Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 6/14/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 6/14/2008

Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives
Arrest Man 42, for Sexual Battery
of Little Girl, 6 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested a 42-year-old man for a sex crime on a 6-year-old girl, according to a report from the sheriff's Office.

Faustino Acevedo-Beltran

The report said on June 8, 2008, the 6-year-old girl reported to her mother that her uncle, Faustino Acevedo-Beltran, 42, a homeless man, had touched her "private part."

The incident allegedly occurred at the victim's home in the 1400 block of 10th Avenue East, in Palmetto.

During the investigation, it was determined that the victim had been digitally penetrated by her uncle.

Partial admissions by Acevedo-Beltran were obtained through investigative techniques.

During a post-Miranda interview, Acevedo-Beltran admitted that he was likely having a dream about his wife when he touched his niece.

Faustino Acevedo-Beltran was arrested by members of the Crimes Against Children section and charged with Capital Sexual Battery.

Acevedo-Beltran has numerous other arrests, mostly misdemeanors, according to Manatee County court records.

Multiple City of Bradenton
Emergency Crews Respond
to Sunken Boat at Marina

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Local emergency crews responded Thursday morning, June 12, 2008, to a partially submerged boat that was docked near the entrance of Mattison’s Riverside Restaurant.

Above, the partially sunken boat

The Bradenton Fire Department, Bradenton Police Department, Bradenton Public Works Department, Coast Guard and Manatee County Hazardous Materials team were at the scene, along with a private contractor, who removed spilled fuel from the river.

Officials say the boat could have had up to 200 gallons of fuel in its tank prior to it sinking.

The Coast Guard is investigating why the boat sank.

The 52-foot, 1960 Chris Craft Commander was discovered sunk in about six to seven feet of water around 6:15 a.m. Thursday. Emergency responders evacuated some boats and vehicles from the Mattison’s parking lot and notified the State Warning Point, of the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

Officials towed the boat to a salvage yard at the end of the day.

Mattison’s was open for lunch. Public Works crews blocked off a portion of the parking lot for emergency vehicles.

Ken Langston, Fire Marshal for the City of Bradenton, said crews remained at the scene all day.

"We just have to be here for safety reasons," he said.

Deputies Arrest Woman for
Burglary, Grand Theft,
Possession of Cocaine

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Dorlean Irene Lyttle, 40, of 5310 16th Street East, and charged her with Burglary, Grand Theft and Possession of Cocaine.

Dorlean Irene Lyttle

Deputies say on Thursday, June 12, 2008, she entered her ex-boyfriend's home in the 4400 block of Drake Blvd. She broke through a window by pushing out the air conditioning unit.

After crawling through the window, she began breaking things, then took his computer, Playstation 2 and $150 dollars in cash.

Then she broke the lock on the front door and left, taking the items with her.

Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Lyttle at about 1:30 a.m. and found .1 grams of cocaine in her possession.

The estimated cost of the items stolen was about $800 dollars.

Lyttle was arrested and charged with Burglary, Grand Theft and Possession of Cocaine.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Residential Burglary

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On June 11, 2008, Bradenton Police arrested Matthew T. Miller, 22, of 3205 14th Street West.

Matthew T. Miller

BPD detectives say Miller broke into a residence in the 3700 block of 17th Avenue Drive West on May 29, 2008.

Miller admitted to the crime and said he used a screwdriver to force entry into the rear sliding door.

Once inside, he took numerous items from the residence.

He then took these items and either pawned or sold them to support a heroin addiction, he told detectives.

He showed detectives three more houses he had broken into within city limits.

Detectives reported items Miller sold or pawned are currently being recovered.

Miller was arrested and charged with Burglary and Dealing in Stolen Property.

Woman Arrested for Theft
from East Side Wal-Mart

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Heather A. Cheusde, 22, was arrested on Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at about 5:00 p.m., and charged with Retail Theft.

Heather A. Cheusde

According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Cheusde entered the Wal-Mart store located at 2911 53rd Avenue East and selected several clothing items, cosmetic items, hygiene items, three notebook planners and one box of Zantac.

Then she concealed the items in her purse and attempted to exit the store without paying.

When she was approached by a loss prevention employee, Heather pushed her to get away.

Heather was taken to the ground and apprehended. She was brought back inside where she was arrested.

The items taken were valued at $246.16.

Woman Punches Other Woman
in Wal-Mart Parking Lot;
1st Woman Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, June 9, 2008, at about 4:00 p.m., a woman slugged another woman and pulled out some of her hair in the Wal-Mart parking lot, located at 2911 53rd Avenue East.

Dana L. Brooks

An arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said Dana L. Brooks, 29, of 617 12th Avenue West, in Bradenton, was in her car in the parking lot and backed her car up.

Another woman, Katrina Doichinov, was in her car behind the Brooks car and was forced to back her car up.

Brooks parked her car, got out and approached Katrina's vehicle.

They both exchanged words, then Brooks grabbed Katrina's hair while she was still in her car and started punching Katrina in the head. Brooks pulled a tuft of Katrina's hair from her head, the report said.

The hair and a surveillance video of the incident was later placed into evidence.

Brooks was arrested and charged with Burglary with Battery.

Woman Claims Her Scooter
Was Stolen By Man with Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, at about 2:20 a.m., a woman claimed her scooter was stolen by a man with a knife, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The victim, Felicia Deason, 47, of the 1100 block of 53rd Avenue East, alleged that she was out riding her scooter, a Honda Elite valued at $1000, at the above date/time when she passed by a friend's house at 1017 59th Avenue Drive East and saw that the front door was open.

She pulled up into the carport just to say "hi" to her friends, she told deputies.

At this time, a man who had been visiting her "friend" was preparing to leave.

The man asked Deason to give him a ride, and since he had been visiting her friend, he must be okay, she thought, so she agreed.

As Deason and the man were traveling down the 500 block of 58th Avenue Drive East, Deason asked the man to get off.

The man apparently got angry and struck Deason, knocking her off her scooter, she told deputies.

He then threatened her with a knife he had in his pocket, then took off on her scooter.

Deason had no injury other than a minor scrape to her face.

Deason's "friend" claimed he only knew the suspect as "New York."

During questioning, Deason revealed that this had happened to her once before, but it had not been "drug related" that time, either, a deputy wrote in the report.

According to Manatee County court records, Deason was arrested in March of 2008 for Possession of Cocaine, and in 2007 Deason was arrested for Sale of Cocaine.

"New York" was described as a Hispanic male, 20-30 years old, 5'5" tall, stocky build, with tattoos on both arms.

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

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

Deputies Recover Stolen Vehicle,
Arrest Passenger; Driver Escaped

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at about 11:45 a.m., Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies recovered a vehicle that had been stolen on Tuesday, June 10, 2008.

According to a report from the sheriff's office, the COPS North unit was doing a stolen vehicle sweep and one of the deputies located the vehicle that was taken the day before in an armed robbery (Carjacking).

The vehicle drove northbound on 9th Avenue Drive East from 29th Street East. When it got to the 3100 block, the driver and his passenger fled from the vehicle.

The driver could not be located, but the passenger, who was a 17 year old Black male juvenile, was located and arrested.

The arrested juvenile was charged with Obstruction and Trespassing in a Conveyance.

Burglary Discovered in Myakka City;
Residents Away

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A residence was burglarized in Myakka City that occurred sometime between Tuesday, June 10, 2008, and Wednesday, June 11, 2008, in the 14000 block of Mossy Oak Lane, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The burglary was discovered by a neighbor who is looking after the house and the animals.

When the neighbor arrived on Wednesday and discovered the burglary, she called 911.

Unknown person(s) entered the residence by forcing a window.

Once inside the home, the person(s) went through the home.

In the master bedroom, a jewelry cabinet was emptied. The dressers, walk-in closets and even the bed had been searched by the person(s).

The person(s) had also gone through the upstairs bedrooms and the study.

It appears that jewelry, a laptop computer, and cash may have been stolen.

Since the homeowner was not there, it is undetermined exactly what was missing.

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 Department
to Donate Cruiser to Academy

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department plans to donate a police cruiser to the Manatee Technical Institute Police Academy.

The vehicle, along with cruisers donated from other law enforcement agencies, will be used to teach police recruits driving skills, said Police Chief Michael Radzilowski.

Chief Radzilowski asked the Bradenton City Council permission to donate the vehicle, which the council granted during its meeting June 11.

Local law enforcement agencies agreed, when possible, to donate police vehicles – instead of putting them up for auction – to the MTI Police Academy.

The City’s 1999 For Crown Victoria was expected to fetch about $1,500 to $2,000 if put up for auction.

Two Arrested for Abusing Disabled
Residents of Group Home

GAINESVILLE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Two employees of a group home in Gainesville were arrested on charges they abused disabled residents, according to Orlando television station WKMG.

Harold Martin and Henrietta Agyei, staff members at Elevations Group Home, were taken into custody by Gainesville police and law enforcement officers with the attorney general's Medicaid fraud control unit.

Authorities began to investigate when a witness reported seeing Martin grab a disabled resident by the neck and throw the resident into a wall. Another witness reported seeing Agyei batter a disabled adult with a belt.

According to the arrest affidavit, the witness reported seeing Martin, 51, throw a client head-first into the wall of one of the facility's classroom after accusing the client of stealing someone's food. The force left a hole in the wall that was immediately repaired by another staff member.

Records show the client did not receive medical attention and the incident was not reported to the Department of Children and Family.

According to the arrest affidavit on Agyei, the client showed a witness bruises on his back and the top of his buttocks that appeared to be left by a beating with a belt. When asked, the client said Agyei was beaten because he had wet his pants.

Martin and Agyei, both of Gainesville, are charged with abusing a disabled adult, a third-degree felony punishable by five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

The Agency for Persons with Disabilities assisted with relocating the residents involved, WKMG reported.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Detectives Charge Man, 21, with
Lewd and Lascivious Battery
on Runaway Girl, 15

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Justin L. Wilson, 21, of 712 block of 67th Avenue Terrace West and charged him with Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a 15-year-old runaway.

Justin L. Wilson

The arrest report said on June 5, 2008, the unnamed 15-year-old victim ran away from a juvenile shelter.

On June 10, 2008, the missing juvenile returned and was interviewed as to her whereabouts.

The juvenile disclosed that she had been dating the 21-year-old, Justin Wilson, for about a year and that they have engaged in sexual activity.

She told detectives while she was away from the shelter, she and Wilson had sexual intercourse three times.

Armed with a search warrant, detectives went to Wilson's home on Wednesday, June 11, 2008.

Wilson was interviewed and admitted to having sex with her three times while she was out of the group home and admitted to the prior sexual relationship with the victim.

He told detectives she told him she was 17 years old.

Wilson was arrested without incident and was charged with 3 counts of Lewd & Lascivious Battery on a child under the age of sixteen.

Teacher Arrested for Punching
Boy, 15, in Mouth at Juvenile
Detention Facility

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Wanick Damour, 31, of 13670 Highlands Road, in Wimauma, Florida, has been arrested for Child Abuse.

Wanick Damour

Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives say on Tuesday, June 10, 2008, at about 10:00 a.m., Damour was at the Palmetto Youth Academy, where he works as a teacher through the Manatee County School Board.

The Palmetto Youth Academy is a detention facility at the Manatee County Jail, near Port Manatee.

Damour struck a 15-year-old boy who is a student at the Palmetto Youth Academy in the mouth with a closed fist, causing the boy to receive two stitches to close a laceration.

The incident was witnessed by another teacher/case worker at the facility and was recorded by the surveillance system set up in the building.

Damour admitted to punching the child in the mouth, but told detectives that he did it because he was in fear for his safety and that he has had nothing but trouble from the boy since he started working at the facility in April of this year.

The facility is run by the Department of Juvenile Justice.

Man, Woman Arrested After
Assaulting Man with Knives

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Thomas Parmalee, 39, of 928 Byron Court, Sarasota, and Stacy Stringfellow, 33, of 7413 Starfish Drive, Sarasota, were both arrested on Tuesday, June 10, 2008, at about 8:30 p.m. after Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies determined they had assaulted a man with knives at Longfellow Drive and Whitfield Drive, in South Manatee County.

Above, L to R, Thomas Parmalee and Stacy Stringfellow

The arrest reports for both said Parmalee and Stringfellow had an argument with Jonathan Meyers over a matter that happened on Monday, June 9, 2008.

Meyers and a witness told deputies that Parmalee and Stringfellow came at Meyers with knives. Parmalee and Stringfellow allegedly told Meyers they were going to kill him and slice him up.

Meyers tried to defend himself first with a stick, then with a table leg, swinging it, but not sticking them with either.

Then Parmalee and Stringfellow ran across the street and threw the knives somewhere in Shady Brook Village. A search of the area did not turn up the knives.

Deputies determined Parmalee had a no contact order against him with Meyers. Judge Henderson had signed the order on June 5, 2008.

Both Parmalee and Stringfellow were arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault. Parmalee was additionally charged with Violation of a No Contact Order.

Two Arrested for Theft of Gas,
Confirming NewsManatee's
Opinion Piece This Week

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Lyndon R. Fisk, 53, of the 5400 block of 21st Street West, and Brian Leach, 36, a homeless man, were both arrested after Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy Bill Waldron caught the pair siphoning gas from a vehicle on Tuesday, June 10, 2008, shortly after midnight.

Above, L to R, Lyndon R. Fisk and Brian D. Leach

According to the arrest reports of both men, Dep. Waldron spotted the pair standing between Fisk's 1995 blue Mazda and a 1988 white GMC Blazer at a gated apartment complex in the 5400 block of 26th Street West.

Dep. Waldron observed the pair for a few minutes from a distance and saw Fisk pouring gas into his truck.

When the pair was approached by Dep. Waldron, he said he smelled gas on both and gas in the air.

Leach told Dep. Waldron that Fisk siphoned the gas for his truck while he (Leach) acted as a lookout.

Leach said they were riding around in Fisk's truck and needed gas.

The owner of the GMC Blazer said he didn't give the pair permission to take the gas.

Dep. Waldron found a broken gas cap on the ground, and a siphon hose and gas can in the back of Fisk's truck.

Fisk was arrested and charged with Theft and Loitering and Prowling. Leach was only charged with Loitering and Prowling.

A NewsManatee source said, "Since 1996, Brian Leach has been arrested 21 times, with charges of Burglary, Battery, Grand Theft, dealing in Stolen Property, and Possession of Cocaine."

NewsManatee's opinion piece this week entitled "Crime and the Economy" predicted, among other things, that theft of gasoline through siphoning would rise, due to the increasing gas prices and the tanking economy.

[Ed. Note: Please notice that even though the victim had a locking gas cap, the thieves broke it off. When buying a locking gas cap, always buy the more expensive one, to help prevent this from occurring.]

Man Arrested for Burglary
to a Boat, Theft of Gas Tank

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Jeffrey D. Wilkinson, 19, of 1311 67th Street NW, and charged him with Burglary to a Boat.

Jeffrey D. Wilkinson

Deputies say sometime between June 7 and June 8, 2008, Wilkinson boarded a 16-foot runabout boat, located at 1308 66th Street NW, cut the gas line to a portable 6-gallon gas tank that was full of gas, and took the gas tank.

The gas tank was found on Monday, June 9, 2008, in Wilkinson's back yard.

The value of the tank, with the gas, was estimated at $100 dollars.

Wilkinson admitted to detectives that he did steal the gas tank, the report said.

Hispanic Man Carjacked at
Gunpoint By Black Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, June 10, 2008, at about 9:30 p.m., a Hispanic man was carjacked at gunpoint by a Black man, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said Ricardo Zavala, 33, of the 900 block of 25th Street East, in Palmetto, was emptying trash out of his vehicle, a 2002 Ford Windstar minivan, into the dumpster of his apartment complex.

While doing this, the van was left with the keys in the ignition and running.

A Black male approached Zavala, pointed a handgun at him, and then got into the van without saying anything and drove off.

The suspect stopped at the entrance to the complex and picked up two other unidentified Black males and then fled the area westbound on 25th Street East.

There were no injuries during the incident.

The carjacker was only described as an unknown Black male wearing a white and black shirt.

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

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

Sarasota Taco Bell Robbed
at Gunpoint Wednesday

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- At approximately 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 11th, 2008, two Hispanic male subjects came to the rear entrance of a Taco Bell restaurant at 5557 Fruitville Road in Sarasota.

Above, Taco Bell surveillance photo

One suspect was wearing a Taco Bell uniform shirt and the manager opened the door to allow them inside.

Once inside, one of the suspects produced a hand gun and forced the manager to open the safe. The suspects then fled the scene with cash from the safe. They were last seen heading Southbound through the parking lot in a red mid 1990’s Ford Mustang, which has subsequently been recovered.

One suspect is described as an Hispanic Male, mid 20s, last seen wearing an oversized Taco Bell uniform shirt, dark colored pants, a dark baseball cap, one light colored glove, and carrying a semi-automatic weapon.

The other suspect is described as an Hispanic Male, late 20s, wearing a blue and white button shirt, tan pants, a tan "NY" baseball cap, black gloves, and sunglasses.

Anyone with any information regarding this case should contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office District I Criminal Investigations Bureau at (941) 861-4900 or Detective Ross at (941) 861-4925, reference case #08-47124. They may also leave anonymous information on the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (941) 366-TIPS (8477) or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.

Deputies Catch Englewood
Mailbox Thieves

ENGLEWOOD, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s road deputies stopped two women suspected in thefts from mailboxes in the East Englewood area. Around 10:30 a.m. Monday, CCSO got a call to a home at 6061 Ronda St. after a neighbor advised he saw two women in a maroon GM type car take mail from their mailbox with the flag up and drove off.

Above, Tammy L. Pritts from prior arrest
Mug shot not available for Amanda Pritts

While en route to the home, a road deputy saw a maroon Chevrolet Lumina at Birchwood Dr. and Portillo Ave. and made a traffic stop. The concerned neighbor was taken to the location and positively identified the car and the two women inside as Tammy L. Pritts, 39, and 19 year old Amanda L. Pritts, of 7180 Eldridge St., Englewood. The car was towed and the mother and daughter taken to the CCSO District-1 Office in Englewood for questioning.

Detectives said the two women admitted to stealing the mail on Ronda Street and told detectives they had stolen mail from 18 homes recently. On June 5, the CCSO sent out a release to the media about eight homes in the Wilmington Blvd. area that had mail reported stolen which is known as “flagging.” Residents were advised to take their outgoing mail to an area mail box or postal facility when possible to prevent such thefts by thieves looking for checks or personal information to be used in fraud or identity theft.

Postal Inspectors were notified but were unable to come to Charlotte County yesterday, so the women had to be released since this is a federal crime. Postal Inspectors said they would be in the county today and take over the investigation. Charges are still pending the USPS investigation. All 18 victims will be notified by Postal Inspectors during their investigation.

Police Believe Two Women Were
Planning to Trade Rare Japanese
Machine Gun for Crack

OCALA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported two women arrested during a traffic stop were apparently trying to trade a rare World War II-era Japanese machine gun for crack cocaine, police said.

Rare WWII Japanese Nambu machine gun
(Photo courtesy WKMG)

Officers initially pulled over a car in the 100 block of Northeast 11th Avenue in Williston and said they found crack, a crack pipe and prescriptions drugs inside the vehicle.

When police searched the rest of the vehicle, they found the Nambu machine gun used by Japanese soldiers.

"When (the officer) started to pull it out, he realized it was much heavier than a normal gun and much bigger," Williston Police Chief Dan Davis said. "We've learned since then that the gun was produced and in service for Japan between 1922 and 1945."

The women claim one of their grandfathers gave the weapon to them but federal agents believe it was smuggled into Florida.

Officers said the gun could still fire shots.

Davis said investigators suspect the women were planning to trade the rare gun for crack cocaine.

Bowers, 45, of Dunnellon, and her passenger, Abby Ross, 45, of Beverly Hills, were charged with illegal possession of prescription drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Agents are still trying to determine how the women got their hands on the weapon, WKMG reported.

Governor Crist Signs
FDLE’s 2008-09 Budget

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, June 11, 2008, Governor Charlie Crist signed the Fiscal Year 2008-09 budget into law, providing additional funding for criminal justice information-sharing technology and upgrades to the Sexual Offender/Predator registry. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement budget for the upcoming year is $269.6 million.

"While FDLE, like many agencies, were impacted by decreased revenue, I commend the Governor and Legislature who worked to minimize the impact to the criminal justice community," FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey said. "FDLE is committed to being equipped to meet today’s public safety needs, and at the same time prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s criminal enterprises."

FDLE received funding for the following priorities:

$1.8 million to continue development of the Integrated Criminal History System (ICHS), a state-of-the art information technology system that will merge computerized criminal history data with automated fingerprint information and provide new tools for criminal justice users;

$500,000 for Florida Law Enforcement eXchange system, a single, statewide data-sharing system that provides law enforcement across the state the ability to quickly and easily access and analyze the criminal justice information found in individual city, county, and state law enforcement agencies’ records management systems; and

$241,000 for the continued improvement and maintenance of the Sexual Offender/Predator Registry.

Additionally, the budget provides FDLE with funding to support the Jennifer Kesse and Tiffany Sessions Missing Persons Act which was passed during the 2008 Session, but has not yet been signed by Governor Crist. To implement this legislation, the budget includes $124,053 and two full-time positions to expand the responsibilities of the Missing Children Information Clearinghouse to include missing persons between the ages of 18 and 25 and missing persons age 26 and older who are endangered or may be the victim of criminal activity. The bill provides for law enforcement to obtain specimens for DNA analysis if a missing child/adult is not located within 90 days.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Young Man Steals Same Vehicle
Twice; Deputies Locate Vehicle,
Pursuit Ensues, Man Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Christopher Owen, 21, of 147 Tiger Lilly Drive, in Parrish, was arrested on Monday, June 9, 2008, at about 11:30 p.m. after Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies pursued him through several streets in Palmetto.

Christopher Owen

A sheriff's office report said deputies located Owen driving a stolen 2002 Buick Rendezvous and attempted to stop him. Owen refused to stop and a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit lasted approximately 6 minutes and traveled throughout various areas of Palmetto between 8th Avenue West and U.S. 41.

The pursuit ended in the 300 block of 22nd Street West when Owen abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.

He was located a few minutes later by a sheriff's office K-9 in a wooded field approximately 30 yards from where he abandoned the vehicle. He was sitting in a bush, smoking a cigarette.

Nobody was injured during the pursuit.

Owen was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto, Aggravated Fleeing to Elude, Resisting Arrest Without Violence, and No Valid Driver's License.

The vehicle Owen had stolen belonged to James Herndon, 59, of the 100 block of Tiger Lilly Way, in Parrish, a neighbor of Owen's.

Owen was on supervised released for stealing the same vehicle on May 6, 2008, the report said.

Deputy Makes Traffic Stop,
Arrests Man for 2.5 Ounces
of Marijuana, Other Drugs

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Marcus Grant Maestre, 23, of 5308 Rosefinch Court, in Lakewood Ranch, following a traffic stop on Monday, June 9, 2008, at about 8:45 p.m.

Marcus Grant Maestre

The deputy noticed a vehicle which was displaying an expired tag. The vehicle was eastbound on Cortez Road at the time. The deputy activated his blue lights, but the vehicle did not stop immediately. The deputy then sounded his siren and got the vehicle to stop in the 4200 block of 63rd Street West.

Inside were Marcus Maestre and his unnamed girlfriend. The deputy obtained Maestre's driver's license.

The deputy asked Maestre if there was anything inside "like guns or drugs." Maestre said, "No." The deputy asked Maestre if he minded if he (the deputy) checked, and both Maestre and his girlfriend said, "No," the report said.

When the deputy opened the glove box, behind the back wall was a blue canvas bank cash bag. It was locked.

Maestre was asked what was inside and he replied that he didn't want his girlfriend to get in trouble for "his stuff."

He provided the key to the deputy and inside the deputy found 3 bags of marijuana and six white pills. They turned out to be methadone. Another pill found was Xanax. A scale was also inside the bag.

The marijuana weighed a total of 67.9 grams.

Maestre said it was all his and that it was only for his personal use. He told the deputy the scale was used to make sure he would not get "ripped off."

Maestre was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana, two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Woman Takes Son Against
Judge's Orders

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman was arrested for burglary and other charges after she entered her grandfather's house and took her son, against a judge's orders.

Porchena Hird

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Porchena Hird, 19, of 1728 28th Avenue East, went to her grandfather's house in the 1500 block of 7th Avenue East on June 7, 2008, at about 10:00 p.m., grabbed a change of clothes for her son and left the residence with the child.

She hasn't lived with the grandfather for over a year but had a key.

Judge Gilner signed an order on May 5, 2008, stating that she had lost custody of the child and the grandfather would have custody. She was only allowed to have supervised visitation with the child as long as the grandfather was with them, the order said.

Ms. Hird then drove back to the grandfather's at about 5 a.m. and put the child back in his bed before the grandfather noticed he was gone.

Ms. Hird was arrested on June 8, 2008, and charged with Burglary, Child Abuse, False Information to Law Enforcement Regarding a Missing Person, False Statements to an Official, Interfering with Custody, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Non-Support and Violation of Probation.

BPD Asks Help Identifying
Burglar of Anna Maria
Oyster Bar on Cortez Road

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Detectives are investigating a burglary which occurred at the Anna Maria Oyster Bar Restaurant, 6696 Cortez Road West, which occurred during the night of May 22, 2008.

Surveillance photo w/inset enlarged of suspect

In the above photograph the burglar is seen inside the business.

The burglary may have cut himself during the crime as blood was found at the scene.

Detectives are asking for the public’s assistance to help identify this person.

Anyone having information with regards to this incident is asked to call the Detective Jason Nuttall at 941-932-9314 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.

Tire Shot in Drive-By Shooting
in Duplex City

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a drive-by shooting on Monday, at about 10:00 p.m. in the "Duplex City" area of South Manatee County.

The report said while on routine patrol, Deputy David Brady heard shots being fired somewhere near the 6000 block of 1st Street West.

As he began to check the area, a call came in from the 700 block of 59th Avenue Terrace West of a drive-by shooting.

Deputies responded to the area and met with witnesses who stated that they saw a Blue Chevy Silverado truck enter the area, shut its headlights off, drive by the house and fire 4-5 shots before speeding off.

Deputies were able to locate the victim's vehicle which had one shot to a tire.

The victim was at home in the house asleep and did not hear anything.

There were no injuries to anyone.

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

Ice Cream Vendor Victim of
Attempted Armed Robbery
By Two Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Hispanic man selling ice cream was the victim of an attempted armed robbery by two Black males on Tuesday, June 10, 2008, at about 1:30 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said the victim, Alejandro G. Emporo, from Plant City, was selling ice cream out of a cart in Oakwood Estates, in the 900 block of 21st Street East, in Palmetto.

The victim was approached by two Black males, who demanded money.

The victim doesn't speak English, so he didn't understand them.

The Black male with a handgun pointed the gun at the victim's chest. The victim fought with him.

The other Black male then ran and the other followed, fleeing northbound.

Witnesses heard the men demand money from the victim.

The victim was not injured.

The two would-be robbers were described as a Black Male in his 20s, 5'07"-- 5'08" tall, with light skin with a red tone, skinny, wearing no shirt and tan shorts, and a Black male, 6' tall, 16-18 years old with dreadlock style hair, a navy blue shirt and unknown color shorts, armed with a 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.

Update on Road Work on
I-75 Overpass from DOT

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Florida Department of Transportation has provided an update on the construction work being done on the I-75/U.S. 301 overpass in Palmetto.

On I-75, two lanes northbound and two lanes southbound are open to traffic on the existing northbound interstate bridge. Southbound interstate traffic is transitioned through the median using two crossovers, one north of U.S. 301 and one south of the river. Speed limit is reduced to 45 mph. On U.S. 301 at the interchange, one lane (far outside lane) in each direction is open to traffic. Speed limit is reduced to 35 mph. Motorists are reminded to use caution in the area and to add extra travel time to their trips.

Zep Construction, Inc. began work (phase two) Sunday night to rebuild two spans of the southbound interstate overpass damaged and removed as a result of last Wednesday afternoon’s traffic crash. Phase two construction activity includes:

~ Forming the three new columns in the median of U.S. 301, tying steel inside the columns, and pouring concrete to create the new columns. A “cure” period, essentially time for concrete to gain strength, follows.

~ The same process occurs for the cap, which is the horizontal piece on top of the three columns. This work is expected to continue this week and next week.

~ Beams are delivered. Crews place them as part of the new structure at one span.

~ Additional beams are delivered. Crews place them as part of the new structure for the second span.

~ Forms are built for the new deck (riding surface) for one span. Crews tie steel for the deck. This step is very labor and time intensive.

~ This process is repeated for the second span, and, again, it is very labor and time intensive.

~ Concrete is poured for the new deck for both new spans. A cure period follows.

~ Concrete for barrier wall on the new spans is poured. A cure period follows.

~ Crews “groove” (grind) the new deck on two spans to prepare the riding surface for traffic, add striping, and add raised pavement markings.

At this stage, in about six weeks (weekend of July 19 and 20), traffic may resume using the southbound interstate bridge. Construction activity continues that does not affect traffic (clean-up work, etc.).

All work and its schedule are dependent on good weather conditions. The Dept. of Transportation will provide updates each Monday regarding crews’ activity and progress.

SPD Releases Surveillance
Photo of Insignia Bank
Robbery Suspect

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police released a surveillance photo of the man suspected of robbing the Insignia Bank, 333, N. Orange Avenue, on Monday.

At about 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 9, 2008, a White male, 30-40 years old, entered the bank and made a verbal threat to a teller and demanded money.

No weapon was seen or mentioned.

The suspect fled the area on foot.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Sarasota Police Department.

Bail Bondsman Shoots Man After
Man Threatens Him with Knife

NORTH PORT, Florida [NMT] -- A North Port Man was apprehended on felony warrants from Sarasota counties Monday evening, June 10, 2008, after threatening a bail bondsman with a knife and subsequently being shot in the leg by the bondsman.

Shane Phillip Steele

Shane Phillip Steele, 28, last known address of 6454 Freemont St., North Port, was located at Hampton Point Apartments, 2511 Luther Road, Punta Gorda, near the Deep Creek development, by a local bondsman. They were seeking to take him into custody after he failed to make a court appearance. Additionally, there was a warrant for Steele from Sarasota County, for the charges of Home Invasion Robbery w/Deadly Weapon and Attempted Felony Murder. Steele has also been charged with two counts of Assault With Intent to Commit Homicide, and two outstanding warrants for Robbery and Failure to Appear in a Charlotte County court.

At approximately 4:20 p.m., the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call from the bonding agency, requesting assistance in apprehending the subject. Since there was a felony warrant on the subject, members of the Warrants Unit responded to Luther Road to execute that arrest warrant and provide assistance. A short time later, the sheriff’s office received calls from residents of the apartments, stating that someone wearing a bullet proof vest was chasing another subject in the apartment complex, and that this person, armed with a knife, fled into an apartment in building 6. Another report came in shortly after that, stating that shots were fired from building 8, and yet another call was that a bondsman had shot a subject in the leg.

Deputies responding to the scene learned that Steele had fled into an apartment in building 6, and was still armed with a knife. Upon entering the apartment, Steele had barricaded himself into the bathroom of the apartment and did still have the knife. Members of the Warrants Unit were in the apartment, along with Road Patrol deputies. Sgt. Rick Goff of the Warrants Unit, was able to establish a verbal rapport with Steele through the bathroom door, eventually persuading him to open the bathroom door enough so he could see the knife and Steele. After several more minutes of conversation, Sgt. Goff and other members were able to gain entry into the bathroom and take Steele into custody.

He was transported to Peace River Regional Hospital for a treatment of a gunshot wound to his leg, which he sustained after challenging the bail bondsman with a knife. He was treated for the wound and booked into the Charlotte County Jail at approximately 9:00 p.m. on the Sarasota County warrant.

The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit responded to the scene and is handling further investigation into the incident at the apartment building, and additional charges may be forthcoming, pending the outcome of their investigation.

The bail bond company involved was A Way Out Bail Bonds, 4868 Tamiami Tr., Charlotte Harbor.

Body Covered with Tire Tracks
Found in Melbourne

MELBOURNE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A body covered with tire tracks was found in a homeowner's yard and police said the man's death is a mystery, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Police said the body was found in a yard near Grandview Way and Victoria Avenue at about 11 p.m. Monday.

Investigators said officers were originally called to the neighborhood to investigate reports of shots fired.

When officers arrived, neighbors pointed them to the body, WKMG reported.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Bradenton Police Department
Takes Possession of 1st Ever
Armored Rescue Vehicle

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On June 3, 2008, members of the Bradenton Police Department’s SWAT team traveled to Miami to take ownership of the department's first ever armored rescue vehicle.

Above, Bradenton Police Department's new armored rescue vehicle

The vehicle, which was built by Lenco Armored Vehicles, was put on display by the company at the 3rd annual Florida SWAT association tactical operations conference in Miami.

The vehicle, with help from Congressman Buchanan and Florida Representative Bill Galvano, was purchased with grant funds made available to the police department by the Dept. of Justice Edward Byrne Memorial Discretionary Grant with no cost to city taxpayers.

On Monday, NewsManatee spoke to Major J.J. Lewis, of the Bradenton Police Department, who told us the cost of the vehicle was $260,000.00.

The vehicle is available to any Manatee/Sarasota law enforcement agency, including FDLE, ATF, and DEA, to assist them in terrorist matters, methamphetamine labs, hostage, barricaded situations and for protection from high-powered rifles.

Major Lewis said, "Any local, State or Federal Law enforcement agency in the area can request our assistance with the vehicle by contacting the BPD SWAT Commander, Sergeant James Wilkinson, at (941) 932-9307."

This project is supported by grant # 2007-DD-BX-0646 awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance.

Bureau of Justice Assistance is a component of the Office of Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the National Institute of Justice and Delinquency Prevention and the Office for Victims of Crime.

Points of view or opinions in this article are those of the City of Bradenton and do not represent the official position or policies of the United States Department of Justice.

Bradenton Police Arrest Black Male
Connected To Multiple Strong
Arm Robberies of Hispanics

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Detectives have arrested Justin Terrell Claudio, 18, of 1315 18th Avenue West, Bradenton, and charged him with multiple strong-arm robberies.

Justin Terrell Claudio

The arrest report said Claudio was interviewed by detectives and admitted to 7-10 strong arm robberies recently.

Specifically, on May 2, 2008, he had punched one victim in the face with his "knockout punch," knocking him off his bike and taking money from the victim's pants.

He said it was the same night he got out of jail, because he needed money.

Claudio told detectives he likes to rob "chicos" because they always have money on them.

The most he has stolen is about $600 dollars, he said.

On June 7, 2008, Claudio was arrested and charged with one count of Robbery, Unarmed.

Palmetto Police Arrest Man
for Burglary, Possession of
Stolen Prescription Meds

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police have arrested Raymond Penaloza, 29, of 1219 13th Avenue West, Palmetto, after Penaloza was captured following a brief foot chase by Palmetto Police Officers. The incident occurred on Thursday, June 5, 2008, at about 11:30 p.m.

Raymond Penaloza

According to the arrest report from PPD, Penaloza was seen by police standing next to a vehicle on 14th Street Court West, in Palmetto. When he saw the officers, he took off running. Despite numerous commands to stop by the officers, who identified themselves, Penaloza kept running.

Penaloza was captured a short time later. In his possession were three prescription pill bottles that were prescribed to another person.

The officers went to the address on the prescription bottles in the 2000 block of 14th Street Court West.

The victim told officers the pills belonged to him and that they were stolen from his vehicle, along with a pair of sunglasses. His vehicle's passenger door was wide open and a cassette player was partially pulled out of place.

Penaloza was arrested and charged with Burglary, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Resisting Arrest without Violence, and Loitering and Prowling.

Hit and Run Crash Leaves
2-Year-Old in Critical Condition,
Five Others in Serious Condition

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a 3-vehicle crash on Saturday, at about 4:30 p.m., has left a 2-year-old child in critical condition at Bayfront Medical Center and five others in serious condition at Manatee Memorial Hospital.

FHP said a 1991 Ford Astro van, being driven by Ignacio Amezcua, 55, of 5008 20th Street Court East, and a 2005 motorcycle, being driven by Donna Defant, 54, of 4115 65th Street East, was traveling eastbound on 301 Blvd., just west of 9th Street East.

A 2000 Ford Expedition, being driven by an unknown person, was attempting to travel northbound out of the Shell gas station located on the southwest corner of 301 Blvd. and 9th Street East.

As the Expedition's driver attempted to pull out onto 9th Street East, it entered into the direct path of the Ford van. At that time, the van's front struck the Expedition's left side.

As the crash occurred directly in front of the motorcycle, the motorcycle's driver applied her brakes and veered to the left to avoid hitting the two other vehicles. As she did, she lost control of the motorcycle and it went down into its left side.

After the crash, the driver of the Expedition walked away from the scene.

Injured critically in the crash was Kebin Amezcua, age 2. Injured seriously in the crash were Donna Defant, the motorcyclist, and the driver of the Astro van, along with 3 others inside the Astro van, ages 48, 24, and 6. One other person in the Astro van, age 8 months, received minor injuries. They were all transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

FHP is asking anyone with any information relating to the crash to contact Corporal Darrell Carroll, at (941) 751-7647, Ext. 430, or ext. 131, or you can e-mail Cpl. Carroll at DarrellCarroll@flhsmv.gov.

$50 Bucks Snatched from Woman
by Black Male on Sunday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, at about 1:45 p.m., a Black male snatched $50 dollars from a woman, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said the unknown Black male knocked on the door of the residence of Amy Jones, 23, in the 800 block of 60th Avenue Terrace West.

The man asked Amy for change for a $50 bill.

While holding 50 $1 dollar bills in one hand, Amy examined the $50 bill the man had handed her in the other hand.

As she got suspicious of the $50 bill, the man snatched the 50 $1 bills and fled on foot.

The report did not say whether the single $50 dollar bill turned out to be bogus.

The robber is described as an unknown Black male in his 20s, 5' 10" tall, 210 pounds, with black hair. He had "stretch marks" on his shoulders and large lips.

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.

Multiple Burglaries Reported
in West Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported 10 vehicle and house burglaries in West Manatee County.

The burglaries that were reported were listed as:

307 70th St. NW -- Vehicle went through, Nothing taken
312 70th St. NW -- Vehicle - Sunglasses taken
112 70th St. NW -- Vehicle - Stereo faceplate taken
7004 4th Av Dr. NW -- Vehicle - Purse taken but recovered
7215 6th Av. NW -- Vehicle - Stereo faceplates taken
119 43rd St. NW -- House
1308 66th St. NW -- Boat - Gas tank taken
5912 8th Av. Dr. W. -- Bikes taken from carport
5016 19th Av. W. -- Daytime burglary/House
101 60th St. W. -- Vehicle went through, change taken

Eight of the burglaries were in the Northwest section of Manatee County.

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.

Shot Fired at Bridge Tender's
Shack on Cortez Road West

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Early Monday morning, at about 4:15 a.m., someone fired a shot at the bridge tender's shack at 12507 Cortez Road West, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said on the above date/time, while the bridge tender was reading, she heard a loud bang, then discovered that an unknown person had shot the window on the west side of the tender's shack.

She observed a small, dark, vehicle, possibly a Hyundai, with shiny paint, traveling eastbound on the bridge. There were no other cars on the bridge at this time.

The projectile did not penetrate the bullet resistant glass and the bridge tender, Amy Turner, 50, was not injured.

No bullet fragments or casings could be located.

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

Vehicle Stolen in West Palm Beach
Recovered in Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Deputy has recovered a vehicle stolen in West Palm Beach, Florida, according to a report from the sheriff's office.

The report said Deputy Judy located a stolen vehicle at the 6000 block of 1st Street east on Friday, May 7, 2008, at about 9:10 p.m.

As he approached, the three unknown Black males fled from the scene behind a duplex, then west on 60th Avenue.

Deputy Judy attempted to deploy his Taser, but missed the driver as he ran around the corner of the building.

K-9 was called and a perimeter was established but the three men could not be located.

During a search, two handguns were found inside the car.

The vehicle was reported stolen out of West Palm Beach on May 30, 2008.

The three men were not further described in the sheriff's office report.

Attempted Armed Robbery
Reported in Palmetto

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Black male attempted to rob a Hispanic man at gunpoint on Friday, at about 11:00 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said the victim, Santos Qjeda, 39, was outside of his residence at 1217 72nd Street Court East, in Palmetto, when he was approached by a Black man asking for change.

The victim's dogs began to bark and he told the man that he was going to hold his dogs so the man could leave.

When the victim turned around, the Black man was pointing a black semi-automatic handgun at him and demanded his money.

Santos told the man that he did not have any money and to go ahead and shoot him.

The man got no money or anything of value and fled the scene on foot.

Dep. Sutton attempted to track the suspects with his K-9, but he lost the track in the area of the Bayshore Social Club.

There were no injuries to the victim.

There was a second Black male with the would-be robber, but he did not brandish any weapons and did not say anything to the victim.

The victim could not describe the second man.

The first man was described as an unknown Black male, about 20 years old, last seen wearing a gray T-shirt and blue jeans and a multi-colored hat.

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.

Sarasota County Sheriff Arrests Man, 47,
Charge Him in Saturday Bludgeoning
Murder of Sarasota Woman, 76

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, June 9, 2008, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested Harold Dean Wallwin, 47, and charged him with one count of Premeditated Murder, one count of Grand Theft Auto, one count of Burglary of an Occupied Dwelling, and one count of Petit Theft.

Harold Dean Wallwin

On June 7th, at approximately 2:00 p.m. Wallwin had gone to the home of Mary Blake, 76, at 4526 S. Lockwood Ridge Road in Sarasota to clean her garage.

While he was there, he struck the victim repeatedly with a hammer he had found in the garage.

Wallwin then took the victim’s vehicle and left the scene.

Wallwin returned to the crime scene later the same day.

He then spent the night at the crime scene.

During this time, he took a shower and stole some of the victim’s groceries prior to leaving the house for the final time.

On the evening of June 8th, Wallwin was involved in a hit and run accident while driving the victim’s vehicle.

During th investigation of the accident, Wallwin admitted that he was driving a stolen vehicle and that he had murdered the registered owner.

Wallwin is being held at the Sarasota County jail without bond.

Sarasota Sheriff's Detectives
Arrest Sex Offender featured
on "America's Most Wanted"

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Thomas Gleason, 68, was arrested on Saturday, June 7th, 2008, by the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.

Thomas Gleason

Gleason is wanted in connection with multiple counts of Sex Offenses against Children and one count of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation upon a Child.

Gleason, who bonded out after being arrested on these charges, has been missing for over six years.

Sheriff’s Detectives followed numerous leads during this time, but were unable to locate him.

In March of this year, Gleason was featured on “America’s Most Wanted” television show.

Bank Robbery Reported
in City of Sarasota

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department is investigating the robbery of the Insignia Bank located at 333 N. Orange Avenue.

At about 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 9, 2008, a White male, 30-40 years old, entered the bank and made a verbal threat to a teller and demanded money.

No weapon was seen or mentioned.

The suspect fled the area on foot.

Detectives are viewing the bank security camera recordings and photos may be released on Tuesday, SPD's Captain Stan Duncan said.

Pregnant Woman Fatally Shot;
Baby Survives

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A pregnant woman was shot and killed in Central Florida but her baby survived, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Investigators said Lourdine Faustin was fatally shot at her home on Jacobs Place Friday by the child's father, Junior Joseph.

Doctors said Faustin was at least six months pregnant when the incident occurred.

A family member said Faustin was hunted down by Joseph.

The baby was in serious condition late Saturday.

An Orlando officer was also injured when he attempted to take Joseph into custody, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Sarasota Police Detectives Arrest
Man for Murder of Motel Owner
in March, 2008; DNA Matched

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, June 6, 2008, detectives from the Sarasota Police Department arrested Benjamin C. Rogers, 29, of 1616 25th Street, Sarasota, for the murder of Czeslaw Jarosz that occurred on March 19, 2008, at the Siesta Inn Motel.

Benjamin C. Rogers

According to the arrest report, on March 20, 2008, Sarasota Police Officers responded to the Siesta Inn, located at 4748 North Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41).

Upon arrival, they were met with Jarosz' body lying inside the front door of his apartment which adjoins the office of the motel.

There is a single door between the victim's residence and the front office of the Siesta Inn. The victim was lying face down and had severe blunt force trauma to his face and head. EMS was called and pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The interior of the office had been damaged during a struggle between the suspect and the victim. The office desk inside of the victim's residence had been ransacked. The victim's back pants pocket had been pulled out and it was later learned that the victim's wallet had been taken during the course of the crime.

Also contacted during the initial report was the victim's mother, Anna Jarosz. Anna told officers her son had answered the front door of the motel when the front door bell ran. She said that she heard a struggle and looked out of her back bedroom where she had been watching television. She said a Black male, who she could not identify, grabbed her, pulling her out into the living room, where she saw her son lying on the ground where officers found him.

Anna was then bound behind her back by the suspect using duct tape. Her eyes and mouth were also taped closed. The suspect then forced her to her feet and threw her into a back bedroom of the apartment. Anna then ran and hid in a small storage area. She eventually made contact with one of the motel guests, who called 911.

DNA located under the Jarosz' fingernails on his left hand was found to have DNA that belonged to Benjamin Rogers in FDLE's database. Also located at the scene was blood, which also matched that of the DNA of Benjamin Rogers.

Benjamin C. Rogers has been charged with Murder. He is in the Sarasota County Jail, with no bond.

Ellenton Bar Owner Arrested
for Threatening to Kill Man,
Holding Gun to Victim's Head

ELLENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested William E. Maurer, 45, owner of Three Oaks Bar at 3505 U.S. 301, in Ellenton, after Maurer threatened to kill a customer and held a gun to his head.

William E. Maurer

An arrest report said Maurer and the unnamed victim were playing a gam of billiards. After the victim lost, there was a verbal altercation and the victim sat down at the bar.

A short time later, Maurer came up to the victim and put a gun to the victim's head. A surveillance tape later showed Maurer used enough force to shove the victim down against the bar.

Maurer told the victim if he did not leave, he would kill the victim.

Maurer told deputies he did put the handgun to the victim's head because after losing the game of billiards, the victim became verbally abusive and tried to fight with Maurer.

After Maurer put the gun to his head, the victim left the bar and called law enforcement.

Maurer was charged with Aggravated Assault.

Father, Son Restrain Violent
Woman Who Entered Their
Bradenton Beach Home

BRADENTON BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- A father and son had to restrain a woman after she became violent and entered their Bradenton Beach home on Wednesday, June 4, 2008, at about 9:15 p.m.

Amanda R. Whitt

According to a Bradenton Beach Police report of the incident, Amanda R. Whitt, 31, of 4401 Gulf Drive North, in Holmes Beach, approached Sam and Jon Lott, father and son, respectively, at 2407 Avenue B, in Bradenton Beach, and asked if Erin was there.

Jon Lott said, "No, Erin does not live here."

At that point Lott said the girl became violent and made her way up the stairs and into the Lott's residence.

When Bradenton Beach Police Officer Hill arrived, he heard screaming and yelling coming from the front upstairs apartment.

They went upstairs and found Jon and his father holding down Whitt, restraining her until Police could arrive, they said.

Whitt was arrested and secured until BBPD Officer Ferrara arrived.

Whitt was charged with Burglary.

Parrish Couple Victims of South
Manatee Armed Home Invasion
By Two Black Males w/Shotgun

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A couple from Parrish who were visiting the mother of one of them in South Manatee County were victims of an armed home invasion by two Black males on Saturday evening, at about 11:45 p.m., according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

A sheriff's report said Daniel Glidden, 28, of the 11800 block of Shrewsbury Lane, in Parrish, was loading his SUV preparing to leave his mother-in-law's apartment in the 6500 block of Magellan Drive when he was approached by two unknown Black males who were armed with a sawed-off shotgun.

The culprits demanded Glidden hand over his money. Glidden gave the men his wallet, cell phone, and a prescription bottle containing oxycodone.

The robbers then ripped Glidden’s necklace off and asked where the safe was. They led Glidden to the front door of the apartment where his wife, Jennifer Brown, 24, and baby were standing.

As they walked toward the door, a neighbor heard the commotion and stepped outside. One of the robbers pointed the shotgun at the neighbor and ordered him back inside.

The robbers struck Glidden in the back with the gun, then ripped the necklace from Brown’s neck.

The robbers attempted to force their way into the apartment but saw others inside and fled the scene northbound.

Both victims received minor injuries that did not require treatment.

There was no further description of the bad guys.

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 Beaten, Woman Chased While
Unloading Groceries from Car
During Attempted Armed Robbery
By Two Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man was beaten and a woman was chased into her home on Thursday, June 5, 2008, at about 10 p.m. shortly after they returned from grocery shopping, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

The victims, Adam Mcdermid, 24, and Malory O'Grady, 23, returned home in the 5600 block of 22nd Street West from the grocery store around 10 p.m. and began unloading their vehicle.

Two Black men approached them and one began beating on Adam. The other chased Malory into the house and pointed a black handgun at her, asking for her money. Malory handed out her purse and told the suspect to take the purse and credit cards but he did not take it and ran out the door.

Malory followed him to the door to check on Adam and saw him on the ground and the other suspect pointing a gun at him.

The suspects fled the property and got into a Silver SUV or truck that was parked a short distance away.

They fled into an unknown direction.

Adam was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital by EMS. for a cut to his cheek and a possible concussion.

At this time nothing appears to have been taken.

The two Black males were both wearing ski masks. There was no further description.

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, 100, Ambushed, Robbed of
Prescription Drugs By
Two Hispanic Men

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday afternoon, at about 11:30 a.m., a 100-year-old man was ambushed behind a nightclub in the 2600 block of 14th Street West and his prescription drugs were stolen, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said the victim, Cain Williams, 100, of the 3600 block of 29th Street East, told deputies he was walking behind the Coliseum nightclub when he was approached by two Hispanic men. One of the men knocked Mr. Williams to the ground as the other man jumped on Mr. Williams' back, shoving his forehead into the pavement.

The two robbers took Williams' passport and 3 prescription bottles containing Xanax, lithium and a third type of medication.

The robbers fled from the area and were not located.

Williams, whose date of birth was listed as January 15, 1908, in the report from the sheriff's office, only received a scrape to his forehead and did not require medical attention.

The first robber was described as a Hispanic male, last seen wearing a black tank top and jean shorts with a purple "J" on it, riding a black mountain bike.

Williams told deputies he never saw the second suspect.

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

Hispanic Male Stabbed
By Homeless Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, at about 4 p.m., a Hispanic man was stabbed by a homeless man in the 2700 block of 14th Street West, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Mark Giorgio

The report said the victim, Jorge Hernandez, 60, was sitting at the above location drinking a beer when he was approached by Mark Giorgio, 48.

Giorgio punched Hernandez in the face and then pulled out a knife and stabbed Hernandez in the upper chest.

Hernandez ran from the scene and had a bystander call 911.

Giorgio returned to the crime scene once deputies arrived and was taken into custody without incident.

Hernandez was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.

Giorgio was charged with Aggravated Battery.

Man Pistol-Whipped, Robbed
By Three Hispanic Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 28-year-old Hispanic man was pistol-whipped and robbed by three other Hispanic men on Friday, June 6, 2008, at about 1 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said a black vehicle, possibly a Camaro, pulled up to the intersection of 9th St. E. and 57th Ave. East.

Three unknown Hispanic men exited the vehicle and one of the males struck Martin Contreras, 28, in the forehead with the gun. Contreras fell to the ground.

The 3 robbers went through his pockets and removed his wallet containing cash. The three then got back into the car and fled in an unknown direction.

Contreras walked to sheriff's office district 2 substation and knocked on the door.

EMS was called for him, due to the cuts on his forehead.

A BOLO was put out for the suspects and the vehicle, but are still at large.

Contreras was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital by EMS to get his head stitched up, and was treated and released.

No shots were fired during this incident.

The robbers were not further described in the sheriff's report.

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.

Nine Teen Gang Members
Attack Two Teenage Boys

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported nine gang members attacked two teenage boys on Thursday afternoon, June 5, 2008, shortly before 2 p.m. at the Tri-Mor mobile home park, 5624 14th Street West.

Deputies reported several Hispanic male suspects went to Tri-Mor MHP and approached victims Prince Pichardo, 14, and Eleban Miranda, also 14.

The suspects began fighting the victims, outnumbering them 9-2.

Eleban's father, Teofilo Miranda, 37, came outside to break up the fight.

One of the suspects then got a baseball bat and struck Teofilo several times across the ribs and back. Teofilo also obtained injuries to his feet from fighting and running in the roadway without shoes.

Eleban was hit with the bat in the head but sustained only a minor injury.

The suspects jumped into cars that were parked at the front of the mobile home park and fled.

EMS responded to treat the victims and suggested that they respond to the hospital at their earliest convenience.

A deputy who is familiar with the suspects, ranging in age from 12 to 17, and their gang affiliation passed the information to the gang unit.

Burglary Attempted at Model Homes
at IMG Academy in South Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported five model homes were the victims of attempted burglary sometime overnight between Friday, June 6, 2008, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, June 7, 2008, at 7 a.m. at The Legends at IMG Academy in South Manatee County.

The report said unknown persons attempted to break into five new homes that are furnished but unoccupied.

The suspect used a sharp-pointed tool, possibly a "Life Hammer" (an emergency hammer sold to break vehicle windows) to break the windows.

Each of the windows are the "impact resistant" windows and are double-paned.

The suspect struck each window several times, and were able to break the outer window pane on only a few of the windows. None of the windows had the second window pane broken and none of the homes were entered.

Four of the five homes were next door to each other and the 5th was in another section of the development.

The Legends at IMG Academy is located at the west end of El Conquistador Pkwy.

The homes that were targeted were the first homes completed in the development and none of the homes are occupied at this time.

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.

Three Residential Burglaries
Reported in Holiday Heights

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Three residential burglaries were reported in the Holiday Heights section of Manatee County, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

The three homes burglarized were in the 4800 block of 18th Street West, the 5000 block of 21st Street West and the 1700 block of 49th Avenue West.

In each of the burglaries the suspect(s) forced entry through the rear door or window.

The suspect(s) targeted food, assorted jewelry and a laptop computer.

The burglaries were reported to have occurred on Saturday, June 7, 2008, between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

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.

Gas Tanker Driver Died
After Explosion and Fire

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The man who drove his gas tanker off I-75 onto U.S. 301 below on Wednesday, June 4, 2008, died on Saturday, June 7, 2008, at 1:51 p.m.

Raymond Neumann, 54, of Brooksville, Florida, had been in critical condition at Tampa General Hospital's burn unit, where he was Bayflighted following the incident.

The crash resulted in an explosion and fire that resulted in Neumann being burned critically.

The southbound overpass on I-75 was beyond repair, according to Florida DOT engineers and they are in the process of replacing it.

Officials estimate the repairs will take up to six weeks.

Palmetto Bank Robbery
Reported on Friday

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police reported the M&I Bank, at 1301 8th Avenue West, was robbed Friday afternoon, June 6, 2008, at about 12:30 p.m.

A PPD report described the robber as a white male between 5' 7: and 6' 1" tall, with a thin or medium build. He has fair skin and his arms and face appeared to be slightly sunburned. He had light reddish-blond hair. He was wearing a dark blue "Polo Sport" T-shirt and had on tan or brown cargo-style shorts. He was wearing white tennis shoes. He was last seen wearing a dark-colored bicycle to the west, through Palmetto Mobile Home Park located directly behind the bank.

Police say he got away with an undisclosed amount of money.

Persons with information about this crime are urged to contact the Palmetto Police Department at 721-2000, ext. 124, 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.

Sarasota Police Arrest Man, 38,
for Lewd and Lascivious Acts
on Girl, 12

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police have arrested Galen L. Yoder, 38, of 3455 Winton Avenue, Sarasota, an ice cream truck vendor, and charged him with four counts of Led and Lascivious Acts on a little girl, 12.

Galen L. Yoder

The arrest report said the unnamed 12-year-old girl reported that during approximately April, 2008, she rode in an ice cream truck operated by Galen Yoder, a family friend.

She said that while in the ice cream truck, Yoder drove to a secluded location in Sarasota and had the little girl sit on one of the freezers in the truck.

Her shirt and bra was pulled up by Yoder so that her breasts were exposed. She said Yoder pulled down her pants and underwear so that her vagina and buttocks were also exposed.

Then Yoder allegedly penetrated her vagina with his fingers and fondled her breasts, the report said.

There are often more victims in cases like this, SPD said. Any person who may have additional information should call the Sarasota Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 954-7070. Any victim who may need assistance but does not want to talk to a detective yet may call the SPD Victim Advocate at 954-7021.

Wal-Mart Loss Prevention
Employees Robbed

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Two employees in charge of stopping shoplifting at an Orlando Wal-Mart were beaten and robbed at the business, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Police said the employees initially spotted a man taking items from inside the Wal-Mart located on Kirkman Road and attempted to stop him.

However, the shopper dropped the goods and fled.

A short time later, the man returned with four others and attacked the employees, police said. The workers' wallets were stolen.

All four suspects remain on the run, WKMG said.

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