, formerly known as El Sombrero, located at 1330 U.S. 301 North, in Palmetto, early Sunday morning, at about 1:50 a.m.

Above, The Hall, 1330 U.S. 301 North, Palmetto
(Photo by Craig Herbert, NewsManatee)

A report of the incident said seven women attacked Yasmine Elizabeth Martinez, 22, in a dispute over a boyfriend.

Cpl. Johnston said Jennifer Garcia, 24, and Delfina Garcia, 20, both of Bradenton, attacked Martinez with a glass bottle. Martinez suffered cuts to her left arm, forehead, cheek and lip.