Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 7/5/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 7/5/2008

Bradenton Police Department Report:
Shooting at Bradenton Nightclub;
Two Arrested, 1 Still Sought

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department reported two men have been arrested in connection with a shooting Monday, June 30, 2008, at Club RJ's, 720 9th Avenue West, in Bradenton. Both men have been charged with Attempted Murder. Police are still searching for a third man they say was involved in the shooting.

Above, L to R, Daniel Mendoza, Jr. and Kevin Lenard McCants

According to arrest reports from BPD, Daniel Mendoza, Jr., 19, and Kevin Lenard McCants, 19, both of 1119 61st Avenue Drive East, shot at Antonio Nunez, 21, several times on Monday evening at 5:21 p.m. outside Club RJ's while Nunez was sitting on the hood of his car in the parking lot. Only one shot hit its intended target, Nunez; a total of 26 casings were found at the scene. Three different calibers of casings were found, meaning three guns were used in the shooting.

Nunez was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital with a bullet wound to his side. He was treated and was released on Tuesday.

BPD investigators determined from Nunez that the shooting was over a home invasion that occurred about a year ago to Nunez' residence, allegedly by at least two of the men involved in the shooting, during which money and "other items" were taken. Nunez told detectives the names of two of the men involved in the shooting. Nunez also said he had heard on the street that the men were looking for Nunez before Nunez could find them.

The vehicle used in the shooting, which belonged to McCants' grandmother, a 2000 brown Dodge Neon, was later located -- it had been hidden, the report said. The shooters were not located at that time.

Then, on Tuesday, July 1st, 2008, the vehicle was pulled over at 30th Avenue and 1st Street West. The driver was Kevin McCants. Also inside the vehicle was Daniel Mendoza.

An undercover purchase of .7 grams of cocaine had just been made in the 2600 block of 9th Street West and other officers made the traffic stop.

Inside the vehicle, between Mendoza's legs, was a clear plastic bag containing 45.6 grams of cocaine (1.6 ounces).

Both men were arrested and charged with Trafficking in Cocaine for the cocaine found, the sale that had just been made and a previous sale of cocaine made on June 27th.

They were taken to the Bradenton Police Department for questioning in the shooting incident at Club RJ's.

Initially, both men denied being involved in the shooting, but later changed their stories and said that Nunez had shot at them first. However, detectives found no bullets in the Dodge Neon they had been in and only found bullet casings near the Neon, but not in front of Nunez's car.

Mendoza and McCants were charged with Attempted Murder, in addition to the cocaine trafficking charges.

Chauncey McDuffie

Police are still looking for the third man involved in the shooting, Chauncey McDuffie, 21, and have obtained a warrant for his arrest.

Anyone with any information can contact Detective Greg Price at the Bradenton Police Department at 932-9355, 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 Burglary
to Business on 14th Street

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy Brandon Gard has arrested Raymond Edward Robinson, Jr., 47, of 1414 17th Avenue West, in Bradenton, after Robinson allegedly broke into a business at 2701 14th Street West.

Raymond Edward Robinson, Jr.

According to the arrest report, Robinson somehow entered the business on Tuesday, July 1, 2008, at about 5:15 p.m., exited and reentered several times, witnesses said.

He took two fire extinguishers and a spool of wire.

He told homeless men sitting in front of the store that he was going to scrap the extinguishers, the report said.

Robinson wouldn't speak to the deputy, saying he wanted a lawyer.

Robinson was arrested at about 6:30 p.m. and charged with Burglary to a Structure.

According to Manatee County court records, Robinson has two pages of felonies, misdemeanors and traffic citations, some of them criminal, listed.

Palmetto Police Arrest Man Who
Exposed Himself to Woman, Clerk,
Ran Into Street Naked, Caused Wreck

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, at about 12:30 p.m., Palmetto Police arrested Antonio Casique-Casca, 26, of 520 20th Street West, in Palmetto, after Antonio stripped down to his birthday suit and exposed himself to a woman at a gas station woman's restroom, then ran into the street naked, causing two vehicles to collide, according to a report from PPD.

Antonio Casique-Casca

The PPD arrest report said an officer was dispatched to On The Run, 2601 9th Avenue West, in reference to a Hispanic male exposing himself in the women's bathroom.

Upon arrival, the officer and a PPD sergeant observed a Hispanic male holding his pants, leaving the property.

The Hispanic male, later identified as Antonio, then ran out in front of traffic and caused a vehicle to slow down for him. A second vehicle could not decelerate fast enough and collided into the rear of the first vehicle, the report said.

The PPD sergeant obtained information from the store clerk that a female customer approached him in the store, claiming Antonio was in the women's bathroom, was naked and was exposing himself. The female left the station and the clerk went to the women's bathroom to investigate.

When the clerk entered the bathroom, he also noticed Antonio, who was naked and exposed himself to the clerk.

Antonio then left the store, running across the street in front of traffic naked, holding his pants, which caused the traffic accident.

When the officer made contact with Antonio, he was holding some paper towels and holding up his pants.

Antonio was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct and was cited for walking out in front of traffic.

Palmetto Police said drugs and alcohol were not involved in the incident.

There were no injuries to those involved in the traffic crash, which was minor.

Manatee Detective Arrests
Two for Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Detective has arrested John Canady, 36, of 616 30th Street East, Palmetto, and Tyisha Cardenas, 25, of the same address.

Above, L to R, John Canady and Tyisha Cardenas

According to the arrest report, the detective spotted the pair crossing a field at 2705 6th Avenue East, Palmetto, on their bicycles.

By the time the detective turned his unmarked vehicle around, he had lost sight of them.

Upon investigation, he found a truck with the hood up. The pair's bicycles were on the ground, about 3 feet away from the truck.

They were found in some tall grass about 50 feet to the south of that location.

They said they weren't doing anything to the truck, but they were going to go next door to steal aluminum out of the dumpster.

Canady later told a detective that he assisted another person in another burglary by helping him carry copper away from a house after he took the air conditioner apart.

Canady was charged with Burglary to a Conveyance and Grand Theft.

Cardenas was charged with Burglary to a Conveyance.

Manatee Sheriff's Narcotics Cops
Arrest 10 on 21 Charges During
Round Up Operation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office Tactical Unit, with assistance from the Selective Enforcement Division and the Warrants Section, has conducted a "round up operation." This was a culmination of a month long investigation.

During the month of June, members of the Special Investigations Division (S.I.D.) Tactical Unit made multiple undercover drug purchases from street level dealers throughout Manatee County.

This operation resulted in the arrest of 10 subjects with a total of 21 felony charges.

Listed below is the name of each subject with their respective charge:

1. Courtney Smith, 51, Sale of Cocaine
2. Jeff Jeffries, 50, Sale of Cocaine
3. Vernon Poole, 36, Sale of Cocaine
4. Randolph Williams, 32, Sale of Cocaine (2 counts)
5. Courtney Smith, 27, Sale of Cocaine (2 counts)
6. Tommie Clark, Jr., 28, Sale of Cocaine (4 counts)
7. Blake Fitzpatrick, 19, Sale of Marijuana
8. Iris Melendez, 34, Sale of Cocaine (3 counts)
9. Eric Landingham, 28, Sale of Marijuana
10. Richard Woods, 26, Sale of Cocaine

Sarasota Art Dealer Arrested
for Fraud, Grand Theft

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police Department detectives have arrested a local art dealer for Fraud and Grand Theft.

Timothy S. Dowling

Timothy S. Dowling, 60, of 4845 Rilma Avenue, in Sarasota, was arrested on July 2, 2008, at his shop, located at 1010 Citrus Avenue.

According to the arrest report, Dowling received several paintings on consignment from various artists. When the artists later asked for them, Dowling could not produce them.

Also, in a particularly flagrant scheme, Dowling took $21,000 from a man over 65 for what the victim believed was an original historic painting by renowned artist Patrick Livingstone, called "Battle of Trafalgar" that was allegedly painted in 1805. However, it was discovered that the painting Dowling sold the man was painted by a local artist for Dowling for which he only paid $400 dollars.

The investigation is continuing and detectives believe that there is a possibility of additional victims. Any person who feels that they may have been a victim of this type of fraud involving the defendant is asked to call Det. Jack Carter at 954-7088.

Sarsota Sheriff's Detectives Arrest
Armed Robbery Suspect

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff's investigators have arrested Milton M. Talbert, 33, of 1275 Myrtle Avenue, Sarasota, for the armed robbery that occurred on Friday, June 27, 2008, at the Dollar Tree store located at 3660 S. Tuttle Avenue, in Sarasota.

Milton M. Talbert

Talbert was arrested at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 1st, 2008, at 1829 23rd Street, Sarasota, after the victims were able to identify him in a photo line up on June 30, 2008.

Talbert had worked at the same Dollar Tree store for three weeks before quitting in March of 2008.

He has been charged with, Robbery with a Firearm, Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, Battery, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. He is currently being held at the Sarasota County Jail.

UPS Employee Arrested for
Stealing Prescription Packages

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics detective arrested UPS employee Joshua Lee Jansen, 26, 2080 Willow Hammock Cir., Deep Creek, for stealing prescription drug shipments.

Joshua Lee Jansen

UPS security notified CCSO that Jansen was rerouting medication packages from MEDCO, of Columbus, Ohio, after they were received at the Punta Gorda UPS warehouse. Jansen would take incoming MEDCO drug packages, put them in another shipping envelope, use his own UPS account number, and address it to himself. UPS Security said this happened on three known occasions, May 21, May 23 and June 27 when the MEDCO packages were never delivered.

CCSO Narcotics detective questioned Jansen who said he was addicted to opiates but denied taking any UPS packages. Detectives then went to his home to search the residence and found four MEDCO prescription bottles, two with the UPS intended customer names from the missing packages and two bottles with labels scratched off. The drugs found were Morphine, Roxicodone, Methylphenidate, Focalin, Dexmethylpendate and MS Contin.

Detectives also found a UPS box addressed to Jansen with three plastic bags ripped open and the prescriptions missing. They also found three measuring spoons with residue, two were remnants of Roxicodone. They also found two plastic baggies with Opiates/Heroin residue.

Narcotics detectives are still working with UPS security concerning other prescription drugs that may have been stolen.

Jansen was taken to the Charlotte County Jail and charged with Trafficking in Morphine, Sale and Delivery of Roxicontone, Possession of Ritalin, Grand Theft and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Child Killer Mark Schwab
Executed at Florida Prison

STARKE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Florida on Tuesday carried out its first execution since a botched lethal injection procedure prompted a moratorium and state investigation, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Mark Schwab
(Mug shot courtesy Florida Dept. of Corrections)

Gov. Charlie Crist's office said Mark Dean Schwab was put to death by lethal injection at 6:15 p.m. Schwab was convicted of kidnapping, raping and killing an 11-year-old boy.

The execution was the initial test of Florida's new lethal injection procedure, which was instituted after Angel Diaz died in December 2006. Needles to inject the deadly chemicals into Diaz missed their mark and he suffered burns and extreme pain.

Schwab, 39, unsuccessfully challenged Florida's new execution procedure, claiming it could also cause pain and suffering. He was executed for the 1991 death of Junny Rios-Martinez of Cocoa.

Outside the prison where the execution took place, the boy's family clapped and cheered when they heard the news that Schwab had died.

More than a dozen family members wore white T-shirts with his picture on the front and with the words "JUSTICE DELAYED IS JUSTICE DENIED" across the back. Another man carried a sign that read "ROT IN HELL SCHWAB."

About 50 death penalty opponents held a brief prayer vigil, then quietly stood by about 75 yards from the family members.

Schwab was executed at the state's death chamber in Starke, which is about 40 miles southwest of Jacksonville, WKMG said.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee County Deputies
Arrest Man for Armed Robbery,
Aggravated Assault with a Firearm

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man robbed two people at gunpoint early Tuesday, July 1, 2008, at about 2:35 a.m. in the parking lot of the 7-11 convenience store, located at 4208 59th Street West, according to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

David Soper

Deputies responded to the 7-11 at the above location reference an armed robbery which had just occurred. Other units responded to the location of the victims as it was learned that they were no longer at the 7-11. The victims were Danielle Mullen, 17, and Jarrett Scheidling, 17, of West Bradenton.

Investigation revealed that the two victims stopped at the 7-11 to get a sandwich. While they were in the store, a man later identified as David Soper, 21, of 4500 60th Street Court West, entered the store and wandered around, speaking occasionally to the clerks.

The victims paid for their purchase, then exited the store, at which time Soper exited also, speaking casually to victims.

After the victims were in their car, Soper approached the driver's side and motioned for the driver, Scheidling, to roll down his window, which he did. Soper asked if they "had any spare change," to which they replied, "No."

At this time, Soper lifted his shirt and displayed a firearm, then removed it and pointed it at the two victims, asking if they had "any money now?" The female victim handed over seven or eight dollars and Soper then pointed the gun at the male and pulled the trigger.

The weapon did not fire so the male victim sped away, as Soper again pulled the trigger. Again, the weapon did not fire.

Units at the 7-11 questioned the clerks and were able to obtain the name of the robber, Soper. Within a few minutes, an address was located and Patrol units and Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) units responded, made contact with Soper, and took him into custody without incident.

The firearm, located in plain view, was also recovered, unloaded. The firearm had been reported stolen out of BPD (08-8157) in May of this year.

Soper was charged with Armed Robbery and Aggravated Assault with a Firearm.

Teen Arrested for Prowling,
Resisting Arrest with Violence;
Taser Used to Gain Compliance

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Nicholas A. Connick, 18, after Connick fled from a deputy Monday night, June 30, 2008, at about 11:40 p.m. in the 6800 block of 11th Street West.

Nicholas A. Connick

An arrest report said Deputy Judy was patrolling his zone when he observed Connick standing in a yard at the corner of 11th Street West and 68th Avenue West, holding a black packpack.

When Deputy Judy turned around, Connick took flight through two front yards and attempted to gain entry into 6819 11th Street West but was denied by the resident with whom Connick is acquainted.

Deputy Judy detained Connick at this location for investigation of Prowling.

Through the course of the investigation, it was learned that the backpack had been reported stolen from the Wilhelm Mobile Home Park, located at 6330 14th Street west, just a few hours prior to Connick being detained. The owner of the backpack told deputies it was stolen late Friday night into Saturday morning but he did not report it until Monday evening.

It was also learned that two other vehicles had been broken into on the same evening where tools and stereo equipment had been stolen.

After speaking to Connick, Deputy Judy removed him from his patrol car, believing he had just tried to hide something under the back seat.

Deputy Escher was standing with Connick when he tried to flee. Deputy Escher and Deputy Judy escorted Connick to the ground and placed him under arrest.

After placing Connick back in the patrol car, Connick began to kick the back windows. Deputy Judy opened the door and with his Taser in hand, warned Connick not to kick the windows. Connick kicked at Deputy Judy at which time he was drive-stunned one time in the stomach causing immediate compliance.

Connick was charged with Prowling and Resisting Arrest with Violence by Deputy Judy. More charges may follow.

Two Men Arrested for Burglary;
Air Conditioning Unit,
Other Items Stolen

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, June 30, 2008, Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested two men for a Burglary that occurred on June 28, 2008, at about 1 a.m.

Above, L to R, Charles Baughman and Bennie Thomas Dunn

The arrest report said Charles Baughman, 24, of 3602 19th Street West, said he heard from a guy named Max that the landlord said the intended victim had been evicted and had to be out of the house within 24 hours.

Baughman went to the house on Saturday and found the back door wide open, he said. He went into the house and saw "a lot of stuff" still in the house.

He told his girlfriend and she and "other people" went into the house and took "a bunch of stuff," the report said Baughman told deputies later.

Baughman said the victim went to his house around 11:00 p.m. screaming at them and accusing them for breaking into her house.

Charles said out of spite he went to her house around 2:00 a.m. and took the window air conditioning unit out of the window and put it in a window of his house.

Bennie Thomas Dunn, 32, of the same address as Baughman, went with Baughman to take the air conditioner, Bennie told deputies.

Both men said what they did was really stupid and "would not happen again."

Baughman was on felony probation for Credit Card Fraud and was violated.

Both men were charged with Burglary.

The stolen items were recovered.

Armed Robbery of Two Women
Reported in Palmetto

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] --- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies took a report of an armed robbery in Palmetto on Monday, June 30, 2008, at about 9:50 p.m.

The report said Brittne Farr, 22, of Tampa, and her friend Ayesha Terry, 23, of Winter Haven, were in front of 2512 3rd Avenue East, in Palmetto, talking to some unknown Black males.

An unidentified Black male, wearing a shirt over half of his face, came up to them carrying a black pistol, pointed it at them and said, "Gimmee what you got!"

The other 4 Black males then grabbed a cell phone, cash and a gold chain from Ayesha. They also took a gold chain and cash from Brittne.

All of the Black males got into a small black 4-door car, possibly a Volkswagen, and fled the scene.

A BOLO was issued for the robbers and the vehicle.

There were no shots fired and there were no injuries.

The robbers were described as 5 unknown Black males, approximately 18 to 25 year of age. Three were wearing dark clothing; two wearing white; and one of the Black males was known as "P. J." One of the Black males carrying an unknown type black pistol.

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.

Alleged Shooter of Holmes Beach
Woman Faces August Trial Date

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT/Islander] -- The man accused of shooting Island businessperson Sue Normand is facing a trial in early August, according to the Anna Maria Islander.

Mark Koenigs

Documents filed at the Manatee County Courthouse last week indicate that Mark Koenigs, 55, could stand trial as early as Aug. 4.

Koenigs has been held at the Manatee County jail since early December 2007, after his arrest on charges in connection with the shooting of Normand at her store, Island Mail & More, in Holmes Beach.

Koenigs faces four first-degree felony charges and one third-degree felony charge. Authorities say he walked into Island Mail & More with a gun in a shipping box, removed the weapon and shot Normand once in the hip. He was apprehended on the beach, after being shot three times by Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies.

A docket sounding to review the status of the case is scheduled for July 28.

[Ed. Note: The article above was reported by the Anna Maria Islander, a news partner of NewsManatee.com.]

Owner of Tattoo Parlor Charged
with Kidnapping, Sexual Battery

PORT CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes detective arrested the owner of a Port Charlotte tattoo parlor on charges of Kidnapping and Sexual Battery.

Roger Dale Wax

Roger Dale Wax, 41, of 5092 Bannock Circle, North Port, was arrested after a female victim told detectives they went to a bar then later to Wax’s business, Skin Mechanix Tattoo Parlor at 3854 Tamiami Trail.

A rape examination kit was obtained at Fawcett Memorial Hospital where the victim told detectives that at the business they sat on a couch and Wax began touching her and tore her pants off. She said she told him to stop several times. She said she began kicking a window to make an alarm go off to no avail.

The woman said when she managed to get from under Wax, he tackled her and she hit her head on the floor, and then Wax forced her to have sex.

Wax then drove the woman to a motel where she was staying and dropped her off.

Major Crimes Unit detectives obtained a search warrant for the business for crime scene personnel to collect evidence.

Wax was then arrested and taken to the Charlotte County Jail where he remains in lieu of no bond.

Boy, 17, Faces More Felony
Burglary Charges

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office filed more charges and arrested Anthony Jerome Phillibert, 17, 1373 Hinton St., Port Charlotte, for an April 5 burglary of a home at 17492 York Ave., Port Charlotte.

Anthony Jerome Phillibert

Taken in the burglary was a 46 inch television, a laptop computer, gold ring, jewelry box, camera and a 22 inch TV. Phillibert is now charged with Burglary and Grand Theft; this is his tenth arrest with 32 records. Phillibert is being held at the Charlotte County Jail as an adult to face the multiple charges.

On April 24, Phillibert was arrested on home invasion robbery charges where a shot gun was used at an apartment in the Murdock Circle Apartments complex. The investigation of the home invasion also led to solving multiple home burglaries with the arrest of Geoff Allen Milliken, 19, 18426 Dreggers Ave., Windsor Owen Walker, 18, 3154 Scranton St., Chaz UrQuhart, 18, 17900 Murdock Circle, Keven Alexander Reyes, 18, 20206 Rutherford Ave., all of Port Charlotte. All five remain in the County Jail.

Detectives said these arrests last April led to a major break in solving some 200 home burglaries in the Englewood, Gulf Cove and North Port areas. Detectives are still working on filing more charges in this extensive home burglary ring by teenagers.

Man Accused of Polish
Sausage Attack on Mom

DeLAND, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 46-year-old man was arrested after he threw a 3-pound pack of Polish sausage at his mother, striking her in the head, police said.

Gregory Allan Praeger
(Mug shot courtesy WKMG)

Gregory Allan Praeger was charged with battery on Saturday after the incident at a Hunters Creek home, according to a DeLand police report.

Praeger's mother told police that her son was drinking and they got into an argument. She said Praeger picked up the pack of sausage and threw it at her, grazing the back of her head, the police report said.

When police asked Praeger what happened, he asked officers if they wanted him to lie, the report said. He then admitted that he threw the sausage at his mother, WKMG reported.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Two Hispanic Men Arrested
for Aggravated Assault After
Threatening Two Pedestrians;
Handgun, Shotgun Found in Truck

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office arrested two Hispanic men after the pair allegedly pointed a handgun at two pedestrians on Sunday morning, at about 2:00 a.m.

Above, Ernesto Ortiz and Jose Rios

The arrest report from the sheriff's office said two people, Stacy Hornes and Lorenzo Brinson, Jr., were walking southbound in the 2800 block of 14th Street West when a black truck pulled alongside them.

The report said Jose Rios, 21, of 5310 26th Street West, pointed a black handgun at them and told them to get down on the sidewalk.

Brinson ran from the scene in fear for his life and Stacy was able to flag down a Bradenton Police car that was passing by at the time.

The black truck took off at that time.

Bradenton Police notified the sheriff's office, who stopped the vehicle in the 1400 block of 14th Street West.

A search incident to the traffic stop revealed a black handgun under the front passenger seat. A shotgun was also found between the front passenger seat and the console.

Both men were taken into custody at that time.

Ernesto Ortiz was charged with Aggravated Assault and Carrying a Concealed Weapon.

Jose Rios was charged with Aggravated Assault.

Two Teens Arrested for
Burglary to a Boat Center

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Benjamin Travis McCorkle, 19, and James Sparks, 18, for burglary to the Tracker Boat Center, 6915 14th Street West, in South Manatee County.

Above, L to R, Benjamin McCorkle and James Sparks

The arrest report said McCorkle was spotted inside the boat center by a deputy on Friday, June 27, 2008, shortly before 10:00 p.m. McCorkle then jumped the fence and was going to get into a white car that was parked outside the boat center.

When McCorkle saw the deputy, he tried to run and the car attempted to flee but parked in back of the boat center.

McCorkle was captured a short time later in the 1100 block of 68th Avenue West.

The driver of the car, James Sparks, was also arrested.

McCorkle was charged with Burglary.

Sparks was charged with Burglary, Driving on a Suspended License and DUI.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Theft of GPS Device,
XM Radio from Vehicle

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Nathaniel Riley, 29, of 323 25th Street West, in Bradenton, after Riley allegedly confessed to stealing a GPS device and an XM satellite radio from a vehicle on Thursday, June 26, 2008, at about 10:20 p.m.

Nathaniel Riley

According to the arrest report from BPD, Riley was stopped and questioned by a police officer, due to numerous burglaries in the area.

Before Riley could get into the officer's car to be taken to the police station for questioning, he was asked if he had anything in his pockets, like guns drugs or knives.

Riley pulled two sets of keys out of his pockets. One of the sets of keys belonged to the burglary victim's 1994 GMC van, from which the GPS device and XM satellite radio were also missing.

Riley said he had broken into about 5-6 vehicles that morning and the stolen property was at his house.

Officers recovered the stolen property and arrested Riley.

He was charged with Burglary to a Conveyance.

Palmetto Police Arrest
Two Men for Burglary

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police have arrested Kyle Juhl, 20, of Palmetto, and Michael Huerta, 18, of St. Petersburg, after the pair was found inside a residence in the 1400 block of 5th Street Court West, without the owner's permission. The incident occurred on Friday, June 27, 2008, shortly after 8:00 p.m.

Above, L to R, Kyle Juhl and Michael Huerta

The arrest report said police were dispatched to the residence by a neighbor's complaint. The neighbor said there were people in the neighbor's house who weren't supposed to be there. The neighbor was at work, the complainant told police.

Upon arrival, police found Juhl and Huerta inside the residence.

The owner was contacted and told police the men did not have permission to be there and that seven gun cases and four gun stocks were missing. The owner also said a safe had been broken into.

Huerta and July were arrested and charged with Burglary.

Shot Fired at Occupied
Residence, Vehicle;
No Injuries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, June 28, 2008, at about midnight, numerous shots were fired at a residence and a vehicle in the 2500 block of 51st Avenue Drive West.

A sheriff's office report said a deputy was dispatched the next morning, Sunday, June 29, 2008, at about 10:15 a.m.

Upon investigation, it was learned that unknown person(s) had shot .40 caliber rounds into the front door of the duplex and into the victim's 1990 Honda.

There were no injuries reported in the incident.

The deputy canvassed the neighbors and reported witnesses who had observed a man and a woman liking into the duplex at about the time of the shooting.

There was no description given of the man, woman or a vehicle that may have been involved.

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.

Elderly Woman's Wallet Snatched
Outside CVS Pharmacy

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, June 30, 2008, at about 1:40 p.m., a woman's wallet was snatched outside the CVS Pharmacy located at 6204 14th Street West, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

A sheriff's office report said while standing in front of the CVS Pharmacy, a White male grabbed 76-year-old Myrtis Elder's wrist and then snatched her wallet from her hands.

The man jumped into an unknown type red vehicle driven by another person and fled northbound on 14th Street West.

Elder's only injury was a sore, bruised right wrist.

The wallet contained her Driver's License, credit cards and 15 $1 bills.

The robber was described as a White male, with a medium build, thin manicured mustache and dark hair. He was last seen wearing a red shirt and white knee length shorts.

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 Dies in Traffic Crash
Trying to Avoid Animal

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a man lost his life Monday morning, June 30, 2008, at about 6:30 a.m., when he swerved to avoid an animal in the road at Duette Road and Rawls Road and slammed into an oncoming truck.

Russell Ownes, 47, of Winter Haven, Florida, was traveling southbound on Duette Road.

A Peterbuilt truck driven by Nelson Escobar, 54, of Bradenton, was traveling northbound on Duette Road.

Ownes swerved to the left to avoid an animal in the roadway and then back to the right. He then lost control of his 2008 pickup truck and traveled back to the left and into the northbound bound lane entering the path of the Peterbuilt truck.

The front of the pickup struck the left front of the Peterbuilt.

After impact, the Peterbuilt traveled in a northerly direction and came to final rest facing west across the northbound lane of Duette Road.

After impact, the pickup truck rotated counter clockwise in a northerly direction off the west shoulder of Duette Road and came to final rest facing in a northeasterly direction on the west shoulder of Duette Road.

Ownes was pronounced dead at the scene.

Escobar suffered minor injuries and was transported to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center.

Man Arrested for Shining
Laser Light at Sheriff's
Helicopter Pilot's Eyes

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office has arrested a 49-year-old man for shining a laser light into the eyes of a sheriff's helicopter pilot.

Robert Donath

On Friday, June 27, 2008, at approximately 10:30 p.m., an individual shone a laser lighting device at the Sheriff’s Office Helicopter while it was responding to an armed robbery in
the area of Bee Ridge Road and Swift Road in Sarasota.

The laser lighting device was sufficiently powerful that it caused the pilot’s night vision goggles to shut down, and temporarily blind the pilot. The pilot had to take emergency
evasive action.

As a result of this action, the safety of the aircraft, its occupants and the general public was jeopardized.

Deputies made contact with a man at 2135 Worrington Street, in Sarasota. Bruce Donath, 49, admitted to shining the laser light at the helicopter.

He was subsequently arrested on a charge of Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device.

Girl Draws Blood When Mom
Tries to Take Cell Phone Away

NICEVILLE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A Panhandle woman told deputies her 16-year-old daughter bit her when she tried to take the girl's cell phone away, according to Orlando television station WKMG.

A deputy found the woman with two sets of teeth marks on the top of her hand, both with dried blood.

The mother said she tried to take the girl's phone as punishment for breaking curfew.

Deputies say the girl bit her mother to force her to release the phone.

The teen has been charged with misdemeanor domestic battery and violation of probation, WKMG reported.

Governor Crist Approves
Tougher Penalties for
Gang Activity

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- Yesterday, June 30, 2008, Governor Charlie Crist visited the Palm Beach County Historic Courthouse to sign House Bill 43, which will allow stricter sentences for criminal gang-related activity. Governor Crist was joined by Attorney General Bill McCollum and bill sponsors Senator Jeff Atwater and Representative William D. Snyder.

“I applaud the work of the statewide grand jury in helping us better understand the extent of increased gang activity in Florida,” Governor Crist said. “I also commend the Florida Legislature for providing our law enforcement officers and prosecutors the tools they need to protect the quality of life of our youth and our communities from gangs and their criminal activity.”

In June 2007, Governor Crist petitioned the Florida Supreme Court to convene a statewide grand jury to investigate an increase in crimes that could be attributed to gang activity. As a result, the 18th Statewide Grand Jury began meeting in August 2007 in West Palm Beach, overseen by Statewide Prosecutor William Shepherd, Office of Attorney General.

In addition to issuing 57 gang-related indictments, the grand jury also released a report in December 2007 with recommendations for legislation. As a result, the Legislature incorporated many of the key recommendations into House Bill 43. The legislation provides tougher penalties for criminal gang activity. For example, it will now be a first-degree felony punishable by life imprisonment to initiate, organize or finance criminal gang-related activity. It also prohibits electronic communication to extend the criminal interests of a gang.

"I'm delighted and honored to have Governor Crist sign our anti-gang legislation today. It's a first step in making Broward, Palm Beach and the rest of Florida safer from the threat of criminal gangs,” Senator Atwater said. “It gives law enforcement and prosecutors new tools and tougher penalties in the fight against gangs and gang violence."

The legislation also creates the Coordinating Council on Gang Reduction Strategies, to be chaired by the Attorney General. The council will work with local and state law enforcement partners during the next year to develop a statewide strategy to reduce gang activity.

“This comprehensive new law creates a statewide framework for addressing the gang violence that is destroying too many Florida neighborhoods,” said Attorney General McCollum, for whom passage of this legislation was a top priority during the 2008 Session. “We can now look forward to driving gangs out of our state and ultimately out of existence.”

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Deputy Arrests Man Allegedly
Drunk, In Underwear, Exposing
Himself; Broke Deputy's Thumb

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Deputy's thumb was broken during the arrest of William Joseph Warf, 28, of 4115 62nd Street West, on Thursday at about 11:50 p.m.

William Joseph Warf

According to an arrest report from the sheriff's office, dispatch received several calls about a White male, dressed only in his underwear, walking the neighborhood in the vicinity of the 6000 block of 42nd Avenue West, exposing himself. Deputy Cline was dispatched to the disturbance.

When Deputy Cline arrived on scene, Donald Comstock, 52, of 4204 60th Street Court West, was yelling at Warf to stay out of his yard. Warf punched Comstock on the right side of his head with his fist, then bit Comstock on his right finger, drawing blood.

Warf was belligerent and appeared to be intoxicated, the report said.

Deputy Cline attempted to arrest Warf, but Warf fought Dep. Cline and broke Dep. Cline's thumb. Then Warf fled.

Deputy Cline gave chase and deployed his Taser but was unsure if the probes struck Warf.

Deputy Cline was able to catch Warf and take him to the ground in an attempt to handcuff him.

Warf continued to resist and was drive-stunned with the Taser twice by Deputy Cline.

Back-up units arrived on scene and were able to take Warf into custody.

A witness who saw Warf expose himself could not be immediately located.

Warf was charged with Trespass After Warning, Battery, Resisting Arrest with Violence, and Injury to a Law Enforcement Officer.

Woman Arrested for Child Neglect;
Left Children at Checkers, Went
Home, Passed Out, Intoxicated

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Teri Ann Graham, 37, of 3880 82nd Avenue Circle East, in South Manatee County. Deputies said Graham was intoxicated when she left her two children at Checkers restaurant and went home and passed out. The incident occurred on Friday, June 27, 2008, at about 7:00 p.m.

Teri Ann Graham

A report from the sheriff's office said Teri arrived at the Checkers located at 8357 Lockwood Ridge Road with her two children in her vehicle.

She ordered food from the drive-through and proceeded to sit in her vehicle in the parking lot and eat.

Her five-year-old son told her that he wanted a quesadilla. Teri provided him with a twenty dollar bill and told him to go get it. The five-year-old exited the parked vehicle with his sister, of unknown age, and proceeded to Taco Bell.

After accidently entering Arby's, the five-year-old made it to Taco Bell and got the food he wanted. He then walked back to the Checkers restaurant but could not locate his mother.

The Sheriff's Office was contacted by a citizen and through investigative techniques Teri's Residence was located.

Teri was found passed out in bed and was under the impression that her children were asleep in their rooms. She was shown they were not and could not provide an explanation as to where they were.

It was apparent to deputies that Teri was intoxicated, based on her speech and loss of balance when she walked around.

Further investigation through interviews revealed that Teri left her children in the parking lot and returned home where she went to bed.

Teri was arrested and charged with two counts of Child Neglect.

Citgo Gas Station Clerk
Slugged, Robbed

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An unknown man hit a Citgo gas station clerk with a tape dispenser, then stole money from the gas station and convenience store on Friday, June 27, 2008, at about 11:00 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Henry Lee Moore

The report said Henry Lee Moore, 41, of 4804 25th Street West walked into the Citgo store at 6829 15th Street East and told the clerk he was waiting for his uncle to come get him.

The clerk walked to the back of the store and Moore picked up a weighted tape dispenser and struck the clerk, M.D. Rahaman, 29, in the head, causing him to fall.

Moore then attempted to open the register with negative results. The clerk got up and assisted Moore with opening the register.

Moore then absconded with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The clerk recognized Moore as a person who comes in frequently to cash checks and was able to identify Moore as the perpetrator.

The Violent Crimes Task Force located Moore at his girlfriend's residence.

He was arrested and charged with armed robbery.

Two Teens Victims of Armed
Home Invasion Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported two teenagers were victims of an armed home invasion robbery early Saturday morning, at about 2:30 a.m., at a residence in the 5800 block of 4th Avenue N.W.

The report said on Saturday, June 28, 2008, Kara Bellmore, 18, and J. C. R., 13 (name withheld because of his juvenile status), were at home when two White males opened the front door of the upstairs apartment. The taller male pointed a gun at Kara and told her to get on the ground and not move. The second male pointed a shotgun at J. C. R. and told him not to move.

The 6'00" male then began going through specific areas of the residence, until he located cash underneath the fax machine. He also took a gold chain with a "Gator" charm.

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

Kara checked on J. C. R. to make sure he was all right, then she called her boyfriend, James R. Russell, who was on his way to work at the time.

On his way back home, James R. Russell located a BPD unit at the intersection of 59th Street and Manatee Avenue West. That unit contacted the sheriff's office to respond.

The information was collected and a BOLO was put out for the suspects.

There were no injuries and no shots fired.

The robbers were described as a White male, 6'00" tall, with dark hair, carrying an unknown type pistol; and a White male, 5'06" tall, with blonde hair, carrying a shotgun.

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

Man Stabbed During Fight
with Another Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was stabbed early Sunday morning, June 29, 2008, sometime between 3:00 and 4:00 a.m. during a fight with another man at 1015 61st Avenue East.

The report said at about 5:30 a.m. the victim, Bardanger Tarwoe, 27, was brought into Manatee Memorial Hospital's Emergency Room with a stab wound to his lower abdomen. His brother, Bobby Tarwoe, brought him into the ER.

The incident occurred sometime between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. when Bardanger got upset over a man named Christopher putting his hand into Bardanger's back pocket. So, Bardanger punched Christopher.

A fight ensued between the two and when brother Bobby Tarwoe got involved, Christopher pulled out a knife and stabbed Bardanger.

Bobby initially took Bardanger home and they were going to take care of the injury but later changed their mind and went to the ER. Bardanger's injuries required surgery but were not life threatening.

Initially, the Tarwoes reported the incident scene as Mike's Mini Mart because Bardanger did not want his girlfriend to find out that he was going to see another girl, Sarah.

Christopher was no longer at the incident scene and the occupants, who are Hispanics, were unable to provide a last name or address for Christopher. They advised that he comes there occasionally and parties.

Christopher was no longer there and supposedly had been picked up by a friend earlier.

All parties involved were not very forthcoming and some of the information may have been deceptive, the report said.

Christopher was described as a White male in his 20s, last seen wearing a white shirt and jeans.

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 Hospitalized
After Being Struck with Bat
By Three White Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Rafael Solito-Guzman, 26, was hospitalized after three White males struck him in the head several times with a baseball bat, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

A sheriff's report said on Saturday, June 28, 2008, at approximately 1:15 a.m., Rafael Solito-Guzman was at the 5500 block of 14th Street West in the parking lot of the Southern Cooking Restaurant eating at the Taco Stand.

Three White males approached him, possibly Joyland patrons, and got into a verbal altercation with him.

It turned physical when one of the 3 White males got an "Easton" baseball bat and struck Guzman in the back of the head several times causing several deep lacerations.

Upon arrival of deputies, the three White males had already fled the area in two vehicles. One of the vehicles was a white F-150 and the other was a jacked up white F-350.

EMS responded and transported Guzman to a medical helicopter landing zone at 5700 14th Street West and transported him to Bayfront Medical Center, in St. Petersburg.

Guzman's injuries, although serious, were not expected to be life-threatening.

A BOLO was put out for the suspect vehicles and the area canvassed with negative results.

One of the White males was described as being 6'00" tall, 210 pounds, last seen wearing a black shirt and blue pants. There was no further on the other two White males.

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 Juveniles, One Black, Two
Hispanic, Punch Hispanic Male,
Steal His Friend's Truck

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man's vehicle, being driven by his friend, was stolen early Thursday, June 26, 2008, at about 1:00 a.m. after a Black man and two Hispanic men obtained a ride from the victim, then punched him several times.

The sheriff's report said William Bautista-Lopez was driving his friend, William DeLeon-Perez's truck at the above date and time.

Bautista-Lopez was asked by three men, who he knew as acquaintances and only by their nicknames, for a ride.

Bautista-Lopez drove the three men to the 6400 block 14th Street West and pulled into a parking lot to drop them off.

The three men then began punching Bautista-Lopez in the head and body. Then the three men pulled Bautista-Lopez from the vehicle and went through each of his pockets, but Bautista-Lopez did not have anything in them.

The three men then stole the vehicle and fled in an unknown direction.

Bautista-Lopez was not injured.

The incident was not reported until approximately 7:30 p.m. that day, after Bautista-Lopez notified DeLeon-Perez of the incident.

The three men were described as:

(1) A Black male, with the nickname of "NuNu," 15 years old, 5'06" tall, 150 pounds, with short black hair and brown eyes, last seen wearing a white T-shirt and black shorts.

(2) A Hispanic male with the nickname of "Carlos," 16 years old, 5'06" tall, 160 pounds, with short black hair and brown eyes, last seen wearing blue shorts and a black T-shirt.

(3) A Hispanic male with the nickname of "Cigarillo," 16 years old, 5'02" tall, 140 pounds, with short black hair and brown eyes, a rope tattoo on his left hand, last seen wearing a white T-shirt and blue jean shorts.

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.

Black Male Roughs Up
Pizza Store Employee,
Steals Her Money

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday afternoon, June 27, 2008, at about 2:30 p.m., a woman who worked for a pizza shop was robbed and knocked to the ground in the process, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said the victim, Joanna Hough, 33, of the 600 block of 64th Avenue East, was walking home, via Ell Way, from her job at Eleni's Pizza which is located at 6711 15 Street East, when she was approached by a Black male who pulled up next to her in his vehicle.

The Black male started asking for directions to the airport when he suddenly snatched the server apron from her waist and drove off westbound towards 9th Street East.

The attack knocked Joanna to the ground, causing scratches to her back which did not require medical attention.

The suspect netted $88 dollars, which was in the apron.

Neither the Black male nor other witnesses could be located and a BOLO was issued.

The robber was described as a Black male in his 20s, with short hair, facial hair on his chin only, 1 gold cap on a front tooth, with a thin build. He was driving what appeared to be a 2000 black Chevy smaller 4-door sedan, with the first 2 letters of the license tag of "B4."

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.

Manatee Sheriff's Office
Reverse Prostitution Sting
Nets 15 Men on 19 Charges

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On June 27, 2008, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Tactical Unit conducted a Reverse Prostitution Sting on a major roadway in Manatee County.

They utilized SID detectives, along with the assistance of Violent Crimes Task Force deputies, to handle the monitoring, takedown and processing of arrested subjects. The Manatee County Sheriff's Office Operations Center was used as the temporary booking area. The Patrol Transport Unit was utilized to transport the arrested subjects to the jail.

They were able to effectively arrest 15 men for Solicitation for Prostitution. Four men were charged with additional traffic-related offenses.

The names, race, ages of those arrested are:

1. Roberto Garcia-Cruz, Hispanic male, 19
2. Lane Ruise, Black male, 48
3. Marcos Latalladi, Hispanic male, 23
4. Secundino Rivas-Lopez, Hispanic male, 27
5. Alex Vargas, Hispanic male, 26
6. Jose Morales, Hispanic male, 29
7. Eddie Noguera, Hispanic male, 36
8. Abner Barrios, Hispanic male, 26
9. Rodolfo Barrios, Hispanic male, 21
10. Gareth Lynch, White male, 40
11. Freddie Simmons, Black male, 38
12. Edbin Coz, Hispanic male, 21
13. Lazaro Perez-Valdez, Hispanic male, 37
14. Jesus Perez Gonzales, Hispanic male, 33
15. Miguel Roblero, Hispanic male, 23

Manatee County Sheriff's
DUI Checkpoint Results

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, June 28, 2008, Sgt. Paul Fieber, DUI/Traffic Supervisor, for the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office announced the results of a DUI checkpoint on Friday, June 27, 2008.

On Friday, at 10:34 p.m., the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office hosted a DUI Sobriety Checkpoint in the 3700 block of Cortez Road West. Participating in the checkpoint were officers from the Florida Highway Patrol, Bradenton Police Department, Holmes Beach Police Department and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Reserve Unit. Also participating in a support role were members of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), the Salvation Army and the Bradenton Jaycees.

During the 4 hour and 26 minute checkpoint, 672 cars passed through the checkpoint. One Hundred Forty-Eight (148) of those were diverted into an enforcement area for investigation.

Of those 148 cars, 10 drivers were tested for impairment and 7 were arrested for DUI; the other 3 obtained a ride home by other means.

Seven (7) other people were arrested for drug possession and habitual traffic offenses and 14 operators were given citations and court dates for driving on suspended licenses; 24 other citations were issued for minor infractions such as not carrying their license and registration with them, open container, equipment violations and seat belt violations.

Sgt. Fieber said the next checkpoint is scheduled for July 25, 2008.

Driver Dies in I-75 Crash
Sunday Morning

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a Zephyrhills man died Sunday morning, June 29, 2008, at about 10:30 a.m., when the vehicle and the camper trailer he was towing overturned on I-75, between State Road 64 and State Road 70.

A vehicle driven by Robert C. Larson, 69, of Zephyrhills, Florida was pulling a camper trailer traveling southbound on I-75 in the outside lane. As Larson approached the rear of a slower moving vehicle, he proceeded to change into the center lane in an attempt to pass the slower moving traffic.

As he did so, he observed a vehicle moving into the center from the inside southbound lane.

Larson at that time attempted steer his vehicle back into the outside lane, but he overcorrected and his vehicle proceeded off the western edge of the roadway and into the emergency lane.

Larson then attempted to steer his vehicle back onto the roadway, but he lost control of the vehicle.

At that time the vehicle and the trailer both overturned onto their right sides.

Mr. Larson died at the scene.

His wife, Patricia Larson, 65, was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital with minor injuries.

Man, Woman Rob Shell Station
at Gunpoint Early Friday

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, June 27th, 2008, at approximately 1:16 a.m. a White male entered a Shell gas station at the corner of Short Road and US 41 in Venice.

Above, surveillance photos of the robbers;
the man is to the left, the woman to the right

There he demanded money at gunpoint, while a White female accomplice acted as look-out.

The male suspect is described as approximately 5’ 5” tall, 135 lbs, with dark brown hair. He was last seen wearing light colored shorts, white tennis shoes, a red baseball cap and a dark colored sweat shirt with the word “Florida” on the front, and the word “Miami” and the number “6” on the back. He also wore a dark colored bandana to conceal his face.

The female suspect appeared to be wearing a Michigan State hooded sweatshirt, dark colored jogging pants, and two-tone tennis shoes. She also was using a second T-shirt to conceal her face.

Anyone with any information regarding this incident should contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office District III Criminal Investigations Bureau at (941) 861-1719. They may also leave anonymous information on the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (941) 366-TIPS (8477) or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.

Detectives, FBI Warn Floridians
About "Hit Man" E-mails

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Threatening e-mails appearing in inboxes in Florida and throughout the nation have prompted a FBI investigation, according to Orlando television station WKMG.

Many of the e-mails have subject lines that read, "Someone you call a friend wants you dead."

People who receive the e-mail are warned that if they want to live, they must hand over $12,000.

The FBI said the complaints have been nationwide.

Detectives said the e-mails are part of a phishing scam that likely started overseas.

In Port St. Lucie, the sheriff's office reported that victims have received e-mails from "hit man."

One e-mail from "Mr. G. Hord" at axakiller.com, claims he was hired by an acquaintance of the recipient to kill him.

The scammer then demands a payoff and promises evidence of who hired the killer, WKMG reported.

Authorities said no one has been injured, but anyone who receives a similar message should contact law enforcement.

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