Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 8/16/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 8/16/2008

Two Arrested in Bank Bag
Robbery at Bank of America;
$2,800 Dollars Stolen from Lady

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A 19-year-old man and a 14-year-old boy were arrested Thursday night after they robbed a woman of her night deposit bag containing over $2,800 dollars at the Bank of America branch located at 4311 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

Brian K. Nipper
(A mug shot of the juvenile was not available)

Bradenton Deputy Police Chief J. J. Lewis reported on Thursday, August 13, 2008, at 9:36 p.m., Bradenton Police Officers responded to a robbery in the parking lot of the Bank of America branch.

Responding officers learned that a bank customer, Ms. Christine Miller, was preparing to make a bank deposit when she observed two males hiding in the landscaping nearby. Fearing that she was going to be robbed, the customer ran to her car for safety while carrying the bank deposit bag.

Once she entered her car, she was attacked by one of the males, later identified as Choncey Williams, Jr., 14, who began to punch her. He then forcibly stole the deposit bag containing the money.

Both Williams and the second suspect who was later identified as Brian Nipper, 19, fled the area on foot.

The victim was not injured.

Responding Patrol officers, detectives and a K-9 officer quickly set up a dragnet to capture the robbers. The police K-9 tracked the suspects to the area of the 700 block of 44th Street West. The suspects were located and arrested while hiding in the carport of a residence in the 700 block of 44th Street West.

The bank bag containing the money was recovered by the arresting officers.

Both suspects admitted that they planned the robbery.

Police arrested Choncey M. Williams, Jr., 14, of Bradenton. He was charged with Robbery, Burglary and Burglary (unoccupied Structure) and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Brian K. Nipper, 19, of Bradenton was also arrested and charged with Robbery, Burglary (unoccupied Structure) and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Anyone having information about this crime is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at 941-932-9300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Man Steals Cigarettes, Then
Steals Two Radio Shack
Laptop Computers

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who stole cigarettes in South Manatee County and then stole two laptop computers from a Radio Shack store on Manatee Avenue West has been arrested.

Terry Anthony McGriff

According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on Wednesday, shortly before 9:00 a.m., Terry Anthony McGriff, 36, of 3708 7th Avenue West, Bradenton, entered the 7-11 store in the 200 block of Pearl Avenue.

McGriff asked for three cartons of cigarettes. The clerk placed the cigarettes on the counter. McGriff snatched the 3 cartons and fled the scene.

Then, about an hour later, McGriff walked into the Radio Shack store in the 5700 block of Manatee Avenue West and walked out with two laptop computers.

A BOLO was issued for the vehicle McGriff was in, which turned out to be stolen.

At 11:10 a.m., deputies spotted the vehicle in the 6100 block of 9th Street East and attempted to pull McGriff over.

McGriff fled the vehicle, leaving the vehicle rolling.

A sheriff's office K-9 unit was able to track McGriff and capture him.

McGriff was charged with Grand Theft, Grand Theft Auto, Fleeing to Elude, Resisting Arrest without Violence, Robbery, Reckless Driving and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

McGriff is being held in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Manatee County Detective Arrests
Man, 21, for Sexual Relations
with Juvenile Girl, 14

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Office Detective J. Bliss has arrested Daniel Pinto, 21, of 7405 Vista Way, in Bradenton.

Daniel Pinto

According to Pinto's arrest report, an unnamed juvenile girl disclosed to her mother that in the beginning of May she began having sexual relations with Pinto.

The girl said that there were three separate sexual encounters.

On Wednesday, August 13, 2008, Pinto was interviewed by Det. Bliss. Pinto admitted to having sexual relations with the victim.

NewsManatee has learned the girl is 14 years old.

Pinto told Det. Bliss that she told him that she was 17 years old.

Pinto was arrested without incident and charged with three counts of Lewd and Lascivious Battery.

Wallet Snatched from Woman
at Cortez Plaza Dollar Tree

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman had her wallet snatched from her grasp near the Dollar Tree store in Cortez Plaza shopping center, 705 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Deputies arrested a woman; her accomplice was apparently not arrested.

Above, L to R, Amber Evans and Jacob Holding

According to arrest reports for the pair who were arrested, on August 5, 2008, at about 3:30 p.m., Amber Evans, 24, and her boyfriend, Jacob Holding, 22, both of Bradenton, were at the above location.

The unnamed victim was walking by Evans with her wallet in her hand.

Evans saw the wallet and approached the victim. Evans attempted to wrestle the wallet away from the victim, but was initially unsuccessful. Evans then knocked the victim to the ground and was able to free the wallet from the victim's hands; she took $12 dollars from the wallet.

Then Evans got into a blue Chevy Camero and fled the scene.

Buit a witness was able to copy down the license number of the Camero.

The victim picked Evans out of a photo lineup.

Evans and Holding were later picked up. Evans confessed to the crime and Holding confessed to his part in the crime.

Evans was arrested and charged with Strong Arm Robbery. Holding was apparently not charged. The mug shot of Holding above is from a 2007 arrest.

BPD Arrests Man for
Breaking Into Store,
Stealing Soda

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Lorenzo James Brinson, Jr., 26, for a break-in that occurred in July.

Lorenzo James Brinson, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on July 1, 2008, Brinson broke into the Marathon gas Station at 1832 Manatee Avenue East by breaking out a glass panel at the front of the store.

Then Brinson entered the store and stole a 2-liter bottle of soda.

Brinson was recorded on video camera tape.

On Tuesday, August 12, 2008, a BPD Officer spotted Brinson walking in the 1700 block of 9th Street West. Brinson was taken into custody and transported to the Bradenton Police Department.

When confronted with a still photo from the burglary, Brinson admitted it was him. When told it was from the Marathon gas station burglary, Brinson clammed up and said, "I have nothing more to say. If you're going to arrest me, arrest me."

So, Brinson was arrested and charged with Burglary.

Man Shot in Right Shoulder
By Unknown Hispanic Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was shot in the right shoulder on Thursday, August 14, 2008, by an unknown Hispanic male.

The report said the victim, Donald Payton, 27, was at 804 60th Avenue West in a pop-up camper at the side of the residence.

At 5:10 p.m., an unknown Hispanic male knocked on the side of the pop-up and Donald answered the door.

The knocker then pointed a black revolver at the victim's right shoulder at close range, shooting him one time.

The shooter then fled East on 60th Avenue.

Donald sustained a gunshot wound to the right shoulder where there was an entry and exit wound.

Photos were taken of the victim’s injury and the area.

The Hispanic male was described as being in his mid 20s, 5'5" tall, about 130 pounds, and was last seen wearing a red hat, blue jeans, and white shirt.

Donald had received a note from a lady named Linda at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday on his truck demanding the money that she was owed.

The Violent Crimes Task Force found "Linda" at the Quality Inn and conducted interviews.

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.

Two Commercial Lawnmowers,
Valued at $10,000 Dollars Each,
Stolen from Mobile Home Park

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two commercial lawnmowers valued at $10,000 dollars each, were stolen early Wednesday, August 13, 2008, from the Casa Loma Mobile Home Park, in the 5000 block of 4th Street East, in Bradenton.

The report said at about 1:00 a.m. a person observed four Hispanic males stealing the mowers. The thieves had their lights off and were loading four commercial lawnmowers onto a trailer, the witness said. At the time, the witness did not call 911.

However, the incident was reported in the morning at about 8:00 a.m. by park management.

After deputies responded, they initially found four mowers missing. After a complete search of the area, deputies located two of the stolen mowers.

Two commercial mowers are still missing. One belongs to Casa Loma Mobile Home Park and the other belongs to J and S Lawn Services, in Sarasota.

The thieves somehow entered the gate-secured park. Once inside, the thieves then cut off a large hasp type lock that secured the equipment area. This area is fenced, but the high dollar mowers are not secured by anything else.

The crime scene was processed.

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.

Safe Containing $3-9,000
Stolen from Business
During Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the Cold Stone Creamery, located at 7484 Cortez Road West, in Manatee County, was burglarized sometime overnight on Monday into early Tuesday morning while the business was closed.

Deputies were dispatched to the location at 5:08 a.m. on Tuesday, August 12, 2008.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered that a safe had been removed from the business.

The owner was contacted and responded and said that the safe had contained between $3,000 and $9,000 dollars.

A crime scene technician responded to process the scene for fingerprints.

A NewsManatee reader who had gone to the restaurant with her husband on Wednesday reported the front door had been damaged and a window had been broken out.

As of the writing of this report, nobody had been arrested.

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

Sarasota Police Arrest Man
Who Stole $46 Grand from
His Employer, a Church

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department has arrested 24-year-old Patrick Rostock. Police say Rostock stole more than $46,000 dollars from the First Congregational United Church of Christ from July 2007 through May of 2008.

Patrick Rostock

According to the police report, Rostock systematically wrote 34 checks to himself over the past year, then forged the minister's signature and deposited the checks in his bank accounts.

The church noticed a problem with their bank balance and called in police who say they easily traced forged signatures to Rostock.

Rostock confessed to the crime when Sarasota Police Detective Jack Carter confronted him with the evidence.

Rostock told the detective he took the money to help move his girlfriend from Orlando to Sarasota, and to pay for a cocaine habit.

He was charged with Grand Theft.

Rostock was released from jail Thursday on a $10,000 bond.

Traffic Enforcement At
Schools When Open;
Fines Imposed

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department will begin aggressive enforcement of traffic laws near schools starting on August 18, 2008, when school starts. Officers will be in marked vehicles, unmarked vehicles, on motorcycles and sometimes on foot operating speed measuring devices.

There will not be any warnings given, only citations. Passing a stopped school bus is a $179 fine. Going 25mph in a school zone is a $179 fine. Going 30mph in a school zone is a $204 fine. During all of 2007 the Sarasota Police Department issued 22,598 traffic citations.

Citizens are reminded that many students will be on foot or bicycles as they travel to bus stops or schools.

Citizens should leave ample time in their routine as they travel to and from work each day.

White Powder Found in Letter at
Charlotte County Jail Mail Room;
Jail Put in Lockdown Mode

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 1:50 p.m. Wednesday, August 13, 2008, after a jail clerk opened a letter in the new mailroom and had an unknown white substance of dry powder fall out.

Above, fire truck, Hazmat Unit and sheriff's cruiser

The Charlotte County Hazmat Unit went to the scene and into the building at 2:49 p.m. to do preliminary testing. The new mailroom is in a smaller building detached from the main jail structure but according to established procedures, the entire jail went into lockdown mode. The smaller building does not share HVAC systems.

Last Feb. 25, a similar incident occurred in the mailroom which was inside the jail building. The mail room was moved to the other building to protect all 600 inmates, and staff so they would not be affected.

The CCSO Watch Commander, Lt. Donna Ogdon, was on scene and said there were 11 people in the outer building including inmates, civilian employees, and visitors with an infant and an 8-9 year old. All were being held for decontamination purposes.

A test on the substance revealed "negative testing for positive protein."

Since the actual substance remains unknown, a CCSO deputy took the substance to the Department of Health Laboratory in Tampa. Testing will be done there and it is not known how long it will take for tests results.

Manatee Man Gets 40 Years
for Trafficking in Child Porn

TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- Robert Leslie Metz, age 54, formerly of Manatee County, was sentenced Thursday, August 14, 2008, by United States District Judge Susan C. Bucklew to 40 years’ imprisonment for receipt and distribution of child pornography. Metz had entered a guilty plea on April 21, 2008.

Robert Leslie Metz

According to court records, Robert Leslie Metz was involved in the distribution and receipt of child pornography over the Internet, and actively traded child pornography images with individuals throughout the United States and Europe.

Upon the defendant’s arrest for trafficking child pornography, he was found in possession of thousands of depictions of child pornography, including pornographic images of infants and toddlers, which had been sent and received by Internet.

As part of his plea agreement, Metz admitted that he had sexually molested three of his daughters when they were minor children.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Innocent Images Task Force, Fort Meyers Resident Agency, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Colleen Murphy Davis.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Woman, Daughter Kidnapped
From Home in East Bradenton;
Kidnapper Arrested in Georgia;
Mother, Daughter Safe

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who is known to the victim kidnapped her and her daughter on Tuesday, August 12, 2008, in Bradenton and drove them to Georgia, where the man was arrested. The mother and daughter are on their way back to Bradenton.

Tracy L. Hood

On Tuesday, Lt. Kathy Estabrook was asked to contact Sgt. Cospelich, of the Tift County Sheriff's Office, located in Tifton, Georgia.

Lt. Estabrook called him and was told that he was with Takelia Johnson, 29, of the 200 block of 34th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton, who was claiming she had been kidnapped in Bradenton. He said Tracy L. Hood, 32, of 916 28th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton, and their daughter were also with him.

Johnson had told Tift County Sheriff's Sgt. Cospelich that she had brought the daughter to the home of Tracy Hood Tuesday morning to drop her off, and that Johnson and Hood began to argue.

At that point, Hood forced Johnson and their daughter into the car and drove out of state.

At a gas station in Tifton, Georgia, Johnson approached a clerk and told the clerk that she had been kidnapped and asked the clerk to call the police.

According to the Tift County Sheriff's Office, Johnson did have some bruises and Hood had been arrested by the Tift County Sheriff's Office.

Apparently, Hood had told Johnson that they were going to Alabama.

Johnson does have a valid restraining order against Hood, which he violated twice in August, according to Manatee County court records.

Johnson and her daughter are on their way back to Bradenton.

Hood has been charged in Georgia with Kidnapping; more charges may follow, pending an investigation, Lt. Estabrook said. Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Ives is handling the investigation.

Man Strangles His Fiancee
in Presence of Two Twin
Daughters, 4 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested William C. Dorman, 43, of the 1100 block of 56th Avenue Terrace East, Bradenton.

Wiliam C. Dorman

Dorman's arrest report said he and the unnamed victim have lived together as a family with Dorman's two twin 4-year-old daughters for the past year and are engaged.

Dorman and his fiancee were having an argument about their sexual relations. The argument continued into the bedroom.

The woman told deputies that Dorman then pushed her and she pushed him back. Then he threw her on the ground and began choking her with his right hand around her neck.

The woman said she could not breathe and was gasping for air.

She said Dorman then punched her on the right side of her face twice.

Deputies reported the entire right side of her face was swollen and her right eye and side of her mouth was very bruised.

EMS responded and treated the woman.

The altercation all occurred in the presence of the twin girls, deputies reported.

Dorman was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

BPD Arrests Two Men
After Vehicle Burglary

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested two men following the burglary of a vehicle on Tuesday, August 12, 2008, at about 5:40 a.m.

Above, L to R, Jose Agosto and Jabiel Collazo

According to the arrest reports for both men, the unnamed victim heard glass breaking and looked outside.

He saw his driver's side window had been broken. He also saw a man leaving the scene in a silver Honda and called police.

The vehicle was stopped seconds later.

The victim was brought to the scene.

He positively identified Jose Agosto, 27, of 3615 9th Street East, Bradenton, as the man who had broken his car's window and had entered his vehicle.

A second man, Jabiel Collazo, the driver of the Honda, 22, of 5004 20th Street Court East, Bradenton, told officers he knew about the burglary but only after he had left the scene.

Officers discovered there was damage to the dashboard of the vehicle which had been burglarized.

Both Agosto and Collazo were arrested and charged with Burglary to a Conveyance. Agosto was additionally charged with Criminal Mischief.

Pedestrian Struck During
Attempted Robbery By
Three Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported James Simpson, of Bradenton, was struck during an attempted robbery on Wednesday, at about 2:45 a.m., in the 2000 block of 26th Avenue East, in Bradenton.

The report said Simpson was walking home on 26th Avenue East when two Black males walking behind him yelled that they were going to rob him.

A third Black male came out of the bushes and struck Simpson with an unknown object.

A struggle ensued and the robbers tried to search the victim's pockets during the struggle.

The culprits got nothing of value.

Simpson sustained minor cuts not refusing treatment.

The robbers were only described as three Black males with thin builds.

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.

Bicyclist Robbed By Eight
Black Male Juveniles

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a bicyclist was robbed by eight Black male juveniles on Tuesday, at about 3:40 p.m., in the 1000 block of 35th Avenue West.

The report said 8 Black male juveniles around the ages of 15 to 16 rode bikes up to Augustine Balltazar, 24, who was also on a bike and told him to "Give me your money."

They pushed Balltazar off his bike and started to punch him.

Then the robbers took $100.00 from Baltazar's pocket and fled the area on bikes.

Balltazar received a swollen left eye and a bloody lip from the attack.

The suspects were not located.

They 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.

Purse Snatch Reported
at Publix Parking Lot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman had her purse snatched from her on Tuesday, August 12, 2008, at about 12:20 p.m.

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Donna Hughes, 79, was unloading her shopping cart in the parking lot of the Publix store located at 2875 University Parkway, in South Manatee County.

She saw an unknown Black male loitering between parked cars.

Her purse was in the shopping cart and the Black male suddenly drove forward in a vehicle and snatched the purse.

The victim was aware of the taking of the purse.

A report was initiated and a BOLO was issued.

The purse snatcher was described as a Black male in his 30s, 6' tall. He was driving a full-size 2-door metallic dark green over light green vehicle, the report said.

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.

FHP: Vehicle versus Train;
Vehicle Lost Battle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported an accident involving a 2006 Toyota and a Train engine pulling an oil tanker.

According to the FHP report, the vehicle, being driven by Renee L. Raffensberger, 33, of 163 Alpine Court, in Bradenton, was westbound on in the 1700 block of 67th Avenue East, approaching a stop sign, a railroad crossing sign and a pedestrian flagger giving warning to Raffensberger of the approaching train.

The train engine was backing southbound on railroad tracks approaching 67th Avenue East.

Raffensberger failed to obey all warning signals and the flagman and ran the stop sign. She emerged onto the railroad tracks.

Raffensberger's vehicle struck the right rear of the tanker car being towed.

Raffensberger suffered serious injuries and was Bayflighted from the scene to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg.

Charges are pending.

The accident happened at 10:30 on the morning of Tuesday, August 12, 2008.

Bradenton Honors Heroic
Firefighter, Soldier

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, the City of Bradenton honored Firefighter Donald Wendt, who was recently awarded the Bronze Star for heroic actions during combat in Iraq .

Above, L to R, the Military Bronze Star Medal and the
Bradenton Fire Department’s Distinguished Service Medal

The City presented Firefighter Wendt, who also is a Staff Sergeant in the Army National Guard, with the Distinguished Service Medal. This award is given to individuals who have performed acts of heroism.

Staff Sgt. Wendt on May 13, 2005, 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, according to the War Office press release.

He received a standing ovation Wednesday morning in the Bradenton City Council Chambers.

"This is an example of one of your firefighters," Fire Chief Mark Souders said. "There isn’t a firefighter in this room who wouldn’t have done the same thing."

BPD Partnering with County
School Board in School
Familiarization Program

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department is partnering with the School Board of Manatee County to begin the School Familiarization Program.

This program is designed enhance Bradenton Police Officers working knowledge and familiarization of the each school located in the City of Bradenton.

According to the Program, district zone officers will conduct foot patrols in the schools located within the City of Bradenton, so as not to cause as distraction to students.

The Program will incrementally increase an Officer’s working knowledge of the interior layout of these schools.

Once the officers have participated in the on going program, they will be able to respond schools and effectively and efficiently go to the exact location of the incident without delay.

The School Familiarization Program is a basic and fundamental training tool that will continue to make the children attending schools in the City of Bradenton safe, Bradenton Police Department Deputy Chief J.J. Lewis said.

DUI Checkpoint Planned By
Sarasota County Sheriff's Office

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office will be conducting a DUI/Safety Checkpoint on Friday, August 15, 2008.

The location of the DUI Checkpoint will not be released.

Nationally, it is known that fatal alcohol-related accidents are three times more likely to occur at night than during daylight hours.

Two Busted Following Drug Raid
at Port Charlotte Home

PORT CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics detectives, assisted by SWAT, Traffic and K-9 Units, served a search warrant at 1524 Pulaski St., Port Charlotte, around 6:00 a.m. Tuesday and arrested two people.

Above, L to R, Tiquisha Bennett and Gregory Thompson

Tiquisha Devona Bennett, 21, and Gregory Patrick Thompson, 24, were both arrested on seven charges, including Possession of Drugs in the Presence of a Minor, a child 11 months old.

After the SWAT team cleared the residence, detectives searched the home and found Cocaine, Morphine, Hydrocodone, Marijuana and various drug paraphernalia.

Bennett and Thompson were both charged with Possession of Cocaine, two counts of Possession of Morphine, Possession of Hydrocodone, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Detectives said the Possession of Drugs in the Presence of a Minor was filed because a box on the floor with cocaine residue was in an area where Bennett’s baby could easily reach.

The toddler was turned over to a friend and detectives contacted the Department of Children and Families.

A new law took effect July 1, 2008 that makes Possession First Degree Felony if an infant or toddler is in close proximity. This means any child from birth until the child’s third birthday.

Both were taken to the Charlotte County Jail; Bennett has seven bookings and 23 records, her bond was set at $19,500, while Thompson is being held on no bond because of his past criminal history with 21 booking and 36 records.

Anyone having narcotics information can call the Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157.

UPDATE: Three Key Dates
To Be Checked in Missing
3-Year-Old Girl Mystery

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Sources told Orlando television station WKMG News on Tuesday that detectives investigating the disappearance of a missing 3-year-old Orlando girl are focusing on three key dates in mid-June and are trying to track the girl's mother's whereabouts during that time.

Above, Caylee Anthony
(Photo courtesy WKMG)

Investigators with the Orange County Sheriff's Office are trying to track Casey Anthony's whereabouts on June 16, 17 and 18 in connection to the disappearance of her daughter, Caylee Anthony. Casey Anthony reported her daughter missing in mid-July, 31 days after she said she last saw the girl.

Sources told WKMG News that if something happened to Caylee, it may have occurred on June 16, a day after Father's Day.

June 17 is the day detectives said Casey Anthony borrowed a shovel from a neighbor of her grandparents. The same neighbor said she saw Casey Anthony strangely back her car up into the family's garage on June 18.

Sources said that detectives are trying to track Casey Anthony's whereabouts on the three key dates by using cell phone records.

WKMG News reported that investigators will perform a more thorough search for Caylee using cadaver dogs and search teams when they know more about Casey Anthony's whereabouts during the three days.

Casey Anthony was seen by her father, George Anthony, on June 16 wearing a white shirt and gray dress slacks. The slacks were later discovered in Casey Anthony's car after it was found abandoned at an Orange County Amscot and returned to the grandparents' home.

Casey Anthony's mother, Cindy Anthony, said she washed the gray pants but told investigators early on in the investigation about that fact. Detectives said they learned about the pants being washed about a week ago.

Casey Anthony remains held on $500,000 bond on charges of Child Neglect and Filing a False Statement.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee Sheriff's Deputy Kruse,
K-9 "Blade" Capture One of Two
Carjackers; Other Arrested Also

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, August 9, 2008, Manatee County Sheriff's K-9 Deputy J. Kruse and his dog, K-9 Dep. "Blade," chased, subdued and captured one of two carjackers who had fled the scene of a crashed, carjacked vehicle. The other carjacker was also arrested.

Above, L to R, K-9 "Blade," and Juan and Juanita Leyva

According to a sheriff's office report, at about 11:18 a.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2008, Filberto Zunigo, 37, of Bradenton, called 911 to report his car had been stolen.

Deputies went to the scene and determined that Juan Leyva and Juanita Leyva had carjacked Zuniga's vehicle.

According to Zuniga, he and Juan Leyva had gone drinking the night before. Both returned home and Zuniga then went to Leyva's house in the 5700 block of 12th Street East.

Later, Zuniga returned to pick up Juan and Juanita.

All were in the car, a 2000 black Chrysler Concord, when Juan forced Zuniga out of the car. Juanita and Juan then drove off at a high rate of speed.

They ran into another car at 32nd Avenue and 15th Street East, then hit a telephone pole, totaling both cars. A passenger in the second car was injured and taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Both Juan and Juanita fled on foot.

A passerby followed Juanita. Juan ran into the woods. Witnesses placed both as being in the stolen car.

Juanita was arrested as a Principal to the Carjacking. The stolen car keys were found in her pockets.

East side deputies then set up a perimeter and called in Dep. Kruse and K-9 "Blade," who went to the crash site. Dep. Kruse and "Blade" tracked, chased, subdued and arrested Juan Leyva.

Juan was treated at Manatee Memorial Hospital for minor dog bites.

Juan was arrested and charged with Carjacking.

Manatee Detectives Identify
Orange Grove Murder Victim

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have identified the person who was found dead Monday morning in an orange grove in East Manatee County.

Above, Lucia Delacruz, deceased

The dead woman was Lucia Delacruz, age 30, of 1715 14th St. W., Bradenton.

A worker discovered the body of Delacruz in a grove off County Road 675 (Rutland Rd) just north of State Rd. 64. The sheriff's office was notified of the find at about 8:05 a.m Monday, August 11, 2008.

Delacruz was last seen Saturday evening leaving her residence and was reported missing to the Bradenton Police Department by her roommate on Sunday.

Delacruz was employed as a farm worker.

Detectives are treating the case as a homicide, however, the cause of death is not being released at this time.

An autopsy will be performed by the Medical Examiner to determine the exact cause of death.

This is the 10th murder in the county overall this year. There have now been 7 murders in the county, 2 in Bradenton and 1 in Palmetto.

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

Man Arrested for Theft of
Two Laptop Computers from
Best Buy Store; Woman Sought

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested a man in connection with a daylight theft of two computers from Best Buy, 4210 14th Street West, Bradenton. Deputies are still searching for a woman who was with the man at the time of the theft.

Above, L to R, Kyle Evans and Whitney Cassidy
(Note: Prior mug shot of Cassidy; her hair may have changed)

On Monday, August 11, 2008, at 2:18 p.m., Kyle Evans, 20, entered the Best Buy store and selected 2 laptop computers.

Evans fled out the door with the two computers to a waiting vehicle that was driven by Whitney Cassidy, 19.

Loss Prevention personnel from Best Buy attempted to hold onto Evans as he was getting into the car. However, the Loss Prevention people could not hold onto Evans as the car fled the parking lot.

Deputies followed up on leads and located the suspects’ names but were unable to locate them.

On Tuesday, August 12, 2008, deputies followed up with the investigation and located Kyle Evans. Evans confessed to the theft and was arrested. He was charged with Grand Retail Theft, Resisting a Merchant and Dealing in Stolen Property.

Whitney Cassidy was not located and a capias request for her arrest was submitted, according to Sgt. Keith Noordzy, of the sheriff's office.

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.

Drunken Son Arrested After
Strangling Father

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Shawn Ryan Duncan, 27, of 4483 17th Street West, in Bradenton.

Shawn Ryan Duncan

An arrest report said on Monday, August 11, 2008, at about 3:20 a.m., Shawn came home intoxicated and woke up his father, John Duncan, 58.

Both men got into an argument over Shawn coming home drunk and waking John.

The argument became physical when John slapped Shawn across the mouth with an open hand in a disciplining manner.

Shawn became enraged and threw a chair at John, striking him in the left forearm and causing two large lumps with small scratches.

Shawn then took John to the ground and place John, his father, in a choke hold. Shawn held John there for about five minutes, restricting John's normal breathing and causing several red marks around John's neck.

John told deputies he was in fear for his life because it felt like Shawn was going to break his neck.

Shawn was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

Man Arrested for Palmetto
Copper Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Christopher M. Rowedda, 23, of 8615 Bayshore Road, in Palmetto, was arrested by a Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy on Monday, August 11, 2008.

Christopher M. Rowedda

A sheriff's office arrest report said at about 4:30 on Monday, Rowedda forcefully took about 15 feet of air conditioning copper wiring, valued at about $200 dollars from 510 45th Street East.

In doing so, Rowedda caused about $500 dollars in damage to the structure by ripping the wiring from the residence.

The deputy later located Rowedda shortly after 9:00 p.m. at 616 45th Street East, Palmetto.

Three witnesses provided information that they had seen Rowedda leaving the residence with the wiring. One of the witnesses positively identified Rowedda.

Rowedda was arrested and charged with Burglary to a Structure.

Young Man Directing Traffic
Seriously Injured, FHP Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported Brian Wall, 18, of 4535 19th Street Circle West, Bradenton, was seriously injured on Monday, at about 8:35 p.m.

The FHP report said Wall was standing on 30th Street West in the center of the roadway facing east. Wall was attempting to regulate traffic to assist a semi-truck to back into a driveway at 4505 30th Street West.

Lisa Ringland, 43, of 903 69th Street West, in Bradenton, failed to see Wall standing in the roadway.

Ringland's vehicle struck Wall on his left side.

After the impact, Wall fell to the pavement, coming to rest on his right side.

Wall was flown to Bayfront Medical Center with serious injuries.

There were no street lights to illuminate 30th Street West and Wall was not wearing any reflective clothing, FHP Trooper McCormick said.

No charges were filed in the incident.

North Port Police Arrest Man
in Coralrose Fullwood Murder

NORTH PORT, Florida [NMT] -- North Port Police Chief Terry Lewis held a news conference on Tuesday, August 12, 2008, to announce the arrest of a man in connection with the rape and murder of 6-year-old Coralrose Fullwood.

Above, L to R, Patrick Dewayne Murphy and Coralrose Fullwood

Chief Lewis said Patrick Dewayne Murphy, 27, of North Port, has been charged with 1st Degree Murder, Sexual Battery on a Child and Kidnapping.

The little body of Coralrose Fullwood was found not far from her North Port home in a wooded area on September 17, 2006.

Chief Lewis said DNA evidence linked Murphy to the crime.

Murphy was jailed in January for Burglary and DNA was collected at that time.

The DNA matched DNA found on Coralrose at the time her body was discovered.

Chief Lewis said the investigation is not over; detectives are looking for any other people who may have been associated with the crime.

Murphy was arrested on Monday, August 11, 2008, and transported to the Sarasota County Jail, where he was booked in at 8:08 p.m. He was in the Hardee County Jail on unrelated charges immediately prior to his arrest on the latest charges.

He remains in the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

Woman Strips, Flees Crash
Scene Naked

JACKSONVILLE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A woman driver is accused of deliberately hitting a bike rider, and then running off naked, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Holly Highfield
(Mug shot courtesy WKMG)

Holly Highfield faces DUI and several other charges after witnesses said she intentionally struck a bicyclist, took off her clothes and ran around the crash scene, then drove off the road while attempting to leave the scene in someone else's vehicle.

Police said the incident occurred Sunday evening while Highfield, 34, was driving three children, ages 10 to 14, WKMG reported its sister station WJXT said.

Just after 8 p.m., officers were called to a report of an accident involving a pedestrian and a naked woman at the intersection of San Pablo Road and Pirate Court.

The children in Highfield's car told police that she was driving north when she turned to them and said: "Do you think this biker is going to get hit? Do you have faith? Are you afraid?" They said she then steered her SUV across San Pablo and struck 55-year-old Cathy Giury riding a bicycle.

When a couple in a van stopped to see if the bicyclist needed help, Highfield allegedly got out of her vehicle, jumped into the van yelling that she was going to jail, ordering the man behind the wheel to drive her away. Police were told than when the driver refused, she got out, took off her clothes and began running around.

The arrest report indicates Highfield "appeared to be under the influence of some type of drug." It said she also urinated in the back of the patrol car.

Highfield was arrested and charged with battery, carjacking, DUI while accompanied by a minor and DUI while causing damage to property. She was transported to Shands-Jacksonville Medical Center for observation.

The bicyclist was transported to Beaches Baptist Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries, where she remained in stable condition, according to WKMG.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee County Sheriff's Office:
Found Body Was Murdered;
10th Homicide of 2008

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A body found Monday morning, August 11, 2008, was murdered, Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives said Monday afternoon.

At approximately 8:05 Monday morning, the Sheriff’s Office received information regarding a body found in an orange grove in rural Manatee County.

A worker discovered the body of a female in a grove off County Road 675 (Rutland Rd.) just north of State Rd. 64.

Detectives are treating the case as a homicide; however, the cause of death is not being released at this time.

An autopsy will be performed by the Medical Examiner to determine the exact cause of death.

Detectives have tentatively identified the body. The victim's name will be released when positive identification is made and next of kin is notified.

The victim is described as Hispanic, age 20-35, 4’8”-4’10”, medium to heavy build, dark hair and eyes with a long braided ponytail the length of her back.

She also has a surgical scar on her abdomen.

She was wearing a sleeveless white shirt with green stripes and a silver design on the front of the shirt, and a pink skirt.

This is the 10th murder in the county overall this year. There have now been 7 murders in the county, 2 in Bradenton and 1 in Palmetto.

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.

BPD Arrests Man Who Plunged
Knife Into Pregnant Woman's
Chest, Cut Arm After Burglary

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Department Detective Giddens has arrested Gilberto Padilla Mendez for Attempted Premeditated Murder and other charges.

Gilberto Padilla Mendez

According to the arrest report, Mendez was dating and has a child with Rachel Dills. However, the two have not been together since late 2007 and have not resided together since then. Det. Giddens learned that Ms. Dills is currently pregnant (by another man).

On Sunday, August 10, 2008, at about 7:50 p.m., Mendez stopped off at Rachel's house on 6th Avenue West, unannounced. Rachel was inside and has a domestic violence injunction against Mendez. The front door was locked and chained from the inside.

Mendez, without being invited to do so, cracked the door open and used his hand to push the chain up, freeing the door. At that time, Mendez was able to fully open the door and enter Rachel's home.

Once inside the home, he sat down on a couch in the living room. Mendez told a witness to get the children and move them to the back of the residence.

The witness was fearful that when Mendez told her to take the children to the back of the residence that he may indeed harm Rachel.

Then Mendez charged after Rachel, who was cooking in the kitchen. Rachel moved out of Mendez's way and began to back out of the kitchen. Mendez, now standing in the kitchen, grabbed a 5-inch steak knife from a stand and began to pursue Rachel.

Mendez raised the knife and in a downward motion stabbed the victim in her upper right chest area, just above her breast. Mendez pulled the knife out of Rachel's chest and tried to stab her again.

Rachel was able to grab the knife and she began to wrestle with Mendez over the knife, at which time she was cut again on her left inner forearm area.

Mendez also received two lacerations to his right hand while wrestling over the knife.

At this time, a witness hit Mendez in the back with a shovel.

Mendez then fled the home.

Rachel was flown to Bayfront Medical Center with injuries that were not life-threatening.

After the incident, Det. Giddens discovered that Mendez apparently told his brother earlier in the day that he was going to take his children and shoot everyone in Rachel's home, the report said.

Mendez was located, arrested and charged with Attempted Premeditated Murder, Offender Knew or Should Have Known the Victim was Pregnant, Burglary to an Occupied Structure and Violation of a Domestic Injunction.

Deputies Arrest Man for
Attempted Burglary, More

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Jeff D. Harris, 23, of 4701 20th Street West, Bradenton.

Jeff D. Harris

A sheriff's office arrest report said Harris attempted to burglarize Al's Shoes, located at 2920 1st Street East, on Sunday, August 10, 2008, at about 2:00 p.m.

Harris was observed by a witness with screwdrivers and a hammer trying to break into the shoe shop. The witness called in the attempted burglary in progress.

When a deputy arrived and attempted to restrain Harris, he saw Harris take a white pill bottle out of his right front pocket and throw it under a car with his right hand.

Harris was handcuffed and patted down, then placed in the rear of the deputy's cruiser.

Then the deputy observed damage to the rear door of the shoe shop and pieces of wood on the ground with two screwdrivers. A hammer was found in Harris's back seat on the driver's side.

The pills were identified as generic Xanax (pronounced Zanax).

Harris was arrested and charged with Attempted Burglary, Possession of Burglary Tools, Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Mischief.

Palmetto Man Robbed of $20,
Robber Arrested Moments Later

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department has arrested David L. Demoss, 53, of 704 8th Street West, in Palmetto, after Demoss ripped $20 dollars out of a man's hands.

David L. Demoss

According to the arrest report from the Palmetto Police Department, on Monday, August 11, 2008, at about 1:30 a.m., the unnamed victim was standing by the street on 2nd Avenue West, Palmetto, holding $20 dollars in his right hand.

Demoss grabbed the money out of the victim's hand, then fled on foot to a vehicle.

The victim chased Demoss on foot, saw a police car and called out for help.

Demoss was stopped by a PPD Officer in the 700 block of 10th Street West, in Palmetto. He had $20 dollars in his possession.

Demoss was charged with Robbery by Sudden Snatching, Failure to Register a Motor Vehicle, and Driving without a Valid Driver's License.

Man Breaks Into Home,
Steals Jig Saw While
Doing Laundry

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- This is not your average burglary.

Francisco Pantoja

Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Francisco Pantoja, 20, of 1004 8th Avenue East, in Bradenton, after they determined that Pantoja had broken into a home in the 1500 block of 72nd Street Court East, in Palmetto, on June 4, 2008.

According to the arrest report, sometime between 6:30 a.m. and 5:19 p.m. on that date, Pantoja unlawfully entered an unoccupied residence.

While he was inside doing his laundry, he took a $30 dollar Dewalt jig saw that was in a black case.

After he left the house, he gave the jig saw to a friend with instructions to sell it to a pawn shop.

The man gave detectives affidavits swearing to the facts.

Pantoja admitted he took some items from the residence while he was doing his laundry.

The victim told detectives that Francisco did not have permission to be inside the residence.

Pantoja was arrested on Thursday, August 7, 2008, and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling and Dealing in Stolen Property.

Manatee County Detectives:
9th Murder Victim Identified

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have identified the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred on Friday, August 8, 2008, at 5010 31st St. W., Bradenton.

The victim is Ovidio Alex Perez Vasquez, 35, of the above address, Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office said on Monday.

The victim was shot once in the upper body.

Detectives still have no motive or suspects at this time.

Manatee County Clerk of Courts,
R.B. "Chips" Shore Spoke to
Alabama Bar Association

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, R.B. "Chips" Shore spoke to the Alabama Probate Judges Association at their annual meeting held on August 5, 2008, at the Perdido Beach Resort, Orange Beach, Alabama. Shore was invited by the Alabama Law Institute to address the Probate Judges Association and discuss his success with the electronic filing and recording of court cases and real estate transactions in Manatee County.

Above, R.B. "Chips" Shore

Robert McCurley, the Director of the Alabama Law Institute who invited Shore, said, "Mr. Shore’s presentation was so well received by the Bar of Alabama in July that we invited him back to speak to the annual meeting of the Alabama Probate Judges who are the real estate recorders in Alabama. His expert advice is just what we need in our state."

Shore spoke on the similarities between his job as Clerk of Circuit Court and that of the Alabama Probate Judges. He recalled going to work as Manatee County’s Clerk of Circuit Court in 1977 and seeing clerks lifting books heavier than they were off shelves to record information by typing or handwriting onto the books’ pages. Mistakes were removed with an electric eraser. One of his first acts of office was microfilming those records and creating indexes for them. Today, Shore is known for his innovative and technological approach to streamlining information collection and record keeping. He is an advocate for 'e-filing' and 'e-recording,' which allow attorneys to initiate, update and file cases and record documents electronically. The ability for the public to see court records including land transactions is carefully balanced with protection of private information. The use of technology also allows for quick electronic indexes of official records. In addition, judges can review case files online during hearings and have instantaneous access to the most current information.

"Despite concerns over privacy issues, Manatee County has successfully implemented electronic filing and record keeping. I am confident that similar technologies can help the State of Alabama. I was honored to be asked to speak first to their Bar Association and now to their Probate Judges Association about our work in Manatee County. I know that they can benefit from our knowledge and the lessons we have learned," Mr. Shore said.

15 DUI Arrests Over Weekend
in Charlotte County

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office reports there were 15 DUI arrests made over the past weekend, Friday through Sunday, within the County. CCSO deputies made 11 of those arrests, Punta Gorda Police had three, and the Florida Highway Patrol had one arrest.

Of the 15 drivers arrested, 13 were alcohol-related and two were for driving under the influence of drugs. One driver was charged with a felony as this was his third DUI arrest.

Arrests were made on two drivers of motorcycles, one on a moped, and another driving a golf cart on Midway Blvd. in Port Charlotte. The weekend of July 25-27 there were 14 DUI arrests and on Aug. 1-3 there were seven arrested for DUI.

The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office will be holding a full scale DUI checkpoint later this month in hopes of deterring those who drink or use illegal drugs while driving. The information will be announced in advance of the checkpoint.

Man Accused of Sex Acts
on Teen Boy at Mall

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A man is accused of committing sex acts on a teenage boy inside a mall bathroom, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Police said Steven Barton was charged with lewd battery over an incident at the Mall at Millenia this weekend.

The teen told police that Barton approached him at a urinal and forced him to do things against his will.

Barton claims it was consensual, WKMG reported.

Deputies found Barton a few blocks from the mall running down Conroy Road.

He is being held on $6,000 bond.

Two Tropical Disturbances
Could Pose Threat to Land

MIAMI, Florida [NMT] -- Two tropical disturbances have formed in the Atlantic; both could turn into a tropical depression in the next day or two, the National Hurricane Center said.

Both are moving to the West. It's too early to say if they pose a threat to the coast of the United States, but forecasters are keeping an eye on them.

One was about 850 miles east of the Windward Islands on Monday morning. It's speed is 15-20 mph.

The other is southwest of the Cape Verde Islands.

Both are expected to move into more favorable environments for development, the hurricane center said.

The next two tropical storms will be named Fay and Gustav.

NewsManatee will keep an eye on both disturbances and advise you of any danger.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Deadly Shooting in West Manatee
is Manatee's 9th Homicide of 2008;
Crime Remains Unsolved

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An unidentified man was shot and killed Friday night, August 8, 2008, in the front yard of a residence located at 5010 31st Street West.

Above, 5010 31st Street West, the scene of the deadly shooting
(Photo by Craig Herbert, NewsManatee)

The victim is a Hispanic Male in his early 30s, according to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The man was shot once in the upper body, Bristow said.

Authorities have not officially identified the dead man, but unofficial reports say the dead man's name was Alex Perez. He was apparently renting the house with a co-worker. Both men worked as chefs at Primo! Ristorante on U.S. 41 in south Manatee County.

His roommate, Adalberto DeJesus, 23, told deputies both men were watching television when Perez received a phone call. Perez answered it and walked outside.

Then DeJesus heard a gunshot a couple of minutes after Perez walked outside. He ran out to find Perez on the ground bleeding heavily from a gunshot wound to the left side of his neck. DeJesus called 911 and deputies and EMS paramedics were summoned. Perez was pronounced dead at the scene by EMS personnel.

A NewsManatee source who lives on the same block said she heard a sound similar to a gunshot at about 9:10-9:15 p.m.

She told NewsManatee there was yellow crime scene tape up around the area and the block was full of about 10 sheriff's vehicles, an EMS wagon, and two EMS supervisors, as well as a fire truck.

The source, who asked not to be identified, said deputies had come to her door twice, asking if she had heard anything.

Detectives from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office continue to investigate the deadly incident.

At this time, detectives have no motive or suspects, according to Bristow.

This would be the 9th homicide overall in Manatee County this year. There have now been 6 murders in the county, 2 in the City of Bradenton and 1 in Palmetto.

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

Vehicle vs. House Causes
$100,000 Dollar Damages

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol attended a crash that occurred early Sunday morning, August 10, 2008, at 12:20 a.m. at 46 Plaza East and 35th Court East that struck a house and caused $100,000 dollars in damages, FHP said.

Above, L to R, the house that was damaged, 4701 35th Court East and driver's path
(L photo by anonymous NMT U-Reporter, R photo by Dan Thorpe)

FHP said a 2006 Ford F-250 4-wheel drive pickup truck driven by Roxann Milizia, 48, of Bradenton, was westbound on 46th Plaza East. The truck left the roadway and drove into the back yard at 4701 35th Court East. The front of the vehicle then struck the rear of the residence.

According to an anonymous NewsManatee U-Reporter, the occupant, a woman, was at home sleeping at the time in a bedroom next to the kitchen where the truck crashed through.

Then the pickup truck backed up and the rear of the truck struck a tree. The truck then slid clockwise and entered 46th Plaza East, heading eastbound. It crossed the street and moved onto the properties on the north side of the road. The front of the struck then struck a cable box and a backflow valve and continued east, where it struck a concrete light pole and another backflow valve.

The truck then continued east and moved back onto 46th Plaza East, then eastbound, then northbound on 37th Street East. It continued northbound and failed to say in the correct lane, whereupon it struck a vehicle attempting to make a right turn onto 37th Street East.

After that, the pickup truck continued across the intersection where it struck a sign, cleared a large ditch, then struck a fence.

Ms. Milizia was seriously injured and was transported to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center.

The homeowner of the house that was damaged is not being allowed back into the home, because the damage is so extensive; the Red Cross has put her up in a hotel for a few days, the NewsManatee U-Reporter said.

Charges are pending the results of a blood alcohol test on Ms. Milizia and the results of an investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.

Bradenton Police Arrest Two
for Beating Man, Striking Him
with Truck, Destroying House

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Eric Linneman, 23, and Renee Thayer, 22, both from Bradenton. Police say Linneman and Thayer beat up a man by the name of Mr. Hakim, then Linneman struck Hakim with his truck and Thayer threw a brick at Hakim, striking him in the head, after she destroyed the interior of his house.

Above, L to R, Eric C. Linneman and Renee Thayer

According to the arrest reports from BPD, on Wednesday, August 6, 2008, shortly before 10:00 p.m., Linneman and Thayer broke into Hakim's residence in the 2700 block of 19th Avenue West, Bradenton, by kicking the door in and knocking it off its hinges.

Mr. Hakim later told police he was sleeping in his bedroom and heard a noise in his living room. He went out to the living room and saw Linneman and Thayer in his house.

Linneman and Hakim began fighting; Hakim did not know why the two people were in his house. As the two fought, they went back out through the front door and continued to fight.

Meanwhile, Thayer, who remained inside, started knocking over the entertainment center and tipping tables over to destroy the residence, the report said. The television set and other items were broken by Thayer.

Thayer then went outside and threw a brick through the front window of the house while Hakim and Linneman were fighting. Then Thayer struck Hakim in the back of his head with a brick while he was on the ground.

Linneman then jumped up and ran to his vehicle. While he did that, Thayer began kicking Hakim on the ground.

Then Linneman backed his truck up and struck Hakim as he was getting up.

As Linneman and Thayer were leaving, Hakim threw a brick at Linneman's vehicle, breaking the front window.

Hakmi was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of his injuries. An officer on scene wrote in his report that he observed injuries to Hakim's back, head, neck, knees, head and arms.

A witness confirmed Hakim's report that he had been hit in the head by a brick thrown by Thayer and struck by Linneman's truck, knocking him to the ground.

Linneman and Thayer were arrested about three hours later.

Linneman was charged with Aggravated Battery with Great Bodily Harm and Burglary to a Structure. Thayer was charged with Aggravated Battery with Great Bodily Harm, Burglary to a Structure and Felony Criminal Mischief.

A motive for the attack is not known.

Man Arrested for Theft of Car
from Indiana, Theft of Boat
Motor from West Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Detective William Shirley, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested already jailed Steven Wayne Tanner, 47, of 5310 53rd Street West.

Steven Wayne Tanner

Tanner's arrest report said on July 21, 2008, at about 5 p.m., a boat motor was stolen from a boat in the 4100 block of 129th Street West, in West Manatee County.

On July 29, 2008, Det. Shirley contacted the victim who informed Det. Shirley that the son of the owners of Corky's Bait Shop was approached by a man (Tanner) and asked if he wanted to buy a 40 HP Mercury four-stroke boat engine for $700 dollars. The boy's parents inquired whether the deal was a good one or not with a boat motor salesman. The salesman said it would be a great deal, as that boat motor would be worth $5,000 dollars.

Det. Shirley and another detective went to Paul's Service Station, located at 10205 Cortez Road West, where the motor was reported to be. The station owner, Paul Bondar, informed them that a guy he knows only as "Steve" had brought the motor to his shop for Paul to hold and possibly sell. Paul said "Steve" had come by the day before and pickup up the motor. Paul described "Steve," which matched Tanner's description. Paul said he was in a red or burgundy 4-door Pontiac Grand Am with front hood damage and out of state tags.

On July 31, 2008, Det. Shirley received a report of a recovered stolen vehicle out of Indiana, that had been stolen by Steven Tanner. That vehicle matched the description of the vehicle in the stolen boat motor case. The report said that Tanner had a girlfriend who was also found in the stolen vehicle, after Tanner fled, Lorna Sanders.

Det. Shirley went to Sanders' address and interviewed her. She told the detective she was with Tanner when he stole the boat motor. She had been in the stolen vehicle, she said, when the boat motor was stolen by Tanner.

Tanner was subsequently arrested at the Manatee County Jail and charged with Burglary to a Conveyance, Grand Theft Auto and Grand Theft (of the boat motor).

Armed Robbery Witnessed,
Robber Arrested Sunday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The night manager of Popeye's Chicken in the 3500 block of 1st Street, in Bradenton, was robbed early Sunday, August 10, 2008, at about 12:30 a.m. by two Black males. However, the robbery was witnessed and the perpetrator of the robbery was captured a short time later, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Darron Leon Duval

The report said at approximately 12:29 a.m., the victim, Clinton Matthews, 55, left Popeye’s Chicken on 1st Street and walked over to the Days Inn where he parks his vehicle. The victim saw 2 Black males standing by his vehicle and one of them told him to "Give it up."

The victim attempted to flee and ran towards the office of the Days Inn where the robbers caught him and began beating him. The robbers took the victim's wallet with $200.00 and the keys to his vehicle and the store.

Witnesses heard the altercation and observed the robbers fleeing behind Popeye’s. One witness saw that one suspect, later identified as Darron Duval, was armed with a semi-automatic pistol.

The victim was unable to provide much detail at the scene as he had lost consciousness during the struggle. He was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital with minor injuries.

Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Sevier and Deputy Chenard located Darron Leon Duval, 46, walking down the road in the 400 block of 32nd Avenue East. Duval was sweating heavily and was out of breath.

Duval was positively identified by both witnesses and placed under arrest for Armed Robbery.

Manatee Detective Arrests Man
for Burglary, Stealing Motorized
Work Cart from Parrish Home

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Tim Hartman has arrested Randy Martin Chapman, 21, of 8515 Bayshore Road, in Palmetto. Det. Hartman said Chapman burglarized a residence in the 10900 block of Erie Road on August 1, 2008, and stole a motorized work cart.

Above, L to R, Randy Martin Chapman and a similar work cart

According to the arrest report, during the burglary in Parrish, Chapman entered the property and ultimately a shed which contained a Cushman Workhorse ST-350 motorized vehicle valued at an estimated $3,500 dollars.

On August 7, 2008, Chapman appeared at the offices of Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives concerning his involvement in the burglary and theft.

Chapman initially said a "friend" stole the vehicle and Chapman had purchased it and sold it to another person for $500 dollars. However, Chapman finally confessed that he did in fact commit the burglary and theft of the vehicle. Chapman gave various statements about the current whereabouts of the vehicle, but then said it was at the Port Manatee shipyard.

Det. Hartman and Chapman went to the shipyard and recovered the vehicle and returned it to the victim.

On Thursday, August 7, 2008, Chapman was arrested and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Structure and Grand Theft Motor Vehicle.

Bicyclist Struck, Injured
During Armed Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on Saturday, August 9, 2008, at about 3:00 a.m., Aden Cardenas, 24, of 5900 5th Street East, Bradenton, was struck and injured during an armed robbery by two Black males, one of whom was armed with a gun.

Cardenas was riding his bike on 5th Street East and was in the 5700 block when he was approached by 2 unknown Black males. One of the Black males was armed with an unknown type pistol and the other picked something off the ground as they approached.

The Black male with the unknown object struck Cardenas on the right side of his head, knocking him off his bike and causing a 4-inch gash.

The robbers then took Cardenas' wallet, which had an undetermined amount of cash in it.

They two robbers then fled in an unknown direction.

Cardenas got on his bike and rode to his friend’s house on 60th Avenue East and his friend drove him to Blake Hospital. The cut required 5 staples to close.

Cardenas had no other description of the suspects other than Black males with dreadlock style 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.

BFD Puts Out Vehicle Fire at
Manatee Memorial Hospital
Parking Garage

BRADENTON, Florida -- A vehicle fire erupted on Friday, August 8, 2008, in the parking garage of Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The Bradenton Fire Department responded to the fire at 12:45 p.m. Responding units arrived to find one vehicle fully engulfed in fire, and three adjacent vehicles that were being damaged from exposure to the flames.

Firefighters prevented the fire from extending further and brought the fire under control after approximately 15 minutes.

Hospital administrators, building officials, and independent engineers for the hospital examined the parking garage and initially determined it to be structurally sound; however, cosmetic repairs will be have to be made.

There were no injuries to the public or responding firefighters, and damage to the vehicles is estimated at $75,000.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Bradenton Navy Man Arrested
for Computer Porn to "Child"

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A Bradenton man who is currently with the U.S. Navy was arrested for transmitting computer pornography to a would-be "child." Marcos O. Aponte was arrested in Norfolk, Virginia, while he was on active duty.

On May 30, 2008, Mr. Marcos O. Aponte age 30, of Bradenton Florida, began an exchange of instant messages and real time web cam video with a “fourteen year old boy” in Keene, New Hampshire. The boy was actually a detective with the City of Keene Police Department who was posing a fourteen year old. Mr. Aponte’s communications to the “fourteen year old boy” became increasingly sexually explicit.

Bradenton Police Detective Anthony Cerniglia was contacted by the Keene Police Department and began to assist with the investigation.

As the online communications continued, Mr. Aponte transmitted photographs of child pornography to the Keene police detective, posing as the child. Mr. Aponte also transmitted real time web cam video of himself masturbating.

On July 31, 2008, Detective Cerniglia obtained an arrest warrant for Mr. Aponte for the charges of Computer Pornography and Transmitting Material Harmful to a Minor by Electric Device or Equipment.

On August 4, 2008, Mr. Aponte was arrested in Norfolk, Virginia by the U.S. Naval Investigative Service (NIS) where he was on active duty with the U.S. Navy.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), The Florida Attorney General’s Office Cyber Crime Unit and ICE participated in the investigation of this case.

The investigation is continuing while the Florida Attorney General’s Office Cyber Crime Unit conducts a forensic analysis of Mr. Aponte’s computer.

Anyone having information with regards to this incident is asked to call the Detective Cerniglia at 941-932-9300 or call Crime Stoppers (toll free) at 1-866-634-8477 (TIPS) or 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.

Woman Harassed, Cell Phone
Stolen By Black, White Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, August 7, 2008, at about 10:45 p.m., a woman was harassed and her cell phone was stolen by a group consisting of 2 Black males and 1 White male, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The victim, Lisa Tanner, 47, of Bradenton, was walking home from Wal-Mart on State Road 64 and was in the 6400 block of 1st Avenue East when she was approached from behind by the three interlopers.

The three men began verbally harassing the victim and then shoved Ms. Tanner to the ground.

Ms. Tanner began calling 911, but one of the Black males kicked her and then stole her cell phone.

All three men then fled north on 64th Street East on foot.

Ms. Tanner received minor lacerations from being thrown to the ground, but sustained no serious injuries that required EMS.

The three robbers remain at large.

They were described as two Black males and one White male, all wearing all black clothing and all were between the ages of 17 and 21.

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 Stabs Cab Driver,
Later Arrested

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 12:14 a.m. on Friday, August 8, 2008, that a Checker Taxi cab driver was stabbed in the back of his neck at Airport and Taylor roads.

Frank Aaron McDaniel

An off-duty deputy was on scene just before road deputies arrived. Deputies said they saw the driver and another cab passenger pointing to a wooded area yelling, "He’s over there!"

Deputies saw the off-duty deputy in pursuit of Frank Aaron McDaniel, 44, 2345 Sofia Lane, Deep Creek. McDaniel was stopped as he ran into a swale/canal area next to Brenda’s Restaurant nearby. He was ordered out of the water, handcuffed and arrested.

The cab driver, Christopher Scarborough, 37, was taken by ground ambulance to