Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 9/27/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 9/27/2008

Known Juvenile Burglar, Friend
Captured for Burglary By MSO
Surveillance Team, K-9

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Office surveillance team, a sheriff's helicopter and a K-9 team tracked a known juvenile burglar and his friend on Wednesday morning, Sept. 24, 2008, and wound up arresting them for burglary to a residence in South Manatee County, according to a report from the sheriff's office.

Above, L to R, Top to Bottom, K-9 "Blade," Braxton Pierson and Thomas Hulse

The report said on Wednesday, at approximately 8:00 a.m., deputies from the COPS East detail were conducting burglary surveillance on a known juvenile burglar, Braxton Pierson, 16 years old.

At approximately 9:00 a.m., COPS deputies observed Pierson meet up with Thomas Hulse, 20, at a laundromat in the 1200 block of Whitfield Avenue.

The pair rode their bicycles to the Magellan Drive area, along the Sara Bay Golf course. Pierson and Hulse were observed riding through the Kimlinda Lane neighborhood and appeared to be looking at each of the homes there. Pierson and Hulse passed through the area and traveled west on 67th Avenue West.

The surveillance team was then supported by Colonel Hagaman and several Sheriff's Office Captains. The sheriff's helicopter and K-9 Deputy Kruse, along with his K-9 "Blade," also provided support.

Pierson and Hulse then circled back to the 6600 block of Kimlinda Lane where the pair split up. Hulse stayed in the roadway and appeared to be the "lookout" while Pierson went behind the homes on the west side of the roadway.

Dep. Loaisiga followed the subjects on foot and advised that he could hear an emergency vehicle type siren off in the distance.

Upon hearing the same siren, Hulse took flight on his bicycle, eastbound on Magellan Drive, where he was stopped by Captain Dixon and Dep. Robinson.

Pierson was observed by other units coming out from behind some houses on the north end of Kimlinda Lane.

A witness later advised that he observed Pierson hiding in some bushes between his home and his neighbors’ home while the watch unit was flying over.

Pierson then fled on his bicycle in a southeasterly direction across the golf course. He dropped his bike in the 6700 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, in the Bayshore Gardens area of South Manatee County and jumped two fences in an effort to evade the K-9 unit.

The watch unit and K-9 Kruse and "Blade" were able to coordinate their efforts in the apprehension of Pierson as he attempted to flee from the supporting ground units. Pierson had jumped into Bowlees Creek, which is where he surrendered. The time was about an hour and 15 minutes -- 9:15 a.m. -- after surveillance of Pierson had begun.

An immediate search of Kimlinda Lane revealed the residence at 6608 Kimlinda Lane belonging to Mr. John Fry had been the victim of a burglary. Pierson had allegedly cut through the screen lanai door and then pried open a rear glass sliding door, gaining entry into the residence. It appeared that the master bedroom and closet had been ransacked. Two footprints with the same design as Pierson's sandals were found at the scene. Crime Scene Technicians responded and collected evidence from the scene.

Both Pierson and Hulse were arrested and charged with Burglary to a Dwelling and Loitering and Prowling. Pierson was also charged with Resisting Arrest without Violence.

It was noted in the sheriff's report of the events that the COPS East detail had previously arrested Pierson back in May of this year for committing numerous burglaries in the Magellan Drive area.

Man Arrested for Aggravated
Child Abuse of 4-Month-Old
Baby Boy; Fractured Arm,
Both Knees, Right Ankle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested John E. Bittinger, 22, of the 3600 block of 19th Street West, Bradenton.

John E. Bittinger

The arrest report said on Sept. 18, 2008, Bittinger was home alone with his 4-month-old baby son and his three stepdaughters. He called his wife at work and told her she needed to come home because the baby was hurt.

The wife went home and took the baby to Blake Medical Center. The infant was subsequently transported to All Children's Hospital, in St. Petersburg.

X-rays were taken of the baby and it was determined that he had a broken upper right arm and growth plate fractures to his right ankle and both knees.

On Sept. 22, 2008, Bittinger was interviewed by a detective and gave the detective what was later determined to be a false story of how the infant got hurt.

On Sept. 24, 2008, Bittinger was again interviewed and gave detectives another story.

However, on that date, detectives received a medical report which said that the injuries are usually the result of high force yanking, jerking trauma and that the injuries would require a significant degree of force.

Detectives then interviewed Bittinger again later that day and Bittinger admitted to grabbing the baby by the ankle and pulling the baby towards him, holding the baby's legs with force, bent at the knees, and jerking the baby out of the crib. He said he heard the baby's arm snap. He said he was frustrated with the baby's crying, screaming and kicking.

Bittinger was arrested and charged with two counts of Aggravated Child Abuse and Obstruction.

Woman Arrested Again for
Tampering with Victim
in Child Abuse Case

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Detective has arrested Peggy Ingram, 51, of 3707 9th Street East, Bradenton. Ingram and her husband, David Ingram, 48, had previously been charged with Aggravated Child Abuse and False Imprisonment after they allegedly duct taped their 17-year-old daughter and put her in the trunk of their car.

Peggy Ingram

On Thursday, Sept. 25, 2008, Manatee County Sheriff's Detective J. Bliss arrested Peggy Ingram for violation of pretrial release conditions after it was learned that she had been contacting her daughter in violation of a court order.

Ingram was telling her daughter to change her story when questioned by the attorneys involved in this case, Bliss said.

As NewsManatee reported on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2008, the unnamed 17-year-old victim sustained a skull fracture and seizures as a result of exiting from a moving vehicle after her parents bound her hands and feet with duct tape, covered her head/face with some type of clothing garment and placed her in the trunk of their car. That was on Friday, Sept. 12, 2008.

The victim, who stated she was in fear for her life, was able to remove the duct tape and open the trunk from the trunk release cord located in the trunk. The victim then fell to the pavement sustaining several abrasions and a skull fracture. She was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital where she had a seizure as a result of her injuries. The victim was then transported to All Children’s Hospital where she was listed in "guarded condition." Her current condition was not available.

The victim's parents were interviewed about the victim’s injuries and admitted that they did in fact bind their daughter with duct tape and place her in the trunk of their car. The parents were arrested for Aggravated Child Abuse and False Imprisonment.

Peggy Ingram was charged with Violation of Pretrial Release Conditions and is being held on a $50,000 bond. She is currently in the Manatee County Jail.

Man Fondles Woman's Breast,
Throws Brick at Woman, Man,
Flees; Arrested Shortly After

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Carlos Aguellar, 22, of no known address, was arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, and charged with one count of Aggravated Battery and one count of Battery.

Carlos Augellar

The arrest report said on Sunday, at about 4:20 a.m., Christina Lebron told deputies she was walking south on 11th Street East on 57th Avenue East when Carlos grabbed her by her hair and reached inside of her shirt and fondled her breast.

Christina smacked Carlos in order to get free from his grasp and screamed for help. At that time, John Carver came outside to help Christina.

Carlos picked up a large brick and threw it at John. Both John and Carlos began to fist fight.

Carlos then picked up the brick again and threw the brick at Christina, striking her on the left side of her torso.

Carlos then picked up a stick and swung it at John, then fled the scene.

A female deputy observed redness to the area of Christina's torso, but she did not require medical attention. John received no injuries.

A K-9 unit was called to track Carlos, but was unsuccessful.

A short time later, another deputy was driving west on 57th Avenue East and observed a Hispanic male walking.

Carlos was stopped and identified by Christina and John.

Carlos went to jail.

DNA Returns Burglar Match;
Arrested by Bradenton Cops

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Lorenzo Brinson, Jr., 26, of 917 21st Street East, Bradenton, who is currently being held in the Manatee County Jail on other charges.

Lorenzo Brinson, Jr.

According to the arrest report from BPD, on December 13, 2007, Manatee Glens, located at 379 6th Avenue West was burglarized.

The burglar entered through a broken glass front door and entered the lobby, where the burglar attempted to remove an LCD TV that was attached to a stand. The burglar was unable to remove the TV from the stand.

Police found blood on the wall, next to the TV. Crime Scene Technicians took a sample of the blood and submitted it to FDLE.

On July 2, 2008, FDLE returned the results of the DNA sample.

The sample matched Lorenzo Brinson, Jr., from DNA on file with FDLE.

Brinson was arrested at the jail and charged with the Burglary.

FDEP Arrests Man for Dumping
1,700 Pounds of Hazardous
Waste on Side of Manatee
County Road

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from Florida Department of Environmental Protection Agent George McCorkle, Reginald Kit, 44, of 3410 19th Street West, Bradenton, was arrested and charged with Commercial Dumping.

Reginald Alexander Kit

McCorkle's report of Kit's arrest said Kit, owner of Kit's Versatile Home Improvement & Lawn Tree Service was hired by Z-Max Services of Bradenton to clean out a foreclosed home in Venice, in Sarasota County.

The job consisted of cleaning the interior and exterior of the home and taking all waste to the landfill. Kit was paid $1,700 dollars in cash for the job, which included the disposal fee.

Sometime on August 21st or 22nd, 2008, Kit took the waste to the hazardous waste landfill in Venice. The waste consisted of numerous propane tanks and numerous 5-gallon paint buckets. The landfill directed Kit to call another section of the landfill that deals with hazardous waste because the section Kit was at only deals in household waste.

Kit never made that call.

Instead, on August 25th, McCorkle wrote, the waste turned up on the shoulder of the 36400 block of Clay Gully Road, in Myakka.

Manatee County cleaned up the spilled paint, removed the garbage from the side of the road and disposed of it properly at the landfill on Lena Road. The total weight of the waste was 1,700 pounds.

Subsequent to the investigation, Kit was arrested in the 2000 block of Cortez Road West on Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2008.

Two Arrested for Theft of
$5,000 Worth of Metal
from Construction Site

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two Sarasota men have been arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office for removing metal from a construction site.

Above, L to R, Larry Eugene Bryant and Charles Lee Shorter, Jr.

According to the arrest reports, on Friday, September 19, 2008, at about 3:20 p.m., Larry Bryant, 48, and Charles Shorter, Jr., 39, both of Sarasota, entered the fenced-in area of an unlocked and unmarked construction site at 8926 77th Terrace East, in Southeast Manatee County and removed metal fencing and re-bar valued at $5,195 dollars.

However, a witness observed the incident and called the sheriff's office.

The material was placed in a trailer and pulled about a block away, when a traffic stop was made by two deputies at about 4:10 p.m.

A witness clearly identified Bryant and Shorter as being the ones who entered the fenced-in area.

Both men were charged with Grand Theft and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Safe Stolen in Whitfield Estates
Burglary Thursday Morning

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a safe was stolen from a residence in the 7300 block of Meadowbrook Drive, in South Manatee County.

The report said on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2008, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 1:20 p.m., unknown persons entered the residence by cutting a screen door to enter the patio, then breaking out a window, thus gaining entry to the residence.

A 3'x3' safe was taken from the master bedroom closet, weighing approximately 100 pounds.

The safe contained the victim's passport and approximately $15,000 in jewelry belonging to his wife. A detailed list is being prepared by her.

A canvass of the neighborhood by deputies brought negative results.

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.

Charlotte County Sheriff's Office
Arrests Man for Kidnapping

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday night, Sept. 24, 2008, the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Warrant Squad located and arrested Mickey Lamar Chambers, 28, of 691 Chamber St., Port Charlotte, on an active warrant for a kidnapping.

Mickey Lamar Chambers

On Sep. 7, the CCSO received a 9-1-1 call from a woman screaming into a cell phone and then the line went dead. Operators were able to identify the caller’s cell phone to an address on Lakeview Blvd. in Port Charlotte. Contact was made with the caller’s sister who had not seen her. On Sep. 9, the victim called the CCSO about her injuries received two days earlier and deputies responded back to the same house. She was then transported to Peace River Regional Medical Center for treatment.

The victim told deputies she went to a bar on U.S. 41 with a friend on his motorcycle; they became intoxicated and were told to leave. She did not want to ride home on the motorcycle and then was approached by a man outside the bar who offered her a ride home. When they arrived at her home, the man started touching her and told her to take her clothes off. She told him no and got out of the gold colored SUV.

The man got out, grabbed her in a choke hold, she blacked out, put her back into his vehicle where she blacked out again, then drove off with her. The woman told detectives the man said, “Now I’m going to kill you.” That’s when the woman got to her cell phone and called 9-1-1. The man grabbed the phone from her and ended the call. The woman said she feared she would be killed and jumped from the car which was going about 25 mph and the man drove off. She said she was knocked unconscious for a short time. The woman said she walked to a friend’s house nearby and stayed there until she felt better, then went home.

Detectives went to the bar on U.S. 41, gave a description of the male suspect and the vehicle, in hopes of locating the man. On Sep. 21, detectives got a call from a barmaid who advised she knew the suspect. A photo lineup was made for the victim and she positively identified Chambers. A warrant was issued and Chambers was arrested at his home last night, taken to the Charlotte County Jail and charged with Kidnapping. He remains in the jail at this time on no bond.

Calusa Bank Robbed Thursday
in Charlotte County

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, Sept. 25, 2008, at approximately 2:18 p.m., the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call of a silent holdup alarm at the Calusa Bank located at 1850 Tamiami Trl Port Charlotte, Fl. Central Dispatch was able obtain information from bank personnel that the bank indeed was just robbed and the suspect had fled the area on foot.

Road patrol units, Traffic Units, the CCSO helicopter, and Detectives responded to the area to set up a perimeter for a K-9 unit to conduct a track. The K-9 lost the track behind the Carousel Plaza.

Information obtained at this time is that a White male with reddish hair, unshaven, wearing a blue shirt with a Nike symbol, jeans and a blue ball cap went into the Calusa Bank, implied he had a gun and robbed the teller of an undisclosed amount of money. The suspect then fled the area on foot and ran toward Carousel Plaza.

Major Crimes Detectives were actively investigating the robbery and following up on leads.

The CCSO Crime Scene Unit was on scene processing the scene for evidence and taking custody of money dropped in the area by the suspect.

Pregnant Woman Struck By Bullet
from Robber's Gun Inside Wal-Mart

CASSELBERRY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- , According to a report from Orlando television station WKMG, a pregnant woman was struck by one of six bullets fired by an armed robber who was shooting at officers while being chased inside the Casselberry Wal-Mart on Wednesday afternoon, police said.

Carla Woodland, 23, of Winter Park, suffered minor injuries and was taken to Winter Park Hospital, where she was listed in good condition, Casselberry police said. It is not known if Woodland was a customer or an employee.

According to Casselberry police, a gunman robbed Advance America, a check-cashing store located nearby on state Road 436, before running into Wal-Mart.

The gunman, who has not been identified, changed shirts but was spotted and chased by officers inside the store, police said. The gunman shot six times at the officers, who did not return fire, Casselberry police said.

Woodland was grazed by one of the bullets, police said.

The assailant fled the store and jumped over a wall before officers shocked him with a Taser on Lake Howell Road, police said.

The alleged gunman was transported for treatment.

Police said they located the gun used in the shooting, WKMG reported.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee Sheriff's Office:
Two Caught in Act of
Attempted Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have captured two men who were in the act of an attempted burglary.

Above, L to R, Michael Allen Miller and Jerry Ray Bivins

According to the arrest reports for both men, on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, at about 11:55 a.m., a witness, Marjorie Sellars, was outside of her residence talking to a representative of Florida Power and Light when she saw two men across the street entering into her parents' and sister's yard in the 2000 block of Garden Lane, which is north of 30th Avenue West and west of 14th Street West in Manatee County. The two men went to the rear of the residence and Sellars was unable to see the two men.

Sellars called 911 and stayed on the phone with dispatchers while deputies were en route to the scene.

When the deputies arrived on scene, Sellars yelled and pointed to one of the men and said he was just in her mother's yard and the other man had fled south on 21st Street West.

Michael Allen Miller, 27, of 1418 19th Avenue West, Bradenton, was detained by one deputy, Dep. Jason Carey, while the other deputy, Dep. Mark Treadway drove off to search for the other man, later identified as Jerry Ray Bivins, 28, of 5210 26th Street West, Bradenton.

Miller had a cut on his left knuckle that was bleeding and had no explanation as to how he got it. He told Dep. Carey he was in the yard urinating. But Dep. Carey found fresh pry marks to the rear French doors at the residence in question.

Bivins was located and apprehended by Dep. Treadway hiding in a shed, which is a laundry room, at a residence in the 2100 block of 29th Avenue West.

According to a witness, she had seen Bivins cross her yard, which is between the residence in question and where Bivins was found.

Bivins was hiding behind a washing machine in the laundry room, which had been pulled out far enough to conceal him.

Bivins told Dep. Treadway that the reason he ran from law enforcement was he thought he had a warrant for his arrest for failure to pay child support. However, Dep. Treadway checked and no such warrant existed.

Both Bivins and Miller were arrested and charged with Attempted Burglary to a Dwelling. Bivins was additionally charged with Burglary to a Dwelling and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Burglary, Possession of
Burglary Tools

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Ferdinan Cruz, 46, of 221 11th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Ferdinan Cruz

The arrest report from BPD said on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, at about 9:30 p.m., police were called to the 400 block of Martin Luther King Avenue West, Bradenton, responding to a burglary in progress.

Upon arrival, Cruz was seen walking away from the incident location.

Two witnesses had heard loud banging that sounded like metal hitting metal. The two witnesses then saw Cruz attempting to pry open a side door to the business and never lost sight of Cruz when he walked across the street until he was apprehended by patrol units.

Cruz told police officers he was urinating in the bushes and then walked across the street to go to his girlfriend's house.

The bushes were checked for "any liquid substance" but were found to be dry.

Police located a hammer and pry bar next to the door that was attempting to be pried open.

Cruz was charged with Burglary to a Structure and Possession of Burglary Tools.

Cortez Resident Arrested for
Burglary, Threatening to
Kill Ex-Girlfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A resident of Cortez Village in West Manatee County has been arrested for trying to enter his ex-girlfriend's home on Friday, Sept. 19, 2008, at bout 1:55 a.m. He threatened to kill her, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Ray Allen Schwartz

The arrest report said Schwartz attempted to force entry to the ex-girlfriend's residence in the 7000 block of 15th Street East, Bradenton, by breaking the front window and attempting to climb into the home, while threatening the woman.

Two people, Jose Vazquez and Karen Rosenberger said Schwartz came to Vazquez' home and began pounding on the door, stating he was going to kill Rosenberger.

When nobody came to the door, Schwartz broke the front window, knocked everything off the shelf along the window, and attempted to climb in through the window, getting his arms and head into the home before falling out.

While climbing into the home through the window, Schwartz continued to say he was going to kill Rosenberger.

Rosenberger became scared he would follow through with his threat and ran to the bathroom and locked herself in.

Schwartz then fled in his vehicle, prior to the arrival of law enforcement.

Schwartz was apprehended in the 6900 block of 15th Street East at about 2:40 a.m.

He was charged with Burglary to an Occupied Structure.

Palmetto Woman Arrested for
Burglary to a Residence,
Possession of Burglary
Tool, Crack Stem

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department has arrested Hazel Marie Melvin, 51, of 808 25th Avenue West, Palmetto.

Hazel Marie Melvin

The arrest report from PPD said on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, at about 8:33 a.m., Melvin attempted to burglarize a residence in the 900 block of 25th Avenue West by prying the door with a red screwdriver.

The incident was witnessed by a neighbor, who called 911.

Melvin was located in the 2200 block of 10th Street West about an hour later.

A search of Melvin incident to her arrest revealed she was in possession of a red screwdriver and a glass drug stem.

Melvin was charged with Burglary, Possession of a Burglary Tool and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Two Thieves Return Victim's
Belongings After Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two thieves, possibly juveniles, returned the belongings of a 51-year-old man following a robbery on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, at about 9:20 p.m.

The report said the victim, Lee Pompey, of the 6200 block of 5th Street West, Bradenton, was walking northbound on 5th Street East and was in the 5800 block when he noticed five Black males in the middle of the road talking to a person in a vehicle.

The victim walked past the five Black males and at that time one of them grabbed Pompey from behind and held on to him while the others took his cell phone and his wallet before fleeing on foot.

Pompey walked to 5805 5th Street East and called 911.

Two of the robbers then showed up at 5805 5th Street East and dropped Pompey's cell phone and wallet on the ground, stating "Here's your stuff back." Both robbers then took off running.

Pompey told deputies he did not know the robbers.

Pompey did not sustain any injuries.

The robbers were described as five Black males between the ages of 15 and 20.

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.

$13,000 in Boat Motor Parts
Stolen in North Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported $13,000 dollars in boat motor parts were stolen overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday.

According to the report, unknown suspect(s) cut a hole in the chain-link fence on the south side of the property to gain entry into the Manatee Mobile Marine, Inc. storage area, located at 3806 U.S. 41 North, just north of Palmetto. The chain-link fence encloses the entire property.

The crime occurred between 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, and 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2008.

Once inside the area, the suspect(s) stole six (6) lower units from six (6) different outboard motors and one (1) inboard/outboard stern drive.

Each lower unit is estimated to cost $1,800 and the stern drive is estimated to cost $2,300; totaling $13,100.

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 Sheriff
Plans DUI Checkpoint
This Weekend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A press release from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said there will be a DUI checkpoint conducted this weekend, as part of the sheriff's office continuing crackdown on drunk drivers.

The checkpoint will begin on major a roadway in south Manatee County on Friday, September 26, 2008, at 10:30 p.m. and conclude on Saturday, September 27, 2008, at 4:00 a.m.

The exact location will not be announced.

Assisting the Sheriff’s Office with the checkpoints will be the Florida Highway Patrol, the Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key and Palmetto Police Departments.

Also assisting will be the Manasota Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (M.A.D.D.) and the Salvation Army.

Bicyclist, a 14-Year-Old Boy,
Struck By Hit and Run Driver

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a hit and run crash in which Trey Parrish, 14, of Sarasota, was struck and seriously injured on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, at about 4:30 p.m.

The hit and run vehicle, a gray car, was eastbound in the outside lane of SR 780 (Fruitville Rd), near Honore Avenue.

Vehicle 2, ridden by Trey Parrish, a bicyclist, was eastbound on the shoulder of SR 780 (Fruitville Rd).

The bicyclist crossed the outside eastbound lane of SR 780 into the direct path of Vehicle 1. The front of Vehicle 1 struck the left side of Vehicle 2.

Vehicle 1 left the scene after the crash.

A search of the surrounding area for Vehicle 1 and other gray vehicles was unsuccessful.

Vehicle 2 was removed from the roadway prior the arrival of the Florida Highway Patrol Trooper.

Trey was transported to Bayfront Medical Center via Bayflite Helicopter in serious condition.

Anyone with information regarding the hit and run vehicle is asked to contact Trooper S. Kunstmann at the Venice Florida Highway Patrol Station at (941) 483-5911 Ext. 312.

Stats Show Spike in Juvenile
Homicidal Violence, Crime;
Need for Traditional Family

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A trend of increased juvenile crime committed on the streets of Florida and other states includes a 70 percent increase in homicides and a 130 percent increase in attempted homicides, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

New statistics obtained by WKMG from the Department of Juvenile Justice show young criminals usually come from non-traditional homes.

Of the most serious offenders, only 14.8 percent of juveniles live with their biological mother.

The remaining offenders lived in some other arrangement.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Ex-Convict Shot in Neck Near
Manatee Memorial Hospital
Had Gun, Half Pound of
Cocaine-Like Powder
in His Vehicle

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Detectives are trying to piece together what happened on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, at about 11:18 p.m. when a passing vehicle shot a man in the neck and kept on going in the northbound lanes of 1st Street in the 200 block, adjacent to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Peter John Lago
(Mug shot courtesy Florida Dept. of Corrections)

According to a police report, officers located the vehicle that was shot at in the 100 block of 1st Street. Nobody was inside the vehicle.

They quickly learned that Peter John Lago, 27, of Tampa, had run from his vehicle to Manatee Memorial Hospital's Emergency Room with a gunshot to his neck. Lago had been shot on the left side of his neck and the bullet had exited the right side of his neck. Lago was treated and released.

Lago signed a release for officers to search his vehicle.

Inside the vehicle, officers located a handgun on the back seat of the vehicle. They also found a black bag that looked like a half pound of cocaine. However, the substance was tested and was negative for cocaine.

According to Deputy Police Chief J.J. Lewis, "The substance is unknown, but not an illegal narcotic. We are still investigating possible charges regarding the gun."

Witnesses to the incident said they saw a jeep, or a white SUV firing shots at Lago's vehicle.

Offcers found six shell casings at and near the scene.

Lago told officers he was driving northbound on 1st Street when a black Buick started shooting at his vehicle. Lago said he did not know or see the person shooting at him and did not return fire.

Officers found eight bullet holes in Lago's vehicle; there were four bullet holes in the rear bumper, two bullet holes on the passenger side door, one bullet hole on the passenger side window, one bullet hole on the rear passenger side door that went through the driver's side window. Officers surmised that that bullet was the one that struck Lago.

At that point, the investigation was turned over to detectives, the report said.

Further information regarding the investigation by detectives was not yet available as of Tuesday.

Peter John Lago is an ex-convict. He was arrested in Manatee County on October 26, 1999, for Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and again on February 10, 2000, for Home Invasion Robbery with a Weapon and False Imprisonment. He was tried and convicted in both cases and on February 15, 2002, Lago was sentenced to 8 years in prison. Lago served nearly six of those years and was released on February 25, 2008.

As of Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, Lago had not been arrested by the Bradenton Police Department.

Man Suspiciously "Casing"
CVS Pharmacy Arrested
for Possession of Heroin

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Joseph Wayne Young, 30, of 6239 Auburn Avenue, in Bradenton.

Joseph Wayne Young

The arrest report said on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, at about 2:30 p.m., sheriff's deputies responded to the CVS Pharmacy located at 7195 State Road 70 East, Bradenton, regarding a suspicious person.

Upon investigation, deputies learned that a White male had been to the pharmacy in the past three days, hadn't purchased anything and hadn't asked for a prescription to be filled, appeared to be "casing" the establishment and he was asking about pharmacy hours.

Detectives set up surveillance on the pharmacy, which closed at 6 p.m. But the White male had been told it closed at 10 p.m.

At about 7:30 p.m., the White male drove up to the pharmacy with 2 females in the vehicle.

One of the females exited the vehicle, walked up to the pharmacy doors, threw up her hands and went back to the vehicle.

A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle a short distance away from the pharmacy.

Inside was the driver, Joseph W. Young. He was asked to exit the vehicle and was patted down for weapons. In his pockets he had a two-way radio, a box knife and two pet grooming clippers.

He told deputies his license was suspended. He explained a stolen tag on the vehicle by saying when he bought the car the seller gave him the tag to use.

Young told a detective that he had a bag hidden in the trunk of the car that contained heroin and some needles; he said he didn't want one of the deputies to get stuck with the needles.

Detectives searched the trunk and located a bag that contained 5 spoons with heroin residue, 15 small zip lock bags with small amounts of heroin in them and 14 syringes.

Young was arrested and charged with Possession of Heroin, Possession of Heroin Paraphernalia, Driving While License Suspended with Knowledge and No Motor Vehicle Registration.

Young was questioned about his activities at CVS but could not adequately explain them.

Two Arrested for Burglary,
Theft of Scrap Metal

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested two men for the theft of scrap metal from a bin belonging to a business at an industrial park.

Above, L to R, Robert R. Whitson and Jesse E. Ivory

Deputy John Hurd, on routine patrol on Monday, Sept. 22, 2008, discovered Robert R. Whitson, 25, and Jesse E. Ivory, 22, both of 1703 36th Avenue East, Bradenton, loading scrap metal from a storage bin into a trailer attached to a vehicle.

The location was in the 2200 block of 72nd Drive East, Bradenton, a place of business in an industrial park.

The trailer contained scrap metal similar to that which was in the storage bin.

Whitson and Ivory confessed to the theft.

They were both arrested and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Structure.

Palmetto Woman Arrested
for Vehicle Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Janet Smalls, 45, of 2311 7th Avenue East, Palmetto.

Janet Smalls

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, at about 8:40 p.m., the unnamed victim in this case had stopped at a family member's house to drop off some money. She only intended to be inside for a few minutes and had left her driver's door unlocked and her purse on the seat.

Janet Smalls and Crystal Matthews were sitting next door outside Mathews' house.

Mathews told deputies that Smalls got up and walked over to the victim's truck, then opened the door and pulled out the purse.

Mathews was then unable to see what Smalls did with the purse because Smalls walked out of sight.

Mathews said Smalls returned without the purse and told Mathews that there was nothing inside the purse except for some cards and paper.

Smalls was located at her house and arrested for Burglary.

The purse was not recovered, the arrest report said.

12,000 Feet of Copper Wire
Stolen from 16 Light Poles

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a huge theft of copper wire sometime between 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2008, and 8 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 22, 2008.

The report said unknown person(s) stole 12,000 feet of copper wire from 16 light polies in the 14700 block of The Masters Avenue, which is just east of Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club in East Manatee County.

The unknown person(s) opened the access panel and pulled wire out, the report said.

The value of the stolen wire was estimated at $25,000 dollars.

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.

Burglary of Construction Site,
Theft of Wire Reported

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A construction site at 5464 Lena Road, the future home of the Wingate Hotel, was burglarized, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

The report said the burglary occurred sometime between 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 21, 2008, and 7 a.m. on Sept. 22, 2008.

According to the report, person(s) stole 500 feet of 12/2 jacketed wire and 500 feet of 12/3 jacketed wire.

The cost of the wire was estimated at $4,000 dollars.

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.

3 Vehicles in Greenbrook
Subdivision Burglarized

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported 3 vehicles in the Greenbrook subdivision in East Manatee County were burglarized on Monday between the hours of 1 a.m. and 7 a.m.

Unknown person(s) forced entry into the vehicles, breaking a window on two of the vehicles.

Two guitars were stolen from one of the vehicles and a medical bag containing medical equipment was stolen from another. The third car reported nothing missing at this time.

The burglaries were reported in the 6300 block of Robin Cove and the 6200 block of Macaw Glen.

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.

Huge Yard Sale Planned at
Palmetto Historical Park

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Clerk's Office Agricultural Museum Coordinator, Diane Ingram, the Palmetto Historical Park will be hosting a community yard sale on Saturday, October 4th, 2008, from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Thirty tables will be set up selling treasures and bargains of all kinds.

Word of Mouth BBQ will be on site selling smoked mullet, BBQ sandwiches, and hotdogs.

Alex’s Lemonade Stand will be raising funds to help fight childhood cancer.

The park buildings, including the Agricultural Museum, will be open for free self-guided tours.

The park is located at 515 10th Ave. West, Palmetto.

Y'all come...!!

Our Stupid Criminal of the Week:
Charlotte Deputies Arrest Man
in Wendy's Armed Robbery
Tuesday Morning

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff's deputies, detectives and K-9 were responsible for the arrest of a Grove City man in connection with a strong armed robbery at Wendy's, 13417 S. McCall Rd. (S.R. 776 just west of C.R. 771) in the Gulf Cove Point area at 9:16 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008.

David John Harrington

David John Harrington, 26, of 2049 Florida Ave. was arrested at his home shortly before noon Tuesday less than three hours after he went to Wendy's, grabbed a money bag out an employee's vehicle, and then fled across S.R. 776. The employee gave chase but lost him. Through the deputies' and detectives' investigation, they quickly were able to identify Harrington, went to his home and made the arrest.

Apparently, according to a NewsManatee source, Harrington used to work at the Wendy's restaurant and a current employee recognized him.

Harrington was transported to the Charlotte County Jail and charged with Strong Armed Robbery and Burglary of an Occupied Vehicle.

Myakka Elementary School located several blocks north of Wendy's went into an abbreviated lock down for its students following the robbery as a precautionary measure. The school returned to normal later in the morning without incident.

UPDATE: One of Two Found
Dead Monday Was FDLE
Veteran; Affair Reported

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Police peering into the window of a New Smyrna Beach home while performing a well-being check discovered the bodies of a second-grade teacher and her husband, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The bodies of Steven Brady, 58, and his wife, Pam, 56, were found at a home located on Cedar Avenue Monday.

Steven Brady was a 23-year veteran of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and a prominent lawyer.

The Seminole County School District said Steven's wife, Pam, worked at Crystal Lake Elementary School in Lake Mary.

The Daytona Beach News Journal reported that Steven Brady was placed on administrative leave last month from the FDLE. And that a Port Orange man allegedly caught Brady having an affair with his wife, WKMG reported.

The same man filed an order of protection against Brady, WKMG said.

"We're currently working the investigation as a death investigation in conjunction with the Volusia County Sheriff's Office crime scene (unit) and the Medical Examiner's Office," New Smyrna Beach police officer Mike Brouilette told WKMG. "The exact cause and manner of death will be released is going to be released when it's made available to me."

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee Deputies Arrest
Two Men for Attempted
Felony Murder, Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Frederick M. Calhoun, 20, and Ernest L. Calhoun, 21, both of 5632 6th Street Court East, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Frederick M. Calhoun and Ernest L. Calhoun

According to the arrest reports for both men, on August 30, 2008, at about 5 a.m., Liborio Rivera had gone outside of his house on 5th Street Court East, Bradenton, and was just sitting there.

LIborio saw 5 Black males going around trying handles on cars and burglarizing them.

All of a sudden, the Black males came at him. Four of the 5 had handguns. The 5th guy held Liborio while the others demanded his wallet, which they took. Then two of them shot Liborio 8 times in the legs, arm and stomach.

Liborio was flown to Bayfront Medical Center, where he was treated and recovered from his wounds.

Then, on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, Dep. Mark Treadway was sitting in his patrol car at the sheriff's substation on 57th Avenue West, Bradenton, when he was approached by Liborio and a female friend of Liborio's.

Liborio said he had seen the two men several times since the shooting and robbery. Liborio told Dep. Treadway that the men had disappeared into a house on 6th Street Court East each time. Liborio said he had called 911 each time and nothing had happened.

Dep. Treadway explained the procedures of the sheriff's office and encouraged Liborio to call again if he spotted the men. Liborio and his female friend then left.

About 30 minutes later, at about 3:45 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the house on 6th Street Court East, where the Calhouns lived. Deputies, including Dep. Treadway, surrounded the house and were able to extract the Calhoun brothers.

Loborio positively identified the Calhoun brothers as the two who had shot him multiple times.

Frederick and Ernest Calhoun were both arrested and charged with Attempted Felony Murder and Robbery. Frederick was additionally charged with Resisting Arrest without Violence. Ernest was additionally charged with 2 counts of Violation of Probation.

Frederick remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bond of over $500,000 dollars. Ernest remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

The house at 5632 6th Street Court East is allegedly a gang house, a NewsManatee confidential source said.

Hispanic Man in Bicycle vs.
Truck Crash Saturday Died
at Bayfront Medical Center;
Search On for Hit/Run Pickup

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Hispanic man whose bicycle was struck in a hit and run crash on Saturday has expired at Bayfront Medical Center, where he was taken for his injuries in critical condition. The Florida Highway Patrol is asking the public for help with information regarding this crash, which has now become a Vehicular Homicide.

Above, the bicycle lies in a parking lot surrounded
by Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies and an FHP
Trooper who makes notes on the crash.
(Photo by Charles Mills)

A hit and run crash happened on U.S. 41 at 50th Avenue West on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, at about 11:30 p.m., that left a Hispanic man in critical condition at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg, according to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol.

According to a report from FHP, an unknown vehicle was traveling northbound in the right lane of U.S. 41. A bicycle, ridden by Juan Mendoza, 33, of Bradenton, was also traveling northbound in the right lane of U.S. 41.

The unknown vehicle approached the rear of the bicycle and failed to observe the bicycle, FHP Corporal David McInturff said. The unknown vehicle's right front struck the rear of the bike.

The bike and Mendoza came to rest in the Hertz parking lot at 5019 14th Street West (U.S. 41).

The unknown vehicle fled the scene northbound on U.S. 41.

Mendoza was flown to Bayfront Medical Center in critical condition. According to NewsManatee reporter Craig Herbert, Mendoza suffered a major head injury.

FHP reported a witness described the unknown vehicle as a full size extended cab truck, dark blue or black in color. NMT reporter Herbert said the truck has major passenger side damage and is missing a right side outside rear view mirror and right headlight.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Corporal McInturff at Bradenton FHP headquarters at (941) 751-7647, ext. 131, or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Deputies Arrest Woman
for Armed Robbery of
Used Clothing Store

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, at about 3:00 p.m., Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Catherine P. Young, 23, of 4506 3rd Street Court West.

Catherine P. Young

Deputies said Catherine entered Plato's Closet, at 665 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, and tried to sell some used clothing. Plato's Closet declined to buy the clothing.

Catherine left and returned at about 2:45 p.m., approached the counter, pulled a knife and told the clerk to give her the money.

The clerk called the manager, who came out to see Catherine holding a knife. Catherine went behind the counter, waved the knife and told the manager to open the register.

The manager opened the register and Catherine took all the $20 dollars bills, which amounted to $660 dollars.

Catherine walked out, went to 5th Street West and ran, with people from Plato's Closet following her.

In the meantime, the sheriff's office was called and arrested Catherine at 4509 5th Street West, where they found Catherine hiding.

Catherine had the knife and the money in her purse.

She told deputies she needed money and Plato's Closet would not buy her clothes, so she went back, pulled her knife out and demanded money.

Catherine was charged with Armed Robbery.

Two Arrested After Being Caught
with 300 Pounds of Wire Cut
from Building Over 3 Nights

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office arrested two men on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, accused of removing 300 pounds of wire deputies say was cut from a building at 4597 15th Street East, Bradenton, over three nights.

Above, L to R, Michael Reichner and Michael Stroop

The two men were identified as Michael Reichner, 51, and Michael Stroop, 54; no address was given for either man.

Reichner and Stroop were arrested after being caught with over 300 pounds of freshly cut wire in two backpacks.

Both suspects were detained after surveillance was conducted and they were attempting to enter the wooded area off of 301 Blvd. and 9th Street East.

After being read their Miranda Warning, a confession was obtained as to where and how the burglary was committed and as to committing a burglary to the same building on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, Sept. 18, 19 and 20.

The suspects pulled at least 100’ of wire from the building each night and caused anywhere from $5000 to $10,000 dollars in damage to the building and replacement of the wire.

Both suspects were charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Structure, Grand Theft and Felony Criminal Mischief.

Further charges are pending.

Deputies Arrest Two Men
in Attempted Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two men who tried to commit a burglary at an occupied residence were arrested on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Above, L to R, James Perkins and Jay Shepherd

The report said James Perkins, 21, and Jay Shepherd, 29, both of 1915 32nd Avenue East, Bradenton, attempted to commit a burglary at 31-year-old Tawney Coronado's residence in the 5600 block of 24th Street West, while Tawney was home. That was at about 8:45 p.m.

When Perkins and Shepherd were confronted by Tawney, they made some threats of violence and then fled the scene.

Perkins and Shepherd were located a short time later by patrol deputies,

Shepherd was apprehended without incident.

Perkins fled inside of the residence owned by his girlfriend in the 3600 block of 20th Street East, in Bradenton.

Deputies made entry and Perkins was arrested without incident.

Both men were charged with Burglary to an Occupied Structure. Perkins was additionally charged with Fleeing to Elude Law Enforcement and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Man Already in Jail
Charged with Burglary,
to a Vehicle, Grand Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Detective has arrested Todd A. Connick, 39, a homeless man currently in the Manatee County Jail on unrelated charges.

Todd A. Connick

According to the arrest report, sometime between July 25, 2008, and July 27, 2008, a man reported that his vehicle had been burglarized and an ozone generator valued at about $1,200 dollars had been stolen from the trunk. The burglarized vehicle was at a residence in the 5400 block of 16th Street West.

At the time, deputies took the report and fingerprints were obtained from the trunk.

On Sept. 15, 2008, Det. William Shirley received a fingerprint hit that came back to Todd Connick. The print was of Connick's right thumb and had been lifted from the trunk of the burglarized vehicle.

Det. Shirley interviewed Connick at the jail. Connick denied the burglary and kept changing his story.

However, with the fingerprint match as evidence that Connick had committed the crime, Det. Shirley arrested Connick and charged him with Burglary to a Conveyance and Grand Theft.

Hit and Run Crash Saturday
Between Truck, Motorcycle
Hospitalizes Man, Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a hit and run crash that put two people in an area hospital on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, at about 8:00 p.m.

An FHP report said a vehicle described as a 1990s model Ford Ranger or Explorer was traveling westbound on 26th Avenue East approaching the intersection of 3rd Street East.

A 1999 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Rick M. Wojtoanowski, 41, of Bradenton, was eastbound on 26th Avenue East approaching the intersection of 3rd Street East.

The Ford truck attempted to make a left turn onto 3rd Street East into the path of the oncoming motorcycle.

The left front corner of the Ford truck collided with the left side of the motorcycle.

After the collision, the right side of the motorcycle collided with a curb, ejecting the motorcycle's passenger, Amber M. Cunningham, 21, of Bradenton.

The motorcycle overturned on to its right side coming to final rest partially in the roadway facing east.

Wojtoanowski came to rest under the motorcycle.

The Ford truck fled the scene after impact.

Amber Cunningham was flown to Bayfront Medical Center in critical condition. Rick Wojtoanowski was also flown to Bayfront Medical Center in serious condition.

If you have any information regarding this crash, please contact Trooper John McGrede at (941)751-7647 ext. 445, 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.

300 Yards of Copper Wiring
Stolen in East Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported 300 yards of copper wiring have been stolen from newly installed lamps in East Manatee County.

The report said unknown suspect(s) removed the access plates to nine (9) street lamps that were just been installed along Pope Road.

The suspect(s) cut the wires within the street lamps and removed approximately 300 yards of copper wiring, totaling approximately $36,000 dollars.

The incident occurred sometime between 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, and 10 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008.

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 Clerk Receives
Award for Port Authority
Financial Reporting

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- For the fifteenth consecutive year, the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, R.B. "Chips" Shore with the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the Manatee County Port Authority’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).

Above, Manatee County Clerk R.B. "Chips" Shore

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government agency and its management.

The CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

"I am honored to be presented this award as it reflects the diligence and accuracy of my Finance Department," said R.B. "Chips" Shore, "My office strives to provide the highest level of service and information to our citizens with these reports and it is a pleasure to be recognized by the GFOA as doing such."

Palmetto Police Arrest Man
for Hitting Two with Van
Purposely

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department has arrested Wilfredo Camacho, 18, of 2337 16th Avenue Circle East, in Palmetto.

Wilfredo Camacho

An arrest report from PPD said on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, a large fight had occurred at the Civic Center, 1 Haben Blvd., and had been broken up.

Camacho was driving a white Dodge caravan through the parking lot after the fight.

Two unnamed victims were walking through the south parking lot when Camacho's van passed them, stopped and backed up, striking the two victims.

The two victims had only minor injuries and did not receive any medical treatment.

Camacho left the scene, but was stopped in the 900 block of U.S. 301 by a Palmetto Police Officer.

The victims positively identified Camacho as the one who had struck them.

Camacho was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery and No Valid Driver License.

Sarasota County Sheriff's
DUI Checkpoint Results

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office hosted a DUI Safety Checkpoint on Friday, September 19th, 2008, at the 6300 block of US 41 in Sarasota.

During the night’s operation, there were 8 DUI arrests, and 4 arrests for No Valid Driver’s License. In addition, there were 78 traffic citations issued for various violations.

Also participating were officers from North Port Police Department, Sarasota Police Department, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the Department of Environmental Protection.

Man Commits Suicide During
10-Hour Standoff with Cops;
Multiple Shots Fired By Man

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office reports a 10-hour standoff ended around 11:30 p.m. late Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008, at 18426 Winter Garden in Port Charlotte. The man was found deceased in a bathroom in his home. The man has been identified as Thomas Edward Dickie, 46.

Thomas Edward Dickie

A relative contacted the CCSO at 1:08 p.m. Sunday saying the man was intoxicated, irrrational, suicidal, and had a lot of weapons in the home. She wanted deputies to check on his well being. When deputies arrived to check on the man, as they approached, a barrage of bullets came out of the home hitting and entering a home across the street. It is estimated four dozen or more bullets may have been fired. Luckily, no one was injured; homes were evacuated and those in a two block area were told to stay in their homes.

CCSO deputies, detectives, K-9, aviation, crisis negotiators, assisted by the Charlotte County SWAT team, Lee County Sheriff's Office SWAT and Bomb Squad teams, set up in the area. SWAT team members surrounded the home, taking every precaution for the safety of everyone.

Continual announcement were made to the man in the home throughout the day to give him self up. Crisis negotiators talked to the man but his cell phone eventually went dead and there was no further contact. Around 11:00 p.m. the LCSO armored vehicle moved in and smashed in the front door. They then sent in their special robot to do surveilance of the rooms and the robot finally located the man deceased in the bathroom. The Charlotte County SWAT team then moved into the home, secured it and turned it over to CCSO Major Crimes Detectives and Crime Scene. Detectives have not said how the man apparently killed himself.

The body was transported to the County Medical Examiner's Office in Murdock for an autopsy.

Two Bodies Found in Home
in Central Florida

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Police in New Smyrna Beach are investigating the discovery of two bodies at a home.

Officers who were asked to check the home found the bodies at 312 Cedar Ave.

No further details were released in the case, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Interracial Disturbance Escalates
Into Random Shooting without
Injuries, Hit and Run Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An interracial disturbance between Hispanic men and Black men escalated into a random shooting late Saturday afternoon. The perpetrators fled in different directions and one of the fleeing vehicles was involved in a hit and run crash.

Above, the vehicle that was struck by fleeing suspects;
a witness points out their direction of travel.
(Photo by Heather Chadwick)

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, at about 5:30 p.m., a disturbance occurred in the 5800 block of 10th Street Court East. The disturbance was between multiple Hispanic men and Black men that became physical in a front yard of that block.

Two to three shots were fired in uncertain directions as the crowd dispersed.

One of the rounds entered through a window at 5814 10th Street Court East and then through a kitchen wall before lodging in a metal chair back. The round passed within three feet of the victim, Margarita Salas, 20, and her small child. Margarita did get a small cut on her left had from broken glass which did not require medical attention. The deformed round was removed from the chair by Deputy Hottman and placed into property with a lab request for possible processing. Photos of the victim’s minor injuries and damage caused by the round were taken.

According to statements from witnesses on scene, the residence was not an intentional target in the shooting.

Shortly After the shooting, a vehicle was involved in a hit and run crash at 57th Ave. and 10th Street East; the offending vehicle was occupied by two men. The vehicle then fled the scene, ending up in between two duplexes. The suspects were seen fleeing the area in different directions on 9th Street East.

Deputy David Brady and his K-9 "Rosco" responded and attempted to get a track from the vehicle but were not successful.

Deputy Brady processed the vehicle for latent prints and searched through the car. FHP worked the crash portion. The vehicle tag was B094IM, which did not come back to the car.

The vehicle was not implicated in the shooting by anyone but was processed due to the area it was coming from and the time frame in relation to the shooting.

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.

Hit and Run Crash Leaves
Hispanic Male Bicyclist
in Critical Condition

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A hit and run crash happened on U.S. 41 at 50th Avenue West on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, at about 11:30 p.m., that left a Hispanic man in critical condition at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg, according to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol.

Above, the bicycle lies in a parking lot surrounded
by Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies and an FHP
Trooper who makes notes on the crash.
(Photo by Charles Mills)

The unknown vehicle approached the rear of the bicycle and failed to observe the bicycle, FHP Corporal David McInturff said. The unknown vehicle's right front struck the rear of the bike.

The bike and Mendoza came to rest in the Hertz parking lot at 5019 14th Street West (U.S. 41).

The unknown vehicle fled the scene northbound on U.S. 41.

Mendoza was flown to Bayfront Medical Center in critical condition. According to NewsManatee reporter Craig Herbert, Mendoza suffered a major head injury.

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.

Major Manatee Drug Dealer
Gets 19+ Years in Prison,
$100,000 Fine, Forfeiture
of Seven Properties

TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, September 19, 2008, United States District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich sentenced Miguel Rendon, age 74, of Manatee County, to 19 years and seven months’ imprisonment and a $100,000.00 fine for his long-standing role in a drug trafficking organization involved in the importation of large scale shipments of cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana from Texas to Manatee County.

Above, Miguel Rendon
(Mug shot courtesy HCSO)

Rendon was found guilty on May 21, 2008, following a two-week jury trial on charges of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, five hundred grams or more of methamphetamine, and one thousand kilograms or more of marijuana. In addition to sentencing Rendon to a lengthy term of incarceration, Judge Kovachevich also entered a forfeiture money judgment against Rendon in the amount of $3.3 million, as well as an Order forfeiting Rendon's interest in seven properties collectively valued in excess of $1million.

According to the testimony and evidence presented at Rendon’s trial, between the late 1990's and Spring 2006, Rendon served as a high-level member of the conspiracy. He was in charge of performing a number of valuable functions for the organization. These functions included distributing kilogram quantities of cocaine and pound quantities of both methamphetamine and marijuana, investing in shipments of these drugs, providing high interest loans to finance the organization’s drug operation, storing large amounts of drug
proceeds for the conspiracy, and renting over a half dozen of his properties located throughout Manatee County to members of the organization for their illicit use, sometimes in exchange for drug payments.

The prosecution of Rendon was the result of a joint investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. To date, the investigation has resulted in the seizure of more than five hundred kilograms of cocaine, and over a million dollars in drug proceeds.

The investigation has also led to the conviction of approximately thirty defendants in the Middle District of Florida, as well as the conviction of an additional number of defendants in the Southern District of Texas.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher P. Tuite.

Manatee County Sheriff's Office:
Deputy Spots Wanted Man,
K-9 Unit Scoops Him Up

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man wanted on a kidnapping arrest warrant was spotted on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008, by a Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy, who recognized him. The man fled from the deputy. A sheriff's office K-9 Unit was called in to track the wanted man; he was captured.

Above, L to R, K-9 "Pino" and Charles B. McNeal

According to a report from the sheriff's office, on Thursday, shortly before 11:00 p.m., North Side Cops Dep. S. Cappiello observed Charles B. McNeal walking on foot in the 2100 block of 2nd Avenue East, in Palmetto.

Dep. Cappiello was aware of an outstanding kidnapping arrest warrant that McNeal had out for him.

When Dep. Cappiello drove up to initiate contact with him, McNeal fled on foot.

A perimeter was set up around the area, consisting of Cops North Deputies, patrol deputies and Palmetto Police Officers.

K-9 handler, Dep. J. Bertolino responded with K-9 "Pino."

Dep. Bertolino tracked with "Pino" and located McNeal lying down in a grassy area in the 2100 block of 1st Avenue East, Palmetto, approximately a block away from where he was initially observed.

McNeal, 47, of 647 20th Lane East, Palmetto, was arrested without incident and charged with Kidnapping.

A search of McNeal's person yielded .2 grams of "rock" cocaine and a crack pipe.

McNeal was additionally charged with Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Paraphernalia.

McNeal was transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Young Lady Arrested
for Burglary of a Car,
Battery of Occupant

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, September 16, 2008, Seana L. Tomason, 21, of 5715 7th Street East, Bradenton, allegedly reached through an open window and punched another woman, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Seana L. Tomason

The report said Tomason was at a parking lot at 1232 Whitfield Avenue, at about 6:45 p.m. when, according to the victim, Jennifer Farley, and a witness, Tassey Schwartz, Tomason walked up to Jennifer's vehicle and punched a window three times.

Then Tomason reached into the car through an open window and got the door open.

Tomason then allegedly started hitting Jennifer on her face and left arm.

Tomason fled the scene prior to the arrival of law enforcement.

The deputy observed a scratch on Jennifer's left arm, but did not see any other injuries.

On Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008, deputies located Tomason in the same parking lot and arrested her.

Tomason was charged with Burglary with Battery.

Search Warrant Produces One
of Two Safes Stolen, Arrest
of Alleged Thief

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who was found to be in possession of one of two safes that were stolen was arrested on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008, and charged with Grand Theft after a search warrant was served on his residence.

Herbert Laycock

According to a report from Det. William Shirley, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on October 15, 2007, Dana Floyd reported his residence in the 5500 block of 16th Street West was broken into and two safes worth $200 dollars and aluminum mag wheels, valued at $200 dollars, were stolen.

On October 23, 2007, Dana Floyd informed deputies that he suspected Herbert Laycock of the burglary and thefts.

Deputies awaited the search warrant paperwork to be delivered for Laycock's home, located at 5600 16th Street West, one block from Dana Floyd's home.

During the search of Laycock's residence, a safe belonging to Dana Floyd was found and recovered.

Deputies were able to determine that the safe belonged to Floyd, due to a detailed description Floyd had given them. Floyd also produced a key that opened the safe and the paper contents had Floyd's name on them.

Laycock was interviewed by a deputy, who was informed that he (Laycock) was aware that safe was in his room and that nobody but he (Laycock) stays in that room, but said he didn't steal the safe.

Laycock, in the Manatee County Jail on unrelated charges, was arrested on Thursday and charged with Grand Theft.

The other safe and the mag wheels have apparently not been recovered.

Hispanic Male Hospitalized
Following Attack, Theft
By Black Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the hospitalization of Juan Miguel Alonso, of the 900 block of 33rd Avenue East, Bradenton, following an attack and theft of Alonso's bicycle by an unknown Black male on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008, at about 8:00 p.m.

The report said Alonso was riding his bike home from the Circle K store at 30th Avenue East and 9th Street East.

As he headed south on 9th Street East, he was in the 3200 block when a Black male jumped out from behind a tree and hit him in the face with a bat or stick.

Alonso fell off his bike and was hit several times in the back of the head and the back. The assailant said that he wanted Alonso's money.

A witness who saw the incident confronted the assailant and the assailant took Alonso's bike, fleeing westbound from the scene.

Alonso was admitted to Manatee Memorial Hospital for his injuries.

The robber was described as an unknown Black Male in his 20s, 6'03" tall and weighing about 160 pounds. He was last seen wearing a dark shirt and white shorts.

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

Man Ambushed, Robbed By
Two Black Males After Being
Lured By Two Women

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Averisto Garcia, 22, of Bradenton, was attacked and robbed by two Black males after being lured to a location on Cortez Road by two women, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, the victim, Averisto Garcia, and a friend were at a store on 15 Street East in the 5700 block where he met two ladies.

The ladies asked Averisto and his friend to follow them to another location. So, Averisto and his friend followed the ladies to the 1800 block of Cortez Road West where they asked Averisto to get out of the car.

Averisto got out of the car, when suddenly two B/M's came out of the shadows and rushed him, hitting and punching him.

They took his wallet with ID and $1000 dollars before fleeing in a 2-door burgundy colored vehicle.

Averisto's friend took off in the vehicle during the incident, leaving Averisto no choice but to run to Denny's restaurant to call police.

Averisto sustained a bump on his head and was checked on scene by EMS.

The area was checked for the vehicle with no results.

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 Black Male Teenagers
Try to Rob Hispanic Man
at Gunpoint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, Sept. 19, 2008, at about 6:15 p.m., a Hispanic man was robbed at gunpoint by two Black male teenagers, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said the victim, Leopaldo Perez-Vasquez, of the 5700 block of 12th Street East, Bradenton, was taking trash out to his garbage cans when he noticed two Black males pulling up in an older model blue Toyota.

The passenger got out of the car with a white bandana partially over his face and armed with a silver revolver.

The young man approached Leopaldo, pointing the gun at him and demanding money.

A neighbor from across the street came out and started yelling at the teenager to let Leopaldo alone and leave.

The teenager then jumped in the car and the car drove off south from the location.

The tag on the car was X203MK, which does come back to a blue Toyota, the sheriff's report said.

The vehicle and suspect information was passed on to the Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF).

No money was taken, no shots were fired, and no injuries were sustained by Leopaldo.

The robbers were described as two Black males in their mid-teens. Both were said to be about 5'10" tall.

It is unknown if VCTF has found the boys.

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 Sheriff's
Reverse Prostitution Sting
Nets 10 Men for Solicitation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, September 19, 2008, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Tactical Unit conducted a Reverse Prostitution Sting along U.S. 41, in Manatee County.

The operation was set up with a female deputy posing as a prostitute to target "johns" in the area.

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

They were able to effectively arrest 10 men for Solicitation for Prostitution. Three men were charged with additional misdemeanor traffic-related offenses.

Charged with Solicitation for Prostitution were:

1. Manuel Martinez-Rodriguez, Hispanic male, 26
2. Javier Pulido, Hispanic male, 32
3. Leobardo Pina-Maly, Hispanic male, 38
4. Silverio Hernandez, Hispanic male, 34
5. Mark Keller, White male, 37
6. Oscar Guitierez, Hispanic male, 25
7. Jerry Willis, White male, 39
8. Sergio Cerro Lucas, Hispanic male, 29
9. Jeremias Ruiz, Hispanic male, 20
10. Charles Miller, White male, 29

The report did not indicate which of the men were additionally charged with traffic-related offenses.

Copper Wire Stolen From
3 Homes Under Construction

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported three burglaries to homes under construction in East Manatee County.

The report said unknown suspect(s) stole copper wiring from three structures currently under construction in Crystal Lakes Subdivision.

Two of the burglaries occurred in the 7200 block of 54th Terrace East and the other occurred in the 7100 block of 56th Terrace East.

The burglaries likely occurred between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.

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

Manatee County Clerk Holds
Citizen Review Volunteer
Appreciation Reception

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, September 17, 2008, R.B. "Chips" Shore, Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller, sponsored a reception at the Bradenton Women’s Club to recognize the contributions that Citizens Review Panel program volunteers make to Manatee County’s abused, neglected and abandoned children and to the community in general.

Above, Top, L to R: Julie Painter, Reba Parrish, Kris Young, Elissa Boleen,
Valerie Taylor, Jane Edwards, Karen Dunn, Jackie Jacoby, Jan Schnering;
Bottom, L to R: Helen Palange, Dick Thiele, Natica Tinkcom, Regina Ackerman,
Mike Finney, Maggie Carlson, Norma-Marie Dunwoody, Bill Meeks, Mary White, Judy Chaires

Volunteers received the Presidential Medal for Volunteer Service and letters thanking them for their service signed by President George W. Bush.

The Guest Speaker was Dr. Geraldine Pasquarella, Executive Director of the Southwest Children’s Academy. Dr. Pasquarella commended the volunteers for their service and its impact on the children of Manatee County. The Honorable Mark Gilner attended the reception as well and thanked the volunteers for their work in monitoring the cases of children in foster care.

Several volunteers have served continuously since the program’s inception in 1997. Currently, the program has thirty-two volunteers serving on seven panels that meet monthly.

If you are interested in becoming a Citizens Review volunteer or would like to learn more, please contact Jan Schnering at (941) 741-4037 or jan.schnering@manateeclerk.com.

Bank Robbery Reported
in Sarasota County

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a bank robbery that occurred on Friday, Sept. 19, 2008, at 12:44 p.m. at the Cadence Bank located at 8592 Potter Park Drive, in Sarasota.

The suspect entered the bank and demanded money from the teller. No weapon was displayed or implied. The suspect then left with an undetermined amount of money and was last seen westbound on foot.

The suspect is described as a White male, 35 years of age, 6’ tall, with a thin build. He was last seen wearing a blue shirt, blue pants and a blue baseball cap.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Detective Kim McGath with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, District ll Criminal Investigation Bureau at 941-861-4928 or leave anonymous information with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477), or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to 25735.

Update: Sarasota Home Invasion,
Shooting; 3 Manatee County
Men Arrested in Incident

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has recovered the weapon used during the home invasion on September 16th, 2008.

The home invasion occurred at 4941 Victoria Avenue, Sarasota.

The suspects, Donald Samber, Jr., and Donald Samber III, both of Bradenton, were arrested and charged with one count of Attempted Murder and one count of Home Invasion Robbery with a Firearm.

Donald Samber III was also charged with Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Because of the proximity of the incident, five schools were placed into lockdown.

On September 19th, 2008, the weapon was located in the 4900 block of Elizabeth Avenue in a drainage area at approximately 10:30 a.m. The location of the weapon was approximately 136 feet from Ashton Elementary School’s property line and approximately 825 feet from the center building on the campus.

The weapon is described as a shotgun which had been modified to a sawed-off shotgun.

Additional charges have been filed against Donald Samber III for Possession of a Firearm within 1000 feet of a school and Possession of a Short Barreled Shotgun.

Donald Samber, Jr., had additional charges filed on him for 3 counts of Possession of Controlled Substance and Trafficking in Illegal Drugs.

Donald M. Templeton, 41, of 8460 Bunker Hill Road in Duette, Florida, was also arrested on one charge of Principal to a Home Invasion Robbery with a Firearm. Templeton drove the vehicle in which the Sambers escaped.

Man Arrested by CCSO for
Trafficking in Roxidocone

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives from the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit conducted an undercover operation and arrested Michael Alan Pierce, 20, of 19228 Pine Bluff Court, Port Charlotte, for Trafficking in Controlled Substance Roxicodone.

Michael Alan Pierce

The operation started at 4:43 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008, when a narcotics buy was set up and Pierce met with a CCSO Narcotics detective at a Port Charlotte gas station at U.S. 41 and Midway Blvd.

Pierce drove the detective to a Port Charlotte home where the transaction was completed for 50 Roxicodone 30mg pills and $1,000 cash.

Pierce was transported to the Charlotte County Jail and bond was set at $10,000. He remains in the jail pending first appearance on Friday.

The investigation continues.

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

Child Safety Seat Inspections
Scheduled for Thursday at
Manatee Memorial Hospital

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- Did you know three out of four child safety seats are improperly installed in vehicles? That is why the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Division of the Florida Highway Patrol, the Florida Department of Transportation and Safe Kids Florida have joined forces for National Child Passenger Safety Week (September 21-27).

In support of this initiative, On September 25th, FHP will have a certified technician available at Manatee Memorial Hospital from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. conducting a car seat check event. FHP will provide child safety seat information, educational materials and other resources.

“It is the responsibility of every parent and caregiver to make sure their children are safely restrained - every trip, every time,” said Ralph Salvas, Occupant Protection Coordinator at the Florida Department of Transportation Safety Office. “We are urging everyone to get their child safety seats inspected.”

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration research, the lives of 8,325 children under age five have been saved by the proper use of child restraints during the past 30 years.

Research shows that child restraints provide the best protection for all children up to age eight. After age eight, seat belts provide the best protection.

2,500 Violent Criminals
Arrested Statewide

WASHINGTON, D.C. [NMT/WKMG] -- Nearly 2,500 violent fugitives were arrested in Florida over the last several weeks in "Operation Orange Crush," which was led by the U.S. Marshals Service, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

More than half of the homicide arrests and nearly half of the sex offender arrests were made in the middle district of Florida during the operation, which was the first-ever performed U.S. marshals that focused solely on one state.

The operation targeted violent criminals, gang members and child predators, and included local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, WKMG said.

"This operation has made Florida's communities safer," Sen. Mel Martinez said. "The immense coordination between all levels of law enforcement succeeded in taking many of the worst of the worst criminal offenders off the streets. Decreasing violent crime in Florida is one of my main priorities, and I will work to ensure the U.S. marshals continue to receive funding to expand efforts in the state."

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