Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 7/12/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 7/12/2008

Sons of the American Revolution:
Palmetto High School Student
Completes Eagle Scout Project,
Renovates Oak Hill Cemetery

PARRISH, Florida [NMT] -- Aaron M. Haga, a senior at Palmetto High School, recently completed his project as a candidate for Eagle Scout in Ellenton Boy Scout Troop 32. He chose to clean up the old Oak Hill Cemetery located on the Parrish Cemetery Road in Parrish, Florida.

Above, dirty headstone, Aaron M. Haga, clean headstone
(Photos by Harold Crapo, Jr., SAR)

A visit to the cemetery in January 2008 found it to be in unkempt condition. There was trash left over the entire complex. Oak leaves were four to six inches deep in some places. Headstones were completely covered with black mold rendering them unreadable; others were buried by dirt and debris.

Further, there are many veterans buried in the cemetery and yet there were less than 10 flags for more than 85 veterans to recognize their military service.

Aaron Haga accepted the project to make the Oak Hill Cemetery look more like a place of peace and a park. With his planning and leadership, he was able to transform the entire setting back to look like hallowed ground. This was not an easy task and all one has to do is look at some of the before and after pictures that were taken (see photos above).

Scout Troop 32 and the Haga family can be proud of his accomplishments.

The whole town of Parrish, Florida, can be proud to have such a dynamic young man in their midst, who will some day likely be one of the leaders of our country.

[Ed. Note: After the headstone seen above in the photos was cleaned, it revealed the name of John H. Downing, who was born on Jan. 8, 1861 and died on Dec. 25, 1906, at the age of 45, just before his 46th birthday -- facts that were illegible prior to the cleaning of the headstone by Aaron Haga.]

Bradenton Police Arrest Woman
for Vehicle Assault Against
Ex-husband, Girlfriend

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Katina L. Williams, 34, of 1010 18th Street East, Bradenton, after Katina drove her vehicle at her ex-husband and his current girlfriend, injuring the girlfriend.

Katina L. Williams

The arrest report from BPD said on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, at about 8:30 p.m., Jonny Wiliams and Ruby Gonzalez were on foot in the area of 300 13th Avenue West.

Jonny told police Katina, his ex-wife, drove past them in a silver truck, yelling at Jonny and Ruby. Jonny said he had been having "problems" with Katina for the past few months. Jonny also said he had been dating Ruby for about 15 months.

Jonny said Katina then stopped and drove toward Jonny and Ruby in reverse.

Jonny saw the truck coming and jumped out of the way, but Ruby was unable to get out of the way and was struck by Katina's truck.

A passing motorist drove Jonny and Ruby to Manatee Memorial Hospital, where Ruby was treated for a back injury and a small cut on both her feet.

Police located Katina about two hours later at her residence at 1010 18th Street East and arrested her.

Katina was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Aggrated Assault.

She told police she didn't mean to hurt anyone, but admitted to the incident.

Vehicle Shot At, 3 Inside;
Man Arrested; No injuries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a shooting at an occupied vehicle on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, shortly before midnight.

Ronald Harber

The victim, Dustin Kennedy, of the 4800 block of Gamble Court, in Ellenton, and two other individuals, went to Ronald Harber's residence at 11845 71st Street East, in Parrish, to retrieve a sweater for one of the victim's friends.

Harber yelled at Kennedy that he was going to shoot all three. They got into the victim's vehicle in preparation to leave.

They heard and saw a round strike Kennedy's passenger door.

As he sped away, they heard and saw another round strike the back window.

The sheriff's office was called by Kennedy who told deputies what had transpired.

Harber, 27, was arrested and charged with Shooting at an Occupied Vehicle.

There were no injuries.

Coin Machine Stolen in
Laundromat Burglary;
Five Later Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested five people involved in a burglary of AAA Laundry, 1411 57th Avenue West, which occurred early Thursday morning, July 10, 2008, at about 3:00 a.m.

Above, L to R, Deonna Hernandez, John Yingling, Jared Partin
Wayne Kirchen and Robert Fausnaugh

A sheriff's office report said the coin machine was stolen in the burglary.

A witness to the event provided patrol officers with a description of the burglars' vehicle and direction of travel.

The burglars were located a short time later in the 4900 block of 20th Street West by patrol and stopped.

Five people were in the vehicle.

In their possession was the coin machine stolen in the burglary.

All five were arrested and charged with Burglary and Grand Theft.

Arrested were:

1. Deonna Marie Hernandez, 21, 4807 29th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton
2. John E. Yingling, 28, 1418 10th Avenue West, Bradenton
3. Jared M. Partin, 23, 5310 26th Street West, Bradenton
4. Wayne T. Kirchen, 20, 1710 30th Avenue West, Bradenton
5. Robert Eugene Fausnaugh, 20, 6710 Ellenton Gillette Rd, #285, Palmetto

Suspicious Early A.M. Structure Fire
Reported By Cedar Hammock
Fire Rescue

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue responded to a structure fire at 1004 27th Avenue West at 4:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 10, 2008.

The first unit arrived on scene within 3 minutes of the first call and found heavy smoke and fire showing from a single family residence converted from a mobile home.

On scene were 3 fire engines and a Battalion Chief, with a total of 11 personnel.

Loss to the building was $10,000 dollars in damage to the building whose value was estimated to be in the neighborhood of $20,000 dollars.

The Cause of the fire is suspicious in nature, according to Cedar Hammock Battalion Chief Mike DeChelbor.

CHFR investigators were assisted in their investigation by the State Fire Marshal's office and Deputy Fire Marshal Kurt Lathrop from West Manatee Fire Rescue.

The building was vacant at the time of the fire.

Man Ambushed, Beaten,
Tennis Shoes Stolen;
Deputies Search for 4

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, July 9, 2008, at about 10:00 p.m., a man was ambushed by four people, held down and beaten and his tennis shoes were stolen, according to a Manatee County Sheriff's Office report.

As the victim, David Malave de Jesus, 25, was walking westbound in the 600 block of 59th Avenue East, four males ran up behind him.

David began to run, but fell down.

The first man to reach David held him down and the other three began kicking and punching him.

One of the culprits then removed David's shoes, a pair of PUMA tennis shoes, valued at $86.

Then all four bad guys fled the scene.

David received a swollen left eye, but no other injury. He refused EMS.

The four were described as 1 Hispanic male juvenile, possibly names Javier, and 3 unidentified Black males.

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.

Manatee Sheriff Makes Agreement
with U.S. Immigration and
Customs Enforcement

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, July 10, 2008, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office announced it has entered into an agreement with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that allows select corrections deputies to determine those arrested persons that are illegal immigrants, prior deported immigrants, and process those immigration violators found in Manatee County Corrections Facility.

Under the agreement, a maximum of ten corrections deputies will complete four weeks of training in the enforcement of federal immigration laws and policies provided by ICE instructors. The select deputies will then have the authority to work in conjunction with ICE and conduct investigations that will identify illegal immigrants arrested and processed at the Manatee County Facility that meet the deportation criteria set forth by ICE.

"The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is among a select few Law Enforcement agencies in Florida given this authority by the Department of Homeland Security," Randy Warren, a spokesman for the sheriff's office said Thursday.

Shooting Reported in Sarasota;
Victim Identified

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported a shooting that occurred on July 8, 2008, at about 8:30 p.m. in the 2900 block of Leonard Reid Avenue.

The victim contacted the Sarasota Police Department and said he'd been shot. At the time he was at U.S. 301 and Washington Blvd. He changed his location to Leonard Reid Avenue by the time police arrived. Both Sarasota City Police and the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office responded; they located him.

He was Bayflighted to Bayfront Medical Center by Bayflight medical chopper.

On Wednesday, July 10, 2008, he was identified by the sheriff's office as as Eric Duvon Brooks, 44, of Sarasota.

He is currently listed in stable condition.

The shooter was loosely described as a Black male, of unknown age, last seen wearing no shirt and jean shorts.

No other details about the shooting have been made known.

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

Police Officer Accused of
Sexual Battery, But No
Charges Filed Yet

OCOEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A Central Florida police sergeant is the target of a sex crimes investigation, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Ocoee police Sgt. Tom Maroney is accused of sexual battery but has not been charged with a crime, officials said.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office said detectives are looking into the case but refused to comment on the case because of the ongoing investigation.

In recent months, the Ocoee Police Department has been plagued with scandal, WKMG reported.

The police chief was terminated after he was accused of borrowing prescription medication from another employee and then using it on duty.

Maroney has been placed on paid leave.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

House Firebombed Wednesday;
Arson Dog Finds Suspect, No
Arrests Yet, Fire Marshal Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a single family residence at 3108 18th Street East was the victim of an arson fire at about 3:45 a.m. Wednesday morning. After the fire was extinguished, an arson dog alerted on an accelerant and also alerted on a suspect's shoes.

Above, West Manatee Fire Rescue Arson Dog"Lucky"
(Photo courtesy Kurt Lathrop, WMFR Dep. Fire Marshal)

The sheriff's office report of the incident said two unknown males were seen breaking windows to the residence. They fled in an unknown direction. Shortly afterward, flames were seen coming from the home. Southern Manatee Fire Department arrived and contained the fire to the living room area, which was destroyed by the blaze. Smoke damage throughout the rest of the house made the house uninhabitable.

Justin Garrett

The home's resident and fire victim, Justin Garrett, 19, was arrested just two hours earlier at about 1:30 a.m. for Battery when a woman drove onto his lawn and he objected to it; he allegedly slapped her.

Kurt Lathrop, Dep. Fire Marshal from West Manatee Fire Rescue, responded with his arson K-9, "Lucky," and determined that an accelerant was used to start the fire.

A possible suspect was located and "Lucky" hit on his shoes. The tread on the shoes was also consistent with shoe prints at the scene. The shoes were collected by Lathrop and photos were taken of the shoe prints.

Both the shoes and the photo were turned over to the State Fire Marshal later that morning, Lathrop told NewsManatee.

The suspect has not yet been arrested and there is no motive for the fire at this time, Lathrop said.

The men seen fleeing the scene were described as two unknown males. One was 6'1" tall and weighed about 200 pounds, witnesses said. The other was about 5'7" and weighed about 160 pounds. Their race was not given in the report. Both men were dressed all in black clothing.

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.

[Ed. Note: About "Lucky" -- The picture above of "Lucky" was taken two years ago in Maine during annual recertification. K-9 Lucky came from Southeastern Guide Dogs as part of the gifted K-9 program. She was trained in Maine through the Maine State Police Criminal Justice Standards and she is a certified Police Dog with all the rights and protection afforded her by statute.]

Woman Found Passed Out
from Heroin, with Child, 1,
in Vehicle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Nadia Danielle Null, 31, of Wimauma, Florida, after they found her passed out in her vehicle on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, at 1:30 in the afternoon in the Shell gas station located at 5303 14th Street West.

Nadia Danielle Null

When deputies responded, they saw Null passed out behind the wheel of her vehicle. The keys were in the ignition, but the engine was off. Her 1-year-old boy, Rico, was in a car seat beside her.

EMS was summoned and Null was awakened.

On the seat between Null's legs were three baggies. One was empty and two contained a tan powder. There was also a red spoon.

A deputy told another deputy, "It might be cocaine." Null spoke up and said, "It's heroin."

A deputy found a needle on top of her purse, on the floor, under the child's car seat.

Null told deputies she had purchased 3 $20 dollar baggies of heroin, had used some at about 12:30, felt tired and pulled into the Shell station.

Null admitted having a problem and said she needed help.

Null was arrested and charged with Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Child Neglect.

The child was placed into the custody of Child Protective Services.

Woman Arrested for Child Abuse;
Bought Booze for Three Kids

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Susan Anderson Hill, 41, of 2100 99th Street NW, in Bradenton, after detectives determined that Hill had bought alcohol for three juveniles for her daughter's birthday.

Susan Anderson Hill

A sheriff's office arrest report said on June 27, 2008, sheriff's deputies responded to a noise complaint at 5900 3rd Avenue NW, in Bradenton.

While investigating the complaint, the responding deputy encountered three intoxicated juveniles who were walking in the street.

While the deputy was interviewing the juveniles, the mother of one of the juveniles arrived on scene and inquired as to what was going on. The mother was upset and wanted a police report filed and the wanted the person who provided her sixteen-year-old child with alcohol to be arrested.

During the course of the investigation, it was discovered the mother was the one who purchased the alcohol for the children.

Ms. Hill purchased a bottle of Jagermeister, Smirnoff vodka, and Malibu rum on the evening of June 24, 2008, for her daughter's birthday and allowed her daughter and her two friends to consume the alcohol while at her house and under her care.

The children saved some of the alcohol for a later time which was consumed on the night of June 27, 2008.

At least two of the three juveniles, including Ms. Hill's daughter, are sixteen years old.

The third child involved in the incident is currently out of state on vacation and was not interviewed.

A video tape from Sweet Bay liquor store, where the alcohol was purchased, showed the mother making the purchase.

Ms. Hill was arrested on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, and charged with two counts of Child Abuse. A third count may be forthcoming when the third child returns from vacation.

Attempted Burglary Interrupted
By Security at El Paisano's Bar

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Security personnel at El Paisano's Bar, 5803 15th Street East, interrupted an attempted burglary on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, at about 2:10 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Levi Almedaras

The report said Levi Almedaras, 21, of unknown address, picked up a rock and threw it through the driver's side window of a black Toyota parked in the bar's parking lot.

The incident was witnessed on security monitors and security officers responded.

Levi ran to the rear of the business with another unknown person. Levi lost both of his shoes at the scene when he fled.

He got about 75 yards and was apprehended by security officers and held until sheriff's deputies could arrive.

No entry had been made into the Toyota, as the burglary was interrupted by security officers.

Levi was charged with Burglary to a Conveyance.

The other man got away.

Dead Body Found in Parrish
Pond by Farm Employee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives are working to identify a partially decomposed body found in a pond near the intersection of Moccasin Wallow and Carter Roads in north Manatee County.

Around 10:50 a.m. Wednesday, July 9, 2008, a worker with McClure Farms, which leases the property to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office for raising cattle, notified deputies about what was thought to be a dead cow floating in a pond.

Upon inspection, deputies found what appears to a Hispanic male.

A sheriff's dive team, detectives and crime scene technicians responded to the scene.

Detectives don’t know how long the body has been there or if this death involves foul play.

The Medical Examiner’s Office is in the process of determining a cause of death, according to Randy Warren, a spokesman for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Public Notice for Comments
for BPD Grant Application

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The City of Bradenton is applying for grant funds through the Department of Justice to pay overtime to police officers working undercover on anti-drug efforts.

Copies of the grant application are available at the front desk of Bradenton City Hall , 101 Old Main St. , and the Bradenton Police Department, 100 10th St. W. A copy of the grant also has been posted on the City’s Website at www.cityofbradenton.com.

This application to the Department of Justice is available for public review and comment through August 7.

Should an interested citizen wish to make comments regarding the application, please provide a written response to Jeana Winterbottom, City of Bradenton , 101 Old Man Street , Bradenton , FL 34205 no later than August 7.

All written comments will be forwarded to the Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance.

Woman Arrested By SPD for
Fraudulent Teaching Credentials

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, July 8, 2008, Susan Davidson Bell, 51, of 4230 Eastern Parkway, in Sarasota, was arrested by Sarasota Police Detectives and booked into the Sarasaota County Jail on a warrant for Scheming to Defraud, Identity Theft and Passing a Counterfeit Florida Teaching Certificate.

Susan Davidson Bell

Bell had been wanted since February of this year after using the teaching credential of another to gain employment at the Suncoast School for Innovative Studies.

At the time of her arrest on Tuesday, she was working as a teacher at the Brickhouse Academy where she used the same falsified resume to gain employment.

According to the owner of Brickhouse Academy Bell was hired last November shortly after her firing at Suncoast, but she never mentioned that she had been employed at another school.

2 Men Busted in Stolen Property
Sting; 4 A/C Units Recovered

NORTH PORT, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and an undercover North Port Police officer set up a sting operation Tuesday and arrested two men for Dealing in Stolen Property in the theft of four air conditioner units.

Above, Bradley Wertenbach and Benjy Bruno

On June 19, contact with Bradley Michael Wertenbach, 30, and Benjy Paul Bruno, 30, both of 21093 Keeler Ave., Port Charlotte, and offered $1,000 for the four stolen units.

Two of the four serial numbers off the a/c units were found and a check later revealed the two were reported stolen in North Port at 2007 Hanford St. and 6254 Dalewood Circle.

On Tuesday, the CCSO and NPPD initiated an undercover buy. They met the two men at their home and Bruno unlocked a storage shed and they began loading the a/c units onto a trailer. Once the $1,000 was exchanged for the four units, CCSO Narcotics detectives, along with Warrants, K-9 and the Detective Bureau, moved in and arrested Wertenback and Bruno.

Both were taken to the Charlotte County Jail and charged with Dealing in Stolen Property. Bruno’s bond was set at $5,000 and he made bond. Wertenbach’s bond was $10,000 and he remains in the County Jail.

Bruno has 16 bookings at the CCSO Jail with 39 records; Wertenback has eight bookings with 12 records.

The investigation continues and more charges may be filed.

Disease Outbreak Closes
Animal Shelter; 80 Dogs
To Be Euthanized

OCALA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- An outbreak of diseases is forcing an animal services facility to close for several days and euthanize many dogs, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Veterinarians said they discovered canine flu, distemper, parvo and other diseases running rampant among dogs at the animal services shelter in Ocala.

The shelter must be closed from Thursday through Saturday for cleaning.

Workers must also euthanize more than 80 dogs over the outbreak.

There are no adoptions or drop offs at the facility now, WKMG reported.

Animal services said they think that the outbreak stemmed from the high number of unvaccinated animals that have entered the facility recently.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Man Charged with 20th Felony
Since April, When $350,000 in
Stolen Items Were Discovered;
Female Cohort Also Charged

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, July 7, 2008, Manatee County Sheriff's Investigators charged Roy Eugene Whittaker III, 36, with Credit Card Fraud, Burglary and Theft, stemming from an August 22, 2007, burglary and subsequent use of a credit card stolen during the burglary.

Above, L to R, Roy Eugene Whittaker III and Denice Hendricks

The arrest report said on that date, Whittaker burglarized a residence in the 6900 block of 7th Avenue NW. Entry was made through a sliding glass door. During the burglary, the victim's jewelry, coin collection, checkbooks, credit cards, passports, vehicle keys and a .357 magnum handgun were taken.

Then, on March 6, 2008, Whittaker, Denice Hendricks and two small children entered Friedman's Jewelry Store in DeSoto Square Mall and purchased $4,066.27 worth of jewelry using a stolen credit card.

Sheriff's investigators said a Shell Fleet credit card belonging to the victim from the August 2007 burglary was used at Shell stations on March 8, March 10, March 12, March 15, March 27, March 30 and March 31.

On April 10, 2008, a search warrant was executed at Whittaker's residence at 2707 26th Avenue Drive West. During the search, several stolen items were recovered, including some of the victim's credit cards.

On April 15, a person at Friedman's Jewelers positively identified Whittaker from a photo pack.

On April 18, 2008, Detectives arrested Roy Whittaker in connection with numerous burglaries in the area. When he was arrested, he had the victim's Shell Fleet credit card in his possession, along with jewelry and other credit cards.

Subsequent investigation revealed that Whittaker was a suspect in at least 100 burglaries in Manatee County and numerous other burglaries in surrounding counties.

During the investigation, detectives confiscated approximately $350,000 worth of stolen property.

Detectives have been working on returning the property to its rightful owners. At least seventy-five (75) victims have already been identified.

Denice Hendricks, 31, Whittaker's 'partner in crime,' was similarly charged on Monday with several felony counts.

Both Whittaker and Hendricks are currently still in the Manatee County Jail from previous charges.

According to Randy Warren, a spokesman for the sheriff's office, detectives have since estimated the value of stolen property and other thefts at over $492,000 dollars.

Manatee Detectives Arrest Man,
Charge Him with Rape
of Woman in May

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Scott L. Kanouse, 37, from Michigan, on a charge of Sexual Battery after Kanouse allegedly raped a woman in May.

Scott L. Kanouse

According to an arrest warrant, Kanouse was staying at a home in Manatee County in May.

On May 12th, he allegedly walked into a woman's bedroom in the home and began having sex with the sleeping woman, who awoke to find Kanouse on top of her.

Detectives set up a controlled conversation between Kanouse and the unnamed victim on May 15th. In that conversation, Kanouse admitted he didn't have permission to have sex with her. When Kanouse was asked by the woman why he did it, he allegedly replied, "Because I can't control my hormones."

Kanouse was arrested on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, and charged with Felony Sexual Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County jail on a bond of $250,000 dollars.

Man Caught By Victim
Rummaging Around in
Victim's Vehicle

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Thomas Daley Chew, 60, and charged him with Burglary, after Chew was caught going through a victim's vehicle on Sunday, July 6, 2008, in the 3000 block of Manatee Avenue West.

Thomas Daley Chew

According to an arrest report from BPD, at about 3:00 p.m., the victim came out of his place of employment and saw a man, later identified as Chew inside the victim's vehicle. Chew was going through the victim's belongings.

The victim pulled Chew out of the vehicle and took a set of keys from Chew's hands, then let Chew walk away and called police.

The victim told police some change from the center console was taken, amounting to a dollar or two, and the change would be stuck together from an earlier coffee spill.

When Chew was located a short distance away, he had change in his pocket amounting to $1.92 that was stuck together.

ISLAND ALERT: Burglar,
Thief Caught Third Time

BRADENTON BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- Residents of Bradenton Beach should keep their eyes open for Ricky S. McKinnon, 40, a homeless man, after McKinnon committed his third offense in the city in three months, was arrested and will soon be out of jail.

Ricky S. McKinnon

On Saturday, July 5, 2008, Bradenton Beach Police were dispatched to an auto burglary that had just happened at the south boat ramp of Coquina Park.

After the officer asked for a description of the suspected burglar and direction of travel, the officer drove his 4-wheeler through Coquina Park in an attempt to locate the person.

At the bus turn-around, he observed a person fitting the description of the man he was looking for trying to board the Island Trolley. The man was detained and identified as McKinnon.

McKinnon admitted to taking a cell phone from the auto during the burglary.

McKinnon was arrested and charged with Auto Burglary.

According to Manatee County court records, McKinnon was arrested by Bradenton Beach Police for Trespassing in April. He was arrested again by Bradenton Beach Police in May for Petit Theft. In both cases, he pled guilty and was sentenced to "time served" in county jail.

McKinnon's court date for the auto burglary charge is set for August 15, 2008. Until then, he remains in jail on a $10,000 bail bond, apparently unable to post bail.

But one day he will be out of jail, possibly returning to "the scene of the crimes" -- Bradenton Beach and nearby communities.

R.B. "Chips" Shore Selected
as 2008 National Award
of Merit Winner

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) has selected Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, R.B. “Chips” Shore as their 2008 National Award of Merit winner for his contributions to historic preservation and heritage education in Manatee County.

Above, R.B. "Chips" Shore

The AASLH Leadership in History Awards is the nation’s most prestigious competition for recognition of achievement in state and local history. Shore has been invited to attend the special banquet, underwritten by the History Channel, to receive this honor in September 2008 in Rochester, New York.

In the thirty years since he took office, Shore created a thriving Department of Historical Resources that includes two historical villages, a historical archive, and two museums. He employs staff, including professional historians, archaeologists, anthropologists and educators, who work with five non-profit organizations dedicated to preserving Manatee County’s history. Shore serves on the boards of two of those organizations. Under his management, eleven historic buildings and one steam engine were restored, the first county historical archive in the state was established, and one of the country’s largest county History Fairs is held each year. All of this is done through private and public funding partnership that Shore spearheads. He is not content to limit his work to his own county, but encourages other Clerks throughout Florida to become involved in saving the history of their community. Though he operates an office generally known for its financial accountability and modern technology, R. B. “Chips” Shore also directs historic preservation work in Manatee County, Florida. With a business and finance background and innovative management, he has helped to make Manatee County a leader in historic preservation and heritage education in the State of Florida.

"I am delighted to receive this honor. As a third generation native of Manatee County, I have witnessed and been a part of its tremendous growth. And I have an unquenchable desire to preserve a part of our unique past to share it with those who will come after us so they appreciate and understand all of the diverse and rich pieces of Manatee County’s heritage," Mr. Shote said.

SAR Provides Historic July
Document Display for
Palmetto City Hall

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), Saramana Chapter, was asked to provide a patriotic theme for the month of July to be displayed at the Palmetto City Hall.

Above Historic Document Display being viewed by
Deanne Roberts, Admin. Asst. to Mayor of Palmetto
and Palmetto City Commission
(Photo by Harold Crapo, Jr., SAR)

What could be more appropriate than copies of historic documents that were used to found this great country of ours; documents that we don't hear too much about or even seem to care about.

Many citizens appear to take for granted that this country was always free and existed in the beginning as it does today, of course minus the iPods, TV's, cars and a plethora of other items.

But basically, wasn't this country always free and didn't the early settlers have their freedom and certain inalienable rights? I don't think so!

Stop by the Palmetto City Hall and review the historic documents on parchment naming the first settlers of Jamestowne, Virginia, who nearly abandoned this country due to starvation; our Bill of Rights, dated 1789; the Constitution of the United States; the History of Famous American Flags; and view the imprint of Seals of the American Colonies from 1606 through 1794.

You may not have had a good experience with History as one of your subjects in school, but you can be assured that this short History lesson will allow you to be impressed. You will be glad that you took the time.

Sarasota County Sheriff Arrests
Man for Jewelry Store Burglary,
Recovers Jewelry

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man for a jewelry store burglary and recovered the stolen jewelry.

William Martin McDonald, Jr.

On July 6, 2008, at approximately 8:00 a.m., Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to an alarm call at U.S. Coin and Jewelry, located at 5355 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota.

Upon arrival, Deputies learned a burglary to the business had occurred and the suspect had removed a significant amount of jewelry.

A subsequent investigation determined that William McDonald, 30, committed the burglary of the business. McDonald was interviewed and confessed to the burglary.

The stolen jewelry was also recovered from McDonald’s vehicle, a 1996 four door green Saturn.

Anyone with further information are encouraged to contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office at (941) 861-4900 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at (941) 366-TIPS or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.

Thieves Steal Bronze Vases
from Cemetery

PORT CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT} -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office is investigating theft of 18 bronze flower vases valued at $4,518 taken from Restlawn Memorial Gardens, 1380 Forrest Nelson Blvd., in Port Charlotte.

Above, a bronze cemetery flower vase

The bronze vases were stolen from various grave sites, valued at $251 each. The vases were stolen from the “Happiness” Northwest Section, and “Devotion” Far East Section of the cemetery.

A spokesman for Restlawn said the cemetery is unsecured and even with random roving security and CCSO road patrol checks, thieves still managed to steal the vases.

Bronze chains are used to secure the vases and urn assemblies; some chains were stolen while others were left behind.

Deputies reported that thieves left two vases behind, lying on the ground that were detached from the security chains.

Bronze vases have been stolen recently from various cemetery locations in southwest Florida, taken to recycling yards, and sold for scrap.

If anyone has information which may help solve this case, please call the CCSO at 941-639-2101; or Charlotte County Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

Softball-Size Rats Eating
Through Nearby Homes

CASSELBERRY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Rats as large as softballs have invaded a Central Florida neighborhood, eating through home walls and screens, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The invasion of rats have apparently been coming from a nearby abandoned home in Casselberry. The home has an overgrown backyard.

"(The rats) are huge," nearby resident David Fulton said. "They're round like that (softball size)."

"Now, they are in my house and eating through screens and biting through walls," Huck said. "We've never had a rat problem and we've been here six years. I'm sure if we quit mowing our grass, someone would be on our butts to make it clean."

Fulton and another neighbor are now setting out poison pellets and traps, calling it an emergency situation.

Also, the city said Monday night that one of their contractors will mow the lawn of the abandoned home next week, WKMG reported.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Oasis Lounge, Night Cleaner
Victims of Armed Robbery;
$6,300 Stolen

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Oasis Lounge, located at 6006 Manatee Avenue West, was the victim of an armed robbery early Monday morning, at about 4:45 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Above, the Oasis Lounge, 6006 Manatee Avenue West
(Photo by Craig Herbert, NewsManatee)

The report said the victim, Monte Hayden, 65, the night cleaner for the Oasis, took the trash out the back door of the lounge.

As he did, he was approached by two males, both wearing ski masks and gloves, and one brandishing what he thought may be a .380 semi-auto, who told him to get on the ground.

At about this time, an elderly man on a bicycle who regularly comes by to collect cans rode up. The suspects had him get on the ground, too.

They then had both the victim and the can collector go inside the bar where the elderly man was pushed to the floor while one of the robbers, a White male, attempted to place duct tape over the cleaner's mouth. The tape would not stick so the robber then taped his hands.

The Black male robber then went to the front of the store, checking for any other employees, then came right back.

The White male robber ran to the office, where he managed to break a four foot tall "drop safe" loose from it's floor anchors. He also opened the only desk drawer where money was located in the office.

A bank bag containing +/- $300 was taken from the drawer. The robber then dragged the safe, possibly containing +/- $6000, from the office and both robbers loaded it into the back of a truck which had just pulled up. The driver of the truck was not seen, the report said.

The robbers were not further described.

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

Two Known Burglars, Under Police
Surveillance, Commit Burglary;
Both Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested two known burglars after they entered an apartment and stole jewelry, according to the arrest reports. Unknown to the two men, they were under surveillance all the while.

Above, Fred Gentle and Matthew Evans

The reports said on Thursday, July 3rd, 2008, at about 2:00 a.m., Manatee County deputies were watching from vehicles and from above, by way of a sheriff's helicopter as Fred Gentle, 40, of 3401 19th Street West and Matthew Evans, 38, of 1309 18th Street West, walked from 30th Avenue and 14th Street West to Belmont Apartments, located at 4310 18th Street West.

Both men entered an apartment at that location.

Detectives stationed themselves outside the front door and outside a window they had seen the pair enter. The helicopter was watching from overhead.

About 45 minutes to an hour later, the pair emerged through the front door of the apartment and walked away from the apartment complex.

They were stopped in the 4000 block of 18th Street West.

A detective looked inside the apartment and confirmed there had been a burglary and that the apartment had been ransacked.

A search of Gentle revealed a watch and a pendant in his pocket.

A search of Matthews revealed a zip lock bag with several pieces of Jewelry
in Matthews' pocket. Matthews also had two pocket knives in his pocket.

Gentle was arrested and charged with Burglary of an Unoccupied Dwelling.

Matthews was arrested and charged with Armed Burglary of an Unoccupied Dwelling.

Man Shot in Chest By Rifleman
Critical, But Stable; Shooter
Arrested, Charged with
Attempted Murder

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was shot in the chest by a man with a rifle on Saturday, at about 5:30 p.m. in the 400 block of 60th Avenue Drive West. The shooter is in custody.

Sergio Amador

According to a report from the sheriff's office, deputies were dispatched to 407 60th Avenue Drive West in reference to a shooting with injuries.

When deputies arrived, they noticed the victim, Ismael Morales-Munoz, lying on the ground with a single gunshot wound to his chest.

Morales-Munoz said the man who shot him was "Sergio" and said Sergio was across the street.

EMS arrived and transported Morales-Munoz to Bayfront Hospital in St. Petersburg by Bayflight medical chopper.

Deputies located Sergio Amador, 41, in a storage shed in the back yard of 415 60th Avenue Drive West. He was positively identified as the shooter by witnesses at the scene.

Amador was charged with Attempted Murder.

Morales-Munoz was listed in critical but stable condition.

Man Breaks Into Ex-Girlfriend's
Residence, Runs Away,
Caught By K-9 Unit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit captured Charles Michael Sauer, 22, of 4012 13th Avenue West, after Sauer broke into his ex-girlfriend's residence on Saturday, July 5th, 2008, at about 2:00 a.m.

Charles Michael Sauer

An arrest report said Sauer used his fist to smash through a window of the residence in the 2900 block of Oak Lane, in West Manatee County.

After Sauer was inside, he spoke incoherently to his ex-girlfriend, then ran out the back door.

Deputies found a trail of blood from the window through to the living room.

A K-9 Unit tracked Sauer and was able to effect a capture in the 4300 block of Oak Terrace West.

Sauer was charged with Burglary to an Occupied Structure.

Four or Five Black Males Rob
Two Hispanic Men at Gunpoint
Near Southeast High School

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two Hispanic men were robbed by four or five Black males early Sunday morning, at about 3:40 a.m. on 38th Avenue East, near Southeast High School.

The sheriff's report of the incident said Amaya Nubaldo, 37, was driving Emeraldo Sanchez, 29, home to Sheridan Place Apartments. When they got to a location somewhere off 38th Avenue East, near Southeast High School, they stopped. It was near Sanchez' address.

As they got out of Amaya's vehicle, they were approached by four or five Black males. Two of them were armed with bats and one was armed with a black handgun. The Black males began to beat them with the bats and the gun.

The robbers then began removing items from Amaya and Emeraldo before fleeing.

Both victims then got back in the vehicle and went back to Amaya's residence, Sheridan Place Apartments, where EMS and Bradenton Police responded. BPD contacted the sheriff's office, as the incident occurred in the County.

Amaya, who suffered a laceration to the back of the head, refused treatment or transport. Sanchez was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital, where he was treated for a broken left cheekbone and two knocked out front teeth.

Amaya could not advise exactly where the incident occurred or Sanchez' address, so no crime scene was located. Neither victim could provide any more detailed description of suspects.

Amaya stated that he had his passport, debit card, cell phone, and wallet containing $730 taken during the robbery. Sanchez claimed $500 was taken from his pocket.

The robbers were only further described as wearing dark clothing and masks.

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 Charge Two Men
with Growing Marijuana
at Two Grow Houses

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jorge Luis Aguila-Seara, 37, of 30720 Taylor Grade Road, and Rafael Guzman Noda, 40, of 30710 Taylor Grade Road, both in Duette, Florida, with Trafficking in Marijuana (Cultivation).

Above, L to R, Rafael Guzman Noda and Jorge Luis Aguila-Seara

Sheriff's deputies received word from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office that marijuana grow houses were operating at the above locations.

On Thursday, July 3, 2008, at about 11:00 p.m., deputies conducted a "knock and talk" operation at both locations.

At 30710 Taylor Grade Road, deputies found 94 marijuana plants and sophisticated growing equipment in an outbuilding on the property.

At 30720 Taylor Grade Road, deputies found a room with 24 marijuana plants inside and, in a separate room, they found 60 "seedling" plants. Sophisticated equipment was found in both rooms.

Young Man Loses Life in
Violent Traffic Crash, Fire

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a 29-year-old man lost his life early Saturday morning shortly after 2:00 a.m. when he lost control of his vehicle in the 32000 block of Singletary Road, near Myakka City, and crashed into an oak tree, causing the vehicle to catch on fire and burning the man to death.

The FHP report said the 2002 Ford pickup truck, being driven by Michael D. Scarbrough, of Myakka City, was eastbound on Singletary Road approaching a curve in the roadway to the right.

The driver went off the south edge of the roadway as he went around the curve. The driver overcorrected to the left trying to get the pickup truck back on the roadway, traveled north east across Singletary Road and left the roadway onto the North shoulder.

The right front of the pickup truck struck a large oak tree on the north shoulder and rotated in a counter-clockwise direction coming to final rest facing west on the north shoulder of Singletary Road.

During or after the crash, the front of the pickup truck caught fire. Before the fire department could get the fire extinguished, the fire had burned the front end and passenger compartment of the truck.

Due to injuries sustained by the young man during the crash and fire, he died at the scene.

FHP said he was not wearing a seat belt.

Results of a blood alcohol test are pending an examination by the Medical Examiner.

2nd Annual Stacy Williams
Day Announced

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and other community organizations will host the 2nd Annual Stacy Williams III Day on Saturday, July 12, 2008, from 3:30 - 7:00 PM, on the property of the Brethern In Christ Church at 3505 5th Street East, Bradenton.

Other supporting participants are the Spiritual House of Praise (SHOP) Ministries, Gold Star Club of Manatee County, YMCA, and the NAACP.

The event will honor the memory of Stacy Williams III, the 9-year-old boy who was shot in a gang-related incident last year.

There will be free food and drinks for everyone, along with music, and children’s activities.

[Ed. Note: The article originally had the address of the event listed as "West" -- on Tuesday, the sheriff's office corrected the address to "3505 5th Street East."]

National Hurricane Center:
Hurricane Bertha, 1st of 2008,
May Hit Bermuda, Not U.S.

MIAMI, Florida [NMT] -- Hurricane Bertha, which formed on Thursday off the coast of Africa as a Tropical Depression, then becoming a Tropical Storm, became 2008's first hurricane of the year on Monday.

Above, Hurricane Bertha, 5-day forecast path, as of 5 p.m., 7/7/8

Bertha became a Category 3 major hurricane as of 5 p.m. Monday, with winds of 115 mph, moving west-northwest at 12 mph.

According to information from the National Hurricane Center, Bertha is not expected to make landfall on the east coast of the United States.

A weakening high pressure center and a low pressure trough off the United States will redirect Bertha toward the north and may strike Bermuda later this week.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Man Breaks Into Brother's Home,
Then Punches, Throws Brother,
Shoves Deputy Twice While
Trying to Flee, Tasered

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Brothers Steven and Erik Rosenwinkel got into a fracas on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2008, shortly before 10:00 p.m. when Steven barged into Erik's residence in the 6100 block of Coral Way, near Bayshore Gardens Parkway and 26th Street West.

Steven Rosenwinkel

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Steven Rosenwinkel, 39, went to 6103 Coral Way and attempted to break into his brother Erik's residence through the bathroom window.

Steven's brother, Erik Rosenwinkel, 43, told Steven to leave. Steven told Erik that he just wanted some money and his clothes.

Erik opened the front door to give him his clothes, when Steven pushed past him and demanded money.

Erik told Steven to leave and instead of leaving, Steven punched Erik in the face and then threw him over the couch. Erik pulled out his cell phone to call the police, but Steven took the phone from Erik and broke it in half. Steven told Erik not to call the cops or he would kill him. Nonetheless, Erik called 911 from the house phone.

Upon the arrival of deputies, Erik told them that his brother just battered him.

Deputies announced themselves and when they did Steven kicked the back door, breaking the frame and fled out the back door. Deputies gave chase.

Deputy Dunkum caught up with Steven and grabbed his shirt in an attempt to control him. Steven shook himself out of the shirt, pushed Dunkum and took of running again. Deputy Dunkum relocated Steven a couple houses away hiding behind a bush. Deputy Dunkum told him not to move. Steven got up and ran again.

Steven came up to a locked fence and got cornered. Deputy Dunkum approached Steven and told him to get on the ground. Steven tried to run again. Deputy Dunkum attempted to gain control of him by grabbing his pants. Steven pushed Deputy Dunkum again and attempted to run away.

Dep. Lawson had arrived on scene at this point and deployed his Taser. Two probes struck Steven on his left side flank area. Steven tried running, but fell about 5 feet from the deployment location. Steven was then handcuffed and placed into the patrol vehicle. Steven did not receive any injuries other than the 2 probe ligature marks.

Steven was arrested for Domestic Battery, Resisting Arrest Without Violence and 2 counts of Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer.

According to Manatee County court records, Steven Rosenwinkel has several felony and misdemeanor arrests, including Possession of Cocaine, Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer and Domestic Battery.

Hispanic Man Stabbed in Chest,
Arm; Two Hispanic Men Arrested,
One Had To Be Tasered

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office was called to a disturbance between neighbors during which a man was cut badly on his chest and stabbed in the right arm. Two men were arrested following the incident.

Above, L to R, Francisco Cruz-Valdivieso and Arnulfo Cruz-Lopez

On Friday, July 4, 2008, Camilo Morente-Barrera, 35, was at his house in the 2300 block of 5th Avenue Drive East, in Palmetto, having a party with friends and family.

Arnulfo Cruz-Lopez, 28, who resides next door, and Francisco Cruz-Valdivieso, 32, were moving things out of that residence to a new location.

All three subjects were intoxicated at the time of the incident.

At approximately 6:25 p.m., Valdivieso arrived with Lopez back at their house after taking items to the new residence. Valdivieso, who was driving, came up the driveway located between the two houses at a high rate of speed.

Morente said they almost struck some children that were at his house and became upset. Morente then began yelling at Valdivieso. Valdivieso then broke a Corona beer bottle and slashed at Morente hitting him in the chest. The strike lacerated the lower part of Morente's pectoral muscle causing a cut approximately 7 inches long and 3/4" deep.

Lopez then jumped in and both he and Valdivieso were hitting Morente who fought back.

After the altercation, Morente had the cut on his chest, a stab wound to his right arm, a laceration to his nose and another on his left ear. He also had one of his teeth knocked out and suffered from swelling and bruises to his face and feet.

Both suspects were also injured during the incident although not seriously.

Lopez and Valdivieso were arrested and placed into patrol cars.

As EMS was checking on Lopez's injuries he became very hostile with them. Deputy Carter stepped up as Lopez attempted to get out of the car. Deputy Carter attempted to place him back into the patrol car and Lopez began kicking her in the chest and stated "If we were in Mexico, I'd kill you Bitch!"

Lt. Bob Mealy then drive-stunned Lopez with a Taser in the lower abdominal area and this got immediate compliance.

The victim and both suspects were transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital. They were treated, released, and then transported to jail.

Morente's injuries were not life-threatening.

Deputy Carter was not injured during the incident.

Valdiveiso was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

Lopez was charged with Aggravated Battery Causing Great Bodily Harm, Carrying a Concealed Weapon and Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer.

Two Men Arrested for Sale of
Cocaine at 14th Street McDonald's;
$3 Grand in Cash, Drugs, Gun Seized

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested two men who were seen making a drug deal at McDonald's, in the 4700 block of 14th Street West, according to a report from the sheriff's office.

Above, L to R, David King and Stephen Edwards

The report said on July 3, 2008, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Tactical Unit arrested two men in the parking lot of the McDonald's located at 4700 US41. They were observed engaging in a narcotics deal for crack cocaine.

The driver, David King, 21, had a plastic bag with 2.1 grams of crack cocaine on his lap prior to his removal from the vehicle.

During a search incident to arrest, detectives found 11.0 grams of Hydrocodone and currency in the amount of $3,685.00 in King's front pants pockets.

The passenger, Stephen Edwards, 23, had a loaded .45 Smith and Wesson handgun in his front pocket at the time of his arrest.

King was charged with Trafficking in Hydrocodone, Sale of Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine and Driving While License Suspended (DWLS). He was also arrested for a Contempt of Court warrant for failure to answer a summons.

Edwards was charged with Sale of Cocaine and Carrying a Concealed Firearm.

Drugs seized during the incident were $300.00 worth of cocaine and $200.00 worth of Hydrocodone.

The time of the incident was not reported.

Man Shot in Chest Near Heart
During Nightclub Altercation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, July 5, 2008, at about 2:45 a.m., Witler Dieusjuste, 20, of the 300 block of 61st Avenue East, was dropped off at Manatee Memorial Hospital with a gunshot wound to the upper left chest area.

Witler was dropped off by Brandon Hampton, 25, a Black male. Hampton then attempted to leave the Hospital but was stopped in the parking lot by a Deputy on scene for another call.

Based on information provided by an uncooperative Hampton, it was determined that they had probably been at the Carnaval Nightclub, 5602 14th St. West, and had been involved in some type of altercation there.

The only witnesses who could be located at the scene, stated that they had seen shots being fired in the air but were unaware of anyone being hit. The area that they advised was searched without success.

The vehicle driven to the Hospital by Hampton had two bullet holes in it, one on the back of the trunk lid and one on the left rear fender. It was subsequently impounded for later examination.

Detectives, an ID Technician, and a Victim Advocate all responded to the Hospital.

The victim could not be questioned as he was unconscious and intubated. The ER Doctor stated that the victim's injury was life-threatening as the bullet had struck the lung, and possibly the heart, but his exact condition could not be determined at that time. There is no new word on his condition as of the time of this 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.

Man Cut On Chest, Face, Stomach
During Attempted Armed Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Early Saturday morning, July 5, 2008, at about 2:15 a.m., a man minding his own business in his front yard was cut several times by 3 unknown Hispanic men who tried to rob him, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The victim, Moises Luna-Lopez, was sitting in his front yard in the 500 block of 57th Avenue East when he was approached by three unknown Hispanic men who demanded money for beer.

When Moises said "No," one of the men struck him in the head with a beer bottle and another reached into his pockets, looking for money.

During the fight, Moises was cut several times in the chest, abdomen, and face.

The three would-be robbers then fled the scene in an unknown direction without getting any money.

Moises was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital where he was treated and released.

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

Woman Claims Laptop Stolen
By Alleged Drug Dealer

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office took a report from a woman who claimed her laptop had been stolen by a man who had asked for a ride home from a local strip joint.

The complainant, Crystal Wade, 27, of the 3900 block of 75th Street West, told deputies that she received a call at 1:50 a.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2008, from a friend she knows only as "Zoe." "Zoe" wanted her to come pick him up at the Paper Moon, 105 Cortez Road West, and give him a ride home.

Supposedly "Zoe" lives in the 4300 block of 8th Street Court East, about 5 blocks from the Paper Moon.

Wade, who lives at Colonial Grande on 75th St. West, responded to the Paper Moon and when "Zoe" saw her laptop on the seat of the car, he tried to grab it and run away. Wade told deputies she grabbed his arm, until he said he had a gun, then she let go and he ran eastbound, with her computer, valued at $500.

Wade was not injured.

"Zoe" was not located and no gun was seen.

For some reason, Wade did feel it was relevant to inform responding deputies that "Zoe" had a lot of drugs in his house.

"Zoe" was described as a Black male, 5'9" tall, 150 pounds, with a shaved head. He was last seen wearing a red shirt and black pants.

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

Couple Robbed of Bike By
3-4 Black Males Using
2 x 4s as Weapons

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a couple were robbed of their bicycle by 3 to 4 Black males in the 1300 block of 49th Avenue East on Friday, July 4, 2008, at about 1:30 a.m.

The report said Johnny Tyson, 39, and Sandra Borum, 55, were riding a bike west on 49th Avenue East.

A dark colored Chevy Blazer followed them. Then 3 to 4 black males got out, all carrying 2 X 4's and one of the men said, "Gimmee all your money and the bike."

Sandra got into a struggle with the Black male with a white bandana over his face, who was trying to pull the bike from her. Johnny told her to just give him the bike, which she did and the two fled from the assailants.

Johnny and Sandra hid for about 30 minutes. They found their way to 5027 15th Street East and called 911 from a pay phone.

Dep. Lesselroth later located the bicycle at 1010 49th Avenue East. A 2 X 4 was located at the 1300 block of 49th Avenue East.

A BOLO was issued for the three robbers and the vehicle with negative results.

The bicycle was released back to Sandra.

There were no physical injuries to either party.

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 Ambushed, Beaten, Robbed
Near Checkers Restaurant

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 29-year-old man was ambushed, beaten and robbed on Thursday, July 3, 2008, at about 9 p.m. near the Checkers restaurant located at 5220 15th Street East, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The sheriff's office report said Deshane B. Crumity was walking West on 52nd Avenue East at the 1600 block.

An unknown Black male approached him from behind and punched him in the back of the head.

Crumity ran across the street to the Checkers parking lot where the robber caught up to him and began punching Crumity, who fell to the ground, at which point the robber reached into Crumity's pocket and took cash, tearing his pocket in the process.

The robber fled east from the scene.

K-9 responded and tracked the area with negative results. The Aviation Unit was on scene assisting with the search.

There were no weapons involved and Crumity sustained minor scrapes to his knees. Crumity refused EMS, the report said.

The robber was described as an unknown Black male, 5'9" tall, 150 pounds, last seen wearing a black shirt with red, yellow and green Jamaican Stripes, and black 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.

Woman, Men Robbed at Gunpoint
at DeSoto Village Apartments
During Home Invasion

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion robbery on Wednesday, July 2, 2008, shortly before midnight, at DeSoto Village Apartments, in the 3800 block of 5th Street East.

The victim, who was not named in the report, walked up to her residence and was approached by 4 people. Two of them were armed with firearms.

One person spoke and told her to open the door. She did and they went inside.

Once inside, they met with all of the victims, described as a woman and 3 Hispanic men in all.

The four robbers ransacked some bedroom drawers and other areas of the residence. They stole 4 cellular telephones from the victims and 1 wallet which contained $6-7 dollars and then fled the scene.

The robbers were only described as four people of unknown race and gender, armed with 2 handguns.

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 Firefighter Awarded
National Guard Bronze Star

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Firefighter Donald Wendt, also a Staff Sergeant in the Army National Guard, has been awarded the Bronze Star medal by for actions taken during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Above, BFD Firefighter Donald Wendt

On May 13, 2005, Staff Sgt. Wendt, as a Recovery Section Sergeant, HHC Platoon, 1st Battalion, 103rd Armor and Task Force Liberty "went to the aid of a fellow soldier who was injured and trapped under a burning vehicle during a Vehicle Born Improvised Explosives Device attack," according to the United States War Office.

Staff Sgt. Wendt took charge of the scene, secured the burning vehicle with tow chains and moved it away from the injured soldier.

"Staff Sergeant Wendt’s actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Raider Brigade, Task Force Liberty and the United States Army," the release stated.

Bradenton Police Detective
Sworn Into Florida Child
Predator Cybercrime Unit

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, July 2, 2008, Detective Kevin Bunch, of the Bradenton Police Department, was sworn in as an Investigator in the Statewide Child Predator Cybercrime Unit. The swearing in took place in Tampa by Attorney General Bill McCollum. Detective Bunch was one of the nine members of local law enforcement agencies to be sworn into this task force under the Attorney Generals Office that will be targeting cybercrime predators through not just Florida; this effort will be reaching out nationwide.

Presently Florida has 30 members within the unit that Detective Bunch has joined. Other members include the U.S. Attorney office, Attorney Generals Office, Victims Advocates, Federal and Local Law Enforcement agencies. The Tampa office will cover activity on the West Coast of Florida. The future projection is that the unit when fully staffed will have 56 members.

Statistics show that 1 in 7 children ages 10-17 will be sexually solicited online.

To help you safeguards the activity your children on the internet please go to www.safeflorida.net/safesurf

Bradenton Police Major Bill Tokajer said, "The Bradenton Police Department is proud to be asked to partner in this effort to protect our children. Internet predators should know that they will not find safety within jurisdictional boundaries as law enforcement will use all tools available to arrest and prosecute internet sexual predators no matter where they reside."

Two Men Busted By Sarasota Sheriff,
Secret Service on Counterfeit,
Forgery Charges

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- In conjunction with the US Secret Service, Detectives with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Bureau have arrested two individuals on various forgery charges.

Above, L to R, Brian Brochu and Jason Brochu

In an ongoing investigation, Brian E. Brochu, 36, and Jason J. Brochu, 32, both of 800 Liberty Street in Englewood were arrested at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, July 3rd, 2008, on warrants for Forgery of Counterfeit bills, and Possession of 10 or more Counterfeit Bills.

At the time the warrants were served, Sheriff’s Office Detectives, acquired consent to search the premises. Upon searching the premises, Detectives discovered over $27,000 in counterfeit currency and computer equipment used to make the counterfeit currency.

Additional charges may be pending.

Brian Brochu has previously served a prison sentence in Michigan on Federal counterfeiting charges.

Two Teen "Car Hoppers" Busted
By Charlotte Sheriff's office

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office solved 10 unlocked vehicle “Car Hopping” cases with the arrest of two teenagers by a road deputy.

Above, L to R, Justin Ryan and Daniel Schultz

Arrested were Justin A. Ryan, 17, 26094 Ancuda Dr., Deep Creek, and Daniel Richard Schultz, 19, 20283 Emerald Ave., Port Charlotte.

A deputy arrested the pair for breaking into vehicles in the area of Ajax Ave., in Port Charlotte on Monday of last week. Detectives then met with Ryan and Schultz who stated they got into the unlocked vehicles late Sunday and early Monday morning. The 10 unlocked vehicles were on Quito Dr., Parana Dr., Corrientes Cir., and Huanuca Dr., all in Deep Creek, and two in Port Charlotte on Lehigh and Ajax avenues.

Ryan was charged with nine counts of Burglary and five counts of Petit Theft; Schultz was charged with 10 Burglary and five Petit Theft counts.

Both were taken to the Charlotte County Jail, Ryan was then sent to the Department of Juvenile Justice center in Ft. Myers.

Nearly 15,000 Warnings, Citations
Issued During Move Over Florida
Enforcement Wave

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- Florida law enforcement officers have been working hard to enforce the Move Over Law since it became official in 2002. The law requires drivers to move over one lane whenever an emergency vehicle on the side of the road has emergency lights activated. If moving over is not an option, the drivers must simply slow down at least 20 mph below the posted speed limit.

Compliance with Florida’s Move Over Law is critical for the safety of law enforcement officers and other emergency personnel working on highways. A statewide Move Over Law Task Force was formed to develop strategies to better educate the public about the law and to better enforce it. The enforcement wave was a recommendation of the task force.

During the week long campaign from June 23-29, law enforcement agencies statewide issued more than 4,500 citations to Move Over Law violators and more than 10,000 warnings, which included Move Over violations and other offenses.

How important is this effort? During the five-year period of 1996-2000, motorists in Florida crashed into working law enforcement vehicles that were stopped or parked along Florida roadways 1,793 times, resulting in five deaths and 419 injuries.

Law Enforcement, first responders, and roadside service personnel remind you to Move Over. Slow Down. Save Lives.

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NewsManatee Archive Created 7/12/2008 2:30:06 PM

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