Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 5/24/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 5/24/2008

Manatee Detectives Investigating
Murder in Northwest Bradenton;
Still No Suspects

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives continue to investigate the death of Janice Fore, 74, a White female, who was discovered Wednesday evening in her residence located at 1208 67th St. N.W., Bradenton.

Above, 1208 67th Street Northwest, Bradenton
(Photo by Carole Law Atkins)

An autopsy was being performed Thursday morning to determine the cause of death. Because of the ongoing investigation, the results of the autopsy will not be released at this time, the sheriff's office said.

A motive for the homicide has not been established.

Fore was last seen by neighbors Tuesday night, Ms. Fore's birthday.

On Wednesday, a person found some of Fore's belongings in an area near the 6900 block of Manatee Avenue West, sheriff's spokesman Dave Bristow said.

That person contacted the sheriff's office after being unable to reach Fore to notify her of finding her belongings.

At approximately 5:40 p.m. Wednesday afternoon, Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies responded to Fore's house, "due to suspicious circumstances," the sheriff's office reported.

After failing to make contact with the occupant of the residence, deputies entered the house and discovered Fore's body.

Above, Janice Fore, murdered woman
(Photo courtesy WTVT, Fox 13)

Detectives responded to the scene and are treating the case as a homicide.

Fore’s Volkswagen convertible, which was missing from the residence, was located Wednesday night abandoned in a strip mall in the 2400 block of St. Rd 64 E., Bradenton.

Fore's Volkswagen was seen by a neighbor being driven out of her driveway and down the street at a high rate of speed on Wednesday morning at about 6:30 a.m.

"We have some solid leads and some physical evidence from the crime scene and from the vehicle that was found," Bristow told NewsManatee on Thursday. "We're hopeful we'll be able to bring this case to a conclusion soon."

Further details will be released as warranted, Bristow said.

NewsManatee archives show this is the 3rd murder in Manatee County in 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.

Bradenton Police Still Search
for Home Invasion Robbery
Suspect; Asking Public's Help

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department is asking the public's help in the search for a man who committed a home invasion robbery.

Fernando Belafonte Williams
(Mug shot from Florida Dept. of Corrections)

On April 29th, 2008, Bradenton Police officers responded to a reported home invasion robbery in the 6900 block of Pointe West Blvd., Bradenton, Florida. The female victim reported being confronted by a burglar in her garage where her purse was taken by force. She also reported over $3000.00 worth of property being stolen during the incident.

Detective Curulla has identified the suspect in the Home Invasion Robbery as Fernando Belafonte Williams, 24, (DOB 6/13/83).

An arrest warrant has been issued for Williams for the charge of Home Invasion Robbery.

Detective Curulla is asking for the assistance of the public in the attempt to locate Williams.

According to the Florida Dept. of Corrections, Williams has spent time in prison for crimes committed in Miami-Dade County, Florida.

Anyone having information with regards to this incident is asked to call the Bradenton Police Detective James Curulla at 941-932-9311 OR to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1000, call Crime Stoppers (toll free) at 1-866-634-8477 (TIPS) -- 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 Arrested for Assaulting
Deputy, Hit-and Run Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Steven Michael Rosenwinkel, 39, of 5917 14th Street West, after they said Rosenwinkel left the scene of a crash and then assaulted a deputy who had caught up to him.

Steven Michael Rosenwinkel

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at about 8:00 p.m., Rosenwinkel was involved in a traffic crash with property damage (location not stated in the report).

A deputy was dispatched to Cheers Bar, 3601 14th Street West, after another deputy advised Rosenwinkel was seen at that location.

Upon arrival, the deputy observed a silver Nissan truck which matched the description of the vehicle involved in the crash.

An employee of Cheers told the deputy that the man from the truck went inside.

When the deputy went inside, he was told the man had just fled out the front door. Then, after going outside, the deputy was told the man had just reentered the bar from the side door.

The deputy went inside and made contact with Rosenwinkel and brought him outside.

Rosenwinkel had blood on his shirt and hands and kept trying to go back inside the bar, but the deputy told him to "stay put."

When Rosenwinkel made a move toward the door, the deputy put him up against the wall. Rosenwinkel then tried to fight the deputy, swinging his arms toward the deputy.

The deputy called for backup and Rosenwinkel was subdued and arrested.

He was charged with Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Property Damage and Driving on a Suspended License (2nd offense).

Woman Arrested for Failure
to Return Rental Car

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Brea White, 25, of 314 12th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Brea White

According to the arrest report, white rented a car from Hertz on March 27, 2008.

White was supposed to return the vehicle after several days, but did not.

The Hertz office contacted White a couple of times by phone to have the vehicle returned. White told the office the vehicle would be returned.

When it wasn't returned, the Hertz office sent a letter to White.

However, White never returned the $37,000 dollar vehicle, as promised.

So, White was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto on Thursday, May 22, 2008.

Detectives Arrest Man for
Sex Acts with Step-Daughter

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Jeffrey T. Scott, 45, of 4311 14th Avenue East and charged him with Capital Sexual Battery, according to a report from the sheriff's office.

Jeffrey T. Scott

The report said between 2003 thru 2005, Jeffrey Scott engaged in unlawful sexual activity with the victim who was 6 years old at the time; she is now 11.

Scott would pick up his then step-daughter from elementary school and take her home to a residence in the 5900 block of 13th Avenue East, where he would make the victim perform deviant sexual acts.

Through investigative techniques, Crimes Against Children Detectives were able to locate Scott and place him under arrest without incident.

Two Men Rob Another Man
In West Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charles Farley, 35, of the 4700 block of 20th Street West, told Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies he was robbed on Wednesday evening at about 9:50 p.m.

Farley was walking home from a friend's house and was in the 2000 block of 51st Avenue West.

He was grabbed from behind by two men who said, "Give me your money and you won't get hurt."

Farley reached into his front pocket and gave them the an undisclosed amount in cash.

The two robbers then fled West on 51st Ave W.

Farley received no injuries during the incident.

The two men 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.

Local Elks Lodge Donates
Two Electric Wheelchairs

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Elks Lodge 1511 recently donated two electric mobile chairs and car carriers to the Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans' Home located in Port Charlotte, Florida.

Above, L to R, Erich Swain, Veterans' Home Activities Assistant
and Dan Carter, Elks Lodge 1511 Secretary
(Photo by Harold Crapo, Jr.)

The Lodge Secretary and SW District Chairman of Veterans' Affairs Dan Carter stated that, "The Veterans of our Nation have given their all to serve our country since the Revolutionary War. The Elks Lodge 1511 in Bradenton is humbled that we can contribute to the well-being and quality of life for our veterans and families who have given of themselves for all the citizens of this great country of ours."

Delivery of these items was arranged by the Saramana Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution working in concert with the Veterans' Home and the Elks Lodge.

The Elks Lodge invites anyone who would like to donate funds to the "Army of Hope Program" in support of your dedicated troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, are encouraged to participate in this program. Checks in any amount will be welcome. Please make them out to: Florida State Elks Charities and mail to Elks Lodge 1511 Secretary; 2511 75th Street West; Bradenton, Florida 34209.

Big Johnson Bail Bonds
Celebrates Grand Opening
of New Offices Downtown;
Gave Away 500 Weenies

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, May 22, 2008, Big Johnson Bail Bonds celebrated the grand opening of their new offices at 548 12th Street West, in Bradenton.

Above, Big Johnson Bail Bonds employees
serve 500 hot dogs, chips and sodas to passers-by
(Photo by Carole Law Atkins, NewsManatee)

And, they did a nice thing for the downtown community. They cooked and served up hot dogs, chips and sodas to anyone who walked by their offices across from the courthouse, all at no charge to the apparently hungry passers-by. They gave away 500 of the weenies, cooked right there in front of their new offices.

The event coincided with the grand opening of the new Manatee County Justice Center.

Big Johnson's grand opening will go on for 30 days; the hot dogs were such a hit they are all sold out.

Youth Minister Arrested for
Lewd & Lascivious Acts
on Boys

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives with the Sarasota Police Department Crimes Against Children Unit arrested the youth minister of the Bethlehem Baptist Church, 1680 18th Street, Sarasota, for a Lewd and Lascivious Act on a Child Under 16 years of age.

Jesse Marcellus Knowlin

Arrested was Jesse Marcellus Knowlin, 24, of 1647 17th Street, Sarasota.

It is alleged that on Saturday, May 17, 2008, the victim spent the night at Knowlin's home.

The victim stated that he was playing video games at Knowlin's house after Knowlin had bought him and other youths some pizza.

The victim fell asleep on the floor and was later told by Knowlin to sleep in a bed.

While the victim was asleep in the bed he was awakened by Knowlin several times and that Knowlin had his hand inside the victim's shorts. The victim also stated that Knowlin slept behind him and was grinding himself against the victim during the night.

After interviewing an additional victim, SPD detectives have added more charges against James Knowlin. Knowlin now has a total of seven felony charges for crimes over the past year.

Knowlin has been interviewed by detectives and booked into the Sarasota County Jail. Additional charges may result from the investigation.

Detectives are asking that if any other person feels that they may have been the victim of the defendant they should contact Det. Charles Riffe, of the Sarasota Police Department, at (941) 954-7087.

Sarasota County Detectives
Arrest Man, 38, for Sex with
Girl, 17 Years Old

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has been investigating Todd Proa, 39, of 501 Clearview Drive, Port Charlotte, in reference to child abuse.

Todd Proa

In August 2006, the suspect began a sexual relationship with the 17-year-old female victim who was a student at New Gate School located at 11011 Clark Road, Sarasota.

During the time of the incidents Proa was a teacher at the victims school.

On May 21, 2008, Todd S. Proa was arrested in Charlotte County for three counts of Child Abuse via Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office warrants.

Anyone with further information about Todd Proa is encouraged to call Detective Kim of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office.

Vandals Strike Sarasota County’s
Red Bug Slough Preserve

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Vandals hit one of Sarasota’s most popular recreational areas over the weekend, spray painting obscenities on picnic tables, trash cans, an engraved interpretive sign and the lake’s concrete culverts. Not even the palm trees were spared according to Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber.

Above, photo showing some of the vandalism

"In all, the damage probably comes close to or exceeds $2,000," said Weber, adding that neighbors and regular visitors to the area believe the vandals struck late Friday night after 8 p.m. or early Saturday morning. "Most of the tables and trash receptacles have been repainted, and we have been able to restore the interpretive sign. We hope we can remove the paint from the palm trunks without hurting the trees." He says the trickiest part may be cleaning the concrete culvert.

Weber has requested additional nighttime patrols of the preserve and has asked neighborhood groups to help monitor activities there.

Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputies have been notified.

Residents with any information about the incident are asked to contact the Sheriff’s office and refer to case number 08-39939.

$10,000 Reward: Central Florida
Serial Bank Robber

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a $10,000 reward is being offered for a serial bank robber who has struck at least nine times over the last two months, authorities said.

Above, surveillance photo of the bank robbery suspect
(Photo courtesy WKMG)

Officials said they believe the same man has robbed the following banks between March 28 and May 19:

March 28: Bank of America in Leesburg
April 4: Suntrust Bank in Deltona
April 16: Citizens Bank in Haines City
April 17: Riverside National Bank in West Melbourne
April 28: Suntrust Bank in DeLand
May 6: Bank of America in Lakeland
May 15: Center State Bank in Haines City
May 16: Bank of America in Tavares
May 19: Bank of America in Clermont

The robber has implied that he has a weapon in several of the robberies but no weapon has been seen, authorities said.

The bank robber was described as a white man in his late 20s or early 30s with brown hair, about 5 feet 6 inches tall and 165 pounds, WKMG reported.

Authorities said the man may be driving a 1991 red Firebird or a green sport utility vehicle.

Crimeline is offering up to a $10,000 reward for any information that leads to the arrest of the assailant. The phone number for Crimeline is 1-800-423-TIPS.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Bradenton Police Detective:
Boat at Twin Dolphin Marina
Burglarized; Man Later Busted

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A boat at Twin Dolphin Marina was burglarized on Thursday, May 8, 2008; items were taken and later sold, a BPD arrest report said. The man responsible for the break-in was arrested on Tuesday, May 20, 2008, by a Bradenton Police detective.

Nathan M. Vingi

According to the arrest report, a man later identified as Nathan M. Vingi, 29, of unknown address, climbed around a fence located at the Twin Dolphin Marina, 1200 1st Avenue West. The fence is used to keep non-residents out of the marina, where the boats are docked.

Once on the docks, Vingi boarded a boat belonging to an unnamed victim, which was located in a slip.

Once on board, Vingi used a screwdriver to force entry to the cabin area of the boat.

Inside the cabin, Vingi stole a DVD player, flat screen TV and three fishing poles, the report said. A bag was also dumped out and taken so Vingi had something in which to carry the stolen items.

Vingi then walked from the marina to a pawn shop located a few miles away and pawned the items, valued at over $600 dollars, receiving $100 dollars from the pawn shop.

Through investigation, Vingi was the suspected thief. He was interviewed by a detective and admitted to the burglary and pawning of the items.

Vingi said he has a crack cocaine habit and used the money to buy more drugs, the report said.

Vingi was arrested and charged with Burglary to a Conveyance and Dealing in Stolen Property.

Domestic Argument Turns
Physical, Woman, Child
Struck; Man Arrested

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police have arrested Justin Frye, 21, of 36th Court East, in Ellenton.

Justin Frye

According to the arrest report from PPD, on Thursday May 15, 2008, at about 9:30 a.m., Frye was driving to work.

In the back seat of the vehicle was his girlfriend, Ms. Harris, who was holding a toddler, which they have in common.

While in the 200 block of 8th Avenue West, Palmetto, Frye and Harris became involved in a verbal dispute because Frye was running late for work.

The argument turned physical when Harris started striking Frye. Frye then reached behind and started striking Harris while she was holding the child. The child was struck by Frye during this incident. The report did not say if it was intentional or by accident.

Detectives said there were no visible injuries observed.

Frye was arrested on Tuesday, May 20, 2008, and charged with Domestic Battery and Child Abuse.

Both parties were issued domestic violence pamphlets.

Woman Arrested for Punching,
Striking Man with Flashlight

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Sharon Marie Barber, 40, of 14th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Sharon Marie Barber

Police say on Friday, May 16, 2008, at about 10:30 p.m., Barber got into an argument with James Matthews.

Barber punched Matthews in the face.

She then armed herself with a flashlight and struck Matthews on top of his head.

Matthews suffered several lacerations to his head.

Barber was arrested about 1/2 hour later and charged with Aggravated Battery, Causing Bodily Harm.

FWC Agent Witnesses Man
Dumping Commercial Waste
at North Side of DeSoto Bridge

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from Louis Hinds, an agent with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, he witnessed Scott M. Praizner, 42, of 3rd Street Circle East, Palmetto, dump commercial waste on the Palmetto side of the DeSoto Bridge, Northwest side, on December 7, 2007, at about 5:30 p.m..

Scott M. Praizner

Praizner, who is self employed doing business as Custom Concrete, told FWC Agent Hinds he was told that he "could dump the commercial waste there by a Manatee County worker."

However, Praizner was never able to provide a phone number for the alleged worker, the report said.

After witnessing the event, FWC Agent Hinds found Manatee County is not responsible for maintenance of the bridge and every state official that he spoke to said that Praizner would never have been given permission to dump any waste around the bridge.

FWC Agent Hinds wrote a request for the request of Praizner to the State Attorney's Office.

The warrant request was granted and on Friday, May 16, 2008, Praizner was arrested and charged with Commercial Dumping/Littering Over 500 Pounds.

Three El Salvadorian Workers
Victims of Armed Home Invasion
Robbery By Two Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Three workers from El Salvador employed with Dr. Drywall, who don't party or engage in drugs, deputies said, were victims of an armed home invasion robbery by two Black males on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at about 1:30 a.m., according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred at an apartment in the 5400 block of 26th Street West.

The report of the incident said the incident wasn't reported until 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, because the robbers took the victims' cell phones.

When the incident occurred, two armed men entered the home through a side window, which they broke out.

Once inside, the two men demanded money and drugs. One of them acted as a lookout, blocking the apartment door. The other man ransacked the apartment.

The two robbers left in an unknown direction with two cell phones and no cash.

A canvas of the area indicated that "the victims lead a solitary life and do not have parties or engage in any drug activities."

The robbers were described as:

#1: Black male, 5' 8" tall, medium build, 20-30 years old, dressed in black, with a black face mask, a long black coat, and was armed with a blue steel semi-automatic handgun.

#2: Black male, 6' 2" tall, heavier build, 20-30 years old, dressed in black with a black facial mask, long black coat, and was armed with a blue steel semi-automatic handgun.

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.

Braden River High JROTC Student
Awarded "Best of Best" By SAR

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Junior ROTC Cadet Captain Danielle Strutt from Braden River High School received the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Saramana Chapter 'Best of the Best' JROTC award.

Above, L to R, Danielle's Father Michael Strutt, Danielle,
Danielle's Mother Lisa Strutt and Sgt-At-Arms Chuck Barrett.
(Photo by Harold Crapo, Jr.)

SAR Chapter President Phillip H. Tarpley presented the SAR Medallion and a Certificate of Achievement to Danielle at a luncheon held at the Sarasota Hotel and Marina in Bradenton.

The stringent requirements include an essay written by cadets. Each SAR chapter can select an Outstanding Cadet nominated from the local JROTC High Schools. The winning cadet is entered in State contests and State winners compete for the National Gold Medal award.

On Friday, May 9, 2008, during the monthly luncheon meeting of SAR, Cadet Capt. Danielle Strutt of Braden River HS was presented her Bronze Medal with ribbon and Certificate as the Outstanding JROTC Cadet for 2007-2008 school year. The Certificate award states, "Cadet Captain Danielle Strutt, Braden River HS is named Outstanding Cadet, for demonstrating superior leadership abilities, military bearing, and overall academic excellence. This Outstanding Cadet exemplifies the high ideals and principles which motivated and sustained our Patriot Ancestors."

The contestants are nominated by their School JROTC Commanders and Principal. Danielle was also entered in the contest for State Silver Medal. State winners compete for the SAR Gold medal award presented in July during the NSSAR 118th National Congress.

Thirteen local High School JROTC programs in Manatee and Sarasota Counties were offered the opportunity to nominate and enter Cadets for this award.

Cadet Captain Danielle Strutt has indeed proven herself to be a superior student and one of our future leaders in these United States of America.

The Sons of the American Revolution congratulated Cadet Danielle Strutt.

Myakka City Woman Killed in
Single Vehicle Traffic Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a 33-year-old woman was killed in a single vehicle traffic accident Wednesday, about 6:50 a.m. on State Road 64 at Duette Road.

The FHP report of the crash said a 1995 Chevrolet pickup truck being driven by Leslie Elizabeth Carmack, 33, of Myakka City, Florida, was traveling eastbound on SR 64.

For unknown reasons, the pickup truck left the roadway, traveling 383 feet in an eastbound direction on the grass shoulder.

Carmack then steered the pickup to the left and reentered the eastbound lane of SR 64. Carmack then steered the truck back to the right and then back to the left.

The pickup began to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction into the westbound lane of SR 64, then left the roadway onto the north shoulder.

The truck's right side struck a barbed wire fence that was located on the northeast corner of the intersection and overturned.

Carmack was ejected from the vehicle which came to final rest on its tires, facing in a northwesterly direction.

Carmack came to final rest on the ground along the right side of the pickup truck.

She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Woman Raped While Passed Out,
Sarasota County Sheriff's
Detective Says

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff's Detectives reported the rape of a woman by a Verizon management employee.

Anthony A. Goris

On May 18, 2008, at about 3:00 a.m., an unnamed woman said she was raped (sexually battered) by Anthony A. Goris, 32, at 4106 Central Sarasota Parkway.

The victim said Goris, of 5070 Central Sarasota Parkway, raped her while she was intoxicated and passed out on a bed. She said she woke up while Goris was taking her clothes off, lost consciousness again and awoke to find Goris having vaginal sex with her.

The woman told detectives she told Goris to stop and that he was taking advantage of her, before she passed out again. She awoke later in the morning nude on a pullout couch in the living room, the report said.

Witnesses were interviewed who told detectives the woman was very intoxicated when Goris carried her into a bedroom fully clothed. The witnesses said Goris had been left alone in the apartment with the woman.

According to the report, Goris later confessed to raping the woman while she was passed out on the bed due to her intoxication. Goris also told detectives the woman did not resist or participate in the sexual intercourse, nor did she provide consent, due to her being passed out.

Goris was arrested and charged with Sexual Battery on a Person Unable to Resist. He was jailed in Sarasota without bond.

Englewood Woman Rescued
by Sheriff’s Office Helicopter

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, May 17, 2008, at approximately 11:24 p.m. Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 925 South River Road, Englewood, for a report of a missing 81=year-old female.

At approximately 11:47 p.m. the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Helicopter using its thermal imaging system located the missing woman laying face down in a grassy area off of South River Road, Englewood.

The victim, Margaret Whitson, a White female, of 925 South River Road, Englewood, had gotten lost on her way to Bingo, and had been missing since 6:00 p.m. that day.

Ms. Whitson was transported to Englewood Hospital’s Emergency Room where she was found to be in good health.

Python Invasion Spreading
Across Florida

BREVARD COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported an invasion of giant Burmese pythons in South Florida that made national headlines is "rapidly expanding" and could reach Central Florida, according to a University of Florida study.

Above, a Burmese python

"There's no part of this state that you can point at and say that pythons couldn't live here," researcher Frank Mazzotti said. "They're capable of incredible movement -- and in a relatively short period."

More than 400 snakes were captured around the Everglades National Park last year, WKMG News partner Florida Today reported. And, the climate in Brevard County would be agreeable for the snakes.

According to the university fact sheet, the Burmese python is one of the world's largest snake species.

The largest python found in the Everglades was 16 feet long and weighed 152 pounds.

"As soon as we know they're breeding, eradication gets to be out of the question," Mazzotti said of the snakes.

Most of the pythons were brought over as pets and then turned loose in the wild, WKMG said.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies
Use Taser on Man, Arrest Him
for Disorderly Conduct

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 52-year-old man was arrested by Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies after he refused to leave an Ellenton bar and had to be Tased.

Steven Cross

On Monday, May 19, 2008, at approximately 7:15 p.m., deputies responded to "Woody’s River Roo" in Ellenton, located at 5717 18th Street East, in reference to a man refusing to leave.

Upon arrival, deputies found Cross highly intoxicated and belligerent.

Management informed the deputies that Cross had been removed from the bar three times on Monday and told not to return.

When deputies told Cross he needed to leave, he became disorderly and said he was not leaving.

At this point, deputies attempted to place Cross under arrest for Trespass After Warning and Disorderly Conduct.

Cross, who is 5’10" tall and weighs 240 pounds, tensed up and attempted to pull away. Backup Deputy Ballukoff pointed his Taser at Cross and gave him a warning to comply with his orders to stop resisting. Cross refused to comply, at which time deputy Ballukoff deployed his Taser, striking Cross in the chest.

Deputy Denmark immediately grabbed Cross and assisted him to the ground so he would not be injured.

Cross complied and was arrested without further incident.

He was charged with Trespass After Warning, Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest.

Teen Arrested After Pursuit
for Grand Theft Auto

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy pursued a stolen vehicle on Tuesday; the driver was arrested after the pursuit and confrontation by a sheriff's K-9 unit.

Victor Ramirez

The report said on May 20, 2008, at 12:30 p.m., Dep. Hayes saw a vehicle matching the description of a stolen vehicle from a report he took earlier in the day.

Dep. Hayes confirmed that the vehicle was the same from the report and attempted to stop the vehicle.

After a short vehicle pursuit, the driver fled from the vehicle on foot in the area of the Days Inn hotel, 3506 1st Street West.

K-9 Ranger found a person matching the description in the halls of the Days Inn and Ranger challenged him.

The person, later identified as Victor Ramirez, 17, complied and was taken into custody.

There was no damage to any vehicles or injuries to any of the parties involved.

Ramirez was charged with Grand Theft Auto and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

The vehicle had been stolen in the 600 block of 33rd Avenue Drive East, the sheriff's report said.

Former Sub Shop Employee
Arrested for Theft of Money
from Shop During Night

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Eric S. Simonson, 43, of 5320 53rd Avenue East.

Eric S. Simonson

According to an arrest report, Simonson is a former employee of Jersey Mike's Sub Shop, located at 8210 Tourist Center Drive, in South Manatee County. He was fired two weeks before a burglary on Saturday, May 17, 2008.

On that day, at about 1:30 a.m., Simonson, using a duplicate key, entered the sub shop, as seen on a video surveillance tape, entered the freezer where the money box is kept and removed $205 dollars.

Simonson then left the establishment.

He was later located by a deputy at his home and said he'd been there all night.

When confronted by the surveillance evidence, Simonson said, "Then I confess."

He was taken into custody and charged with Burglary.

The money was not recovered.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Striking Person on Bike,
Fleeing the Scene

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police say on Friday, May 16, 2008, Epifanio Salaz, 18, of 1014 26th Avenue West, in Bradenton, knocked a man off a bicycle and then fled the scene of the crash.

Epifanio Salaz

A BPD arrest report said the unnamed victim was riding a bike in the 2000 block of 13th Street West at about 10:30 p.m.

Salaz, who only had a learner's permit, and was driving alone, was in the 1300 block of 19th Avenue West.

According to a witness, Salaz made a left hand turn and proceed to travel south on 13th Street West. Then Salaz accelerated, the witness said, proceeded toward the victim and struck the victim on the bike with his vehicle.

The victim flew off the bicycle and landed on the ground.

Salaz then lost control of his vehicle, began to skid down the road and struck a fence at 1931 13th Street West.

The witness said Salaz then fled the scene.

Through investigation, Salaz was located at his residence and arrested.

He was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Failure to Stop and Remain at Crash Involving Injury.

The victim was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital and was treated for injuries, which were not life-threatening.

Palmetto Police Department
Arrests Bank Teller for Theft
of Money from Bank

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- According to an arrest report from the Palmetto Police Department, a teller at First Bank, 995 Haben Blvd., Palmetto, stole money from the bank.

Tracy Bryant

Palmetto detectives said Tracy Bryant, 33, of 16th Street Court East, in Tallevast, took $3,000 dollars from her cash drawer at the bank.

The bank had a surprise visit by auditors.

Then Bryant allegedly took money from the vault to place back in her cash drawer.

When the auditor showed up at the bank, Bryant went to the vice president of the bank and confessed to taking the money, the PPD report said.

Bryant was arrested on Monday, May 19, 2008, and charged with Grand Theft.

Three Hispanics Victims of
Armed Home Invasion Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion robbery on Tuesday morning at about 5:15 a.m. in the 2600 block of 5th Street West.

Deputies responded to a home invasion robbery at above location. According to the three Hispanic victims, one resident left the house to find a Black male waiting outside.

The man forced the Hispanic man back into the house at gunpoint and was then joined by a second Black male. A third Black male was seen outside but did not come into the house.

Once into the house, the three robbers demanded drugs but there were none there.

Two of the victims were punched in the face and one was struck with a teapot, though none sustained any injuries other than a bruise or a small cut.

The robbers took a cell phone, and a total of twenty dollars from the three victims before fleeing in a black, 4-door, Chrysler product.

The only descriptions of the robbers were that one was heavy set and one was thin.

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
By Two Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man on a bike was robbed at gunpoint Monday night at about 9:50 p.m. in the 900 block of 58th Avenue Drive East, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said Frank E. Post IV, 28, was riding his bike to the store to purchase some cigarettes.

In the 900 block of 58th Ave. Drive East, Post saw two Black males talking.

One of the Black males then ran up to Post and pointed a black automatic pistol at him and demanded that Post give him all his money.

Post told the Black male that he has no money, so the male started to frisk Post.

A second Black male then came up to Post and punched Post in the head.

The first robber then took Post's wallet from Post's back pocket and both suspects then fled the area.

Post told deputies that his wallet had no money in it, just some photos and his ID.

Post had no injuries.

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.

Southeast High School Names
Prom King and Queen

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Southeast High School held its annual Senior Prom on Saturday, May 17th, 2008, at The Chelsea Center in Sarasota.

Above, L to R, Alison Drinkard and Blake Bierman

At the event, students were encouraged to submit ballots to vote for the Prom King and Queen.

Seniors Blake Bierman and Alison Drinkard were selected and crowned.

Blake was a wide receiver for Southeast's Varsity Football Team and played on the Varsity Baseball Team. He will be attending Manatee Community College this Fall.

Alison served as Captain of the Varsity Cheerleading Squad and is a student in the prestigious International Baccalaureate Program. She will attend the University of South Florida, Tampa, this Fall.

Tampa Area Woman Sought
in Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident

GROVELAND, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- The Florida Highway Patrol said on Monday that it wants to speak to a woman who was a possible passenger in a sport utility vehicle that struck and killed a girl in Lake County, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Megan Hensley, 14, was struck early Friday morning along state Road 565A in Groveland.

Over the weekend, FHP troopers said a Tampa-area man turned in the Nissan Xterra that they think hit Hensley. The man is not the owner of the SUV, but investigators are calling him a "person of interest." A cell phone and laptop computer were confiscated from the SUV, troopers said.

Troopers said they are searching for a woman who may have been riding in the SUV.

"Investigators would like to talk to her. She's considered a witness. She's not facing any charges, but we need to move forward with this investigation and put the rest of the pieces together," FHP Trooper Kim Miller said. "We believe she's here in Central Florida."

Crime-scene technicians will compare the SUV with paint chips and debris found at the crash site.

No arrests have been made.

Hensley went for a walk following an argument with her sister on Thursday night and did not return home, her sister told WKMG News.

Investigators said Hensley was likely struck at about 3 a.m. and thrown into a power pole but did not die instantly. Investigators said if the driver of the SUV would have reported the incident to authorities, Hensley may have been saved.

Her body was found at about 6 a.m. by another driver, troopers said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Man Thrashes Front, Back Door,
Side Windows of House with
Large Ax, Threatens Murder

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Stephen T. Ryan, 43, of 1113 20th Street West, in Bradenton.

Stephen T. Ryan

According to an arrest report from BPD, on Sunday, May 18, 2008, at about 11:00 p.m., Ryan attacked a residence belonging to other people in the 1500 block of 8th Avenue West, in Bradenton, with a large ax.

The report said Ryan went to the location and started yelling at the people inside the house.

He then picked up a large metal ax which was on the front porch and struck the front door to the house several times.

Then Ryan went to the side of the house and broke both side windows, while still yelling at people inside the house.

Not done with his tirade, Ryan then went to the back door of the house and struck that door several times with the ax.

A witness across the street heard Ryan yell, while striking the house, that he was going to murder whoever was inside and he didn't care if he went to prison.

No motive for the attack was given in the report from BPD.

Ryan was arrested and charged with Armed Burglary to a Structure and Criminal Mischief $200-$1,000 dollars.

According to Manatee County court records, a resident at the address that was attacked, Todd Donahue, 33, applied for an Injunction Against Repeat Violence against Ryan in January of 2008, but the scheduled hearing was dismissed.

Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives:
Teen, 17, Arrested for Having Sex
with Girl, 12, Several Times

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Edgar Garcia, 17, of 731 30th Avenue East, and charged him with Lewd and Lascivious Battery on the 12-year-old girl.

Edgar Garcia

A sheriff's office report said the mother of the 12-year-old victim contacted the sheriff's office to report that her daughter has been having sexual relations with Garcia.

The victim took detectives to the location where the incidents occurred, which was located in the wooded area next to Oneco First Baptist, 1700 51st Avenue East.

Garcia was located and interviewed.

He admitted to the relationship and was arrested without incident.

Both the girl and the boy said that they engaged in sexual relations on three separate occasions since April 2008.

Garcia was charged with three counts of Lewd & Lascivious Battery on a Victim Under the Age of 16.

BPD Arrests Man; Threatened
Woman With Knife

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Federico Pastor-Basurto, 38, of 1715 14th Street West, Bradenton, after a woman told police Federico threatened her with a knife.

Federico Pastor-Basurto

A BPD arrest report said on Sunday, May 18, 2008, at about 7:20 p.m., police were dispatched to the above location.

Upon arrival, an officer spoke with the victim, Ms. Diodgy Miguelina- Frances, who told the officer "excitedly" that a man assaulted her with a knife a few minutes earlier.

As she explained the incident, Federico walked by and she pointed him out.

Ms. Frances said that Federico came out of his apartment with a large fixed blade knife and walked toward her with it in his right hand, holding it in a stabbing position.

When Federico was about five feet from Ms. Frances, he said, "Bitch, I'll take care of you right now."

At that time, some of Federico's friends told him to stop and put the knife away, which he did, the report said.

Federico was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Deputies Arrest Man for
Burglary, Flight

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested James Michael Buck, 25, of 6015 28th Avenue East, in Palmetto, after they say Buck attempted to steal a saw and then fled when deputies approached him.

James Michael Buck

According to Buck's arrest report, on Sunday, May 18, 2008, at about 9:00 a.m., Buck stopped his vehicle in front of a home in the 700 block of 48th Street West, in Palmetto. The resident was inside his home at the time.

Buck exited his car, approached the open garage door and picked up a saw belonging to the resident.

The resident saw Buck do this and confronted Buck, demanding Buck drop the saw. Buck complied and begged the resident to allow him to leave.

Long story short, Buck ran past the resident, jumped in his car and fled.

The car was located in the 100 block of 12th Street Court West, in Palmetto, but Buck had given the car to his wife and had taken their silver car home.

Deputies located Buck at his home, whereupon Buck fled from deputies.

After a short foot chase, Buck was apprehended. He told deputies he was high on drugs and wasn't sure why he tried to steal the man's saw.

The resident whose saw was almost stolen identified Buck as the man who tried to steal the saw.

Buck was arrested and charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Woman Chased By Man
With Large Butcher Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Neil W. Toot, 43, of 1704 49th Avenue West, and charged him with Aggravated Assault.

Neil W. Toot

An arrest report said on Saturday, May 17, 2008, at about 7:00 a.m., a woman, Joie Van Dugteren, of 4523 27th Street West, told deputies she was looking for a cell phone that Toot possibly took from her home and tossed in the bushes in front of her home.

While Joie was looking for her cell phone, Toot approached her with a butcher knife and started chasing after her.

Joie told deputies the knife was a large butcher knife with a white handle.

While Tood was chasing after Joie, he repeatedly yelled, "Where is my wife?"

Joie ran approximately 100 feet to her home for safety.

She told deputies she was in fear for her life and her family's safety.

Two Arrested for Robbery,
Attacks on Two Men

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Carlos Ramos, 20, and Urelindo Mazariegos, 16, both of Palmetto.

Above, L to R, Carlos Ramos and Urelindo Mazariegos

The two suspects approached victim #1, Karis Dukes, 24, at Groover's Market, in Palmetto, as he was walking home from work.

They asked him for money and then grabbed him and took $40.00 from his pocket.

They then fled North from the location on foot.

The suspects then approached victim #2, John Tyson, 49, in the 2200 block of 2nd Avenue West, in Palmetto, grabbed him from behind and struck him.

They did not attempt to take anything from him and made no statements.

The suspects then fled that area.

Both suspects were located a short time later and arrested.

There were no injuries to either victim.

Both Ramos and Mazariegos were charged with Robbery and Battery.

Man Wounded in Drive-By
Shooting Early Monday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 24-year-old man was wounded in a drive-by shooting incident on Monday, May 19, 2008, at about 12:10 a.m., the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

The victim, Alfa Young, was a passenger in his girlfriend's car, along with their two small children.

The girlfriend, Tessa Bull, stopped the car in the 1800 block of 51st Avenue East to have Alfa Young rinse the baby's bottle out.

An unknown description male leaned out of a blue Toyota Celica type car as it passed and shot a gun several times towards the victim.

Alfa was struck with one bullet that entered his left forearm, shattered both long bones and lodged near the bone under his bicep.

Tessa drove the car to the Walmart parking lot at 2911 53rd Avenue East and called the sheriff's office.

EMS responded and transported the victim to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Young's injury was not life-threatening.

The incident is still under investigation.

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.

Benefit for Dying Girl a Success,
Organizer Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A benefit was held on Sunday, May 18, 2008, at Ace's Lounge, 4343 Palma Sola Blvd., for Megan Stevens, 11, who doctors say has about 3 months or less to live.

NewsManatee recently headlined the story of Megan Stevens who is dying from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (A.L.L.).

Doctors did what they could for Megan, but recently discontinued all therapy, saying her quality of life would be best if they stopped. Then they sent Megan home to spend what time she has left with her family.

That's when some good people decided to hold the event Sunday at Ace's Lounge to raise money for Megan's benefit, so she can have what she needs in her last days.

The event on Sunday raised about $5,000 dollars, according to the event's organizer, Ursula Duncan. Ms. Duncan estimated they raised about $2,500 from food sales, $2,000 dollars from a 50/50 raffle and about $1,000 dollars in donations.

Megan was able to attend the event.

Any excess money "left over" that Megan and her family don't use will be used to help pay for her memorial services when Megan's time comes.

If you would like to assist in this worthwhile project for Megan, a trust account has been established at Sun Trust Bank in the name of “The Megan Stevens Irrevocable Trust.”

Per Megan’s request, any leftover monies from her trust fund will go to a friend she met at All Children's Hospital. Her friend has just begun her battle with cancer.

Man Stabbed at Quik Stop
in Sarasota, SPD Says

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, May 18, 2008, at about 10:30 p.m., a man was stabbed at the Quik Stop located at 312 North Orange Avenue, according to the Sarasota Police Department.

Anthony Darnell Williams

The victim, Chris Allen Guffey, 30, was stabbed in the chest by an acquaintance during an altercation at the convenience store.

Guffey was transported by Bayflight and does not have a life-threatening injury.

Arrested was Anthony Darnell Williams, 37.

Williams was charged with Aggravated Battery.

There were several witnesses and the investigation continues.

Sarasota Police Report
Man Shot Several Times

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Sarasota Police Department, a man was shot several times at his residence on Monday, at a couple of minutes past midnight.

The location of the shooting was 427 E. Cornelius Circle, in Sarasota.

The victim, Dustin Walker, 26, a White male, was shot during what police are calling a Home Invasion Robbery.

Walker was transported by Bayflight but does not have life-threatening injuries, police said.

Initially, several neighbors called in to report hearing gunshots.

Preliminary information indicates that the crime was not a random incident.

The investigation continues.

CCSO Identifies Missing Diver;
Search Continues

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office has identified the missing scuba diver as Dale R. Witt, 67, of 1953 S.E. Cherry Dr., Arcadia. CCSO Major Crimes Unit detectives said the family has been notified.

Witt was reported missing to the U.S. Coast Guard and CCSO late Saturday morning.

A search of the area west of Englewood several miles out into the gulf Saturday and Sunday was unable to locate the missing diver.

Due to inclement weather off shore, there had not been a search so far on Monday, however, when the weather breaks, a CCSO aircraft will search the area according to Lt. Andy Kolba, head of the aviation unit.

The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit is on standby which is standard procedure in a missing person investigation of this nature.

Two Men Open Fire at Diner,
Two People Shot

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG -- Orlando television station WKMG reported two men walked into an Orlando diner and opened fire, injuring two people, police said.

Investigator said more than 100 people were attending a party at the Hip Hop diner located on Colonial Drive when the shooting began.

Bullets hit two people but their injuries were not life-threatening

Deputies are working with witnesses to come up with a description of the shooters, WKMG said.

The WKMG report did not give the day or time of the shooting.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Ware's Creek Shooting Victim
Arrested; Charged with Holding,
Intent to Sell Pound of Marijuana

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Last Thursday night, May 15, 2008, at about 10:30 p.m., Mitchell Santos, 22, was shot in the arm and upper chest by 3 Black males at his home located at 2306 7th Avenue West, in the Ware's Creek subdivision in Bradenton.

Mitchell A. Santos

Following the shooting, Santos was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of his wounds.

Meanwhile, Bradenton Police descended on the Ware's Creek residence, along with narcotics officers because of possible drug activity and collection of narcotics.

Subsequently, Santos was arrested by BPD detectives and charged with Possession (of a pound) of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, according to Bradenton Police Major Bill Tokajer, who spoke to NewsManatee just before 5 p.m. on Friday.

According to a report from BPD of the shooting incident, officers were dispatched to the above location reference a shooting.

While en route, BPD dispatch confirmed one person had been shot and the shooter and his associates had fled from the scene.

Upon arrival, officers spoke with Megan Million, 19, and Mitchell Santos. Santos "appeared to have a bullet wound through his arm and chest and was bleeding throughout the residence," the BPD report said.

Investigation revealed that Million heard a knock at the door and she asked who it was. The person replied, "Kevin." Million said she recognized the name and opened the door.

Instantly she was confronted by a Black male approximately 5'10" tall, about 170-180 pounds, wearing a white T-shirt and hat, with khaki shorts.

Million said the man pointed a handgun at her chest, and she began screaming.

Santos, hearing the scream, rushed out of the bathroom towards the front door, at which time the man fired two rounds at Santos.

Santos was able to push the man back, giving room to shut and lock the door.

Million told officers she then looked outside and saw two other Black males wearing all black, who were at the east end of the house. All three men "ran westbound in the dark," the report said.

Million could not provide a description of the other two men, but said they also had handguns.

While investigating at the scene, officers discovered a pound of marijuana and summoned narcotics detectives.

As yet, there have been no arrests arising out of the shooting 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.

Man Arrested for Sexual Intercourse
with Two Minor Step-Daughters
Multiple Times Charged with
Sex Acts with Third Minor
Step-Daughter

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Faustino Gonzalez, 36, of the 900 block of 24th Street East, Palmetto, has been additionally charged with having sex with a third minor step-daughter, 11 years old. He had previously been arrested for having sex with two other minor step-daughters, now 14 and 15. All three girls were apparently allegedly sexually attacked multiple times from the age of 9. Gonzalez has now been charged with three counts of Capital Sexual Battery.

Faustino Gonzalez

On Thursday, May 15, 2008, the 11-year-old girl told detectives Faustino had abused her since the age of 9 multiple times. On one occasion, the girl told detectives, he also touched her bare breast with his mouth, saying he was hungry and wanted milk. Gonzalez had put "his thing" inside her private part, the girl said. The girl said she had told Gonzalez to stop and that it hurt.

Last week, NewsManatee reported Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives had arrested Gonzalez after they learned Gonzalez had allegedly had sexual intercourse with his two step-daughters, 14 and 15, multiple times.

According to the arrest report, detectives interviewed Gonzalez' two step-daughters.

They said Gonzalez had sexual intercourse with them multiple times. One of the girls said it began when she was at the age of 9.

Gonzalez allegedly had sex with one of the girls the first time in her closet. She said Gonzalez wore a condom and told her, "It's not gonna hurt."

The first girl told detectives it happened every day when her mother went to work.

The other girl told detectives "He started doing things I really didn't like."

The second girl said he would start by touching her. She had sexual intercourse with Gonzalez multiple times also, she told detectives.

A detective met Gonzalez on Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at Palmetto High School, while Gonzalez was picking up one of his step-daughters.

The detective reported Gonzalez was arrested without incident.

Post-Miranda, Gonzalez invoked his rights to remain silent and to have an attorney appointed and present during questioning.

At that time, Gonzalez was arrested and charged with two counts of Capital Sexual Battery.

Manatee Undercover Detectives
Arrest Two in "Buy-Bust"
Operation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Undercover Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Demetrius Terrell Andrews, 22, and Linda Joyce Mack, 55, in connection with an undercover drug buy operation in Palmetto.

Above, L to R, Demetrius Andrews and Linda Mack

On Thursday, May 15, 2008, the sheriff's office Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit, led by Sgt. Eric Isola, conducted a buy bust operation at Uppy’s Gas Station, located at 7219 US 41 North in Palmetto.

Detectives ordered $100.00 worth of crack cocaine from a subject named Demetrius Terrell Andrews.

At about 9:00 p.m., he arrived as a passenger in a car driven by the second suspect, Linda Mack.

An undercover detective approached their car and completed the deal with Andrews through the passenger side window.

The detective gave the "good deal" signal and the takedown teams moved in and arrested Andrews and Mack.

Mack was interviewed and admitted to knowingly driving Andrews to the meeting location so he could sell narcotics.

Mack had a crack pipe in her bra and a single piece of crack cocaine on her seat that was noticed by detectives as they removed her from the car.

When detectives removed Andrews from the car, they noticed a baggie with 16.3 grams of crack cocaine in his immediate vicinity. A loaded 9mm semi-automatic handgun was also found on the driver's side floor board. He also had 3 grams of marijuana in his pocket at the time of his arrest. The total street value of the seized contraband was $2000.00.

Andrews was charged with Possession and Sale of Crack Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of a Concealed Weapon and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

Mack was arrested on similar drug charges.

Cop Tasers Man Who Tried
To Steal Other Man's Bike,
Spits on Other Cop

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Morris Sheehan, 51, of 1339 Idlewild Court, in Sarasota, after they say Sheehan had attempted to steal another man's bicycle on Thursday, May 15, 2008, shortly before 10:00 p.m.

Morris Sheehan

A BPD report said a man wheeled his bicycle into the police station with Sheehan following close behind, cursing and yelling.

The victim asked police for help.

Sheehan left the station and walked into the Bradenton Police Department parking lot with an officer following, asking what the problem was.

Sheehan continued to shout at the officer and yelled profanities.

A police lieutenant yelled at the officer that Sheehan had just tried to steal the man's bicycle.

The officer told Sheehan to stop, but Sheehan didn't. The officer used his Taser on Sheehan, but Sheehan continued to resist.

When told he would be Tasered again, Sheehan gave up and was taken into custody.

He was charged with Strong Arm Robbery.

After his arrest, Sheehan was placed into a patrol car, where he spit on an officer's arm, laughed and said he had the AIDS virus.

Machete-Wielding Man Seriously
Cuts Other Man's Arm, Breaks
Bones, Cuts Nerves

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Lester D. Thomas, 48, of 602 20th Lane East, Bradenton, after they say Thomas used a three-foot machete on another man.

Lester D. Thomas

A BPD arrest report said on May 3, 2008, Thomas, who was armed with the machete, chased the victim's cousin across the street in the 900 block of 15th Street East, in Bradenton. Thomas then came across the unnamed victim and swung the machete at him.

The victim fell on his back. At that time, Thomas swung the machete again at the victim, who put his arms up, protecting his head. The machete struck the victim's arm. Thomas struck the victim again several times with the machete, while the victim was still on the ground, the report said.

Medical staff who treated the victim later said the blows from the machete broke the victim's bones in several places and would cause nerve damage.

On May 7, 2008, a BPD detective spoke with Thomas. He admitted striking the victim, but said he used a flashlight.

On May 13, 2008, Thomas admitted using the machete and striking the victim with it. He said he could have killed the victim, had the victim not blocked the blow with his arm.

Thomas told the detective the reason he attacked the victim and the victim's cousin was because he believed they had burglarized his vehicle the week prior to the machete incident. The victim and the victim's cousin denied any
involvement in the burglary.

Thomas said he threw the machete in a lake because he felt guilty.

Thomas was arrested on Thursday, May 15, 2008, and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

Woman Arrested for Cutting
Roommate with Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Connie Simmons, 45, of 1608 1st Avenue East, after Simmons allegedly slashed her roommate's arm with a knife.

Connie Y. Simmons

A sheriff's office report said on Friday, May 16, 2008, at about midnight, Simmons was in her bedroom doing drugs with some men.

James Hayes, the roommate, and possibly Simmons' boyfriend, told the men to leave.

Simmons got angry, grabbed a knife and cut Hayes' left forearm.

Hayes received a 3-inch cut on his forearm, but refused medical treatment.

Simmons was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

Hispanic Man Shot Twice
Walking Home from Bar

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man was shot in the arm and stomach while he was walking home from El Paisano's Bar on 15th Street East, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

On Sunday, May 18, 2008, at approximately 12:30 am., Javier Gutierrez, 24, was walking home from El Paisano's Bar. Gutierrez told deputies that he was robbed at the 5800 block of 15th St. E., but witnesses at El Paisano's who stated they were outside all night long, didn't hear or see anything.

There was a witness who heard two gunshots at the 1200 block of 59th Ave. E. That is where a blood trail was observed, starting at the 1200 block of 59th Ave. E. going east to 13th St. E., then south on 13th St. E. to a house on the west side of 13th St. E.

Gutierrez then walked to 5913 13th St. E. and passed out in the yard. A man who was outside of this address at the time called 911 for Gutierrez.

Prior to Gutierrez being airlifted, a short interview was conducted. Gutierrez told deputies a Black male wearing a green hat and carrying an AK-47 confronted him and demanded his wallet containing cash. Gutierrez gave the suspect the wallet and then was shot.

Gutirrez suffered one shot to his stomach and one shot to his left forearm.

Upon arrival of deputies, the area was roped off and the crime scene secured.

EMS transported Martinez to the landing zone for Bayflight, where he was airlifted to Bayfront Medical Center.

Gutierrez was admitted and sent to the operating room, and at last report was listed in stable condition.

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.

3 Black Males Attempt Armed
Robbery of Hispanic Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported 3 Black males attempted to rob a Hispanic male on Friday, May 16, 2008, at about 10:40 p.m., in the 5600 block of 7th Street Court East.

The victim, Raul Andrade, 23, was standing outside of his house talking on a cell phone when one Black male approached him from the street and two others came around the west side of the house.

The first Black male said, "Give me all your money."

At the time, the victim was leaning on a shovel and attempted to use the shovel to defend himself but the Black male suspect grabbed it and struck him on the left side of the head.

The victim was able to get the shovel back and hit one of the would-be robbers. One of the robbers then pulled out a BB gun and fired it at the victim but nothing was discharged from the BB gun.

The robbers then fled on foot in different directions. They did not get anything from Andrade.

Andrade had no visible injuries and he refused treatment by EMS.

The robbers were only described as 3 Black males wearing all black.

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 Critically Wounded
When Struck with Brick

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a White male was struck in the head with a brick sometime between 2:30 a.m. and 6:45 a.m. on Sunday, May 18, 2008.

Sometime during that time period, unknown person(s) committed aggravated battery upon the victim, Daniel Raposa, 37.

It is believed that Raposa was struck in the head with a brick.

The victim was found unconscious at the 3400 block of 15th Street East in Bradenton.

The victim suffered trauma to his head and was flown to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg Bayflight, where he remained as of late Sunday.

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.

3 Teens Arrested for Burglary,
Grand Theft Auto

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Three teenagers were arrested early Sunday morning, May 18, 2008, after they burglarized vehicles and stole an SUV, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Above, L to R, Daniel Holdren, Cody Mayer and Mitchell Robinson

The arrest report from the sheriff's office said at approximately 4:40 a.m. a burglary in progress call went out at 3800 59th Ave. W., Fountain Lake Apt's.

Upon arrival of deputies, 3 White males, one adult and two 15 year old juveniles were seen inside the complex.

A witness was located and positively identified the threesome as the suspects going into vehicles and stealing items therein.

A possible suspect vehicle was located and one of the juveniles inside it stated they found the silver SUV in the parking lot of Fountain Lake Apt's with the keys in it, so they took it.

The victim was notified, and confirmed her SUV had in fact been stolen. The victim was not identified in the sheriff's office report.

The three boys were detained and subsequently arrested for Burglary and Grand Theft Auto.

Arrested were Daniel Holdren, 18, of 5432 5th Street Court East and the two 15-year-old juveniles, Cody Mayer and Mitchell Robinson.

Man Steals Money from Friend,
Escapes in Purple Honda

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man, Christopher Keith, 27, of 3600 York Drive, threatened a friend, Marck Falkowski, 24, of 2900 35th Avenue West, over $30 dollars and escaped with the money, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Falkowski and Keith are friends and went to the DeSoto Square Mall together to hang out. That was on Friday evening, May 16, 2008.

While at the mall, Keith asked Falkowski if he had any money, at which time Falkowski told him, "Yes, $30 dollars."

Keith demanded that Falkowski give him the money but Falkowski refused, at which point Keith told him, "I don't want to hurt you; give me the money."

So, Falkowski gave it to him.

Keith then left the area in his purple Honda.

There were no injuries and the area was checked by deputies with negative results.

It is not known if Keith has been located and arrested as yet.

Hispanic Male Shot By Black
Male in Palmetto

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, at about 15 minutes past noon, Gabino Bano Elizalde, 32, was shot by an unknown Black male in the 700 block of 21st Street East, in Palmetto, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said at approximately 12:15 p.m., deputies responded to a shooting victim in Palmetto.

Deputies determined that unknown person(s) shot the victim with a firearm.

The victim was found bleeding on the side of the road.

All the victim was able to say was that a B/M did it.

The victim's name was obtained from a resident alien card in his possession.

The victim was taken by Bayflight to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg.

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.

Weekend Search for Scuba Diver
Missing Since Saturday

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office reports the U.S. Coast Guard search continued Sunday morning for a male Scuba diver who was reported missing Saturday morning. The missing diver site is in Charlotte County waters and CCSO is handling the missing person investigation while the USCG continued to coordinate the morning search.

The group on the charter dive boat “Spare Time” was diving in the Gasparilla Sound area about five miles offshore. The U.S. Coast Guard contacted the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office concerning the missing diver at 11:46 a.m. Saturday for assistance of the CCSO Marine Patrol while the USCG and FWC went to the location.

At approximately 2:00 p.m. CCSO was requested to send a patrol unit to Eldred’s Marina to stand by with the dive boat when it returned to dock, and keep all passengers and boat present until the USCG got on scene to conduct the investigation.

The USCG and FWC were handling the search mission at the site, with helicopter, boats and Lee County Sheriff’s Office dive team. The search mission ended at dusk Saturday evening until it could continue Sunday.

The USCG said the diver’s identify was learned and they were notifying next-of-kin, however no name has been released.

Man's Body Found After
Stealing Canoe with
Two Others

ORANGE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television