Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 7/26/2008

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American Hero, U.S. Navy SEAL
PO2 Michael "Mikey" Monsoor,
Buried Last Week & Awarded
Congressional Medal of Honor
Posthumously

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- This isn't a local story, but sometimes a story comes along that so touches us that it just has to be told. This story is about an American hero. He wasn't from here; he was from California. But, as an American, he was one of us. Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Monsoor died saving several fellow Navy SEALS in Ramadi, Iraq, in 2006. His funeral was finally held last week on Thursday, July 17, 2008, at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, California.

Above, L to R, Mike Monsoor's casket showing embedded Tridents and close-up of a Trident

During Mike Monsoor's funeral, as his coffin was being moved from the hearse to the grave site at the cemetery, U.S. Navy SEALs were lined up on both sides of the pallbearers' route forming a column of two's, with the coffin moving up the center. As Mike's coffin slowly passed, each SEAL, having removed his gold Trident from his uniform, slapped it down, embedding the Trident in the wooden coffin.

The slaps were audible from across the cemetery; by the time the coffin arrived at grave side, it looked as though it had a gold inlay from all the Tridents pinned to it. This was a fitting send-off for a war hero.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Mike Monsoor, a Navy EOD Technician, was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor posthumously for jumping on a grenade in Iraq, giving his life to save his fellow Navy SEALs.

On the morning of September 29, 2006, Petty Officer 2nd Class Mike Monsoor was on duty with three fellow Navy SEALs on a rooftop in Ramadi.

Monsoor was already serving his country with more courage and more impact than most of us do in our lifetimes.

Monsoor sacrificed his life to save his comrades by throwing himself on top of a grenade Iraqi insurgents tossed into their sniper hideout, fellow members of the elite force said.

Mike Monsoor had been near the only door to the rooftop structure when the grenade hit him in the chest and bounced to the floor.

"He never took his eye off the grenade, his only movement was down toward it," said a 28-year-old lieutenant who sustained shrapnel wounds to both legs that day. "He undoubtedly saved mine and the other SEALs' lives, and we owe him."

Monsoor, a 25-year-old gunner, was killed in the explosion in Ramadi, west of Baghdad.

In an interview at the SEALs' West Coast headquarters in Coronado, California, four members of the special force remembered "Mikey" as a loyal friend and a quiet, dedicated professional.

[Ed. Note: Our thanks to Harold Crapo, Jr., Publicity Chair for the Saramana Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, for alerting us to this heartwarming story.]

Man Who Shot Sarasota County
Jail Nurse Arrested for Battery
of Another Ex-Girlfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who was wanted by Sarasota Police in connection with the shooting of a Sarasota County Jail nurse -- an ex-girlfriend -- was arrested here on Wednesday, July 23, 2008, shortly after midnight for punching another ex-girlfriend with whom he shares three children in common.

Keyvus Canady, 28, of 2211 18th Street Court East, in Bradenton, had gone to his Tyson Sumanda's house at 4115 62nd Street West, in Bradenton, and told her he was running from the cops. Sumanda, not wanting Canady around her children, offered to give him a ride home, an arrest report stated.

While waiting in the car, Canady became upset that it was taking too long and went next door to a neighbor's, entered the home without permission and took a bat. He then went back to Sumanda and engaged in a verbal altercation with her. The altercation turned physical when Canady punched Sumanda in the mouth and, as she fell to the ground, Canady picked her up and threw her into the bushes.

Her stepfather came out and tackled Canady, throwing him to the ground, whereupon Sumanda picked up the bat and struck Canady twice on the side.

Canady was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery, Aggravated Stalking, Burglary, and Violation of a Domestic Violence Injunction.

NewsManatee reported on Wednesday, July 23, 2008, that, according to an incident report from the Sarasota Police Department, on Tuesday, July 22, 2008, at about 2:00 a.m., Keyvus Canady, allegedly shot and wounded a Sarasota County Jail nurse following an argument with the woman's current boyfriend.

The report said Sarasota Police Officers were called to the area of the jail, located at 2020 Main Street, in Sarasota, reference a woman who had been shot.

The woman, later identified as Melanie Franklin, 27, of Sarasota, was seated in the driver's seat of her 2002 Chrysler, with an apparent gunshot wound to her right shoulder. Melanie was transported to Bayfront Medical Center by Bayflight medical chopper. Medical personnel treated her and said the bullet would be left inside Melanie and she would be released.

Upon investigation, the woman said that she, her current boyfriend, Lauriel Trotman and her three children, two boys and a girl, had just pulled up in front of 10 26th Street, in Sarasota, to drop off some friends of her boyfriend. She said she was in the driver's seat, her boyfriend was in the front passenger seat and her children were in the rear, when her ex-boyfriend, Keyvus Canady, pulled up next to them in a blue sedan.

She said Canady got out of the car and walked up to the passenger side of her car and started yelling at Trotman. Then, she told officers, Canady reached into the car and punched Trotman several times, then reached over and punched Melanie in the face.

Melanie said she tried to put the car into reverse, heard a loud bang and noticed that the glass to the driver's side window was shattered. Once Melanie pulled away, Trotman noticed she had been shot by her right shoulder. Not knowing what to do, Melanie drove to her workplace, the jail, and had them call police.

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has asked the public's help in identifying the attempted armed robbery suspect seen in the photos below.

On July 21, 2008, at approximately 9:30 p.m. a Hispanic male entered the CVS Pharmacy, 520 1st Street West, Bradenton, Florida.

The man approached the cashier and, speaking with a Spanish accent, demanded money as he held a knife in his left hand.

The man fled the store without receiving any money. He was last seen riding from the area on a bicycle.

Responding officers searched the area for the suspect and attempted to track his escape route by using a police K-9 but were unsuccessful.

The man had his face covered with a green shirt and was wearing a blue ball cap with the word "NAVY" in white letters on the front. He was wearing a blue button down short sleeve shirt with white vertical and horizontal stripes and jeans.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call Detective Kevin Bunch at the Bradenton Police Department at (941) 932-9380 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department reported on Wednesday, July 23, 2008, that DNA from a blood sample left at the scene of a crime has solved a January 2008 burglary.

According to an arrest report from BPD, on January 31, 2008, the Shell gas station located at 6600 Coretz Road West, in Bradenton, was broken into after normal business hours at about 11:23 p.m., recorded on a video surveillance tape at the time.

Evans and another man broke into the ATM and removed $200 dollars from the cash drawer.

BPD Crime Scene Technicians responded and gathered blood samples from inside the business. Those blood samples were submitted to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for analysis.

On July 22, 2008, BPD was made aware that the blood samples matched Evans' DNA from a previous arrest.

Evans was then arrested at the Manatee County Jail, where he is in jail on an unrelated matter, and charged him with Burglary to an Unoccupied Structure.

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue reported an apartment fire at 4515 26th Street West, apartment 512, on Thursday, July 24, 2008, at about 7:30 a.m.

According to a CHFR press release, four fire engines from CHFR and a ladder truck from Southern Manatee Fire Rescue with a total of 18 personnel responded to the blaze.

Pirates to Invade Island Friday
for Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
of Restaurant-within-Restaurant

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Florida [NMT] -- The Anna Maria Island Privateers will "sail" to an invasion at the Island Shopping Center at 5 p.m. Friday, July 25, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, appropriately performed with swords and cannon fire, for the NEW Jolly Roger at the "old world" Ooh La La! Bistro, 5404 Marina Drive, in Holmes Beach.

There will be treats for kids, including Chef Aldo's pizza, and, for adults, special prizes, happy hour and music for all by Capt. Dan Mobley.

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, July 23, 2008, Detectives from the Sarasota Police Department arrested Raymond E. Grady, the former manager of Bobby Jones Golf Course, on several charges involving thefts from inside the club.

According to the arrest report, during an audit of golf course records, several suspicious transactions were discovered and traced to Grady.

Grady told detectives he had used money from past tournaments to buy shirts and hats from the club's pro shot and that he would then give these items out to tournament volunteers, golf course employees, vendors and other City of Sarasota employees.

He created false gift certificates in the names of players who hadn't won them, the report said. Grady did this apparently since 2002. The total amount of the fraudulent gift certificates was $9,865 dollars.

Grady was arrested and charged with Scheme to Defraud, Official Misconduct and Uttering a Forged Instrument.

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The victim of a drowning in a Sarasota pool has been identified as Blanca Cuervo, 66 years old.

NewsManatee reported on Thursday, July 24, 2008, that the Sarasota Police Department is investigating the apparent drowning of the 66-year-old woman in a pool at 3751 S. School Avenue.

LAKE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Lake County Sheriff's Office has arrested Paul Zavala, 22, of Sarasota, on two Manatee County arrest warrants stemming from a February 5, 2008, incident.

According to the original incident report, on that date, at about 7:30 p.m., an unnamed victim received a text message from who he thought was his ex-girlfriend, Melissa, asking him to pick her up at Hidden Acres Apartments, located at 1284 Hidden Circle East, in South Manatee County. Melissa communicates via text message because she is deaf.

When the victim arrived at Hidden Acres Apartments, he text messaged Melissa to notify her that he had arrived.

However, at that time, a White male, later identified as Zavala, approached the victim and punched him several times in the face through the open driver's side window.

The victim suffered a facial fracture which required surgery and possibly more surgeries to come, the report said.

When Zavala was arrested on Wednesday, July 23, 2008, in Lake County on the Manatee County warrants, he was charged with Strong Arm Robbery and Aggravated Battery with Great Bodily Harm.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 15-year-old was hospitalized after he jumped off his surfboard and landed on a shark, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

"It appears that he actually just put his foot right into the shark's mouth," victim's mother Tammy Zettle said. "It is just a straight on shot and there are a lot of deep cuts on lacerations on the top."

Officials said the Troy Zettle was bitten by the shark in about 10 feet of water near the 2700 block of North Atlantic Avenue.

The cuts on Zettle's foot and leg were so severe that he will have to have an operation on his right foot.

Knife Pulled On Pregnant Girlfriend,
Man Threatens to Chop Her Up,
Throw Pieces in Alligator Alley

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Hispanic man, Lazaro Lopez-Pequeno, 44, of 716 56th Avenue Drive East, in Bradenton, pulled a knife on his live-in girlfriend and threatened to chop her up, a Manatee County Sheriff's Office report said.

The arrest report said on Tuesday, July 22, 2008, shortly before 2 p.m., Lazaro and his girlfriend, Tania, got into a squabble.

The two people, Lazaro and Tania, were in their bedroom and had a verbal argument.

Lazaro got a 10" kitchen knife and threatened to cut Tania up and throw her in pieces in Alligator Alley on his way to Miami, the report said.

Lazaro then pushed her backwards into the TV stand, knocking the TV down and breaking ceramic items on the stand.

When Tania grabbed her phone, Lazaro put the knife under his pillow on the bed and left.

Lazaro was located in the 7300 block of 15th Street East at about 3:30 p.m. and arrested.

He was charged with Aggravated Domestic Assault and Aggravated Domestic Battery.

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Alert neighbors of a residence in the 14200 block of State Road 64 East, in East Manatee County, spotted a man carrying a bag with cans and a hammer entering an area of a residence that had been vacated by the owner and called police.

When a deputy arrived, he found Lewis R. Suggs, 44, of 503 64th Avenue Drive East, in Bradenton, inside a storage container holding a blue plastic container of dishes wrapped for storage.

The owner of the residence still had belongings inside and a storage container next to the house that was locked.

The door to the container was open, but still had the cable and padlock on it.

Suggs told the deputy he messed up, and had never been inside the residence.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, July 22, 2008, at about 1 p.m. in the afternoon.

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public's help in identifying a drowning victim found floating in a pond earlier this month.

The body was discovered on July 9, 2008, in a pond located at 100078 Carter Road, in Parrish.

The victim was a Hispanic male, approximately 5'5" tall, with medium length black hair and a chipped front tooth.

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.

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- While jogging off-duty at about 6:00 a.m. Tuesday morning, July 22, 2008, SPD Det. Sergeant Ken Castro saw a suspicious person on the John Ringling Bridge.

Det. Sgt. Castro’s actions led to the clearance of four boat burglaries and an arrest.

The man on the bridge was carrying a large flat screen TV without a power cord. Det. Sgt. Castro told the man to stay where he was.

When Det. Sgt. Castro asked the man for the power cord, he said it was back at his house and he had walked into town to sell the TV, but had been unable to do so, so he was walking back home. He wouldn't let police officers into his house to get the cord without a warrant, he said, and refused to go in and get it and bring it outside to the officers.

Following an investigation later that morning, it was determined that four vessels had been boarded overnight at Marina Jack's and burglarized.

One of those vessels was missing a 23" LG flat screen TV that matched the one the man was carrying.

Another vessel was found with a knife on board, which was believed to have been used to force entry onto the boat.

Jacob S. Brigham, 31, of 615 Ben Franklin Drive, in Sarasota, was charged with one count of Armed/Unoccupied Burglary, one count of Unarmed/Occupied Burglary and two counts of Unarmed/Unoccupied burglary.

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating the vehicle burglary and subsequent use of credit cards taken from the vehicle on July 7th, 2008, by an unidentified White male.

The stolen credit cards were then used to make purchases at store locations in Sarasota, including a Target, CVS Pharmacy and various stores in the Westfield Shopping Plaza on Beneva Road and US 41.

The suspect is described as a White male, approximately 18-25 years of age, average build, with short, dark hair. He was last seen wearing a black tank-top and black pants. His first name is possibly "Christopher." He was seen with two females, approximately 16-25 years of age, with long dark hair.

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.

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department is investigating the apparent drowning of a 66-year-old woman in a pool at 3751 S. School Avenue.

The next of kin have not yet been notified so the name of the victim cannot be released, SPD Captain Stan Duncan said.

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday night, July 22, 2008, Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives arrested a greedy burglar who returned to a Winn-Dixie store he had stolen drugs from on June 27. That time he got away. This time he wasn’t so lucky.

On June 27, Richard Wayne Pearson, 36, of 28200 Bermont Rd., Punta Gorda, hid inside the grocery store at U.S. 17 and Bermont Rd. (27680 Bermont Rd.) and after hours stole drugs from the Pharmacy. The detective’s investigation led to Pearson as a suspect and a flyer was given to the Winn-Dixie manager with Pearson’s photo.

Tuesday night, the on-duty manager observed the suspect enter the store and a check of store security video showed he did not exit the store before closing. An employee told the manager he saw a footprint on top of a box under an access point above a large cooler. The manager called CCSO.

When deputies and a K-9 unit arrived, all employees left at 11:00 p.m. and the store was secured. The K-9 deputy made two announcements over the store intercom stating anyone in the building had to come out or his K-9 was going to be turned loose. No one came out and the K-9 was let loose to search the ground level to no avail. Deputies then went to the scuff mark on the box by the cooler. It appeared someone had jumped up the wall and into an opening. Using a ladder, deputies looked into the ceiling rafter opening and saw someone sitting on a ledge on the other side of the opening. The person was ordered to come out and was immediately recognized as their suspect, Pearson. Detectives found a pair of rubber gloves and a white trash bag in his pockets.

Pearson was turned over to detectives and he said it was his intent to hide in the store until after it closed. He also said he was going to fill the trash bag with food and leave. A second search of Pearson found a pillow case with two eye holes cut out and he said he it was to be used as a mask when he exited the store.

Detectives took Pearson to his home after he agreed to let them search his apartment. They found a bag with 124 Oxycodone pills. A search of a crawl space above his apartment located two empty pill bottles of Oxycodone that matched those stolen from Winn-Dixie’s Pharmacy last June. He then admitted to the Burglary and Grand Theft on June 27.

Pearson was charged with two felonies, Burglary and Possession of Burglary Tools With Intent to Use; more charges are expected. He was transported to the Charlotte County Jail where he is held on $5,000 bond.

PALM BAY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 48-year-old man was arrested after being accused of molesting a 7-year-old girl in his care at least three times, Palm Bay police said.

Daniel Kerr faces three counts of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation and is being held on no bond.

According to Palm Bay police, the child told her baby sitter on Saturday that Kerr "let" her touch him and perform lewd acts on him.

The incidents occurred over the last three months while the child's adoptive mother was out of town for business-related meetings, police said.

Detectives interviewed the child who claimed she was allowed to touch Kerr, who said if she told anyone, he wouldn't "allow" her to touch him anymore, police said.

Kerr faces a maximum penalty of life in prison without parole if convicted, WKMG reported.

A further investigation revealed Kerr may also be in possession of child pornography and additional charges are pending, police said.

Bradenton Man Shoots, Wounds
Sarasota County Jail Employee;
Shooter Still at Large

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- According to an incident report from the Sarasota Police Department, on Tuesday, July 22, 2008, at about 2:00 a.m., Keyvus Canady, 28, of 2211 18th Street Court East, in Bradenton, allegedly shot and wounded a Sarasota County Jail employee following an argument with the woman's current boyfriend.

The report said Sarasota Police Officers were called to the area of the jail, located at 2020 Main Street, in Sarasota, reference a woman who had been shot.

The woman, later identified as Melanie Franklin, 27, of Sarasota, was seated in the driver's seat of her 2002 Chrysler, with an apparent gunshot wound to her right shoulder.

Melanie was transported to Bayfront Medical Center by Bayflight medical chopper. Medical personnel treated her and said the bullet would be left inside Melanie and she would be released.

She said she was in the driver's seat, her boyfriend was in the front passenger seat and her children were in the rear, when her ex-boyfriend, Keyvus Canady pulled up next to them in a blue sedan.

Melanie said she tried to put the car into reverse, heard a loud bang and noticed that the glass to the driver's side window was shattered.

Once Melanie pulled away, Trotman noticed she had been shot by her right shoulder.

Not knowing what to do, Melanie drove to her workplace, the jail, and had them call police.

There is no indication at this time that Canady has been arrested, but one local report said detectives are looking for him.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Sarasota Police Departm;ent 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 COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Carlos Jose Castellon, 25, of 1025 61st Avenue West, Bradenton, after Castellon broke out windows to his girlfriend's car and home and threatened to kill her.

The arrest report said on Monday, July 21, 2008, at about 7:45 p.m., Carlos Castellon, boyfriend and father of a child of Mileita Vakauta, the victim, verbally assaulted her during an argument, saying, "I am going to get a gun and come back and kill you."

The incident occurred at Meleita's mobile home in the 5300 block of 14th Street West, in Manatee County.

Carlos then began breaking out the front window and right tail light of Mileita's car with a post hole digger. He than took a yard stepping stone from a neighbor's yard and threw it through the vehicle's rear window, breaking the glass.

When she refused, Carlos broke out the sliding glass door of the residence and entered the home.

While inside, Carlos broke a flower vase and threw several items around the house.

Carlos fled the scene and was found by deputies one block away. When ordered by deputies several times to stop, he refused and ran from deputies, but was apprehended a short distance later.

While in custody, Carlos said several times he wanted to kill his girlfriend and was going to go get a gun and kill her. He also said he was going to hire someone to kill Meleita.

The estimated value of the damage to the vehicle and home was $1,500 dollars.

Carlos was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault, Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling, Criminal Mischief Over $1,000 Dollars and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Bradenton Police Dept.:
Caregiver, 26, Arrested for
Battery on Elderly Woman, 98

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Shamara Daniels, 26, of 5515 26th Street West, in Manatee County, after Daniels allegedly battered a 98-year-old woman at a nursing home.

The arrest report said an officer was called to the nursing home, located in the 6400 block of 21st Avenue West, Bradenton, and was advised of an alleged case of elderly abuse (battery) that took place on May 26, 2008, at about 9:15 p.m.

Daniels told the night supervisor on that date that Ms. Sheldrick had become combative and Daniels tried to restrain her, but finally left her alone in her bed. Daniels said Ms. Sheldrick was kicking, screaming and hitting Daniels with her hands and spit on Daniels.

Ms. Sheldrick had a bruise on her left forearm, a bite mark on her right hand, scratches on her forehead and two bruised eyes.

On May 30, 2008, a Bradenton Police Detective spoke with Dr. Marciales, who told the detective that Ms. Sheldrick's injuries were consistent with abuse.

On Monday, July 21, 2008, Shamara Daniels was arrested and charged with Battery on a Person Over 65.

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is searching for a runaway girl, a sheriff's press release said on Tuesday, July 22, 2008.

The press release said the 14-year-old Bradenton girl ran away from home Monday.

Samantha could be in danger if she does not receive her prescribed medication for a medical condition.

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

Bradenton Police Department’s
Armored Vehicle to Tour
National Night Out sites

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department’s first ever armored rescue vehicle is slated to make stops at each of the "National Night Out" locations throughout the City next month.

National Night Out, scheduled for Aug. 5 nationwide, is an original, unique and fun way to reconnect local law enforcement with residents, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials. Nationwide, the program is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

The City bought the armored rescue vehicle with funds made available through the Department of Justice Edward Byrne Memorial Discretionary Grant – with the assistance of Congressman Vern Buchanan and Florida Rep. Bill Galvano.

Part of the grant award called for the Bradenton Police Department to conduct a community survey to determine where residents feel violent crimes are most prevalent. This survey was conducted in Spring 2008.

Of the 470 returned surveys, 130 residents requested more police presence while others asked for more community participation and increased undercover patrols to drive out gangs and drug activity. For more information regarding the survey, see the article immediately below this one.

The vehicle comes to the City at no cost to taxpayers. It is available to any Manatee or Sarasota county law enforcement agency including FDLE, ATF, and DEA, to assist both them in terrorist matters, methamphetamine lab raids, hostage situations, barricaded incidents and protection from high-powered rifles.

Bradenton police officials are eager to bring the armored vehicle into the community during the National Night Out events so residents can see it for themselves.

"This is truly a life saving piece of equipment not only for law enforcement but the citizens as well," Lt. Keith Davis said. "The Bradenton Police Department would like to say thank you all the local agencies that are assisting us in the grant especially Congressman Vern Buchanan, Florida Rep. Bill Galvano and to the Department of Justice Edward Byrne Memorial Discretionary Grant program."

Mayor Wayne Poston said the armored rescue vehicle is another tool that will provide protection for Bradenton ’s citizens. He also lauded the community’s past participation in National Night Out.

"We are proud that we have several city neighborhoods participating in the National Night Out program," Mayor Poston said. "Meeting in neighborhoods and communicating City initiatives is one of our city-wide goals. We now have 18 neighborhoods that have leadership boards or community policing programs."

Locations of National Night Out events in the City of Bradenton will be announced at a later date.

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police sent out 14,900 random surveys in March in an effort to determine the opinions of residents. About 500 surveys were returned. The city has issued a press release with the results of that survey.

The survey’s mission statement read: “The City of Bradenton is conducting this survey to better assist the police department in combating violent crimes within your community. The information will be vital to fight and deter violent crime in your community. Your response will help us to focus our efforts in the areas most needed.”

According to the survey results, which asked about 2007, 44% of respondents said a robbery was committed in their neighborhood, 41% said crimes involving guns or knives were committed in their neighborhood and 27% said a home invasion was committed in their neighborhood.

Percentages of residents who said their neighborhood witnessed an attempted murder, armed carjacking or gang shooting in 2007 fell below the 10% mark.

Twenty-nine percent indicated either they or someone they knew were victim to a violent crime, but more than 40% indicated they worry about falling victim to robbery or a home invasion. Twelve percent said they worry about being a victim to gang violence and/or violent assault, while 3% worried about being killed.

Robbery (27%), drug use (24%), drug sales (19%), home invasion (18%) and gangs (12%) were the top answers when the survey asked residents what is the biggest single violent crime in their community.

The survey was supported by Grant #2007-DD-BX-0646, awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance. The Bureau of Justice Assistance is a component of the Office of Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the National Institute of Justice, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and the Office for Victims of Crime.

"Points of view or opinions in the documents are those of the City of Bradenton and do not represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice," the press release said.

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- At approximately 11:35 a.m. on Tuesday, 22nd June, 2008, Angelo Ciciotte, 17, escaped from custody while being transported to Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Bureau by Sheriff’s Office detectives.

Ciciotte and another individual are suspects in a series of vehicle burglaries that occurred at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday in the area of Gantt Road and Proctor Road in Sarasota.

Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the area of School Avenue and Ringling Blvd. to search for Ciciotte.

He was located about 45 minutes later in the 500 block of South Pelican Drive and taken into custody.

Woman Accuses Deputies of
Holding Cat Hostage; Busted
for Battery on Cop, Abuse
of 911 System, Both Felonies

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a 9-1-1 call Monday at 11:45 p.m. from Melissa Venerable, 28, of 9316 Tacoma Ave., Englewood. She said she beat up her boyfriend and needed to be arrested.

When deputies arrived, Venerable was uncooperative and hostile. She said she did not make a 9-1-1 call, did not have a boyfriend and did not hit anyone. She refused deputies entry to see if anyone was injured.

While talking at the door, Venerable’s cat ran out. She refused to talk any more until they caught her cat; she closed the door and deputies heard her call 9-1-1. Deputies caught her cat and offered to give it to her; she refused to open the door so deputies let the cat go and left.

Venerable called 9-1-1 three more times, not reporting emergencies, but complained that deputies were holding her cat hostage. CCSO Central Communications told Venerable each time to stop using 9-1-1 unless it was an emergency, or she would be arrested.

A deputy was dispatched back to the home and this time met her boyfriend who she claimed she did not have; the boyfriend denied knowing anything. The deputy said her hostility continued to escalate but she did calm down, admitted to calling 9-1-1 and threatening her boyfriend.

She let the deputy into her home, then, for unknown reasons, told him to leave. As the deputy was walking toward the door, Venerable grabbed his arm and pushed him out the door.

Venerable was charged with two felonies, Battery on an Officer, and Abuse of 9-1-1 System. She was taken to the Charlotte County Jail around 2:00 a.m. Tuesday morning where she remains.

ORLANDO, Fla. -- The grandmother of a girl missing for more than five weeks said her daughter has "her reasons" for not being 100 percent honest with police and believes the family is being threatened, during a nationally televised interview Tuesday.

Above, Caylee Marie Anthony, 2 years old
(Photo courtesy National Center for Missing and Exploited Children)

"I think whoever has Caylee, either it is that person or that someone they are connected with (who) has threatened Casey's family in some way," grandmother Cindy Anthony told The Early Show's Lara Spencer. "That could be Casey's life, my life or George's life. It is not Casey who feels threatened because Casey would take her life for her own daughter."

Casey Anthony, 22, was taken into custody Wednesday after detectives determined her daughter had been missing since June 9, 2008, and was never reported missing.

"She has her reasons why she can't be completely honest with (investigators)," Anthony said. "She told them she was fearful to go to the police. I think Casey is frightened that somebody that she feels very, um, I think Casey is frightened for another person."

Cindy Anthony told Spencer she believes her daughter was betrayed by someone she trusted.

"I think Casey trusted her with the same person she has trusted her with for a long time and that person has betrayed her and has since then been threatening her and that is why she can't be 100 percent honest in everything that she is telling people," Anthony said.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, click here.

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 County Detective Arrests
Man, 18, for Lewd & Lascivious
Acts with Runaway Girl, 12

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, July 21, 2008, a Manatee County Sheriff's Detective arrested Gavino Guitierez, 18, of the 4000 block of 3rd Avenue Blvd. East, in Palmetto, for having sex with a runaway 12-year-old girl.

Guitierez was arrested for three counts of Lewd & Lascivious Battery on the unnamed 12-year-old girl after the girl ran away from home.

The 12-year-old victim returned home at around 6:09 p.m. on Sunday, July 20, 2008, where she was interviewed by Law Enforcement as to her whereabouts.

Guitierez confessed to having sex with the minor three times and also said that he is in the country illegally from Mexico, a sheriff's office report said.

He is currently being held on a $150,000 bond and has an Immigration hold on him.

Palmetto Police Department:
Two Men Fight, Third Man
Strikes One From Behind,
Robs Him of Cash

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police have arrested Michael Huerta, 18, of 1709 12th Street West, in Palmetto, after Huerta allegedly struck one of two men who had fought each other, causing serious injuries, then robbed the man he struck.

According to the arrest report from PPD, on Sunday, July 20, 2008, at about 3:45 p.m., the unnamed victim and another man were involved in a verbal dispute in the 1900 block of 14th Street Court West, in Palmetto.

The dispute turned physical and the victim and the other man became involved in a fist fight.

The victim was standing over the other man when he was struck from behind with an unknown object by Huerta, the report said.

The victim was knocked to the ground and approached by Huerta, who demanded money from the victim.

The victim handed his wallet to Huerta, who took a $10 dollar bill from the wallet and threw the wallet back to the victim.

The victim was later transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital, where he received treatment for a possible collar bone and facial fracture and needed about 6 stitches under his right eye for two lacerations.

Huerta was positively identified by the victim, from a booking photo of Huerta, the report said.

Huerta was then arrested at his home and charged with Aggravated Battery and Robbery.

According to Manatee County court records, Huerta is currently awaiting trial on Burglary charges.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Throwing Sister, Hitting
Sister's Husband with Gun

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Aljoe Williams, 53, of 202 12th Avenue East, Bradenton.

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, July 20, 2008, at about 4:00 p.m., officers were called to the above location, reference to a fight.

Aljoe and his sister, Ms. Francis Williams, had an altercation in the kitchen of the residence.

Aljoe punched his sister in the mouth with his fist, grabbed her by the neck and threw her against the kitchen cabinets, the report said.

Then Aljoe was confronted by his sister's boyfriend.

Aljoe hit her sister's boyfriend on the left side of the head with a firearm, causing minor lacerations behind the left ear.

Francis Williams was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for her injuries.

The firearm was never recovered, police said.

Aljoe Williams was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Domestic Battery.

Man Put on Ventilator After
Being Struck with Glass
Beer Bottle

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Maynor Hernandez-Ramirez, 21, for an incident that occurred in May of this year, in which a man was critically injured.

Maynor Hernandez-Ramirez

The arrest report, dated Sunday, July 20, 2008, said on May 31, 2008, at about 3:00 p.m., Maynor broke up a fight that was occurring between his friend and an unnamed victim at 1909 13th Street West, in Bradenton.

The victim threw a punch at Maynor and lightly hit him on the face, then attempted to leave the scene, the report said.

Then Maynor allegedly threw a glass beer bottle at the victim, hitting him on the head. That caused deep cuts to the victim's head and arm and the loss of a large amount of blood.

The victim was transported to Bayfront Medical Center and put on a ventilator.

On Sunday, Maynor was transported to BPD headquarters and read his rights.

He said he woke up and saw his friend and the victim fighting and told the victim, who was intoxicated at the time, to get off his friend. When the victim ran towards Maynor, Maynor punched the victim and then threw the beer bottle, he admitted to officers. Maynor told officers he did so because he was angry.

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

Hardee Junior High Dean,
Coach Dies in SR 64
Motorcycle Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a traffic crash on Monday, July 21, 2008, at about 10:30 a.m., on State Road 64 west of Verna-Bethany Road in East Manatee County that killed a motorcyclist.

Above, Gregg White, deceased

Gregg White, 48, of Wauchula, Florida, Dean of Students at Hardee Junior High School and part-time football coach, in Hardee County, Florida, was eastbound on State Road 64 on his motorcycle.

A pickup truck being driven by Andrew P. Hart, 18, of Bradenton, pulled out of a driveway in the 25000 block of State Road 64 to go west on the road and the two vehicles collided.

The motorcycle's front struck the pickup's left side.

Mr. White was pronounced dead at the scene.

Charges are pending against Hart.

CRIME TREND: Mobile Homes
Being Burglarized During Early
Morning Hours, Some Occupied

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, overnight early Monday, July 21, 2008, five trailers in Bayshore Windmill Village Mobile Home Park, in the 600 block of 63rd Avenue West, were burglarized.

A report from the sheriff's office said the suspect(s) entered the trailers by simply cutting screens and walking into the unsecured mobile homes.

Cash, electronic components, bicycles, and tools were stolen.

One resident heard someone in her trailer at about 2:11 a.m. But she did not bother to check because she thought it was a raccoon in her garbage.

Most of the other trailer owners are out of town and left their units open.

The cumulative loss reported was less than $500 dollars.

Manatee County Sheriff's Sgt. David Turner wrote, "This appears to be a trend occurring during the early morning hours."

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

Sarasota County Sheriff's
Office Announces DUI
Checkpoint Results

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office hosted a DUI Safety Checkpoint on Friday, July 18th, 2008, at 530, US 41 Bypass in Venice.

Also participating were officers from North Port Police Department, Venice Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol.

During the night’s operation, there were 4 DUI arrests. In addition, there were 51 traffic citations issued for various violations.

Noose sent to City Commissioner
After Black Caddy Photo
Controversy

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A noose delivered to an Orlando city commissioner is being investigated as a threat, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Above, the photo in question
(Photo courtesy WKMG)

Orlando police confirmed that the rope was delivered to Daisy Lynum's City Hall office in a package that had no return address.

Lynum said she received some complaints from residents after having a 1930s photo at the Dubsdread golf course removed because she said it was racist, WKMG reported.

The photo shows a shoeless black caddy in the 1930s that depicts a time when black people were forced to remove their shoes before stepping on the golf course.

"There is a photograph of the history of Dubsdread but there is a black caddy with no shoes on," Lynum said in an earlier report. "I find the picture insulting and I would like for someone to take it down. We don't have to change the history but we could sure change how it looks now."

However, when the photo was sent over to City Hall for review, it was determined not offensive and was put back up, WKMG reported.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Missing and Abducted 4-Year-Old
Sarasota Boy, Now 17, Located
12 years Later, SPD Says

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, July 18, 2008, Captain Stan Duncan, Public Information Officer for the Sarasota Police Department, announced an SPD detective has located a 17-year-old boy who was reported as a missing child/parental abduction when he was 4 years old on April 2, 1996.

Above, L to R, Zachary Buckley when he went missing in 1996 and
Zachary Buckley in an age-enhanced photo as he would appear today.
(Photos courtesy National Center for Missing and Exploited Children)

Zachary Gar Buckley was reported as missing by his father, Craig Douglas Buckley, on April 2, 1996. Mr. Buckley reported that his ex-wife, Lynda Buckley, failed to turn over their child to him per a court order. Lynda was supposed to turn herself in on a DUI conviction, but fled the state instead.

Detective Dave Grant was assigned as the lead detective on the case. Over the years, Detective Grant handled numerous tips regarding the whereabouts of Zachary, to no avail.

Zachary’s case was entered into the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Recently, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children forwarded a tip to SPD about Zachary.

A teenage boy in Madison, Alabama, was perusing the website for missing children and spotted someone who looked like his teenage friend.

The teen's mother sent an anonymous tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

In a short time, Detective Dave Grant was notified. Det. Grant then learned that a police investigator in Madison had seen the boy around town "all the time."

Detective Grant went to Madison, Alabama, and knocked on the door of a woman now named Linda Beasley. It was Zachary's mom.

Zachary was fine and was, in fact, the boy his teenaged friend had recognized on the website of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Linda Buckley/Beasley was arrested and is being returned to Sarasota to face a judge for a prior DUI conviction, for which she was supposed to report to jail and then fled.

Craig Buckley has since been to Alabama and visited with his son. He is leaving his son with Mr. Beasley, because he does not want to traumatize the boy further.

Zach's true father, Craig Buckley, said he does not want other parents of missing children to give up hope.

"Det. Dave Grant, the lead detective on the case, should be credited with his perseverance and excellent work on this case," Captain Stan Duncan said.

Elderly Man Stabbed By
Woman Stabs Her Back,
She Was Later Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Robert Lee Smith, 72, of the 2200 block of 2nd Avenue East, in Palmetto, was stabbed by Sarah Moore, 25, of Palmetto, during a robbery on Saturday, July 19, 2008, at about 8:15 a.m.

Sarah T. Moore

The report said Sarah Moore demanded money from Robert Smith. Smith refused.

Moore armed herself with a knife and stabbed Smith. Then Moore took Smith’s wallet and removed six dollars.

Smith fought back and stabbed Moore with a pitchfork. Moore fled the scene.

Smith called 911.

Upon arrival of sheriff's deputies, Smith was bleeding from a puncture wound, several inches deep, in the upper left chest area, but was sitting up and speaking with deputies.

Smith was seen by EMS and was then taken by Bayflight to Bayfront Medical Center.

Deputy Pereyra located Moore in the area of 900 21st Street East, Palmetto and arrested her.

Moore complained of injuries that she received, so EMS was summoned. EMS transported Moore to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Moore had an outstanding warrant from Sarasota County and, once released from Manatee Memorial Hospital, was booked into the Manatee County Jail.

In addition to the outstanding warrant, Moore was charged with Aggravated Battery and Armed Robbery.

Man Arrested for Stealing,
Pawning Over $34 Grand
in Cash, Jewelry

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Eugene Large, 38, of Ohio, was charged on Tuesday, July 15, 2008, with Grand Theft after he allegedly stole and pawned $34,150 dollars worth of cash and jewelry from a home in Manatee County where he was staying as a house guest, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Eugene Large

An arrest report said Large stole from a woman and her daughter who live in the 13000 block of Peregrin Circle, in East Manatee County.

Large allegedly stole a 1.5-karat diamond ring, a 14-karat gold ring and several other pieces of gold and diamond jewelry. He also stole a Wii video game and accessories.

He then allegedly pawned them at four Bradenton pawn shops.

The incidents allegedly occurred between February and April of 2008, while he was a guest in their house.

Large was not only charged with Grand Theft, he was also charged with four counts of Defrauding a Pawn Broker.

Man Arrested for Slapping,
Throwing Girlfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Jorge Salinas, 35, of the 5600 block of 7th Street Court East, in Bradenton.

Jorge Salinas

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, July 17, 2008, at about 9:30 p.m., Jorge and his girlfriend were living together at the above address.

They both got into an argument over his drinking. When she tried to leave, he grabbed her by the arm and threw her against the bedroom wall.

Then he threw her on the bed and slapped her face about three times.

The girlfriend called 911.

The deputy, Amy Dunkum, said she didn't observe any injuries on the woman.

Salinas was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery.

Sauced Woman Forced Out of Car,
Calls Police, Gets Arrested
on 5 Felony Warrants

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman who filed complaint with the Manatee County Sheriff's Office was arrested on five outstanding felony warrants on Saturday, July 19, 2008, at about 7:00 a.m.

Utopia Goodson

The sheriff's office arrest report said Utopia Goodson, 33, told deputies that she was picked up by a man who she has met before but could not remember his name.

As she and the man were driving down the road in the 6000 block of 12th Street East, they got into a verbal dispute.

The man then opened the passenger door and forced Goodson out of the vehicle.

Goodson called 911.

Upon the arrival of deputies, a neighborhood canvass for the man's vehicle was conducted, which yielded negative results.

Goodson sustained abrasions to her arms and legs and was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital by EMS.

Goodson was uncooperative with deputies and the strong presence of alcohol was detected coming from her breath.

After Goodson was treated at the hospital, she was transported to the Manatee County Jail because of five outstanding felony warrants. They were all for Violation of Probation. Two charges were originally for Forgery, two were for Uttering the Forged Instruments and one was for Grand Theft.

The man who forced her out of the car was described as an unknown Black male, wearing a white T-shirt, black gym shorts, with short cut hair, a heavy build and one gold tooth. He was driving an older blue/gray 4-door vehicle, Goodson told deputies.

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 Pistol-Whipped During
Armed Home Invasion Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, July 18, 2008, at about 2:00 a.m., three Black males robbed three people inside a residence in the 600 block of 60th Avenue Terrace West at gunpoint, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said 3 unknown Black males entered the residence through the unlocked front door.

One of the Black males pointed an unknown type pistol at Lisa Pauki, 50, and ordered her to the back bedroom, where Craig Sievert, 21, and Clarissa Gonzalez, 17, were.

The man with the gun pistol-whipped Sievert in the head and told him to get into the bathroom and kept asking him where the money was.

When Sievert did not come up with any money, the 3 Black males ordered Gonzalez and Pauki into the bathroom with Sievert.

The three robbers then ransacked the bedroom. They did not find any cash, but took 3 cell phones, a Playstation 3 and a laptop computer.

The three then fled back out the front door in an unknown direction with the goods. It is not known if there was a waiting vehicle.

Sievert sustained a small bump to the top of his head. EMS responded for Pauki who was complaining of chest pain.

No shots were fired.

A BOLO was put for the suspects, who were described as being in their late teen to early twenties. They were all wearing black clothing and had 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.

Man Stabbed at Suburban Lodge
in South Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, July 19, 2008, at about 5:20 p.m., a man was stabbed at the Suburban Lodge, 7521 N. Tamiami Trail, in South Manatee County, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

The report said the victim, James A. Ellithorp, 30, of Bradenton, was stabbed by a White male for unkown reasons.

Ellithorp was flown to Bayfront Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

The incident is still under investigation.

The man who stabbed Ellithorp was described as a White male, about 5'6" tall, 180 pounds, last seen wearing a red shirt and baggie style 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.

Three Black Males Rob
Hispanic Male Pedestrian

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said Carlos Castellon, 25, was robbed by three Black males as he was walking home from a 14th Street West pool hall on Friday, July 18, 2008, at about 2:00 a.m.

Castellon told deputies that he was walking home from Livingston's Pool Hall where he played pool and drank alcohol.

As he was walking in the 6300 block of 14th Street West, an unknown white older vehicle pulled up next to him and three unknown Black males got out of the vehicle.

One of the Black males punched Carlos in the nose and side of his jaw. They then took his wallet, which contained $5, and a gold ring. The total value of the property taken was $215.

The subjects then fled southbound on 14th Street West.

Castellon described the subjects as (2) wearing white T-shirts and the 3rd wearing a black shirt. All three were wearing blue jeans and had long hair.

Castellon stated that he waited until 9:00 a.m. to report the incident because he went home and went to bed.

Castellon sustained a small abrasion on the right side of his face.

No weapons were seen or implied.

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.

Attempted Armed Robbery of
Palmetto Guest House Hotel

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Guest House Hotel, located at 4915 17th Street East, in Palmetto, was the victim of an attempted armed robbery on Friday, July 18, 2008, at about 8:30 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said two people, a male and female, entered the Guest House Hotel demanding money from the clerk.

They brandished a knife to the clerk, Vivian McNeal.

The clerk was able to run into the back office and lock the door, where she called 911.

The pair of robbery suspects fled the scene.

There were no injuries and no money was obtained by the would-be robbers.

No arrest has been made in the case.

The culprits were only described as a White male in his early 20s, and a White female in her early 20s.

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 Yanked from Truck,
Bound, Eyes Taped,
Truck Taken

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a Hispanic man was yanked from his truck and bound by two Hispanic males, who then stole his truck on Saturday, July 19, 2008, at about 9:50 p.m.

Genaro Hernandez-Perez, 24, told deputies that a vehicle pulled up in front of his truck in the 200 block of 17th Street East, in Palmetto, blocking him in.

He said two Hispanic men exited the vehicle and pointed firearms at him and physically pulled him from his truck.

He said they then bound his hands and covered his eyes with duct tape and fled the scene with his truck in an unknown direction.

Hernandez-Perez was not injured during the incident.

The two armed carjackers were described as Hispanic males, light skinned, about 5'05" tall, 130 pounds, with short dark hair.

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 Man Loses Life
in Dirt Bike Accident

ELLENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol, Michael Roach, 37, of Bradenton, was killed Friday evening at about 6:30 p.m. when his dirt bike overturned and he was pinned underneath the bike. The accident occurred near 28th Avenue East and U.S. Highway 301 (State Road 43), in Ellenton.

The FHP report said Roach was traveling southbound on a dirt trail that was located on private property that was used as a motocross track.

Roach was approaching a wooden bridge, and traveled down a gradual embankment in order to cross over the bridge.

The dirt bike began to slide on the dirt in a counterclockwise direction and overturned onto its right side.

Roach was partially ejected off the bike and as the bike overturned, Roach became entangled underneath the bike, which slid to final rest on its right side with Roach pinned underneath it.

Crime Stoppers Tip Leads Police
to Sweetbay, CVS Armed Robber

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, July 18, 2008, detectives from the Punta Gorda Police Department and deputies from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office arrested David Levi Bisbee, 31, of 1171 Laurel Road, Fort Myers, Florida, for the Attempted Armed Robbery of the Sweetbay pharmacy which occurred yesterday morning in Punta Gorda.

David Levi Bisbee

Punta Gorda Police detectives, acting on a tip from Crime Stoppers, confirmed Mr. Bisbee was the suspect based upon eyewitness identification and proceeded to Bisbee’s house with Lee County Sheriff deputies. Upon arrival at the scene, a white pickup truck matching the description provided by witnesses to the crime was observed in the driveway.

Mr. Bisbee was interviewed by detectives and confessed to the Attempted Armed Robbery of the Sweetbay pharmacy, the Armed Robbery of the CVS Pharmacy in Cape Coral that also occurred on July 17th, and an Armed Robbery of a pharmacy located in North Fort Myers that occurred approximately one month ago.

Detectives recovered the weapon used by the suspect, the stolen narcotics, and the clothing worn during the commission of the Sweetbay and CVS robberies.

Bisbee was transported to the Lee County Jail where he was charged with multiple counts of Armed Robbery and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

According to the Florida Department of Corrections, Bisbee served 1 1/2 years in prison for Burglary. He was released in January of 2008.

Woman Charged with Perjury for
Filing False Rape Report

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detective arrested a Punta Gorda woman this morning for Perjury in connection with reporting a sexual battery (Rape) on May 26.

Morgan Lynn Brown

Morgan Lynn Brown, 18, of 416 Allen St., told detectives that her ex-boyfriend raped her in his Brandywine Dr. home in Englewood when she went back to get the last of her items after she moved out. She said he ignored her please to stop and continued to have sexual intercourse. She said after the rape she got dressed, ran out of the house and drove away, never speaking to her ex-boyfriend again. When Brown met MCU detectives she said she wanted to press charges and see her ex-boyfriend go to jail.

When MCU detectives met with her ex-boyfriend, he had a different story and adamantly denied forcing himself on Brown. He said she came over to get the last of her things and helped her load the items into her vehicle. He said after they had consensual sex, he walked her to her car and she asked him if she could have a hug. The ex-boyfriend showed detectives his cell phone with various text messages from Brown after they had sex.

Detectives re-interviewed Brown due to inconsistencies in her earlier statements and showed her copies of the text messages. Detectives learned that Brown was not raped, they did have consensual intercourse, and she was afraid if her current boyfriend found out he would break up with her.

Based on the false statements she gave last May, Brown was arrested, charged with Perjury and taken to the Charlotte County Jail.

Search Expands for Girl, 2,
Missing Since June 9th

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Investigators have expanded their search for a missing 2-year-old girl to new locations as crews continued digging alongside cadaver dogs in the back yard of the child's grandparents' house, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Above, Caylee Marie Anthony, 2 years old
(Photo courtesy National Center for Missing & Exploited Children)

The home of Cindy and George Anthony, located on Hopespring Drive in Orlando, remained the main focus for searchers Friday as they checked for clues into the disappearance of Caylee Marie Anthony, 2 years old, missing since June 9th, 2008.

The girl's mother, Casey Anthony, 22, was taken into custody Wednesday after it was determined that Caylee had been missing for five weeks and was never reported lost.

"Just because we are here with cadaver dogs, we are not giving up that Caylee is not alive," Orange County Sgt. John Allen said during a Friday news conference. "We are running this investigation in several different directions. Even though you are here and we are here, we actually have detectives in other places following up on other leads."

Searching intensified around some of the child's toys in the back yard Friday while detectives checked leads in different locations.

Allen said officers received a tip from a neighbor about Casey Anthony borrowing a shovel from them at about the same time the child went missing. The neighbor said Anthony borrowed the shovel for about an hour and then gave it back, WKMG reported.

A search continued for Caylee's father, but detectives said they believed that he may be deceased.

Allen also said they are searching for a baby sitter Anthony said she left her child with in early June.

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